Hotel at a Glance: Dana Point Marina Inn

From one of the private balconies at Dana Point Marina Inn, a view of Dana Point Harbor below reveals perfectly aligned rows of boats bobbing in the distance and glistening under the warm Southern California sun. When guests stay at this charming coastal inn, they can savor more than just a stunning view and reach the harbor’s boardwalk within five minutes by foot. From there, they can explore a varied environment of vast ocean, waterside parkways, and a bustling commerce sector.

• Start the day off right with a complimentary breakfast and swim in the heated outdoor pool area.
• Explore Dana Point's nearly seven miles of coastal bluffs, including the Orange County coastline's most prominent landmark, the Headlands.
• Water adventurers can take a dip into the ocean through endless recreational pursuits, including kayaking and deep sea and shore fishing.
• Glimpse gray and blues whales near Dana Point Harbor, also known as the "Whale Capital of the West" for serving as a landmark position for the mammals.
• Catch big waves during surfing lessons at the 62-acre Doheny State Beach, located less than a mile from the inn.
• Take in Spanish architecture at the nearby historic town of Mission San Juan Capistrano, a short 15-minute drive away.

Dana Point, California: Surfing and Ships in Southern Orange County

The allure of the water is the main attraction in Dana Point, a small coastal city on the southern edge of California's Orange County. Most of the city's seafaring vessels make their home at Dana Point Harbor. Among them is the Pilgrim, a replica of the 19th-century tall ship once manned by sailor (and town namesake) Richard Henry Dana Jr. Elsewhere, surfers seek the perfect waves on Salt Creek Beach and tourists catch the Catalina Express ferry to the famed island. For drier fun, head to the Bluff Top Trail, whose steps lead to breathtaking views of the harbor and surroundings.