Unless you have been living in a cave, you have probably heard about the Dana Point harbor revitalization project. Long in the making, Dana Point Harbor is undergoing a massive transformation. This project will enhance the harbors appeal and functionality. The makeover promises to bring new life to this coastal destination, and residents and visitors will benefit in many ways.
The Dana Point Harbor revitalization will exponentially enhance the Harbor experience for Dana Point residents and visitors to the area. The revitalization will uphold an appreciation for the Harbor’s rich history, while providing an invigorating meeting place and improving local businesses.
A key feature of the revitalized Harbor will be increased pedestrian connectivity. Grand public spaces will link the community from the Headlands, all the way to Doheny State Beach. [Source]
New Construction and Developments
Click here for all the pictures and plans.
Hotels and Lodging
The Dana Point Marina Inn will be replaced by two world-class hotels. Developed by R.D. Olson Development, these hotels will offer luxurious accommodations and amenities. They will therefore attract tourists and boost local businesses. The first will be a 4-star upscale full-service hotel with a waterfront experience for visitors. The second will be a 3-star affordable hotel providing more relaxed style accommodations for a casual stay. [1].
Marina and Slip Updates within the Dana Point Harbor Revitalization
The marina is seeing significant improvements. Phase 5 is now nearing completion. New slip locations will be ready by mid-June 2024. These upgrades will modernize the marina’s facilities and better serve boating enthusiasts [2].
Bellingham Marine will develop and build the new marina, which will consist of over 2,200 boat slips and a total of 493 dry boat-storage spaces within about 20.5 acre. Sister company Bellport will meanwhile oversee operations. The dock system innovation by Bellingham Marine will eliminate all treated wood and includes technology that removes all ferrous metals. This ensures longer dock life, while ridding the environment of those toxic materials.
The Marina at Dana Point’s guest slips will be comprised of three docks that provide flexibility with vessel size and type. They will also be relocated to the outer basin at the entrance to the Harbor enabling easy visitor access. This location will allow for vessels ranging from 20’ to 200’!
Slip Rate Controversy
There has been significant discussion about the increased slip rates for boaters. Currently, in the Dana Point Harbor, slip rates begin at $13.50 per foot, per month, for vessels under 20 feet in length and reach $43.15 per foot, per month, for vessels over 60 feet long.
Beginning June 1, slip rates will begin at $14.15 per foot, per month, for vessels under 20 feet and reach $49.82 per foot, per month, for vessels over 60 feet long. The DPHP are in the process of drafting a five-year-plan for slip-rate increases that is expected to be presented at a future Harbor Oversight Committee meeting. The plan was slated to be presented during the May 1 meeting, but the meeting was postponed. “For the marina, we’re going to have rate increases over the next five years,” Ueberroth said. “We really look at rates every year, but we put a five-year-plan together with regard to rate increases, so we can provide the community some clarity on where rates are heading over the next five years. The five-year-plan that I’m articulating is one that we’ve already articulated to the finance companies that we’re working with,” Ueberroth continued.
This latest slip-rate increase comes as a group of boaters are appealing a ruling against their class-action lawsuit against the Dana Point Harbor Partners over the first slip-fee rate increase in June, 2021. [source]
Shopping and Restaurants: The Commercial Core
The landside construction, or “Commercial Core,” will transform the harbor’s landscape. New spaces for shops, restaurants, and events are planned. The harbor boardwalk will be doubled in width. This upgrade will create a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly environment [3].
Phases 1 and 2 of the harbor-wide revitalization started on March 1, 2024, and are expected to finish by February 2025. Construction of the three-tiered parking structure is actively progressing at the corner of Golden Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Drive.
Retail, restaurants, whale watching, sportfishing, and Catalina Express will stay open during the construction. Customers can park in the main parking lot. By dividing the project into phases, the harbor will stay open to the public, minimizing the impact on parking, businesses, and common areas.
After the first two phases are complete, construction will move to Phase 3 of the Commercial Core, focusing on waterfront development. This phase is set to begin in March 2025. The final phases will redevelop the buildings within The Wharf.
Harbor Partners and Community Engagement
The revitalization project is a collaborative effort. Regular town hall meetings ensure residents are informed and have a voice in the developments. Make sure you sign up to stay involved[4].
Impact on Dana Point Home Values
The ongoing revitalization of Dana Point Harbor is set to bring a wave of transformation that will not only enhance the harbor experience but also significantly impact home values and the lifestyle of local residents. The improvements to Dana Point Harbor are expected to boost property values. Here’s how:
- Increased Demand: The upgraded harbor will attract more tourists and residents. With the harbor becoming a prime spot for recreation and leisure, demand for homes in the area is expected to rise. Prospective buyers are always drawn to areas that offer a high quality of life and proximity to attractions like upgraded marinas and restaurants, which are part of the revitalization effort. Now the general revitalization of Dana Point comes with a significant increase in housing. However, this mostly consists of leasing opportunities and condos. Especially single family residences and townhomes are expected to see an increase in value.
- Enhanced Amenities: New amenities make Dana Point a more desirable place to live. The revitalization project includes upgraded docks, new public spaces, and coveted retail locations. These improvements make Dana Point Harbor a more attractive destination, increasing the appeal of nearby properties. Enhanced public amenities often lead to higher property values as homebuyers seek vibrant, well-maintained communities.
- Improved Aesthetics: The aesthetic upgrades to the harbor area, including new landscaping and modern architectural designs. This will make Dana Point Harbor a more beautiful place and visit. This improved visual appeal enhances the overall ambiance of the community.
- Economic Growth: The influx of businesses and tourism will lead to economic growth. The influx of visitors and new businesses is likely to boost the local economy. Moreover, a thriving local economy can positively influence real estate prices as the area becomes more desirable for both residential and commercial investment.
- Lifestyle Improvements: With the addition of new retail spaces and restaurants, residents will have more choices for dining and shopping. This not only adds convenience but also enriches the community’s social life by providing new spots for gathering and entertainment.
Final Thoughts
The revitalization of Dana Point Harbor is more than just a facelift. It’s a comprehensive enhancement. These developments should enhance the lifestyle experience for residents and visitors. By attracting more people and boosting the economy, home values are likely to rise. It’s an exciting time to live or invest in this coastal community of Dana Point.