Our family visited Dana Strand Beach for the first time and had an amazing experience! We originally went to Doheny State Beach, and after talking with one of the state park workers, he recommended Strands Beach because it's a little less crowded and has beautiful crystal blue water. We're so glad we came! Parking was abundant, and while there are quite a few stairs to get down to the beach, it was incredibly peaceful and relaxing once we arrived. The bathrooms were also very clean -- honestly some of the cleanest public beach bathrooms we've experienced. Definitely a great spot for families and somewhere we'll be coming back to again. Highly recommend! read more

Unusual beach in Dana Point. We stopped by yesterday afternoon - parked on the Strand and walked 165 steps and a steepish slope down to the ocean (140 foot elevation drop according to my smart phone). There were rocks, tide pools, and sailboats on the horizon. What's not to like? Will be back! read more

Dana Strand Beach - We walked 165 steps and a steepish slope down to the ocean. - Beaches Near Me - Dana Point, California

We visited this beach in Dana Point for the first time. With great weather, it was a comfortable sunny day to travel out to the coastline and look at the sea. Along the beach you can see tall coastal bluffs of the Dana Point Headlands, a natural preserve and protected conservation area. In the morning, we saw several surfers. I was able to catch nice photos of them in action. Toward Heritage Park, there is a trail that also takes you along the bluffs with views of the Dana Point Harbor. Everything was well maintained, and I enjoyed the quiet and relaxing atmosphere here. While walking, other people (I think mostly neighbors of the area) and we exchanged greetings. The scenic beach views seemed to encourage friendliness. I remember a man with a British accent asking me if I took photos of the surfers with my camera. There was free and spacious parking at the Strand Vista Park. From there, you walk along a designated pathway to coastal access. I highly recommend coming here for relaxing times and walks by the beach. read more

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Nice kinda hidden beach away from all the busyness. I didn't know this place existed haha! Parking lot available for Free, there is also street parking available. This beach has about three different entrances. The entrance we chose was to the left of the parking as you are facing the beach. A good amount of stairs and a few ramps. This was a Saturday (Labor Day Weekend) around 9 am. Parking lot was about 40% full, definitely a good surprise! The beach is well maintained and clean. You can fish by the rocks and spear fishing. Plenty of space to set up an umbrella and relax. We did not go into the water, just walked the beach. A good 3-4 miles up and down I believe. Maybe more with the stairs. There are bathrooms available, clean ones. Live guards onsite also! Definitely recommended! Just be prepared for the stairs going down to the beach. I'm not sure how the other entrances are! read more

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This beach was no means necessarily beautiful. However, the shore area was expansive for a family beach day. Also, the parking is free. There is a beautiful walking area. read more

I have been to this beautiful beach so many times but neglected to write a review. It's much quieter here and less crowded than Salt Creek Beach. I love the views and white powdery sand. It's just gorgeous here!! read more

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I can't express how healing this beach is!! One of my all time faves, worth the drive, LOVE the parking situation and it's good for both walks and beach days. Restrooms are hit or miss in terms of cleanliness. Other than that, the views here are 11/10 read more

This is the only beach I can guarantee getting free parking for. It's an athletic feat to climb up the stairs but knowing that I don't have to fight for a parking spot and can claim a spot on the sand makes it worth it. They need to bring back the funicular for those that cannot climb. You need to make sure to time when it's not high tide so you can go on the sand. There's a small hiking trail at the very top of the hill. It was quite short but had some beautiful views. read more

Awesome relaxing beach . I used to go here with my Mother and sit on the sand and read great works of literature. I've spearfished here too and saw a giant Leopard shark that swam right under me in about four feet of murky water. Real amazing spiritual experience, I think the Leopard shark is my Spirit animal now since it came so close and crossed my path. Have fun here trust me you'll love it and cherish all the memories forever! read more

Beautiful day at this beach! Very clean and not crowded during weekdays. A little hike but worth it. Also handicap parking right in front of stairs. read more

One of the most beautiful California beaches I've ever seen. Fresh breeze, clean city and beautiful scenery. Will definitely visit again for a hike. read more

Dana Strand Beach - Beaches Near Me - Dana Point, California

Loved the quiet, lovely beach walk with my family. The scenery was very nice. There were many trails to walk. Another reason to love OC.

