Harbor Area Offers Many Attractions

Dana Point Harbor is a mecca for spectators and sports activists alike.

The 25-year-old harbor is home to a bustling commercial fishing fleet, where families often watch fishermen unload their daily catch, particularly during lobster season.

More than 2,500 recreational boats and yachts are docked in the harbor’s two private marinas.

California gray whales migrate off the Dana Point coast as they make their journey from Alaska to mate and give birth in secluded coves in Baja California. Dana Wharf Sportfishing, which also offers recreational fishing, will be running whale watching boats every day through the holidays.

The cost is $14 for adults, $8 for children. For information, call 496-5794.

Visitors can skate, bike or walk along Dana Point Harbor Drive, explore the shipyard or visit the 30 shops and 13 restaurants found in the harbor’s commercial villages. Parents and children also can barbecue or picnic in the park near “Baby Beach,” at Dana Cove Park or along the island side of the harbor where grass and benches lie along the waterfront.

Doheny State Beach, which offers overnight camping, surfing and picnic areas, is directly down coast from the harbor.

At the harbor’s west end is the Orange County Marine Institute, a nonprofit educational organization. Free of charge, parents and children can visit the tall ship Pilgrim, which is moored next to the institute.

No institute programs or tours will be held during the holidays, but the institute gift shop will be open.

Information: (714) 496-2274.

Just north of the marine institute is tide pools that offer an array of sea life in their natural habitat at low tide.