Dana Point Festival of Whales
Getting to the Festival
Nestled along the sun-kissed California coastline, Dana Point beckons you with its breathtaking beauty and coastal charm. Imagine azure waters meeting golden sands, framed by rugged cliffs and swaying palms – a perfect backdrop for the annual Festival of Whales. With whale watching excursions, family-friendly activities, and a sense of community that's as warm as the sun-soaked shores, the Festival of Whales invites you to embark on a coastal escape like no other. Come join us in this seaside haven, where every wave whispers tales of wonder and every moment promises cherished memories
Parking, E-Bikes & Trolley Service
The FREE DP Trolley will be in service Saturday, March 2 & Sunday, March 3. The special trolley route will service most areas of the Dana Point Harbor as well as a few downtown stops.
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For a live trolley tracker, visit dptrolley.com or download The DP Trolley App.
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Trolley Hours of Operation:
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Saturday, March 2 - 6:30 am – 6:00 pm
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Sunday, March 3 - 10:00 am – 6:30 pm
Free parking is available at Dana Hills High School (33333 Golden Lantern).
There will be a trolley stop near the high school.
Many of the parking lots in the Dana Point Harbor are free parking, limited to four hours maximum. Hourly parking and day parking passes are available at Doheny State Beach at the automated payment kiosks. Explore other public parking lots in the City of Dana Point here.
Please note, road closures will be in effect Saturday, March 2 from 8:30am- approximately noon for the parade. Some Trolley stops will not be available during this time. View Parade Time Trolley Map.
E-Bike Parking
The Clean & Green Way to Travel to the Festival
A FREE e-bike corral will be available for the public at the location below courtesy of Doheny Bike.
Riders must supply their own lock.
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Saturday, March 2 & Sunday, March 3
10am-5pm at Baby Beach
Driving Directions to Dana Point Harbor & Festival Events
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From the Los Angeles area, take the Interstate 5 Fwy South and exit PCH/Beach Cities (Pacific Coast Highway).
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From the San Diego area, take the Interstate 5 Fwy North, exit PCH/Beach Cities (Pacific Coast Highway) off ramp.
Both these exits will take you directly into Dana Point.
Drive under the Dana Point Bridge and make a left at the 2nd signal, Dana Point Harbor Drive. Doheny State Beach will be on your immediate left at the first signal, Park Lantern. Just a few more short blocks and you’ll arrive at Golden Lantern with the entrance to the Harbor on your left.
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Click here for directions to Trolley Parking at Dana Hills High School.