Smack in the heart of Dana Point, the Doheny State Beach invites you to experience quintessential Southern California coastal life. Known as “Doho,” this historic beach blends sun-soaked surf, family camping, and shoreline charm just steps from Dana Point Harbor.
What Makes Doheny State Beach Unique
Doheny is California’s first state beach, established in 1931. It combines rippling surf, a freshwater lagoon, and tide pools teeming with marine life. Its gentle reef break makes it a surf school hotspot, while the grassy picnic lawn and volleyball courts offer a perfect family vibe.
Top Activities & Amenities
Beach Access, Surfing & Swimming
The northern end provides a surf-friendly reef break with long rides ideal for all levels. Lifeguards patrol year-round, with towers fully staffed Memorial Day through Labor Day. The sandy shoreline invites sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and tidepool exploration.
Volleyball Courts & Picnic Areas
A spacious five‑acre lawn hosts volleyball nets and picnic tables shaded by eucalyptus and palms. It’s an ideal setting for family reunions, barbecues, or sunset matches with friends.
Campsites & RV Parking
The south campground sits just steps from the surf, offering over 100 family campsites and RV sites. Amenities include fire rings, water fill stations, a dump station, and token-operated showers. While sites can be tight, beachfront spots deliver unbeatable views and sunset ambiance.
Fishing & Nature Exploration
Surf fishing is popular near the San Juan Creek mouth, with opportunities to catch perch, halibut, corbina, and calico bass. The lagoon and nearby tidepools attract curious explorers and wildlife watchers.
Bike & Water Sports Rentals
Rent beach cruisers, surreys, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and boogie boards from Wheel Fun Rentals. Pure Watersports in nearby Dana Point Harbor offers kayaks, SUPs, and jet skis for beachside or harbor adventures.
Snack Bar, Gift Shop & Visitor Center
The onsite snack bar serves classic burgers, soft drinks, and snacks perfect for fueling beach days. A small gift shop offers souvenirs and sunscreen. The interpretive center and aquarium display local marine habitats, and seasonal ranger-led programs engage young explorers.
Accessibility & Amenities
Beach wheelchair rentals and ADA-accessible pathways ease shoreline access. Restrooms and outdoor freshwater showers are placed throughout the park. Ample parking fills early on weekends—arrive before 10 a.m. for best availability.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Fees & Parking: Day-use $15–20; RV camping $40–60/night. Parking lots fill early on summer weekends—arrive before 9 a.m.
- Pets: Dogs not allowed on sand or campsites; only service animals permitted.
- Campground Reservations: Book beachfront sites six months in advance via ReserveCalifornia. Group campsites occasionally available—Reddit users call them “postcard-perfect for families.”
- Surveys & Beer: Windsurfing and kayaking allowed; check lagoon conditions. Alcohol in campsites permitted; no glass on beach.
- Showers & Toilets: Token showers ($0.50/2 min); bring soap and towel. Restrooms are standard but well-maintained.
- Wildlife Care: Tidepools contain sea stars and anemones—observe without touching. Bird-watch for pelicans, egrets, terns, and migrating whales offshore in winter/spring.
- Surf Safety: Rip currents form near creek outlets. Swim near lifeguard towers; beginners should take lessons at the surf school.
- Noise: Trains and freeway hum are background features—bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
Local Insight & Hidden Gem
Book a beachfront campsite early—and linger at dusk for mesmerising skies as surf meets campfire. For soft morning surf, head north to Baby Beach, accessible by kayak or beachfront stroll at low tide. Kayak into the lagoon at sunrise to glimpse nesting birds or dolphin pods cruising offshore. Finally, grab a sunrise latte at Dana Point Harbor afterward—a local sunrise ritual.