Beautiful ocean views. Plenty of free parking. Come away from the hustle of life and feel relaxed as you listen to the waves. Lots of spots to put your chair or towel down. read more

Dana Strand Beach - Beaches Near Me - Dana Point, California

Best kept secret in Oc Beautiful view Sandy beach If you come here you feel like you are in vacation read more

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Loved the peaceful vibe I felt the whole time I visited Dana Strand. Great spot to visit to unwind and get away from everything life throws at you. read more

Hope you are having a great Wednesday:)))) lots of rain back to back here in SoCAL but they sure don't build as sturdy as Texans do. I am ONLY speaking on the home area that I live in they were built back in 1980's. You see I'm used to HE homes with Energy Efficiency, we care about you, and about protecting the environment. Texan Builders are continually upgrading and refining their high standards to ensure comfortable and environmentally-sound living. Texas Homes are committed to seeking eco-friendly products and the latest technological improvements for energy efficiency. Along with Smart Home Living. Why am I mentioning this, well bc I had no idea that Californian homes were built totally different. I love expanding my horizons and enjoy architecture/construction and all that comes with it. You see I have bee in in SoCal for 4months and houses have no insulation I could hear every whistle blow from the wind and the waves from the ocean are super furious smashing against the rocks pier and shorelines. I don't want to loose focus on my review just wanted to throw that info out also bc my neighbors have mentioned that as well, that the houses make so much noise when the high Santa Ana Winds Blue hard and in storms such as the ones we have been having. Whales were up all night, when the rain would stop we could clearly hear them calling out. It's such an amazing experience and privilege to be a part of their natural habitat. The Sea lions, dolphins, and Sharks. Goodness I am taking all of this beautiful experiences and making memories. I have tons of videos and pics to share of whales jumping and fluking, Orkas, Humpback Whales, Minke Whales, Finback Whales and different species of dolphin feeding here. Though, Dana point whale watchers come to see the largest animal on the planet, the Blue Whale. The waters off Dana Point, California, are home to one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world. Yup! In the WRLD!!!!!!! How cool is that!!!! There are so many many other reasons to visit but you will just have to wait till my next post. In the meantime I've got a lot to do. Anyways hope you are doing well. read more

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Oh Dana! You continue amaze me with your beauty! 3 areas to visit her shore below. Or just stay on top to enjoy the view. Bring a chair or a blanket. It will be awhile before you want to go. She will want you to stay. She has easy walking paths and will accomodate all or she can take you to those stairs down and on the way up, she will make you huff! She has plenty of parking on top. Free!!! A few picnic tables with a view; maybe a for a date too? Romantic sunsets are also here for you! Clean bathrooms located near the funicular! And area for rinsing too! Funicular you ask? It's an elevator that can take you up or down! Hours are limited. There are times it didn't work so be ready to give yourself a work out if it's not working. The shore is full of majestic private homes. But the beach is open to the public and the county maintains it. The beach below is really nice. Basically a sand bar but beware of rocky terrain. I highly recommend asking the guard where the safe place is to surf or boogie board. This beach isn't as crowded because the access is not as easy. Stairs and slopes. So bring less when you go down there! Enjoy the love that Nature provides. Keep a look out for the whale tour boats, they are usually following dolphins or whales. You might a see a fin! The Stand is located next to Salt Creek Beach. You can easily access Salt Creek from the shore below to have a nice longer walk, jog, run, etc etc. Have a lovely time! It's so nice there is public access to this beautiful shore line! read more

Dana Strand Beach - Beaches Near Me - Dana Point, California

Very nice place to go with a family. Went for my birthday and the beach was very nice and clean. read more

I COULD GET STUCK IN THE SAND, AT THE STANDS, FOR DAZZZE... DANA STAND BEACH, Dana Point, California! This is one of my Favorite Beaches in the OC! There is Always lots of FREE BEACH PARKING! I love the small steps workout to get to the beach, and it's a great Beach to ‍Run/Walk for Exercise! If you prefer, you can take the Funicular down the hill, for easy beach access! And I could be wrong, but I think this area could be the only SoCal Beach, that still has Lots for Sale, where you can build a Double Wide DREAM Home... literally Steps from the Sand! TIP, Head North, from Dana Strand Beach, and you'll end up at another FAV... Salt Creek Beach! Not to mention, the ANNUAL Dana Point Festival of Whales is always a Fun Family Event! The Parade Set Up takes place each year, in the DANA STRAND BEACH Parking lot! read more

