Things to do!
We have laid out some of our favorite places. We have segmented this into three areas based on location. Locations include- San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and Laguna beach. All within 25 minutes of the venue!
See below for dining, hikes, paddle boarding, Beach recommendations, and golf.
San Juan Capistrano, California
San Juan Capistrano is a charming, tranquil, historic town with many options for dining, shopping, and exploring!
Trevor's at the Tracks
Located in a historic train depot built in 1984, Trevor's encapsulates the charming beauty and charm of SJC. Sit on the patio, enjoy a cocktail, listen to live music, and take in the peaceful, quaint setting of downtown San Juan Capistrano. After you are finished dining, be sure to follow the cobblestone path down California's oldest neighborhood - featuring cozy cafes, shops, dining, and historic homes built in the late 1700s.
Hidden House Coffee
Hidden House Coffee is a charming coffee shop located on Los Rios Street in San Juan Capistrano. Be sure to grab a coffee & a pastry!
The Tea House on Los Rios Street
This tea house is perhaps one of the most charming, boutique restaurants in California. Decorated with antique charm, this restaurant is the perfect place to grab a glass of champagne with your girls, have a romantic brunch with your significant other, and soak in the stillness and tranquility of Los Rios Street!
River Street Marketplace
Located within the heart of San Juan Capistrano, River Street Marketplace is a beautiful, lively space, with a plethora of dining options, breweries, live music, and shopping!
Dana Point, California
Wind & Sea
This waterfront restaurant is the staple of Dana Point Harbor. Established in 1972, this restaurant encapsulates the seaside charm and maritime history of Dana Point. Be sure to request a seat on the patio and grab one of their famous mai tais!
Proud Mary's
Located right next door to Wind & Sea is the iconic restaurant, Proud Mary's. With a similar ambience to Wind & Sea, Proud Mary's prioritizes brunch with seaside views!
Paddle Boarding
Visit Westwind Sailing for paddle board/kayak rentals! Explore Dana Point Harbor from the sea!
Beach Recommendations (Dana Point)
Salt Creek Beach Park
Salt Creek Beach Park is a great place to swim, sunbathe, and explore tidepools. If you are looking for a swimming beach, we highly recommend this location, as there are no rocks and many life guards on duty! You can also picnic on the grass hill leading down to the beach and visit Young’s Beach Shack for some great food and delicious cocktails!
Important note: The hill leading down to the beach is quite steep - if you are traveling with an elderly person/someone with a disability, maybe consider traveling to Doheny State Beach instead!
Doheny State Beach
Doheny Beach is well known for its great vibes, exceptional surfing, bonfires, and bike rentals. Only 9 minutes from San Juan Capistrano, Doheny Beach is a great option for family & friends to gather to spend the day at the beach! Be sure to visit the Doho Cafe while you are there!
Dana Strands Beach
A popular California beach, known for its incredible views, boardwalk along the water, swimming, & surfing, this beach is another amazing option for family & friends to gather at the beach!
Important note: There are many stairs leading down to the beach along with a steep hill - if you are traveling with an elderly person/someone with a disability, maybe consider traveling to Doheny State Beach instead!
Laguna Beach, California
Downtown Laguna Beach is known for its coastal charm, scenic views, and vibrant art scene. If you travel to downtown Laguna, you will be met with charming boutiques and a variety of restaurants, bars, and breweries! Beyond that, there are many hidden beaches tucked away in the trees as well as some more popular options that are more easily accessible.
Sawdust Art Festival
The Sawdust Art Festival features more than 180 Laguna Beach artists. With incredible live music, dancing, unique artwork, delicious food, beer/wine, this event encapsulates the essence of Laguna Beach - a scenic beach town with a vibrant art scene! This is truly one of our favorite places to be.
The Deck on Laguna Beach
The Deck is a stunning, oceanfront restaurant with delicious food, cocktails, and appetizers. Stop by for happy hour or stay for a whole meal! This restaurant is situated right on the beach, creating a stunning, idyllic atmosphere for dining!
Beaches in Laguna
Secret beaches
If you are looking for secluded beaches that feel tucked away from the bustle, here are some of our top recommendations! Keep in mind that since these beaches are tucked away, they are a bit more challenging to access.
Table Rock Beach
1000 Steps (beach)
Popular/easily accessible beaches in Laguna Beach area
The beaches listed are all popular, easily accessible options for beaches located in/near Laguna Beach.
Victoria Beach
Aliso Beach
Crescent Bay Beach
Laguna Main Beach
Crystal Cove Beach/State Park
More dining recommendations
Truly Pizza - Dana Point
Station Craft Brewery & Kitchen - Dana Point
The Cliff Restaurant - Laguna Beach
Crystal Cove Shake Shack - Laguna Beach
Bonzai Bowls - Laguna Beach
Urth Caffé - Laguna Beach
Hikes
Top of the World
Dana Point Preserve
Aliso Summit Trail
Salt Creek Trail
GOLF
Plenty of courses in the area.