Dana Point is situated midway between Los Angeles in the north and San Diego in the south. Steep cliffs and the majestic Pacific Ocean border the city and tall ships seek sanctuary in the harbor. The close-knit community celebrates its maritime past with the annual Festival of Whales Street Faire and the Tall Ships Festival. The Ocean Institute offers a unique opportunity for the public to ride on board a tall ship and be part of the marine research process. Visitors can enjoy various aquatic leisure activities such as swimming and surfing at Salt Creek Beach Park, an 18-acre public beach with picnic areas, restrooms and summertime concession stands. Not surprisingly, seafood restaurants are extremely popular in this community and shopping opportunities abound. From captivating harbor views and intimate dinners to surfing and whale watching, Dana Point makes a relaxing getaway from the large urban centers of California.