Changes Coming To Dana Point Harbor: Renderings Released For $400M Project

DANA POINT, CA — New renderings and design details for the $400 million revitalization of Dana Point Harbor were recently released by Dana Point Harbor Partners, as construction for the long-awaited project gears up for early 2023.

According to a Dana Point Harbor Partners news release, the updated renderings show detailed architecture that has evolved due to community feedback since DPHP released previous renderings in 2018.

The new renderings released by DPHP, the Newport Beach developer group that is overhauling the harbor's businesses and 2,265-slip marina, show a destination that they say taps into the city's strong maritime history.

“We are thrilled for this long-awaited upgrade to the Harbor’s 1970’s-era facilities,” said Lisa Bartlett, Orange County Fifth District Supervisor, said in a news release. “Dana Point Harbor Partners have the experience and expertise to deliver a best-in-class project, which includes all-new amenities for the boating community, Orange County locals, and visiting public.”

Burnham-Ward Properties is spearheading the revitalization project, which includes a full transformation of Dana Point Harbor's restaurants, retail stores and public spaces.

According to a news release, highly curated restaurants and dynamic retailers will join existing Harbor businesses to create an "elevated destination while maintaining the Harbor's unique character."

Key features of the revitalization project include increased public green paseos and seating areas, multiple event spaces for concerts and activities, rooftop bars with expansive views over the breakwater, an artisanal-style food court called "The Boathouse," and a boardwalk that doubles in size, increasing connectivity from Doheny State Beach to Baby Beach.

The transformation will create one of the largest walkable harbors on the West Coast, according to DPHP.

According to the release, the Dana Point Marina Inn will be replaced with two new hotels. The first will be a four-star upscale full-service hotel with a waterfront experience for visitors. The second will be a three-star affordable hotel offering more relaxed accommodations for a casual stay.

In addition, the Marina at Dana Point will be reconfigured with state-of-the-art technology that, according to DPHP, will be included in every aspect of the new docks. These updates include increased pump out stations and an elimination of all treated wood, which is meant to increase the longevity of the docks and reduce pollutants in the water.

The guest docks will also be relocated and renovated to be able to accommodate vessels of all sizes.

To get more updates on the Dana Point Harbor revitalization project, residents can sign up for project updates on the harbor's website.