Welcome to Dana Point, California

🌊 Welcome to Dana Point, California

A Coastal Lifestyle You’ll Fall in Love With

Dana Point is one of Southern California’s true gems—where breathtaking ocean views, walkable neighborhoods, and a relaxed luxury lifestyle come together in one beautiful coastal community.

With just under 33,000 residents and a median age of 48, Dana Point offers a blend of luxury, charm, and laid-back sophistication. Whether you're looking to downsize into coastal elegance or find a forever home by the sea, Dana Point delivers.

📍 Location Snapshot

Dana Point is nestled halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, bordered by Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, and San Clemente. It spans just under 7 square miles, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in scenery: coastal bluffs, rolling hills, and postcard-worthy beaches.

Known as the “Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World™,” it’s also the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas—yes, it’s that special.

🏘️ Dana Point Neighborhoods at a Glance

Each neighborhood has its own flavor—whether you’re looking for privacy, beach access, walkability, or resort-style amenities.

Monarch Beach — $2.7M median

Luxury coastal living with resort-style perks. Home to the Ritz-Carlton, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach, and Monarch Beach Golf Links. Walk to beaches, dine at 5-star spots, or hit the golf course from your backyard.

Monarch Bay — $8M median

Dana Point’s most exclusive gated enclave. Private beach access, 24/7 guard security, and stunning estates with ocean views. Bordering Laguna Beach, it’s ultra-private and ultra-luxury.

Monarch Bay Terrace - $4M median

Premier coastal hillside living with panoramic ocean vistas with mostly single level remodelled homes just up from Monarch Bay.

Niguel Shores — $2.6M median

A coveted beachside gated community with private beach access, tennis courts, pool, and clubhouse. Known for its social scene and ocean-close living.

Lantern Village — $2.2M median

Dana Point’s original heart—historic charm meets modern beach town living. Walk to restaurants, boutiques, the harbor, and more. Streets are named after lanterns—yes, it’s as charming as it sounds.

Ritz Pointe — $2.5M median

Gated, peaceful, and walkable to Salt Creek Beach. Tucked behind Monarch Beach Golf Links, with trails and lush green surroundings.

Capistrano Beach — $1.6M median

A laid-back beach community with homes from cozy cottages to ocean-view estates. Great location if you want quick access to San Clemente and local surf spots.

Dana Hills — $1.45M median

Family-friendly with parks, sidewalks, and Dana Hills High School. Convenient to shopping, beaches, and local dining.

Emerald Ridge

Private hilltop living with lush landscaping, ocean breezes, and gated security. Homes here enjoy sweeping views and proximity to both Dana Point and Laguna.

💰 Cost of Living

Dana Point is a premium market, but for good reason—you're paying for the lifestyle.

• Cost of living index: 203 (103% above national average)
• Housing costs: ~320% above national average
• Median home value: $1.2M+
• Typical sale prices: $1.7M–$1.725M
• Median rent: $2,900–$3,300
• Ownership rate: 62.7%

Groceries and transportation run higher than average, but healthcare and utilities are surprisingly reasonable.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who Lives Here?

Dana Point is home to successful professionals, retirees, and families looking for exceptional quality of life.

• Median household income: $127,246
• Bachelor’s degree or higher: 57%
• Entrepreneurs: 21%
• Ethnic breakdown: 72% White, 16% Hispanic, 6% two or more races, 3% Asian

📊 Dana Point Real Estate Market

Inventory is tight, and demand stays strong—especially in ocean-view neighborhoods.

• Median home prices rose 6.2% year-over-year
• Homes sell quickly, often within 21–47 days
• The luxury market is thriving, with sales reaching $28M+ in The Strand
• Desirable homes often receive multiple offers

🏖️ Beaches + Harbor

There’s no shortage of outdoor fun.

Beaches

• Doheny State Beach: Great for surfing, camping, and family fun
• Salt Creek Beach: Popular with surfers and sunseekers
• Baby Beach: Calm, family-friendly harbor beach
• Strands Beach: Iconic, scenic, and perfect for sunbathing

Dana Point Harbor

A hub of coastal activity:

• 2,500+ boat slips
• Whale watching & fishing charters
• Paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing
• Waterfront restaurants & the Ocean Institute

🚶 Things to Do

• Whale watching (year-round)
• Hiking trails at the Headlands & Hilltop Park
• Golf at Monarch Beach Golf Links
• Dining out: Local favorites include Truly Pizza 🍕, Chart House 🌊, Jimmy’s Famous 🍔, and Luciana’s Ristorante 🍝
• Live music, festivals, and farmers markets

🚗 Getting Around

• Free trolley service (summer)
• Bus routes: OCTA 1, 85, 90, 91
• Ferries: Catalina Express to Catalina Island
• Airports:
• John Wayne: 22 miles (27 min)
• LAX & San Diego Intl: ~65 miles

🏫 Schools & Education

Part of the highly rated Capistrano Unified School District.

Top Schools:

• Dana Hills High School – A-rated for college prep & arts
• Richard Henry Dana Elementary – Beloved by local families
• Palisades Elementary – Top scores & community feel
• Shorecliffs Middle School – Solid academic reputation

🏥 Healthcare

Excellent options close by:

• Providence Mission Hospital (Mission Viejo)
• MemorialCare & urgent care locations in town
• Mission Hospital Laguna Beach for specialized services

🔐 Safety

Dana Point is considered very safe:

• Violent crime: 54% lower than national average
• Property crime: 37% lower
• 78% of residents feel safe walking at night

☀️ Climate

Expect sunshine almost year-round:

• 275+ sunny days/year
• Avg high: 82°F (summer), 68°F (winter)
• Avg low: 65°F (summer), 48°F (winter)
• Best weather? Late August to early September

🎉 Community Events

Dana Point is known for its community spirit.

Annual Highlights:

• Festival of Whales 🐋 (March)
• Tall Ships Festival ⛵️ (Summer)
• Classic Car Show 🚗 (August)
• Holiday Boat Parade 🎄 (December)
• Dana Point Turkey Trot 🦃 (Thanksgiving)

Weekly Fun:

• Farmers Market (Saturdays)
• Seaside Sessions (Live music)
• Trolley Hops (Progressive dining)

🛍️ Shopping

• Dana Point Harbor: Art galleries & boutiques
• Monarch Bay Plaza: Upscale shops & services
• Lantern District: Charming local stores, cafes, and salons

💬 Final Thoughts from Susan Chase

If you’re dreaming of a lifestyle filled with ocean views, coastal charm, excellent schools, and a warm community feel, Dana Point is hard to beat. Whether you’re relocating from LA, Orange County, or across the country—this is a place where people don’t just move, they stay. I would love to help you find your perfect home.

📞 949-370-6950 | 📧 [email protected]
🔗 www.susanchase.com