Dana Wharf Blog

You’ve booked your ticket, grabbed your camera, and made your way to the beautiful Dana Point Harbor—but what actually happens on a whale watching tour with Dana Wharf? Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, knowing what to expect can make your trip even more memorable. From boarding to breaching whales, this guide walks…

You’re standing at the rail, scanning the ocean, when a massive tail fluke rises and slips beneath the waves—or maybe a full-body breach sends water flying. The excitement is real. But then someone asks: Was that a gray whale or a humpback? At Dana Wharf, whale sightings are an everyday thrill, and one of the…

Whale watching off the coast of Dana Point is an unforgettable experience—but if you’re not dressed for the ocean, it can go from magical to miserable pretty quickly. The breeze is cool, the sun is strong, and even the calmest day on land can feel totally different once you’re out at sea. Whether you’re chasing…

If you’re an angler with dreams of battling one of the most powerful fish in the Pacific, there’s no better place to do it than Dana Point. Known for its scenic harbor and deep-sea fishing access, Dana Point is one of Southern California’s premier launch points for Pacific Bluefin Tuna fishing—and the season is heating…

When planning your Dana Wharf whale watching trip, one of the most common questions we get is: Should I book a morning or afternoon tour? The good news is, both times offer amazing opportunities to see whales, dolphins, and other marine life — but each comes with its own unique experience….

Looking for a fun, educational, and unforgettable activity for your kids this summer? Dana Wharf’s Kids Fishing Clinics are the perfect way to introduce young anglers to the world of sportfishing and spark a lifelong love for the ocean. What Are the Kids Fishing Clinics?Every Sunday, Dana Wharf hosts a hands-on…

When summer arrives at Dana Wharf, one fish consistently steals the show: calico bass. These beautifully marked, hard-fighting fish are a local favorite and a top target for both new and experienced anglers. Calico bass season is a highlight of summer fishing trips, and here’s why you should join in the action.

April has been an outstanding month for fishing out of Dana Point! As spring continues to warm up the coastal waters, anglers have been treated to steady action, huge rockfish counts, and a great variety of bottom species. Whether you joined us for a half-day, three-quarter day, or twilight…

April has been an incredible month for whale and dolphin activity off the coast of Dana Point! As we move deeper into spring, we’re seeing an exciting mix of migrating gray whales, visiting humpbacks, fast-moving fin whales, playful dolphins, and even a few rare surprises. Here’s a look at what we’ve encountered so far this…

1. Blue Whales: The Largest Animal on Earth When to See Them: Late spring through early fall (typically May–September) Key Features: Size: Up to 100 feet long—the largest animal ever known to exist Color: Mottled blue-gray; appears bluish underwater Blow (Spout): Very tall…

Experience the magic of fishing under the stars with Dana Wharf’s Twilight Fishing Trips. These evening excursions offer a unique opportunity to catch a variety of fish species while enjoying the serene nighttime ocean environment. Benefits of Twilight Fishing Cooler Temperatures: Escape the daytime heat and enjoy the cool ocean breeze…

Summer in Dana Point brings warmer waters and an abundance of fish species, making it an ideal time for anglers to hit the water. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned fisherman, Dana Wharf Sportfishing offers trips tailored to provide an exceptional fishing experience. Here are the top five fish to target this…