| Dana Point is one of the most exciting places to be in Orange County this spring, with world-class events, a harbor transformation underway, and a coastal lifestyle that's hard to beat. Whether you're a long-time resident or you've been thinking about making this stretch of the South OC coast your home, there's never been a better time to explore everything Dana Point has to offer. Our team at the Brad Feldman Group, one of the top Orange County real estate agents, put together this guide to the best things happening in and around Dana Point this spring. |
March is packed with can't-miss events in Dana Point and nearby San Juan Capistrano, making it one of the best months to experience South Orange County at its finest.
The headliner is the 55th Annual Festival of Whales, taking place March 6 through 8, 2026 at the Dana Point Harbor. This is the longest-running whale festival in the United States, and it celebrates the annual migration of California gray whales as they pass along the Dana Point coastline. Because of its location on a natural migratory route, Dana Point is widely recognized as the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World.
The festival kicks off Friday evening with the Welcoming of the Whales Ceremony at the Ocean Institute, followed by a full weekend of whale watching excursions, a parade (back for 2026 with a special Saturday morning start time), live music, a concert on the water at Baby Beach, a carnival at Lantern Bay Park, sand sculpting, art in the park, a Modern Makers Mart, classic car displays, a marine mammal lecture series, and much more. A free shuttle runs between Dana Hills High School and the harbor, and biking and walking are encouraged with multiple pedestrian entry points along Dana Point Harbor Drive.
Just a short drive inland, San Juan Capistrano hosts two beloved traditions later in the month. On March 19, Mission San Juan Capistrano celebrates St. Joseph's Day and the Return of the Swallows, a world-renowned event marking the annual return of the cliff swallows to the Mission. The celebration includes the ringing of the historic bells, live mariachi music, Native American storytelling, and flamenco dance performances. Then on March 21, the 66th Annual Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Fair brings the whole community together. This year's theme is "Trails, Tails & Traditions – 250 Years," and the parade, one of the nation's largest non-motorized parades, begins at 11 AM and features horses, wagons, stagecoaches, and plenty of Old West spirit. The Mercado Street Fair runs throughout the day with food, entertainment, and activities for all ages. Street closures begin at 10 AM, so arrive early or take the shuttle.
These events are part of what makes living in Dana Point and the surrounding South OC communities so special. There's always something going on that brings neighbors together.
Beyond the big annual festivals, Dana Point has a lineup of regular events that give this coastal city its tight-knit, community-first feel. Here are a few favorites.
Dana Point Certified Farmers' Market runs every Wednesday from 9 AM to 1 PM at the Harbor Village Lot (34555 Golden Lantern, between Golden Lantern and Casitas Place). You can park in the new parking structure for up to four hours free and shop from a carefully curated selection of local vendors. Look for favorites like Sunny Cal Farms, Black Sheep Farms, Sage Mountain, Bee Ladies Honey, Bread Artisan Bakery, Fresco Pasta, and the harbor's own Jon's Fish Market, among many others. It's the kind of mid-week reset that reminds you why living near the coast is worth it.
Cars & Coffee on The Wharf is held on the fourth Saturday of every month at Dana Wharf (34675 Golden Lantern). Classic cars line the boardwalk while you grab a coffee from Coco Bloom Coffee, which opens at 7 AM during the event. It's a laid-back morning that blends car culture with coastal charm, and it's become a true local favorite since returning to the harbor.
For families, Art Lessons in the Wild: Wyland's Whale & Dolphin Adventure is a standout experience running weekly on Saturdays through April. Hosted by world-renowned marine muralist Wyland at Dana Wharf, kids ages 3 to 12 create their own artwork aboard one of Dana Wharf's vessels before heading out on a two-hour whale watching excursion. At the end of each lesson, children submit their drawings for the chance to win a prize, with a grand prize of a signed and framed Wyland work of art valued at up to $3,000. Lessons start at 9 AM before the 10 AM whale watching trip, with a max of 15 students per session. It's a one-of-a-kind way for young artists to connect with the ocean.
These recurring events are a big part of what makes Dana Point feel like more than just a place to live. If you're curious about what it's like to call this area home, check out the Brad Feldman Group's neighborhood guides for a closer look at communities throughout Orange County.
There's a reason Dana Point real estate is some of the most sought-after in all of Southern California. The combination of natural beauty, ongoing investment, world-class amenities, and a genuine sense of community is tough to match.
The Dana Point Harbor Revitalization Project is a massive, multi-phase transformation that's been underway for the past few years and is actively reshaping the harbor experience. The $400 million public-private partnership between Orange County and Dana Point Harbor Partners includes all-new marina docks, new commercial buildings with shops and restaurants, a state-of-the-art parking structure (now complete), and two future hotels.
Phase 3 construction on the Mariner's Village area kicked off in early 2026, with new commercial buildings expected by late 2026 and additional phases continuing into 2027. The revitalization is designed to modernize the harbor's 1970s-era infrastructure while preserving the charm that makes it special. All existing shops, restaurants, and excursion operators remain open throughout construction, so there's no reason to wait to enjoy the harbor.
▶️ Watch our overview of the Harbor Revitalization Project
The Lantern District, Dana Point's walkable downtown area along Del Prado Avenue, adds another layer of appeal. Named for the colored maritime signal lanterns that once lined the streets, the district features Spanish-style architecture, local restaurants, galleries, boutique shops, and a growing food and drink scene. It's the kind of neighborhood where you can grab dinner, walk to a gallery opening, and still be just minutes from the beach.
▶️ Watch our tour of the Lantern District
Speaking of beaches, Dana Point has some of the best in Orange County. Doheny State Beach is a legendary surf spot and family-friendly destination, Salt Creek Beach is a top pick for surfers and sunbathers, and Strand Beach offers a more secluded coastal escape. The Dana Point Headlands provide stunning blufftop trails with panoramic ocean views.
For those drawn to luxury living, Dana Point is home to two iconic resorts: the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach and the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, both offering world-class dining, spas, and ocean views. And when it comes to residential luxury, communities like Monarch Bay and The Strand at Headlands set the standard. Monarch Bay is a 24-hour guard-gated enclave of approximately 214 custom estates perched on a bluff overlooking Salt Creek Beach, complete with a private beach club, oceanfront dining, and resort-style amenities. The Strand at Headlands, Orange County's last oceanfront development, features custom luxury estates with sweeping Pacific views, a private beach club, and direct access to Strand Beach. Homes in these communities range from the mid-seven figures well into the tens of millions.
Whether you're looking for a luxury estate in Monarch Bay, a charming cottage in the Lantern District, or anything in between, the Brad Feldman Group's portfolio showcases properties across Dana Point and surrounding South OC communities.
From the Festival of Whales to the farmers' market to a harbor that's being reimagined for the next generation, Dana Point offers a lifestyle that goes well beyond beautiful weather and ocean views. It's a place where community events bring people together, where world-class dining and recreation are part of everyday life, and where your home is a gateway to one of California's most stunning stretches of coastline.
If you're thinking about buying or selling a home in Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, or anywhere in Orange County, the Brad Feldman Group is here to help. Wondering what your current home might be worth? Get a free home valuation to find out.
Ready to start the conversation? Reach out to our team today and let's talk about your next move.
