Published: October 18, 2023
Dana Point has been going through a growth wave the last several years. The Lantern District revitalization is coming to bare post-pandemic with several businesses opening and increasing the options for residents and tourists. Here are some of our latest favorites in Dana Point.
Our Favorite Dining Experiences: Best Places in Dana Point to Catch a Meal
Both new and old, there are some great dining options in Dana Point making this beach and harbor town a destination for a night out in Orange County.
Coastal Kitchen
This has quickly become one of our favorites. With beach cottage decor, excellent service, and a well executed menu, this is where we take visitors for a guaranteed delicious dinner. The menu is small but with choices for almost every dietary preference. The cocktails are also lovely and don’t miss dessert. Their butter cake is my choice for a birthday cake and their key lime pie is probably the best I’ve ever had.
Maison Cafe + Market
This is a newer restuarant recently relocated from the Doheny Beach area, it has quickly become a popular dining destination. Now located in the heart of the Lantern District, it is the “it” destination for brunch. They also boast an inventive, French influenced dinner menu.
Lupe’s Dana Point
This taco eatery has long been a local favorite. Lupe’s Mexican Eatery serves up tacos, burritos, bowls, and even breakfast. Our favorite is the fish taco with homemade tortilla.
Project Social
Project Social located on the edge of Dana Point and Laguna Niguel offers delicious pub type fare. Open for breakfast, brunch (on weekends), lunch, and dinner with over two dozen beers on draft, wine, and a coffee bar. It’s a great place to sit back and relax no matter what time of day or what you’re craving.
Young’s Beach Shack
Looking for a place on the beach to catch an amazing sunset? Young’s Beach Shack at Salt Creek Beach is the place for you. The serve up refreshing cocktails, delicious fish and chips, and nice sized breakfast burritos on the patio overlooking Salt Creek Beach. Open 7 am to sunset, this elevates any beach outing.
Our favorite Bars, Taverns, and Happy Hours in Dana Point
The Taverns of Downtown and the Lantern District
The new taverns and breweries that have popped up has created a pub hopping scene in Dana Point.
Delahunt Taproom + Taqueria
Large selection of beer on tap, great tacos, and a fun trivia night, make this a great place to hangout with friends.
Station Craft Brewery and Kitchen
Dana Point Ale House
Best Hotels in Dana Point
There are not a lot of places to stay, which will make your visit pricey during the summer and if there is an event. If you do get lucky, here are the places we have enjoyed before we were a local or places visitors have told us their stories about. Best places in Dana Point to stay:
Beachfront Inn & Suites at Dana Point
This boutique hotel is in the heart of it all. Easily walkable to all your favorite Dana Point destinations, this ranks as a favorite place to stay.
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa
This Dana Point Marriott boasts Marina habour views and is close to Doheny State Beach for surfer and beachcomber convenience.
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach
If you’re looking for a luxury beach town resort, this is your place. The Five Diamond-rated resort features oceanfront golf, beach access, a luxury spa, and fine dining.
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