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Dana Level, California, lies close to the southernmost tip of Orange County, so it’s comprehensible how this scenic coastal metropolis feels far faraway from OC’s extra central — and more famous — vacationer points of interest. However in the event you’ve ever wished to check out OC’s favourite sport, you need to head down right here. (And no, we’re not speaking about purchasing!)
Browsing is probably not native to California, however it’s positively a part of Dana Level’s lifeblood. Whether or not you’re an aspiring professional surfer searching for a brand new spot to trip some epic waves otherwise you’re a hodad who’s by no means climbed onto a surfboard earlier than, you’ve got loads of good causes to hit the seaside at Dana Level. From Dana Level’s exceptional vary of waves to town’s outstanding place in browsing historical past, it’s all the time a good suggestion to go well with up and convey your board down right here for an superior seaside trip.
Right here’s some historic background on Dana Level
A couple of century earlier than the primary “watermen” started using the native waves, the extremely acclaimed writer, lawyer, and civil rights activist Richard Henry Dana landed right here as a younger sailor after which memorialized it as “essentially the most romantic spot on the coast” in his memoir, Two Years Earlier than the Mast. Quick-forward to 1954, when Hobart “Hobie” Alter and Grubby Clark opened their very first Hobie surf store on Pacific Coast Freeway (or PCH) in Dana Level. Years earlier than manufacturers like Van’s, Quiksilver, and Hurley caught their massive breaks, Hobie modified the sport with its devoted surf store and its revolutionary polyurethane foam-based boards.
In 1966, native filmmaker Bruce Brown actually put Dana Level and the rest of the Orange County coast on the map together with his documentary The Endless Summer. The identical yr, native surfers suffered an enormous loss with the legendary “Killer Dana” waves off Doheny State Seashore being killed off with the event of Dana Level Harbor. But whereas one famed seaside turned to mush, one other took off: OC surfers turned very stoked with the proper swells at Salt Creek Seashore to the north. Doheny has since turn into the go-to spot for groms and kooks (as in, browsing novices) to study the game, whereas Salt Creek is a favourite of professional surfers.
Why Dana Level?
Rising up in Orange County, I used to be pretty aware of Dana Level. However because it’s located about 32 miles south of the extra well-known “Surf Metropolis USA” Huntington Seashore, 34 miles south of Disneyland, and straight south of the uniquely fascinating creative and cultural hub of Laguna Seashore, Dana Level feels completely different.
Locals joke about this aspect of OC being completely different because the San Diego TV and radio station indicators generally come in additional clearly than these for the Los Angeles stations, however the distinction goes deeper. Although some components of Dana Level really feel as stereotypically suburban as the remainder of South Orange County, there are many hidden treasures lurking beneath all these red-tile roofs.
After I grew up and moved away from OC, I actually started to raised admire extra of what I had left behind — together with Dana Level. Under, we’ll take you on the last word tour of OC’s best-kept coastal secrets and techniques, together with some locations and companies that I didn’t even learn about till very lately!
The place can we surf — or just benefit from the seaside — in Dana Level?
What’s good about Dana Level is that for being a reasonably compact metropolis, it gives all kinds of seashores. Whether or not you’re into massive waves or chill vibes, Dana Level has the best seaside for you. From north to south, listed here are Dana Level’s seaside areas.
Salt Creek Seashore
For those who want massive and gnarly waves, then Salt Creek’s the browsing seaside for you. Its small offshore reef makes for maybe the most effective left swells in all of Southern California. You possibly can simply spend the day fulfilling your Countless Summer time fantasy carving your means alongside some actually epic waves. Any hodads who’re touring with you may benefit from the scenic tidepools on the south aspect of The Ritz-Carlton (by Strand Seashore), grassy knolls on the bluff which can be excellent for picnics, basketball courts, a concession stand, and extra. When you come to Salt Creek, you’ll see why it could be South County locals’ favourite seaside.
Strand Seashore and the Dana Level Headlands
It’s in all probability not a good suggestion to surf on the Headlands, however this can be a nice seaside for tidepooling. For higher browsing, head north of the Headlands to Strand Seashore. Like Capo Seashore, you in all probability gained’t run into enormous crowds right here, however at Strand Seashore, you’re more likely to seek out rad swells for excellent browsing.
Doheny Seashore
As talked about earlier, Doheny’s as soon as world-famous “Killer Dana” waves went away with the development of Dana Level Harbor in 1966. On the brilliant aspect, the now-gentle waves make this an ideal seaside for groms, SUP lovers, and ocean swimmers. In the meantime, landlubbers will admire the prime birdwatching at San Juan Creek, hike and bike trails, seaside volleyball, and ocean fishing alternatives right here.
