Developers behind the ongoing Dana Point Harbor revitalization are turning to the public for help naming one of the major waterfront hotels planned as part of the harbor’s redevelopment project.
Dana Point Harbor Partners and RD Olson Development recently announced that the previously proposed hotel name “Dana House” will no longer move forward, opening the door for a new identity tied more closely to Dana Point’s coastal character and harbor culture.
The announcement was made through social media, where developers described the naming process as an opportunity to create something that better reflects the surrounding community and waterfront atmosphere.
“Dana Point isn’t just a location … it’s a lifestyle,” the post stated while introducing the search for a replacement name.
Several possible names were presented to the public for feedback, including The Point Hotel, Lantern Bay Hotel, The Breakwater Hotel, The Doheny, The Pacifica at Dana Point, and The Headlands Hotel.
Developers also encouraged community members to submit additional ideas as public discussion surrounding the project continues online.
Among the names receiving strong support on social media was “The Doheny,” while other commenters proposed alternatives inspired by Dana Point’s harbor, surf culture, and coastal geography.
The hotel project is part of the larger $600 million Dana Point Harbor Revitalization Project, which continues reshaping significant portions of the waterfront.
As previously approved through the California Coastal Commission process, the redevelopment plan includes two new hotels replacing the former Marina Inn site. One hotel is planned as a higher-end waterfront property, while the second, known as Surf Lodge, is intended to offer a more approachable and casual coastal lodging experience.
Developers previously described the two hotels as intentionally distinct in both atmosphere and target audience. Plans for the properties include amenities such as rooftop lounges, pools, fitness centers, restaurants, and gathering spaces designed to support the harbor’s evolving visitor experience.
The larger market-rate hotel, formerly referred to as Dana House, is expected to feature approximately 130 rooms and draw architectural inspiration from other coastal hospitality projects developed by RD Olson, including Lido House in Newport Beach.
Meanwhile, the Surf Lodge concept has been described as a more relaxed and lifestyle-oriented hotel designed to appeal to a broad mix of visitors while maintaining a welcoming waterfront atmosphere.
The naming discussion comes as redevelopment activity within Harbor Village continues accelerating. Several remaining businesses, including The Brig, Bella Bazaar, and Beach House Pizza, recently closed as part of the next phase of construction preparation.
Attention now continues shifting toward future demolition timelines and additional redevelopment milestones connected to the long-term transformation of Dana Point Harbor.
At this time, a final name for the hotel has not been selected.
