Dana Point, California

Dana Point, California is the choice to make if your idea of a Southern California vacation includes beautiful beaches and boats as far as the eye can see. This ultra-modern hamlet has a man-made port that houses over 2500 boats. As rich in history as it is in beauty, Dana Point was named after Richard Henry Dana, an ordinary sailor who wrote about the area in his book, Two Years Before the Mast. In it, he described the area as "the only romantic spot in California". Today, Dana Point welcomes visitors who flock in droves to indulge in the many activities provided here. A day in Dana Point can include swimming, fishing, sailing, parasailing, snorkeling, visiting coastal attractions, or flopping on a beach working on your tan.

Sun worshippers can toss down a towel on scenic Salt Creek Beach Park. This long stretch of sand has come to be a favorite with the surfing community. There are facilities available where you can rent canoes and kayaks. A trail takes visitors from the beach to the bluffs that overlook the ocean, giving visitors an excellent view of Catalina Island and the whale migration that takes place annually. More time in the sun can be spent at Doheny State Beach. Doheny has 62 acres featuring over a mile of beach considered by many as the finest surfing spot in southern California. The visitors center has a series of aquariums, an indoor tidal pool, and a gift shop where you can pick up a Dana Point souvenir.

Dana Point Harbor is another can't-miss sight while visiting the area. The harbor has garnered the reputation as one of the most incredible man-made harbors anywhere in the world. Think of the harbor as a one-stop shopping area for all things aquatic. The harbor houses two marinas, and has over 2500 boat slips. There are ships available for deep sea fishing or a midnight cruise in the Pacific. You can rent a jet ski, canoe, kayak, or catamaran--pretty much anything your heart desires to help you explore the ocean. Shoppers have their choice of 30 eclectic shops, selling everything from antiques to hand-made jewelry.

History buffs can visit the Ocean Institute; its mission statement is "to inspire all generations through education to become responsible stewards of our oceans". The museum teaches the wonders of the ocean through a hands-on approach. For instance, students who want to learn seamanship can spend the night on the Pilgrim, a ship anchored in the harbor, swabbing decks, lifting sails, standing watch--all the skills practiced by those who sailed on her. The institute has a series of aquariums showing the local sea life, as well as a research vessel that sends back data from the ocean floor.

Fans of surfing history and trivia will want to visit Huntington Beach, which has long been associated with the surfing community. To see how connected the two are, visit the International Surf Museum. Everyone from surfing devotees to curious onlookers will be amazed at the extent of the museum's surfing memorabilia. The museum pays tribute to the subculture surfing has created over the years. Legends of the sport like Duke Kahanamoku, Tom Blake, George Freeth, Rell Sunn, Faye Baird Fraser, and many others are represented. Surfboards and other relics that have chronicled the sport are on display. Vintage photographs, beachwear, beach music, and surf graffiti add to the atmosphere. There is even a display about the real-life Gidget. You don't get much more surf oriented than that! The museum is a natural reflection of Huntington Beach's link between the ocean, the many ocean sports, and the lifestyles of the community.