Dana Point Harbor Revitalization

Dana Point Harbor has been a cherished recreational hub for generations. From its humble beginnings as a haven for fishermen and boaters, it blossomed into a popular spot for whale watching, sportfishing, and soaking in the California coastal beauty.

However, with time and heavy use taking its toll, the harbor's infrastructure and facilities became outdated, and public areas lacked the vibrancy to match the surrounding beauty. To ensure the harbor thrives for years to come, the County of Orange partnered with Dana Point Harbor Partners (DPHP) in 2018 to revitalize the area into three key components: The Marina, The Commercial Core, and the Hotel – to ultimately breathe new life into the harbor while preserving its charm.

A New Chapter

The Marina

 
The Marina Improvement Project includes the construction of new boat slips, boater service buildings, and parking. Additionally, the project addresses critical infrastructure needs by repairing almost 10,000 linear feet of seawalls, thereby bolstering the area’s resilience to environmental factors. Moreover, a core objective of the project is to expand public access to the waterfront, enriching the community’s engagement with the natural surroundings.

Notable significant progress has already been achieved, with the successful completion of phases 1 through 4 and the commencement of Phase 5 in February 2024. The project will be constructed over 15 phases with a targeted completion date set for 2028.

The Commercial Core

 
Construction of the first two phases of the Commercial Core development kicked off in early 2024, marking a significant step forward in the project’s timeline. These phases will introduce approximately 120,000 square feet of new retail, diverse shops, and enticing restaurants to the area. Accompanying this commercial expansion is the construction of a three-level parking structure with nearly 1,000 spaces, facilitating convenient access for visitors.

The Project is strategically planned to be completed over five phases, with completion anticipated within the next three years. This phased approach ensures a systematic and efficient progression towards realizing the project's vision while accommodating various logistical and community needs.

The Hotel

  
On June 14, 2024, the California Coastal Commission unanimously approved the proposed amendments to the Dana Point Harbor Local Coastal Plan for the construction of two new hotel, boater service buildings, and associated parking areas as part of the planned hotel development. This key approval allows the project to move forward with the entitlement process. Next steps include revising and recirculating the draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for public review and comment. Subsequently, the final EIR will be prepared, incorporating any necessary revisions. The City of Dana Point, as the lead agency, will then review and certify the Final EIR to ensure compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act. Following EIR certification, the project will seek a Coastal Development Permit from the City of Dana Point and secure all necessary approvals to commence construction.

The Legacy Continues

Upon completion, the revitalized Dana Point Harbor will solidify its place as a premier Orange County destination. This project honors the harbor's rich history while ensuring it thrives for future generations.       
 

Explore More:

• Learn more about the project: 
  • Dana Point Harbor Website
  • The Marina at Dana Point Website
• Discover more in the Harbor:
  • OC Parks Website
  • Ocean Institute Website
  • OC Sailing and Events Center:

Have questions? Contact us at:

• DPHOversight@ocgov.com