Dana Point Harbor: Slips, Moorings, and Boating Access

Strategically located between Los Angeles and San Diego, Dana Point Harbor has been a boating hub for more than four decades. Known for its scenic coastline, active boating community, and year-round amenities, the harbor is in the midst of a major revitalization that will modernize facilities, expand public access, and preserve its role as a central point for recreation on the water.

Bryon Ward, President of Burnham-Ward Properties and partner of Dana Point Harbor Partners, explained that, “Dana Point Harbor Partners were selected to manage the day-to-day operations while privately financing and managing the redevelopment of Dana Point Harbor in 2018 through a P-3 Partnership with the County of Orange. The Marina redevelopment kicked off in 2022 and the landside redevelopment began in 2024. The hotels have received both Coastal Commission approval (2024) and City Council approval (2025) to move forward.”

That progress has already produced visible results. “Bellwether Financial Group and Bellingham Marine have completed the new Marina development of phases 1-8 out of 15 strategic phases. July marked the major milestone of completing the entire West Basin of the Marina at Dana Point,” Ward said. On land, Burnham-Ward Properties completed phases 1 and 2 of its redevelopment, including a new 984-stall parking structure with mature landscaping, expanded pedestrian pathways, and an upgraded entrance into the harbor. “The parking structure includes dedicated boater parking and upgraded facilities as well as substantially expanded parking for sportfishing, whale watching and Catalina customers,” he added.

When complete, the redeveloped marina — designed and built by Bellingham Marine — will feature more than 2,200 boat slips and 493 dry boat-storage spaces across roughly 20.5 acres. The new dock system will eliminate treated wood and ferrous metals, replacing them with materials designed for longer life and improved environmental performance. The marina redesign will also enhance public access, improve recreational opportunities, and support community programs that connect underserved youth to coastal activities such as sailing, swimming, and ocean education.

Looking ahead, Ward said, “Phase 9 (marina) will carry forward the consistent best in class construction and level of attention to detail of the previous 8 phases of new docks and slips.” Landside improvements are equally ambitious: “Phase 3 (landside) will encompass brand new best-in-class, coastal-inspired, four-sided architecture. Healthy building design features including expansive indoor/outdoor spaces and covered patios. 50 new restaurants and retailers offering diverse dining and shopping.”

The new slip configurations will transform the boater experience with both durability and convenience. According to Ward, these upgrades include “world-class 6-sided enclosed concrete floating docks” engineered for a 70-year lifespan, updated electrical and fire safety systems, in-slip pump outs for vessels over 30 feet, and new steel piles with protective sleeves. He noted that boaters will also benefit from “state-of-the-art power pedestals” with 30- and 50-amp power, energy-efficient LED lighting, enhanced security cameras, ADA-compliant access, and convenient keyless entry.

For visitors, Dana Point Harbor will remain accessible throughout the redevelopment. “The Embarcadero at Dana Point and public boat launch ramp remain available and open daily for day boater use. Guest slip availability remains in high demand – reservation requests may be made directly with the Marina team,” Ward said.

Guest Slips and Transient Moorings

For visiting boaters, Dana Point Harbor offers two primary options for short-term stays: guest slips and anchorage. Guest slips, managed by The Marina at Dana Point, accommodate vessels ranging from 20 to 200 feet and will eventually be relocated to the outer basin at the harbor entrance, allowing for easy access. Advance reservations are strongly recommended and can be made online or by calling the marina office at (949) 496-6137.

Transient anchorage is available in two designated areas: the East anchorage near the bait barge, and the West anchorage adjacent to the Ocean Institute and Baby Beach. Both areas are monitored by the Orange County Sheriff’s Harbor Patrol. Anchorage use is subject to federal regulations and county ordinances, including Sec. 2-2-66, which governs temporary anchorage grounds. For information, visiting boaters should contact the Harbor Patrol at (949) 248-2222.

Reservations and Payment

Guest slip reservations require basic vessel and contact information, and payment is typically processed in advance of arrival. Rates vary based on vessel length and duration of stay. Boaters choosing to anchor should coordinate with Harbor Patrol for approval and anchoring conditions before arrival.

Launch Ramp and Dry Storage

For trailer boaters, Dana Point Harbor’s six-lane launch ramp offers quick and convenient access to the water. Newly renovated, the facility accommodates thousands of launches each year and is designed for efficiency during busy weekends and holidays. Dry boat storage with launch ramp service is available for those who prefer to store vessels out of the water but want rapid access for day use.

Fuel Dock and Boater Services

Located in the East turning basin, the Dana Point Harbor Fuel Dock is a full-service station on the water. It offers diesel, gasoline, and outboard fuels, along with groceries, ice, bait, sundries, and maintenance services. The fuel dock serves as a one-stop shop for boaters preparing for offshore runs or extended cruising.

Public Access and Revitalization Goals

The marina redevelopment is guided by agreements with the California Coastal Commission to increase public access and integrate environmental best practices. Plans call for expanded public docks, improved connections between landside amenities and the waterfront, and a reconfiguration of parking and commercial areas to place hotels, parks, and retail along the water’s edge.

Ward noted that these changes will also benefit the fishing community. “In addition to the water quality and safety and security improvements, elevating the overall harbor experience will increase potential for better business opportunities directly within and outside the local community appealing to a broader audience.”

Events and community life will also see significant growth. “Event programming will continue with community favorite annual events with substantial growth utilizing new fully equipped event spaces and expanded opportunities for community engagement. Public art and Dana Point history will be incorporated throughout the entire project,” Ward said. “Enhanced gathering spaces, including the waterfront boardwalk and elevated deck. Programmable outdoor spaces for food, fitness, live music, craft and farmers markets.”

Accommodations

The Dana Point Marina Inn offers the harbor’s only waterfront accommodations, with competitive rates and on-site event facilities. Its location provides convenient access to both landside attractions and boating amenities, making it a practical choice for visitors who want to stay within walking distance of the marina.

Ward emphasized that the harbor is fully open during construction and will continue to serve the boating community without interruption. “The harbor is open and will remain open throughout each phase for public, boater and guest enjoyment. With recent tenant relocations, some of your local favorites may now be in new spots and ready to welcome you. To learn more, visit Danapointharbor.com and bookmark the Construction tab for the latest news.”

With modernized infrastructure, expanded slips, and enhanced public amenities, Dana Point Harbor’s future is being shaped to serve both the boating community and the broader public. Whether arriving in a yacht, trailering in for a day on the water, or visiting for a harbor-side event, the harbor continues to be a key Southern California destination for recreation and marine access.

Dana Point Harbor Boater’s Quick Reference Guide