This was the highlight of my visit in Dana Point. Priceless beautiful views of the ocean, beaches, Dana Point Harbor, and lushes landscapes. There's four conservation parks which makes the nearly 64 acres of the headlands. Will take approximately about an hour to two hours of completion to walk the trails. You'll come across scenic overlooks, beach access, and the Nature Interpretive Center. Glad we came on a breezy day and not have the sun beaming on us. We took lots of pictures with ocean and beach background setting. Beware of rattlesnakes and mice as signs are posted up along the trails, but we didn't encounter them. If you are in Dana Point, put this on your list of sights to see. read more

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The educational center wasn't open yet, but there were open bathrooms in the back. The path is soft dirt and would need to walk single file. There are a few benches and beautiful views. Just keep in mind it ends in a different gate area and it's a longer walk back if you don't reverse and go back to where you started. The gate does close at sunset, so don't get stuck in there!! read more

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This is like what I imagine it would be like if you were in prison and they let you go for a walk on a trail. It has an entry gate that you walk through that locks automatically at a certain time. Once you enter the gate the entire trail is fenced like narrow channel. The trail is not flat but more half moon. It's not comfortable to walk on . The entire thing is oddly fenced. If that's your thing fine but it didn't feel like a relaxing walk in nature. Go anywhere else and it will be better. read more

A trail where the ocean is always in view. Easy to walk through in less than 30 minutes. There are 3-4 sitting/viewing areas with benches to take a quick break or read the signs telling you about the area. The trail is a bit narrow in some places, but if you walk single file there should still be room for people walking the opposite way. Park in the street or a small lot. read more

Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area - Hiking Near Me - Dana Point, California

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Beautiful coastal walk with stunning ocean views, cliffs, and seasonal wildflowers, easy parking, nice neighbor to walk around, stunning sunset! read more

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This trail was beautiful and had some AMAZING views! There were great opportunities for photos as well as variations to make the trail shorter or longer. Much of the trail is paved if you so choose, but there's also areas that are dirt and more rocky. The beach section (which is primarily concrete) was my favorite! I would definitely recommend this as a BEGINNER hike! I read more

Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area - Myself and Partner - Hiking Near Me - Dana Point, California

This review is about the Dana Point Caves. To get there, one can park for free in the large parking lot near Baby Beach. You can then walk on pavement until you reach the Beach Stairs. From there, it's a slow hike over uneven, rocky/gravelly surfaces. We went around 2 pm, which is about half-way between high tide and low tide. There are no signs to indicate if you are on the right path. It took us quite a bit of time to slowly walk across the beach to the caves, and we used our hands for balance quite a bit as well. Most likely you are going to get your feet wet and/or soaked, so best to use beach shoes if possible (shoes are necessary since there are sharp areas as wel). The entrance to the cave was a narrow opening that had about 2 feet of standing water when we went. Inside the cave itself, there was a lot of decaying marine plants and mussels so it smelled very much like the ocean. There was definitely remnants of tourism (abandoned tripods) on the cave floor as well. It wasn't very crowed at all...we had the cave all to ourselfs for a while until we decided to head back. As we headed back, we saw a small pod of pelicans. read more

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Such a fun educational center filled with nature exhibits of animals and the hiking trails are so beautiful with the ocean views. Put on your comfy sneakers and protection gear and have a blast with family/friends!!! read more

Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area - Awesome educational for nature lovers! - Hiking Near Me - Dana Point, California

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We stumbled upon this little trail in Dana point while driving by the Baby Beach area. Right across the street from Charter House the trail is quite small unless you cross the street to the upper park which has a very long staircase or a inclined hill that goes around to the top of the park. My family explored a bit on the smaller trail loop which has beautiful views of the baby beach and Dana Point Harbor. The trail is all dirt with rails on all sides, PRO TIP: if you come on a winter day like we did you might need boots it had a lot of large puddles in some areas that you can get through without getting your shoes wet! There is just enough width to the trail to allow two people to pass by each other closely. There were wild bunnies and hummingbirds present and I wouldn't be surprised if you caught a glimpse of a whale in the horizon. No restrooms present on this side of the trail either but it's a pretty small walk. Overall I'd be excited to come back when it's dried out a bit and less muddy. read more

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If you hike the loop of this trail system you will be rewarded with sweeping views of Dana Point. This makes for a great stop off (sunset?) when spending the day in the area. - This trail is mostly sand so bring appropriate casual shoes.. - Parking is either on the steep street or inside the small parking lot. - Interpretave center closes at 4pm but the bathroom stays open later. - Be sure to look for the trail signs when hiking the loop trail. You will be walking down a street and down a walkway in between housing complexes and up to a lookout. Tip- Take a picture of the map for reference. read more

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Easy hike with beautiful picturesque views. I am blessed to have the views of this beautiful bluff from my window. You do have to be careful when it's hot summer days bc there are rattlesnakes. I recommend you park at Salt Creek Beach parking lot and walk up to this. read more

