South Orange County’s Coastal Gems: A Summer Bucket List for Dana Point, San Clemente & Laguna Niguel
Dana Point, San Clemente, and Laguna Niguel offer a perfect blend of coastal beauty, laid-back luxury, and outdoor adventure—making South Orange County the ultimate destination for a summer well spent. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the season, these charming beach towns invite you to experience the best of California living: from sandy shores and stunning sunsets to gourmet dining, exclusive events, and luxury relaxation. Here's your curated summer guide to exploring these coastal havens.
🌴 1. Soak Up the Sun on Iconic Beaches
Spend the day at Salt Creek Beach, Strands, Doheny or T-Street, all known for surf, scenic views, and golden sands. These beaches offer something for everyone—from family-friendly waves to peaceful coves perfect for sunset walks. The beach at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel offer direct coastal access, ideal for resort guests looking to step right from suite to sand with Beach Butler service.
🍽️ 2. Indulge in Coastal Dining
Enjoy fresh seafood and sunset views in Dana Point at Coastal Kitchen, The Chart House, or Fisherman’s Restaurant on the San Clemente pier. For an elevated experience, dine at RAYA inside The Ritz-Carlton, featuring Latin-inspired coastal cuisine with panoramic ocean views, or Bourbon Steak at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach, a fine-dining favorite for steak and seafood.
🚤 3. Take a Sunset Cruise from Dana Point Harbor
Set sail from Dana Point Harbor on a private catamaran or public cruise. Or catch the Catalina Express for a day trip to Catalina Island, It’s a summer must-do, especially when you’re staying just minutes away at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, perched above the harbor with postcard-worthy views.
🧘♀️ 4. Relax at a Luxury Spa
Pamper yourself with a treatment at one of the area’s premier spas:
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Waldorf Astoria’s Miraval Life in Balance Spa: Offers a holistic wellness escape with mindfulness sessions, ocean-view yoga, and luxury treatments.
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The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Laguna Niguel: Known for its ocean-inspired therapies and world-class service.
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The Spa at Laguna Cliffs Marriott: A serene spot for massages, facials, and poolside relaxation after a day at the beach or harbor.
🎶 5. Attend a Summer Concert
Catch live music at Sea Terrace Park in Dana Point or at Music on the Meadows in San Clemente. For guests of the Laguna Cliffs Marriott, weekend concerts at Lantern Bay Park are just a short walk away and provide the perfect close to a summer day.
🐋 6. Go Whale Watching in Dana Point
Dubbed the Whale Watching Capital of the World, Dana Point offers daily excursions from the harbor from Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching..Spot dolphins, humpback whales, and even blue whales during their migration season. Guests at the nearby Laguna Cliffs Marriott or Ritz-Carlton can book excursions directly through the concierge.
🏖️ 7. Stay in Coastal Luxury
Three of Orange County’s most stunning resorts offer unforgettable summer escapes:
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Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach: A five-star resort with private beach access, a championship golf course, world-class dining, and immersive wellness programs.
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The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel: Located atop a bluff with sweeping Pacific views, this resort offers refined luxury, beach butler service, and coastal sophistication.
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Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa: With classic coastal charm, this hilltop hotel overlooks Dana Point Harbor and is a favorite for weddings, spa getaways, and scenic relaxation.
🚲 8. Explore the Outdoors
Rent an e-bike and explore all that Dana Point has to offer...Coffee and fresh Pastries at Coffee Importers and a stroll on Baby Beach, Lunch on the sand at Doho Cafe or Rent a Stand Up Paddle or take a Yoga SUP class in Dana Point Harbor.
Hike the Badlands Trail, Try this 2.4-mile out-and-back trail in Laguna Niguel for panoramic views. Guests of the Waldorf and Ritz can take advantage of guided tours, picnics, or coastal fitness classes.
🛍️ 9. Stroll & Shop
From the boutiques of Del Mar Street or Outlet at San Clemente in San Clemente to upscale resort shops at Monarch Beach or Dana Point Harbor, there’s no shortage of stylish ways to spend a summer afternoon. Check with your resort for exclusive shopping packages or shuttle services.
🌅 10. Dine and Unwind with a View
End your day with cocktails by the fire pits at 180blu (Ritz-Carlton) or a sunset dinner on the veranda at Laguna Cliffs Marriott’s Outer Reef. These oceanfront experiences define South OC’s signature blend of elegance and ease.
Ready to experience the coastal magic? Whether you're booking a luxury staycation, planning a romantic getaway, or simply looking for your next summer outing, Dana Point, San Clemente, and Laguna Niguel deliver a uniquely elevated yet relaxed slice of Southern California—one tide, fantastic cuisine, spa day, and sunset at a time.
And if you're looking to make this lifestyle your everyday reality and live like a local?
📞 Call Gary Macrides, Area Specialist Realtor.
✨ “Your OC Coastal Home Connection”
Let’s find your perfect home in Dana Point, San Clemente, Laguna Niguel or nearby Laguna Beach