Capistrano Seashore
Capistrano (or Capo) Seashore tends to have slender stretches of sand, however it’s nice for surfers who need dawn patrol with most peace and quiet. For shubies preferring dry land, Capo Seashore is a primary fishing location. Plus, this seaside has good areas for SUP and swimming.
What’s it wish to surf right here?
Lengthy story quick, you’re in for fairly the trip! I had the nice fortune of getting instructors from Girl in the Curl who have been extremely useful and supportive. For those who’re a real novice, don’t count on a straightforward trip into the water, however because you’ll in all probability have your surf lesson at Doheny like I did, you gained’t have to fret about getting caught in a monster wave you can’t deal with.
I all the time felt like I used to be in nice palms, and it was positively reassuring that our instructors hopped into the water with us and guided us by means of the method. Positive, I fell off the board a number of occasions, however I continuously crawled again on. Finally, I truly discovered the right way to keep on the board and trip some “kiddie waves” all the way in which to shore!
Upon conclusion of our surf lesson, I used to be sore throughout and felt like I’d survived the last word health club exercise. All in all, it was a particularly rewarding expertise, and I’d completely be all the way down to strive it once more.
What else is there to do in Dana Level?
Whether or not you’re searching for extra stuff to do after daybreak patrol otherwise you’re searching for actions that your non-surfing journey companions will get pleasure from, right here’s a helpful cheat sheet of extra issues to do out and in of the water.
Dana Level Harbor
As South Orange County’s solely harbor — and actually, the one public harbor between Newport Seashore and Oceanside — Dana Level Harbor has served because the place to sail away, paddle alongside, cruise by means of the scenic parks, store the boutiques, and easily stroll the walkways. You’ll discover loads of shops over right here that can hook you up with no matter it’s worthwhile to get on the water. I particularly appreciated Pure Watersports’ provide of kayaks that helped me get paddling by means of the harbor. For those who want to remain on dry land, you’ve got your selection of eating places and outlets with nice views.
Aliso and Wooden Canyons Regional Park
For those who’re within the temper to exit into the wild with out getting moist, right here’s your splendid answer. Nestled within the canyons that separate close by Laguna Seashore from Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, and Dana Level, this county park gives practically 4,000 acres of wilderness lands and pure open area nice for climbing, mountain biking, and even equestrian use.
San Juan Capistrano
About 5 and a half miles north of Dana Level Harbor, San Juan Capistrano’s historic downtown gives a full of life antidote to the notion that Orange County has no soul. Not solely will you discover the historic mission the swallows used to flock to each March, however you’ll additionally discover the native Amtrak and Metrolink practice station, the Los Rios district that’s chock stuffed with century-plus-old properties (a few of which at the moment are boutiques and cafes), artwork galleries, and extra.
Browsing Heritage & Cultural Middle
As they explain so well themselves, “The Browsing Heritage and Tradition Middle (SHACC) exists on the intersection of browsing’s previous, current and future.” Nicknamed “The Smithsonian of Browsing” for its in depth assortment of vintage surfboards, traditional surf pictures, and wonderful surf artwork, you’ll get a fuller really feel of surf tradition and its particular relationship with Southern California at SHACC in close by San Clemente.
Retailers at San Clemente
Additionally in San Clemente, this outlet mall is totally stocked with greater than 60 manufacturers to buy. When you’ll discover loads of the same old suspects that pop up in outlet malls throughout the nation, you’ll additionally uncover some native favorites, together with Hurley, Solar Diego, and the Asada Cantina restaurant. I notably love popping into Solar Diego to fill up on wanted seaside provides.
The place must you keep in Dana Level?
Heads up: Dana Level accommodations could be costly, because you’re coming proper right here to the coast. You would possibly discover some good offers on trip leases through Airbnb and Vrbo, however understand that properties right here additionally are likely to lease at increased charges than properties a bit of farther inland in Laguna Niguel and San Juan Capistrano. With that stated, listed here are some nice accommodations that work nicely once you need full service and nice ocean views.
Finest in worth: Doubletree Suites by Hilton Doheny Seashore
For those who’re planning to go sightseeing past Dana Level, this Doubletree Suites makes for an excellent OC base camp with its quick access to the I-5 Freeway and the San Juan Capistrano practice station. This Doubletree comes geared up with a health heart, a pool, an on-site restaurant, and a enterprise heart. All rooms are suites with ample residing area, 55-inch flat-screen TVs, mini fridges, and each commonplace and couch beds.
- Nearest airport: John Wayne – Orange County
- Time: 25–40 minutes by automobile
- Distance: 25 miles
Finest for getting away from all of it: Capistrano Surfside Inn
If you would like more room inside and outside, it’s exhausting to beat the Capistrano Surfside Inn. It’s an all-suite lodge with condo-style suites beginning out at at the very least 660 sq. ft, they usually all characteristic full kitchens and eating area, full loos, queen dimension beds and couch sleepers, and air-con. Even higher, this lodge is true throughout Coast Freeway from Doheny.