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Nicely groomed easy trail on sand. There is a slight incline but nothing major. The trail is narrow and fenced off so people can't wander into preserved areas. It's nicely done. The views were gorgeous! The fenced off area was short and quick but be warned it's not circular. Your option at the end is to turn around and go back or you can walk out on the street, which according to the map is a much longer loop. There are little seating areas with information boards of wildlife in the area. You can park at the center and the lot closes at sunset, so does the trail I believe. I got there after the center was closed so I didn't get to go in, but it seems to be pretty educational from everything posted on the outside. Great place to come and exhale! read more

Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area - nice little trail - Hiking Near Me - Dana Point, California

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Easy to get to, and easy to walk with my family. Various benches to stop and take in the amazing views of ocean before us! We started at one side, following dirt path weaving in and out of the beautiful California native landscape of yellow flowers, crossing the residential sidewalk to the next path which zig zagged on concrete all the way down to a cove shaped beach. Coming up was very good exercise! Recommend Springtime to see the wildflowers! read more

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Breath taking views! Awesome trail! My family saw whales out there during the Festival of Whales. Not stroller friendly. Little legs will get tired. The nature interpretive center was very cute and the staff was super friendly with my boys. They enjoy being there! It's free. It's educational! My kids loved it! There a few benches to rest at. No tables. It's for hiking/walking/jogging. I'm so happy this place is preserved and the public can enjoy more nature!!! read more

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This was a very nice place. The trail was pretty long but it was a great hike. The views were spectacular. We kept hearing seals but I think they were closer to the cliffside as we couldn't see them. There were a lot of little lizards and other animals around, it was a nice atmosphere. At the other end of the trail, there are some great houses by the beach and beach access. We had a very good time, I think the only thing that concerned me was the sketchy drive up the hill, still good though. read more

Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area - View of the beach from the top of the trail - Hiking Near Me - Dana Point, California

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Amazing little loop, easy place to get to if you want to just sit and relax. Don't jump the fence to sit on the cliffs, the ground is already unstable, and also you can clearly see all the plants that keep going stomped on or destroyed. Don't be that person who just wants a picture of themself overlooking the ocean. Actually enjoy the scenery. read more

Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area - Hiking Near Me - Dana Point, California

There's a trail system here, including one in Harbor Conservation Park and one that starts at the Nature Interpretive Center. They aren't long but provide nice birds eye views of the harbor and neighboring beach. Neither loops within the conservation area, although you can make it a loop if you include street routes. On the side where the Nature Interpretive Center is, the vegetation looked mostly dead. That was disappointing. I don't know if that's normal, or if it's the season. It's still worthwhile to stop here for the views and nice photo ops, if you're already in the area. The harbor down below is just one street length away. I wouldn't drive a long distance just to come here, unless you want to do some photography. Free parking lot and some street parking as well. read more

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I really enjoyed this nature walk overlooking the beach. We even saw some whales! Due to the recent rain, there was a lot of beautiful greenery and flowers. The hike/walk is manageable for all ages. There is elevation but the incline is minimal and there are some steps throughout. Bathrooms were usable but pretty gross. Limited parking lot. Bring your camera! read more

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Great trail to enjoy the beautiful coastline of Dana Point. The surface makes a bit hard to run but a great place to take it slow and take in the all views. It was part of my morning walk every day I visited Dana Point read more

Beautiful area! Loved the small hiking or walking trail! A lot of families walking around here! Short walks and seating areas within frets apart from each other. You have to walk back and forth though from the entrance to get back to where you've parked at. They also have bathrooms with decent cleanliness. This is Also a environmental habitat where they conserve certain area of the land fields. The view is fantastic and amazing though! read more

Beautiful sandy walk on a cliff next to Dana strands beach. Not a long walk but if you continue to the strands beach and use the stairs you'll get a decent work out in. Recommend going early because the pathway is narrow and with Judy a handful of people can get quite crowded. read more

Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area - Even in a cloudy day - so beautiful so blessed - Hiking Near Me - Dana Point, California

Probably the easiest hike to see some real nature in between extreme wealth. Enjoy this before the developers find a loophole in the endangered species act. President Drumph will probably use it himself just to piss on California more. read more

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Fantastic spot for a family hike! My kids (3, 5, 7) easily kept up and the view of the water and California sunflowers is amazing. There is plenty of wildlife too. Only pointer, get there early on weekends (before 9am for sure) if you want a parking spot. Gets a little more crowded as the day goes on. read more

Guide in the nature center was super knowledgeable. A nice variety of short, longer loops with a beautiful view

This is a beautiful place to get away and hike. Just to get away from the busy life and enjoy the beauty of nature. I could weekly come here to do a good workout. Also there is always people around doing their workouts. read more