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This has become my favorite beach. It's so clean, so quiet, the sand is so soft. People are out walking on the beach. It feel surreal to be in a place where we are only one hour away from LA. I want to move here!!! Please DO NOT bring your pets here and/or pick up any rocks on the beach. It's a marine reserve area. read more

This is a peaceful beach with loads of free parking and lots of space to find your place to relax. It has beautiful cliffs and houses surrounding it. Beach access is a lot of walking and steep stairs, so be prepared for a worthwhile trek! read more

One of the most peaceful places in SoCal with the most epic view from above (aka the parking lot). The city keeps it clean as well. The stairs up/down to the beach are a great workout if you're up for it! read more

Dana Strand Beach - Strands Beach Parking Lot views - Beaches Near Me - Dana Point, California

This is one of our favorite places to go to have a picnic lunch up on top, take a walk down the steps to the beach(Nice walking path) or to view a beautiful sunset. There is usually ample parking as well. Beautiful coastline views too! read more

Dana Strand Beach - Sunset at Strand Beach - Beaches Near Me - Dana Point, California

Beach is located in private home area. You want to park in the designated parking area then, you take the stairs down, there are several signs that tell you where to go. You walk pass beautiful and guarded homes. Down to the shore. Beach is crowded, it is extremely beautiful and the usual vibe is that, locals individuals in the are attend to it very frequently. This is the type of beach where you see the ppl who live in the huge beach houses on a run at the beach. I just went their to look at the beach and drink A+ for that. read more

Love this walk, so pretty, so calming. Tends to always have people also walking. Lots of stairs and some incline but a lovely walk. read more

First time here about a month ago. Pleasantly surprised. Beautiful location. You do have to walk down quite a set of stairs to get to the beach though so try to pack light. They do have an elevator at 1 end but during COVID, it's not currently operating. It's not a long stretch of beach like Huntington but a nice change. The park at the top was also nice if you just want to see the view. Plenty of parking in the parking lot or around the neighborhood. Fun location if you are down this way. SYOY! read more

We came to this stretch of beach in Dana Point for the Memorial Day weekend. This beautiful spot was a wonderful place to spend some quality time with my family during the holiday. There is a long walkway from the parking lot to this nice section of beach. Be prepared for a lot of walking down those stairs, and there can be some serious crowds on the weekends. This is still a great spot for a run or leisurely walk in the late afternoon. With those lovely views, I don't mind that long walk to the beach! read more

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This is one of the nicest beaches around. I recently found out about it when some locals told me about it a couple of months ago. The beach is hidden in a residential neighborhood in Dana Point just south of the Ritz Carlton. Parking is free at the park where you can get a fantastic view of the sunset from the parking lot itself. A well maintained stairway lead to down to the beach itself past some multi million dollar houses. During the summer months, there is a funicular (cable car) that operates and takes you both down to the beach, and back up to the parking lot. Although I didn't use it, there are public restrooms available. It is well maintained and beautiful. It's a wonderful and free place to visit. read more

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I love this beach. I was debating if I wanted to review it because I wanted to keep it my secret but I'm in a good mood, so here it is! Parking is free, and if you have a lot of stuff to bring down to the beach they have a free cable car to help you. Downside is that it does take a little bit I suppose it's convenient either way. The beach doesn't get so crowded and it's clean! I love going here! read more

Dana Strand Beach - Dana Point Strand Beach - Beaches Near Me - Dana Point, California

So beautiful! We were so happy to catch some waves and a beautiful sunset. Can't beat a California sunset read more

Dana Strand Beach - Strand sunset - Beaches Near Me - Dana Point, California

Beautiful beach! During the daytime there is a funicular to go up and down the hill, but often a waiting line. The stairs are a climb, but good exercise. They recently opened several nice walking paths through the beautiful homes. Kind of rude to the homeowners, but nice views. read more

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This is a really nice beach, very easy to get to. The only thing that really makes it no good is the fact that there's houses all behind it. Makes me feel poor. Those houses are multi million dollar houses that was all public beach at one point. The rocks make it kind of hard to enjoy the beach. read more

