Doheny State Beach is located in the city of Dana Point, California and is one of California's most popular state beaches and attracts almost one million visitors per year. Doheny has a day use surfing beach at its northern end and a five-acre lawn with picnic facilities and volleyball courts.
The southern end of the state beach has campgrounds, with some of the campsites only steps away from the beach. The state beach has tide pools and a visitor center with several aquariums. Surf fishing is also popular among visitors.
The beach property was donated by oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny for public use in 1931 and was California's first state beach. It was official named Doheny State Beach in 1963.
Camping
Warm water and more than a mile of sandy beach consistently earn Doheny State Beach the title of “Orange County’s best camping site.” Its 113 campsites, including 33 beachfront sites, have fire rings, picnic tables, and hot showers. The group camp can accommodate up to 40 people.
Beach Activities
A rocky area at the beach’s western end attracts certified divers and licensed anglers. During low tide, visitors may explore tide pools. Volleyball, horseshoes, swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and paddle boarding are popular, while surfing is restricted to the day-use beach north of San Juan Creek.
Picnicking
Doheny’s five-acre landscaped picnic area has plenty of family and group picnic tables, barbecue grills, and parking.
OVERNIGHT FACILITIES
En route Campsites
Family Campsites
Group Campsites
RV Dump Station
RV Access
TRAIL USE
Bike Trails
Hiking Trails
DAY-USE ACTIVITIES & FACILITIES
Historical/Cultural Site
Picnic Areas
Env. Learning/Visitor Center
Exhibits and Programs
Fishing
Interpretive Exhibits
Beach Area
Swimming
Nature & Wildlife Viewing
Windsurfing/Surfing
Family Programs
Geocaching