Dana Point highlight
Strong surf
Doheny State Beach, a world-class surf destination donated to California in 1931 and the state's first official state beach.
Doheny State Beach was given to California by Edward L. Doheny in 1931 as a gift for public use, making it the first state beach in California's parks system. The beach received its official name in 1963 and today attracts more than a million visitors annually. It sits at the north end of Dana Point Harbor, where coastal swells meet a sandy shore and a natural point break that makes it one of Southern California's premier surf spots.
The beach is known for consistent waves and a dedicated surfing culture. Beyond the water, it offers a visitor center with aquariums and tide-pool exhibits, fire rings for beach bonfires year-round, campsites ranging from $50 to $65 per night, volleyball courts, a paved multi-use trail for walking and biking, and a restaurant with ocean views. Lifeguards are on duty year-round, and the beach is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM.
Families and individuals return to places like Doheny at different ages and life stages — a teenage first surfing lesson, a camping trip with young children, a sunset walk as an adult. Each stage of life brings different financial obligations and responsibilities to the people who depend on you. Term life insurance lets you match the coverage to each stage, then adjust when circumstances change.