Dana Point is the ideal spot for travelers looking to visit Southern California with their gorgeous beaches, access to the local SoCal theme parks, water sports (including the popular Dana Point sportfishing) and family-friendly activities.
Just like neighboring Laguna Beach, there are so many things to do in Dana Point, and my favorite part is the Dana Point Restaurants. Let’s check it out.
The Dana Point Restaurants & Activities Guide
Getting There
Dana Point is located in Orange County, CA. By air, you have your choice between 6 major airports including John Wayne, LAX, Ontario, Long Beach, San Diego, and Palm Springs.
Those who prefer to travel by train or bus will be happy to note that both Amtrak and Metrolink service nearby San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente. Or, as we did, you can simply drive in on the 5 freeway or Pacific Coast Highway.
Transportation
Once you arrive in Dana Point getting here and there around town is simple and our favorite mode of transportation during the summer is the FREE Summer Trolley Service. It runs through Labor Day.
You can also ride the Metrolink, hop on an OC Bus through the OCTA, Uber, Lyft, or Taxis are also available. And, of course, driving along the coast is always a good idea.
Beautiful Dana Point
Dana Point is a beautiful coastal city located in Orange County, California, known for its stunning beaches, scenic views, and upscale lifestyle. The city boasts a vibrant dining scene that offers visitors an array of delectable culinary delights, particularly coastal cuisine.
One of the best places to experience this is at the Dana Point Harbor, which is home to several renowned seafood restaurants.
Dana Point Restaurants
There are many Dana Point restaurants that are simply amazing, offering sweeping views of the ocean, award-winning chefs, and diverse offerings. Some of them offering an amazing dining experience, and gorgeous dining rooms, while others offer delicious food!
Whether you are looking for a 5-star steak restaurant, an organic juice bar, fresh seafood, or a juicy burger you will have no problem finding it in Dana Point.
Here are some of our Favorite Dana Point Restaurants (listed in no particular order)
Breakfast
- AVEO Table + Bar- We love the breakfast buffet, gorgeous views, and craft cocktails.
- Coffee Importers- They serve up fantastic coffee located in the Harbor + excellent ice cream in their adjoining ice cream shop.
- Stack’s Pancake House- Banana macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup, nuf’ said!
Lunch and Happy Hours
- Genkai Japanese Restaurant- A local recommended this tiny hole in the wall sushi joint and we cannot deny that they have delicious rolls.
- The Shwack Beach Grill- Great coffee in the am, and delicious tacos and drinks later on. They also have a super cheap kid’s menu, so what more could you ask for?
- Beach Harbor Pizza- After a long day on the water nothing hits the spot like a good pizza. My favorite is the Thai Chicken.
Dinner
- Raya- If you are looking for a memorable experience the views and service at Raya (located inside the Ritz) can’t be beaten! You will be surprised to know that they are kid-friendly too.
- Coastal Kitchen- Al fresco dining, excellent service, a creative menu- what more could you ask for? Try their crab cakes.
- enoSTEAK- An intimate setting, pasture-raised beef, and excellent wine selection; this is best for a date night without the kids.
- Salt Creek Grille- Salt Creek is an easy spot for the whole family. Make sure to order their iron skillet cornbread as soon as you sit down.
- Luciana’s Ristorante- I’m a sucker for authentic Italian so Luciana’s truly hit the spot.
- Craft House- You’ll find great craft brews and handcrafted cocktails here. They just won an award for their delicious corn appetizer.