- Nearest airport: John Wayne – Orange County
- Time: 25–40 minutes by automobile
- Distance: 25 miles
Finest central location: Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa
If informal luxurious is your form of jam, you’ll love jamming on the Laguna Cliffs Marriott. Perched proper above Dana Level Harbor, it’s proper in between Doheny and Salt Creek seashores. Plus, it’s proper in the course of all of the outlets and eating places by the harbor. All their rooms and suites have undergone a $25 million renovation, so you may relaxation assured that yours could have a 55-inch LCD TV, a cushty sitting/working area, a marble lavatory, air-con, and hardwood flooring. This Marriott additionally has two eating places, an on-site spa, surfboard leases, a 24-hour health heart, and strolling and jogging trails.
- Nearest airport: John Wayne – Orange County
- Time: 25–40 minutes by automobile
- Distance: 25 miles
Finest in fashion: Waldorf Astoria Monarch Seashore Resort & Membership
Although this resort has operated below a number of manufacturers over the past 20 years, it could have lastly reached its highest kind as a (Hilton) Waldorf Astoria. This AAA 5 Diamond lodge has all of the facilities you count on a top-tier resort to have. Plus, all visitors have entry to the non-public Monarch Bay Seashore Membership, which offers browsing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) classes, browsing and SUP tools, chair-umbrella-towel service, an indoor-outdoor bar, and an on-site and beachside restaurant. Again on the resort, Waldorf has 4 extra eating places, a model new Waldorf Astoria spa, and the Monarch Seashore Golf Hyperlinks.
- Nearest airport: John Wayne – Orange County
- Time: 30–50 minutes by automobile
- Distance: 21 miles
Finest-in-classic luxurious: The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
For those who’ve all the time dreamed of staying proper by one in every of California’s most scenic browsing seashores, all of your desires will come true at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. It’s perched straight above Salt Creek Seashore, it’s a brief stroll from Strands Seashore and the Headlands, and the Laguna Beach Trolley stops right here and can take you to all of Laguna’s lovely seashores to the north. They provide their very own SoCal Surf Experience that features a non-public two-hour surf session with all crucial tools included, in addition to SUP and kayak classes at Dana Level Harbor, tennis and pickleball clinics, a full-service spa, three eating places, and ample convention and assembly areas. All of The Ritz-Carlton’s rooms and suites provide next-level luxurious, however you may need a tough time staying in your room with the seaside simply steps away.
- Nearest airport: John Wayne – Orange County
- Time: 30–50 minutes by automobile
- Distance: 27 miles
The place are you able to eat in Dana Level?
What about Dana Level eating places? Whereas Dana Level might lack the abundance of avant garde meals halls and multi-ethnic hole-in-the-wall strip malls that make North Orange County’s eating scene so dynamically thrilling, that doesn’t imply you’ll go hungry or bored down right here.
Somewhat, Dana Level has an attention-grabbing mixture of tastefully upscale — what passes as formal eating in Southern California — and much more informal native favorites. As a rule of thumb, the eating places in and close to the Ritz-Carlton and the Waldorf-Astoria in Monarch Seashore are typically fancier, and also you’re extra prone to discover cheaper straightforward, breezy, beachy fare by the harbor and in Capo Seashore.
Value Key
- $ = budget-friendly or low cost
- $$= common
- $$$= costly
Rosetta Espresso Brewing Firm
Tucked away in a automobile wash between PCH and the I-5 Freeway, Rosetta serves up a few of OC’s finest third wave coffee alongside nice customer support and a “secret menu” of sunshine nibbles. Rosetta particularly is useful in the event you want a fast breakfast earlier than hitting the street on a day journey to Anaheim, San Diego, or elsewhere.
The Espresso Importers
Tucked deep inside Dana Level Harbor’s Mariner’s Village, The Espresso Importers is ideal for a fast snack, a leisurely breakfast or lunch, or a scenic refreshment to get pleasure from nearly any time of day. For meals, there’s no dangerous choice, however I’m particularly a fan of the tomato bisque and grilled cheese sandwich. For drinks, they haven’t solely a big selection of nice espresso drinks, but additionally juices and smoothies.
- Finest for: All-day meals and snacks
- $$
Glasspar
For those who’re up for a correctly refined but classically “California Informal” dinner close to the harbor, Glasspar is able to seat you for fairly the culinary expertise. You’ll discover loads of traditional American seafood dishes, however you’ll additionally discover a enjoyable California up to date twist that retains your style buds engaged. I used to be actually blown away by the daring but enjoyable flavors of the shrimp pappardelle, and the ceviche is nice in the event you’re extra within the temper for mild nibbles.
