One Fine Day in Dana Point

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Often overlooked for its sunny cousin to the north, Laguna Beach, Dana Point has lots to offer vacationing families, from beaches to parks to museums! Don't rule out what this friendly harbor town has in store!

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Dana Point Harbor Inn
If you're staying a night, this hotel is no-frills, but perfectly functional in a great location. If you're staying multiple nights, it may not be the best option, but for a simple place to lay your head, I recommend it!
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Jon's Fish Market
Located within Dana Point Harbor, Jon's is our favorite place to stop for a bite to eat. Fish and chips, swordfish, you name it...all served in a basket for a greasy finger-licking meal. Kids can also order corn dogs, and the Jolly Roger restaurant located next door is great, too. Seating is outdoors, so kids can watch sport fishing bo... More >
Located within Dana Point Harbor, Jon's is our favorite place to stop for a bite to eat. Fish and chips, swordfish, you name it...all served in a basket for a greasy finger-licking meal. Kids can also order corn dogs, and the Jolly Roger restaurant located next door is great, too. Seating is outdoors, so kids can watch sport fishing boats come in and out while eating.
If you're staying a night, this hotel is no-frills, but perfectly functional in a great location.
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Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching
If you're visiting in season, take your kids whale watching! So much fun for the whole family, tours depart from Dana Point Harbor and are on the water for several hours to all day. We always have fun, whether we see much in the way of whale flutes or not!
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Ocean Institute
Not many people realize this wonderful institute is located at the end of the harbor, but those who check it out are rewarded with hands-on exhibits, educational talks by marine scientists, tide pool exploration, and more. If you're visiting for multiple days, check out their kids' activity calendar and classes/camps...they're second t... More >
Not many people realize this wonderful institute is located at the end of the harbor, but those who check it out are rewarded with hands-on exhibits, educational talks by marine scientists, tide pool exploration, and more. If you're visiting for multiple days, check out their kids' activity calendar and classes/camps...they're second to none!
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Dana Point Headlands
Get away from the beach crowds and take a hike through this wonderful coastal preserve along the sandy cliffside. Kids will love exploring the 120+ acres and reading about the protected areas. Free!
Kids can also order corn dogs, and the Jolly Roger restaurant located next door is great, too.
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Girl In The Curl Surf Shop
Dana Point is ground zero for surf dudes and dudettes, and visiting families will have fun seeing the surf culture in action in this local shop. Stock up on any beach wear you neglected to bring, check out the surf boards, and even find out where to take a lesson. More
Dana Point is ground zero for surf dudes and dudettes, and visiting families will have fun seeing the surf culture in action in this local shop. Stock up on any beach wear you neglected to bring, check out the surf boards, and even find out where to take a lesson.
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About the Author

Amy Hagstrom Whitley
Amy Hagstrom Whitley
If you're looking for the professional me instead of the personal me, visit http://www.pitstopsforkids.com for travel writing, and http://www.nevertruetales.com for updates on novels, essays, and day-to-day tales.
Websitefacebook.com/amy.h.whitley.3
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