Parks in Dana Point

THE 10 BEST Dana Point Parks

Parks in Dana Point

Types of Attractions
Nature & Parks
Nature & Parks
Traveller rating
Good for
13 places sorted by traveller favourites
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

What travellers are saying

  • Carolyn Ferreira
    San Clemente, CA14 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is a must-do place when you’re in the area. I Frequently meet friends there, and we often bring a picnic lunch. Great picnic tables and benches, very clean.
    Written 23 October 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • on_the_go_98765
    Tucson18 350 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Just steps from our stay at Blue Lantern Inn, this walking trail and vista location offers some cardio workout time while taking in the views of the marina below. It is a "revetment" conservation area which is designed to stabilize the terrain while offering opportunities for sightseeing.

    There really isn't much in the way of trees or colorful landscaping as this is almost entirely covered in native vegetation of scrub brush, etc. Several stair cases give the visitor different opportunities to continue exploring.

    The trail does pass the backsides of several mini-mansions hanging precariously on the side of the bluff.
    Written 27 January 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • on_the_go_98765
    Tucson18 350 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Between the library and the tunnel, under the road that leads to Salt Creek park and beach, visitors will find this vast expanse of grassy parkland. There are picnic tables and shade trees and enough hilly rises for some topological variety.

    At the base of the park (before the tunnel), there is a round landscape contrivance with rose bushes and a stand of tall palms. In January, it is less than spectacular, however.

    If anyone travels on the Laguna Beach free trolley, it does stop here on PCH; it comes here after the end-of-the-line stop at the Ritz Carlton stop (not too far from the large park market sign)..
    Written 27 January 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • cap10paul
    Southern Cal225 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feel like you're living in a postcard when you go to this little neighborhood park. Clean , safe, romantic and kid friendly it is everything a saved piece of paradise should bbbe.
    Written 14 March 2017
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • on_the_go_98765
    Tucson18 350 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Regulars at this park bring their little ones in strollers, joggers run up the hills for a little extra cardio, and visitors like us give a silent "thanks" for the preservation of such beauty we ALL get to enjoy.

    The paths through this part of Dana Point are all linked although there may be a little walking involved to get to that link. It is amazing how green the grass is and how beautifully maintained the park is.

    Within the park there is an Overlook dedicated to a local favorite (Doris Walker) and that is the subject for another TA review.

    Visitors to Dana Point have, by now, become aware of the presence of the elephants prominently displayed all over town (mainly on Del Prado and in front of major hotels) and have read the plaques which convey a message about elephants and their importance to the world (as well as their precarious existence).

    This park has an unusual elephant sculpture that bears the message: my tusks are not currency. Those have been chopped off to illustrate the message. Look for these "Elephants on Parade" and read their personal statements; someone has to speak for them.
    Written 27 January 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • docnoel14
    Tucson, AZ194 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This park is absolutely beautiful and a must visit if you are in the Dana Point area. There is a very clean and fun playground for kids. The view of the ocean is breathtaking. We had a great time visiting with our 5 yo daughter. It was worth the climb up the hill.
    Written 1 August 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • MeMaL
    33 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This was a very nice community park with gorgeous views. Grassy areas, picnic tables, and walking paths
    Written 14 May 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Our OC Adventures
    San Clemente, CA36 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This park has a huge playground and lots of green space for running around. My kids love coming here because there are playground options for big and little kids. I like that there is a lot of shade, but I wish there was more parking!
    Written 31 July 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BillSx2
    Pittsburgh, PA579 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    Correction, the street is named La Plaza, the center plaza/park is Dana Point Plaza, so this is a often made mistake. Mixed commercial area with a couple of restaurants with good food and evening entertainment. Farmers Market every Saturday is a great event. Several commerative monuments a dedicated fountain as well as a Rock mounted plaque honoring the founding board members of a local community activist group, The Lantern Village Association that substantially worked with the City to improve property and the quality of life in the Lantern Village.
    Written 14 August 2018
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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