Doheny State Beach

Overview

Doheny State Beach is California's first state beach, established in 1931, located in Dana Point and attracting nearly one million visitors annually. The park is currently open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM with no current restrictions as of December 30, 2025. It operates as two distinct areas: a northern day-use section featuring a world-renowned beginner-friendly surf break (famously mentioned in the Beach Boys' 'Surfin' USA'), five-acre lawn, volleyball courts, and the Doho Cafe; and a southern camping area with 120 sites ranging from $50-65/night, some directly beachfront. Camping reservations show availability through mid-January 2026. The park features a visitor center with aquariums and tide pools (10 AM-4 PM daily), year-round lifeguard service, and bonfire rings available first-come, first-served. Day use vehicle entry is $15 ($20 during summer peak season). Key restrictions for campers: no enclosed tents (must be open on one side), no dogs on beach/sand (only on paved trail), no alcohol without permit, no RV pop-outs/awnings in parking areas. The park is adjacent to Dana Point Harbor and offers wheelchair-accessible facilities including a paved multi-use trail. An upcoming Capistrano-Doheny Beach Nature-Based Shoreline Adaptation Project will create a 'living shoreline' at the south end.