Holidays at the Harbor

We welcome you to Orange County’s little slice of paradise, Dana Point. As the holidays unfold, Dana Point Harbor transforms into a wonderland illuminated by twinkling lights and festive decor. At Capistrano Surfside Inn, we are thrilled to be your hosts for a magical holiday experience. Let’s dive into the exciting festivities waiting for you at Dana Point Harbor this season! 

Dana Point is spreading holiday cheer with their annual holiday light display,  featuring over 70,000 LED lights through the month of December. The harbor comes alive with themed light exhibits, including a giant whale sculpture, illuminated palm trees, giant beach-ball like ornaments, the popular “Merry Kiss Me” arch and more!

Christmas Boat Parade

Boat Parade of Lights 

The Harbor’s much anticipated 49th annual Boat Parade of Lights will take place December 13th – 15th at 6:30PM. Boaters decorate their vessels to this year’s theme “Santa’s Seaside Carnival” and parade around the harbor for onlookers to enjoy. 

 

Photos with Santa

Bring the family for a meet-and-greet with Santa himself. Capture a precious moment by taking a photo with Santa or strike a pose in front of the holiday-themed photo display, perfect for creating memorable family Christmas cards.

 

Giving Machine 

Celebrate Giving Tuesday, December 3rd at 5:00PM at Dana Point Harbor, with a special appearance by Santa, a live performance by Kyler Fisher, plus the In-N-Out truck. Giving Machine is a charitable vending machine that offers locals the opportunity to select and donate 30 different items including chickens, pigs, meals, school supplies and life-saving medicine ranging from $5-200. Giving Machine Orange County is partnering with five local charities this year with 100% of the donations going directly to the charities selected.

 

Carolers

Channel the holiday spirit with live carolers performing throughout the harbor’s Wharf & Village on December 5th, 12th, and 20th. Performing a repertoire of holiday favorites, spreading cheer all season. 

 

Boat Rides with Santa

Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching will also host annual Boat Rides with Santa on December 7th and 8th from 10:00AM – 2:00PM. Take photos with Santa and his holiday helpers on this adventure at sea for a $5 donation with proceeds supporting Soroptimist of Capistrano Bay. Reservations are required. Click here to purchase tickets.

 

Holiday Modern Makers Mart

Find your last minute gifts and celebrate the season with over 55 vendors, live music, kids crafts and more on December 21st. Channel your holiday cheer with Dana Point Harbor on the Island. Located near the Richard Henry Dana Statue.

 

Hanukkah Lighting

The Chabad Jewish Center of Dana Point will place a 12-foot Menorah in the Harbor for the duration of Hanukkah from December 25th – January 1st. 

We invite you to experience Dana Point during the holidays. Book your stay at Capistrano Surfside Inn and enjoy the magic of the season, surrounded by the beauty of the California coast.