🧭 Moving to Orange County
Just moved to Dana Point?
Curated by Simir Shah
Who lands here
Families who want ocean living first, with the harbor, beaches and tide pools as the backyard, in a small coastal city.
The vibe
Laid-back harbor town with bluff-top views, surf culture and quiet residential neighborhoods climbing the hills above the coast.
Schools
Served by Capistrano Unified School District. Confirm the school for your specific address with CUSD's mySchool Locator.
Getting around
PCH ties the coast together and the I-5 is a few minutes inland; the free summer trolley handles beach and harbor days, and kids 6 to 18 ride OC Bus free with Youth Ride Free.
Finding your community
A close-knit coastal community with harbor festivals and city events through the year; see our community guides.
Now go explore Dana Point
A friendly orientation, not advice. Neighborhoods, schools and prices change and depend on your exact address — always verify school assignments and lease details directly. New to the area? Start with the New to SoCal hub.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Dana Point a good place for families new to Southern California?
Dana Point is harbor-and-tide-pool country: whale and dolphin boats leave the harbor year-round, toddlers splash at nearly waveless Baby Beach, and bluff-top parks have playgrounds with ocean views. Families who want ocean living first, with the harbor, beaches and tide pools as the backyard, in a small coastal city.
How are the schools in Dana Point?
Served by Capistrano Unified School District. Confirm the school for your specific address with CUSD's mySchool Locator.
Do I need a car in Dana Point?
PCH ties the coast together and the I-5 is a few minutes inland; the free summer trolley handles beach and harbor days, and kids 6 to 18 ride OC Bus free with Youth Ride Free.