Doheny State Beach

Doheny State Beach is a coastal stretch along the Pacific Ocean in Dana Point spanning about 62 acres (25 hectares), with sand, tide pools, and a campground offering over 100 sites. The spot accommodates swimming, surfing, and all kinds of beach activities, with some campsites located right along the waterline.

The land was donated in 1931 by oil entrepreneur Edward L. Doheny, making it the first state beach in California's park system. The shoreline had previously belonged to the Acjachemen, who lived here for about 9,000 years before European settlers arrived in Southern California.

The name honors Edward L. Doheny, an oil magnate from the early 20th century whose family donated this land to the state. Today locals and visitors come here to sit on the sand, barbecue, and spend afternoons by the sea with friends or family.

The campground offers 113 sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hot showers, with 33 located right on the beachfront. Day visitors can find good space for swimming or walking, especially during low tide when tide pools become accessible.

Dolphins and seals appear regularly near the shore, especially during spring and fall when large migrations pass along the coast. Some visitors spot them swimming from the beach itself, often in small groups moving parallel to the shoreline.