I work down the street from here so my friend and I decided to try it for our beach hike/walk and I'm glad we did. The weather was perfect and it was easy to find. Parking is free and there was tons of parking so we easily found a spot. The walking trail is clean and easy. I almost died going back up the stairs but it's worth the trip down and puts you right on the sand. Really loved the view and the whole area was just a nice to be at. :) read more

Dana Strand Beach - Beaches Near Me - Dana Point, California

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Met a friend here to stroll the beach and get a bit of exercise in the morning. One of the nicest beaches I've been too thus far in Southern Cal! The water is truly blue and the air smells fresh! Will definitely return. There was ample parking, however, restrooms were ok--no hand dryers or paper towels to wipe your hands!? read more

Dana Strand Beach - Beaches Near Me - Dana Point, California

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We hit the beach after visiting the Mission. We ended up here! Absolutely gorgeous!!! Crazy amount of stairs to get there. The climb back up was a b*tch for sure but it's good for us! I guess there was a tram or something people were waiting for at what looked like elevator doors. Some of the beach is rocky so as far was swimming goes I think you need fo learn which areas are safest for catching waves. read more

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Beautiful. Those stairs are an easy climb. There is a landing after every six steps. You don't get winded that way. read more

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I usually don't frequent the beach because I don't like the struggle of finding parking and frankly I am not into too much sun exposure. Dana Strand Beach actually makes me want to spend time at the beach. There is a ton of free parking and the nearby area is perfect for hiking or doing the stairs. Its always 20 degrees cooler in Dana Point than LA and I enjoyed oogling at the homes of the rich. Plus its not packed. read more

Too many stairs and too much water. Who do they think they are? A beach? Jokes aside, it's a great beach with free parking and a free shuttle for those who can't find parking. Beach is pretty clean, no rocks, and relatively seagull-less. They have a couple of trash cans and plenty of water shower things before you go down all 181 steps. It's not for the faint of heart. Or lazy like me lol. read more

I love going to this beach. It is one of my favorites. First of all, the parking is free - so hard to come by at beaches. Also, the parking lot is really big - good for summer crowds. The view from the parking lot is beautiful. I love to just go there and look at the different house lots and dream about my future house haha. There are a few different ways to get down - two ways from each end of the parking lot and one in the middle where you go through the neighborhood. The one to the North has an elevator that works during the summer and then only during the weekends after Labor Day and before Memorial Day. It goes down most of the way and then the rest of the way is a ramp. If you don't take the elevator there are stairs. If it is crowded there can be a wait for the elevator because it only fits so many people and it gets pretty stuffy. I love to come here for the beach and also to go running. There is a trail/walkway above the sand that is nice to go for walks/runs and then you can run up the stairs on either end. Beautiful, beautiful beach. read more

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I have fond memories of hiking my ass down the side of the hill against many dangers, just to get to the little cove at the end of Strands Beach for a small bonfire and a butt-load of beer! So sad...gone are those days on so many levels...A) I'm far from being in college, let alone high school, B) the path has been eliminated by bulldozers and excavators and C) the cove is just a remnant of it's former self and all it held. But, with that being said...Strands is still a pretty cool beach. If you LOVE to surf and don't mind dealing with hard-core locals, a shark or two here and there, or perhaps a few jagged rocks and waves pushing you toward them...this is the spot for you! Also...if you LOVE your body or just don't give a damn what people think of you struttin' your stuff down the beach in that thong...go here! lol Strands is accessed by one path leading down from homes up above (south of the Ritz Carlton) or by trekking from Salt Creek beach to the north. And it's a HIKE either way you look at it. The beach is narrow and long and the cove at the end is usually occupied by a bevvie of tanned, high school boys and their boards. The walk is beautiful and the beach is far less crowded than Salt Creek...less bugs swarming mounds of washed up kelp. You also get to really soak in the GIANT homes along the water that have sprung up in the past 5 or so years...that and you can shed a tear as the once smashing cliffs that are now cut up and ready to be built on. I hear the lots alone are going for about 5 million so get your wallets out!! The only bathroom I know of is near the turn going from Strands to Salt Creek so if you don't want to go in the water...tinkle before you walk! read more

Dana Strand Beach - path down to Strands looking north toward Salt Creek around the bend - Beaches Near Me - Dana Point, California

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