Dana Point isn't recognized as a surfer's paradise because the harbor is the center of attraction. Around the Dana Headland on the north side, however, Salt Creek Beach does offer surfing and is a great spot that locals head to because it does get decent waves, and the parking is easy.

Seen in the photo is a surfer heading up the stairs after leaving the beach and his surfing session.

When you discuss surfing in this South Orange County region, the surfers generally find their best waves to the south of Dana Point in San Clemente. Home to world class surfers and some consistent waves that make several San Clemente & San Onofre beaches the location of contests annually, the surfing culture and love of the sport does invade every city, including Dana Point.

When you go, you will find Salt Creek Beach on Pacific Coast Highway not far from Crown Valley Parkway and south of Laguna Beach.

A concessionaire is located at Salt Creek Beach and is open seasonally and during good beach weather. Take coins for parking meters. There's really no other place to park than the lot up the hill from the beach. If there are other spots where you can walk, they're far enough away that it's probably worth paying for the convenience of having your car just up the hill.

Surfing is a mega-industry in California, and Dana Point is home to some of that industry, including office space for surf magazine publications and surf industry products.

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