Station Craft Brewery + Kitchen
Positioned proper on PCH within the Lantern District, Station Craft makes a number of the finest craft beers you’ll discover this aspect of Camp Pendleton. The Black Dahlia Lager, a collaboration with Delahunt Brewing, has lusciously candy notes of bittersweet chocolate and easy espresso, whereas the Skyhopping West Coast IPA is recent, fruity, and surprisingly approachable. For meals, their seasonal menu all the time has loads of choices that elevate bar meals to scrumptious new heights.
- Finest for: Lunch and dinner
- $$
Stella’s
Whereas the Monarch Bay Plaza strip mall on the north finish of Dana Level has loads of good eating choices, we’re notably a fan of Stella’s Critical Italian by the Gelson’s (very upscale) grocery retailer. Just like the purchasing heart it’s nestled in, Stella’s feels stylish, however not stuffy. We particularly love their eggplant parmigiana; it’s completely cooked and abundantly tacky with an herbaceously scrumptious marinara sauce. Nevertheless, you actually can’t go flawed with any of their pastas. In case you have sufficient room for dessert, order the tiramisu and thank us later. For those who’re ingesting the good things, they’ve a great wine listing and a stable cocktail menu.
- Finest for: Lunch and dinner
- $$$
Raya
At Raya, Chef Richard Sandoval pays homage to Latin American delicacies in a stunningly scenic area with impeccable fashion. Raya makes use of the best native produce, premium meats, and sustainably sourced seafood for his or her dishes. You’ll discover some meaty favorites like filet mignon on the menu. You’ll additionally spot some vegan-friendly choices. Come for the spectacular ocean view, and keep for the amazingly delectable comida.
- Finest for: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- $$$
Attempt the following pointers for a greater journey
Transportation
As we beforehand mentioned in our Orange County journey information, mass transit choices are restricted down right here. San Juan Capistrano does have an Amtrak and Metrolink practice station, and San Clemente has practice stations — however please test the practice schedules earlier than you go to. As of early 2023, native transit businesses are repairing and stabilizing train tracks in San Clemente and Del Mar that may affect train service through April. OC Bus does have a number of buses working in and thru Dana Level, however definitely not as many as you’ll discover in additional densely populated cities like Irvine and Anaheim.
For those who can drive, you’ll in all probability have a better time getting in every single place you wish to go in Dana Level and all through South County. Simply understand that I-5 is the one freeway for this a part of OC, and site visitors can get heavy throughout weekday rush hour and on massive vacation weekends. The SR-73 toll street goes from close by Laguna Niguel to John Wayne Airport and Costa Mesa, however you’ll should pay to make use of it.
Climate
For those who’re in any respect aware of California, you’ve in all probability heard of microclimates. Dana Level climate positively matches this invoice, as does the remainder of Orange County. The thermostat might hit 90 levels Fahrenheit in Anaheim on a sizzling day, however it could very nicely nonetheless be a cool 75 down in Dana Level. It’s all the time a good suggestion to pack numerous layers of clothes earlier than touring right here, then put together so as to add and/or subtract layers relying on the place you’re going.
For those who’re coming throughout the winter season, it’s in all probability a good suggestion to pack at the very least one pair of pants and a few mild jackets and/or sweaters in case it will get a bit frosty throughout your journey. For those who’re planning to leap within the water, it’s your decision a wetsuit in the event you’re delicate to colder ocean water.
Correct etiquette
For those who’re planning to leap within the water throughout your journey, please don’t get in the way in which of different surfers. Even in the event you’re swimming, bodysurfing, or SUP’ing, it’s finest to avoid surfers who’re attempting to catch waves — and attempting to not run into you.
On land, please clear up after your self on the seaside. The very last thing the Pacific Ocean wants is even more pollution. For those who can, attempt to keep away from bringing any disposable plastic straws, wrappers, or containers to the seaside. For those who don’t have any higher options, at the very least just remember to safely eliminate any plastics and different rubbish away from locations that native wildlife can entry.
Ultimate ideas
Dana Level gives a nice respite from the hustle and bustle you see elsewhere on this nook of California. Regardless in the event you’re right here for a fast weekend escape or an extended expedition, there’s loads right here so that you can expertise and luxuriate in. Whether or not you favor a day of carving it up within the open ocean, carving your means by means of the path to find some distinctive pure magnificence, or carving into the most effective pizza you’ve had in a very long time, it’s all the time a good suggestion to plan your splendid seaside trip and carve a while out for Dana Level.
For extra nice concepts for future journey plans, take a look at the 20 best national parks to explore, Lake Tahoe’s best outdoor adventure spots, our useful information to Canada’s “hidden gem” wine countries, the unlucky downside of traveling with Airbnb, and our suggestions for surviving these turbulent times for air travel. Wherever you resolve to go subsequent, we hope you benefit from the trip.
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