The Dana Point Headlands Trail is an easy hike from the Nature Interpretive Center in Dana Point, CA. To the end of the trail is roughly 10 minutes (or 20 minutes roundtrip). The trail is lined wire rope and there are plenty of benches for viewing the wildlife and sunsets. Depending on the time of year, look out for whales and dolphins. read more

Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area - View of Tall Ships Festival - Hiking Near Me - Dana Point, California

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Wow it's gorgeous here. The views are spectacular & the trails are easy! Views of Dana Point Harbor & cactus along the trails, a lot of wildlife. Beautiful peaceful place to see in Dana Point. read more

What an enjoyable find. Hiking on the Headlands above Dana Point Harbor overlooking beautiful views of the harbor, the ocean and the coast. Interpretive Center provides insight on what you'll see on your hike. Saw two whales spouting our walk. Thankful the Near extinct Pacific Pocket Mouse caused this land to be set aside. read more

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Great hike. Not difficult at all. Amazing views. I was able to take some great pictures. If you walk a little slower you will see the cool lizards running around. On the day we came to Dana Point we got to see some whales in the distance. That was pretty cool. Good exercise for those who don't do the gym. read more

I wanted my daughter to see the beachside of California during my visit with my sister. I searched online for Dana Point children's program and found a cool free one for the kids offered here at this location by Friend's of Dana Point Headlands Children's Program. Joanne Nolin, the Education Coordinator was very nice about allowing my young one to attend. The program is typically geared toward grade school kids. There were several little ones that day we attended, so she graciously adjusted the program to fit their learning style. The kids were all engaged and followed happily along with Joanne and the teenage volunteers while the parents trailed behind. One activity the kids did was a scavenger hunt where they were given a laminated sheet with pictures of animals and vegetation they may encounter. It was a really nice way to connect pictures to real life and promote schema building. I highly recommend this program. At the end of the session, the kids drew pictures of what they saw with their "memory cameras" as Joanne put it. read more

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My children and I love this place. The Nature center is so much fun and has alotnof learning tos for the kids. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. read more

So pretty! Happened upon this trail by chance and the views were amazing!! Would recommend for a quick nice little hike. Not to steep or long for those who are worried about that. Definitely not a big workout or anything if that's what you're looking for though. read more

Beautiful picturesque views of the harbor as you sit atop the bluff just over the Ocean Institute. If you're visiting, bring a camera. Especially towards early morning or evening. Depending on how much it rains from Nov thru Mar, this place can be absolutely breathtaking. If it's a drier season without much rain, the brush is dry and brittle, but that doesn't stop the scenery from looking great! Definitely worth visiting if you're in the area : ) read more

Don't miss this amazing view- and take some time to talk to the volunteers. Great information! Keep your eye out for dolphins and whales!

I love the view, (downside or Upside, don't plan on getting a "workout") It's a nice walk. Bring a camera/ Dumb phone, I guarantee, something will move you. The fresh blissful breeze, sun, blue sparkling sea. Take it in. It's surreal.. read more

Nice, short hike. Great place to see whales Nov-Mar. must stay on the trail. Good parking, bathrooms- No beach access.

Short and easy hike between the Silva Beach parking and Dana Point Harbor. Park either by Silva Beach and go to the end of the road, or by Chart House near the harbor. There are trail maps at both ends and a small Ranger's building on the Dana point side, there are restrooms and a water fountain there. Closes at dusk, enjoy the great views! read more

This is a great easy hike along the Dana Point Cliff overlooking the harbor and out to the ocean. If you are energetic, you can go North all the way to Dana Strand Road to Strand Vista Park. FYI - No DOGS allowed on the trail. read more

This is a beautiful vista. I was impressed with the ease of finding the trail. This is a good place for small kids.

This place is awesome to come too when it's low tide. You have to climb over some rock, just FYI. The area around there is great! You can make a day or a weekend out of Recreational rentals they offer a cross from the Conservation area. There's also a Pirate boat to take pirate voyages on. They have a great kids camp there. The paddle board rental was a blast! We daytimes if beautiful fish while paddle boarding. There were signs up about polluted water in the out cove or Bay Area of the Marina. There's a Yacht Club and boat rentals just on the other side of the beach combers area. Literally maybe a 5-10 walk. There's also a few restaurants on the water as well as many boutique shops. There's a specialty chocolate shop near the Mexican restaurant on the water. We stayed at the Dana Point camp ground and walked everywhere. Everything is literally at most 15-20 min away from the camp ground. We road bikes as well. You can also take a fishing charter boat. They also offer rides to Catalina Island! Which is great! Rent a golf cart to get around Catalina Island and go golf. Then grab some Mexican food from the outside served restaurant (small w outdoor seating). Just drive the golf cart to the Mexican Restaurant. Also if your into gambling, Catalina has a casino as well. Have Fun! read more