Dana Point, nestled along the beautiful coastline of Orange County, California, offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and appeal.
Here’s a detailed look at some of the best areas to live in Dana Point, taking into account aspects like lifestyle, amenities, and the overall environment.
Top Neighborhoods to Live in Dana Point
Dana Point, situated near Irvine, boasts a population of 33,327 and offers an appealing lifestyle in Orange County, California. It’s highly regarded as one of the finest places to reside in the state. The living experience in Dana Point is characterized by a dense suburban atmosphere, with the majority of residents owning their homes.
This area is vibrant with numerous restaurants, cafes, and parks, contributing to its appeal among young professionals and retirees. The local community in Dana Point generally leans towards conservative values.
The median house price in Dana Point is notably high at $1,166,262. This figure is significantly above the average home price in California, which stands at $648,235. The most sought-after neighborhoods in Dana Point, which often attract residents due to their lower crime rates and higher living standards, are also the areas with the highest median home values.
These neighborhoods are not only popular for their quality of life but also represent the top choices in the real estate market in Dana Point, CA.
Capistrano Beach
Known for its breathtaking ocean views, Capistrano Beach is a sought-after community within Dana Point. It offers a diverse range of homes, from quaint seaside cottages to larger estates. The location is ideal for enjoying the surrounding areas of San Clemente and Dana Point, offering plenty of activities and scenic spots.
Monarch Beach
This private gated community, positioned between Laguna Beach and Dana Point Harbor, is celebrated for its natural surroundings and security. Residents here enjoy exclusive access to the Monarch Bay Beach Club and first-class beach services. Its proximity to Salt Creek Beach and several luxury hotels like the St. Regis and the Ritz Carlton adds to its allure.
Ritz Pointe
Adjacent to the Monarch Beach Golf Links, Ritz Pointe is a gated community known for its golf course and close proximity to beautiful beaches. The neighborhood offers easy access to walking trails, parks, bike paths, and is conveniently located near the Pacific Coast Highway.
Dana Hills
This area encompasses several small neighborhoods and is known for its parks and outdoor spaces like Dana Crest Park and Sea Canyon Park. Dana Hills High School, a highly rated educational institution, is also located here, making it a great choice for families.
Emerald Ridge
Sitting on a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Emerald Ridge offers a serene and lush environment. It features a gated entrance and is moments away from the beach. The neighborhood is also close to downtown Dana Point, known for its fine dining and shopping.
Lantern Village
This area is characterized by its vibrant atmosphere and is close to Dana Point Harbor. Lantern Village offers a mix of residential options and is popular for its local shops, restaurants, and accessibility to beaches.
Niguel Shores
Offering scenic living with amenities like tennis courts, a pool, and beach access, Niguel Shores is ideal for those seeking an active and luxurious lifestyle. The community also has a clubhouse and is close to the Pacific Coast Highway.
The Strand at Headlands
Known for its luxury homes and stunning oceanfront views, The Strand at Headlands is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Dana Point. It offers direct beach access and is close to Dana Point Harbor, providing an upscale living experience.
Dana Point Harbor
While not a residential neighborhood, Dana Point Harbor is a significant area known for its recreational activities, including sport fishing, walking, bicycling, and shopping. The harbor area is a focal point of the city and contributes to the overall appeal of living in Dana Point.
In terms of safety and quality of life, Dana Point scores well. The city has a crime rate lower than the national average and is known for its diversity and high education levels among residents. The local public schools are highly rated, providing excellent education options. Additionally, Dana Point’s weather, nature, and water sports opportunities make it a great choice for those looking to settle in a peaceful and harmonious community.
Crime Rate in Dana Point, CA
In 2020, the crime rate in Dana Point, California, was recorded at 93 according to the City-Data.com crime index. This rate is considerably lower than the national average, being 2.7 times smaller. Comparatively, Dana Point’s crime rate was higher than 47.2% of cities in the United States. There was a slight increase of 1% in the crime rate from 2019 to 2020. Over the past five years, Dana Point has experienced a decrease in both violent and property crimes.
Safest Dana Point neighborhoods:
| Neighborhood | Description |
|---|---|
| Bal Harbour / Dana Knolls | Known for its safety and quiet environment |
| Niguel Shores / Monarch Beach | Offers a mix of luxury living and security |
| Encantamar | A peaceful area with modern amenities |
| Dana Hills / Tennis Villas | Family-friendly with parks and recreational spaces |
| Capistrano Beach | Offers a blend of beach lifestyle and safety |
| Dana Point Harbor | Central area with recreational activities, safer than many other neighborhoods |
Transportation and Accessibility
Road Access: Dana Point is conveniently located along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), providing easy access to other coastal cities like Laguna Beach and San Clemente. Interstate 5 is also nearby, offering a direct route to major destinations in Southern California.
Public Transportation: The city is served by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), which provides bus services connecting Dana Point to various parts of Orange County. For those looking to travel further, the Metrolink train service is available at the nearby San Juan Capistrano station, offering convenient connections to Los Angeles, San Diego, and other regions.
Walkability and Biking: Many areas in Dana Point are pedestrian-friendly, especially around the Harbor and the Lantern District. The city also encourages biking, with several bike paths and trails offering scenic routes along the coastline and through neighborhoods.
Dana Point stands out as one of California’s most sought-after living destinations. The high real estate values reflect the quality and desirability of the area, making it a prime choice for those seeking a harmonious blend of natural beauty and community spirit.
