Our Tours & Services

Six unique adventures exploring Dana Point’s history, nature, and hidden coastal treasures

Coastal Hike & Ecology Tour

Your Pace, Your Adventure

(All ages) Experience the coastline at your own pace. Explore the shore and coastal headlands, tide pools, learn about the coastal landscape and marine life, and uncovering beach secrets. I’ll share recommendations for the best surf schools, eBike rentals, and local eateries to make the most of your visit.

  • Customizable pace – Open for any and all fitness levels. Must be able to walk up/down stairs and on sand.
  • Beach ecology and coastal geology lessons on the go
  • Exploration of multiple beach access points
  • Seasonal wildlife spotting (dolphins, pelicans, shorebirds)
  • Local tips for eBike rentals, surf schools, and beach gear
  • Stunning coastal photography opportunities
  • Comfortable athletic or walking shoes
  • Water bottle
    Sunscreen and sunglasses
  • Camera for capturing coastal beauty
  • Towel (optional if you want to touch the water)
Start
Beach access point meet-up – Introductions and fitness level assessment
Part 1
Beach hike – Learn about tidal zones and coastal ecosystems
Part 1.5 (optional/additional)
Hike the Dana Point Headlands trails
Part 2
Scenic beach exploration – Wildlife spotting and geological features
Part 3
Rest stop at scenic overlook – Stories and local insights
Final Stretch
Return at your preferred pace – Continued learning and Q&A

5K History

Where Fitness Meets History

A perfect blend of fitness and history. Run 3.1 miles while learning about Dana Point’s rich past, from Native American heritage to maritime legends. Plus, get insider tips on the best local restaurants, surf spots, and hidden gems to enhance your Dana Point experience.
Must be 14 years or older to participate

  • Historic Dana Point Harbor and its maritime legacy
  • Stories of Native American Acjachemen people who first inhabited this land
  • Maritime legends and smuggler tales from the Prohibition era
  • Scenic bluff-top running with panoramic ocean views
  • Local insider tips on best restaurants and surf spots
  • Photo opportunities at iconic landmarks
  • Running shoes with good traction
    Water bottle (at least 16oz)
  • Sunscreen and hat
    Light athletic clothing
  • Camera or smartphone for photos
  • Small backpack or waist pack (optional)
Start
Meet at Dana Point Harbor – Brief introduction and warm-up
Trail 1
Run to historic maritime district – Learn about the whaling and trading history
Trail 2
Scenic viewpoint break – Local legends and photo opportunity
Trail 3
Coastal bluff trail – Native American history and geological insights
Final Stretch
Return route through harbor area – Cool down and Q&A

Paddleboarding

Calming and Meditative Coastal Experience

(Ages 8+) Experience Dana Point Harbor from the water on a calm, scenic paddleboarding adventure. Perfect for beginners and families, this guided session takes you through the quiet coves and hidden corners of the harbor while learning simple techniques and spotting local wildlife. A peaceful, confidence‑building way to enjoy one of Southern California’s most beautiful coastal settings. 

  • A calm, beginner‑friendly paddleboarding session in Dana Point Harbor
  • Personalized instruction on balance, paddling technique, and safety
  • A relaxed pace with plenty of time to explore quiet corners of the harbor
  • Opportunities to see local wildlife such as sea lions, birds, and fish
  • A peaceful, scenic experience ideal for families, couples, and first‑timers
  • Morning sessions recommended for the smoothest water and lightest winds
  • Comfortable clothing that can get a little wet
  • Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Towel for after the session
  • A sense of adventure and willingness to try something new
  • Optional: water shoes if you don’t want to go barefoot
Start
Meet at Dana Point Harbor – Lifeguard Tower in Baby Beach
Part 1
Water safety, balancing, and staying dry!
Part 2
Explore the harbor. We stay in the pier/beach area or paddle around the island (for more experienced paddleboarders)
Final Stretch
Return to the beach and take photos and Q&A on any topics

Hidden Beach & Sea Lions

Where Land Meets Marine Wildlife

Trek to a secluded beach with sweeping views of dramatic rock formations and sea lion colonies. Learn about marine life and coastal conservation, plus get local insights on the best Dana Point activities, restaurants, and services. 

Majority of the walk will be on loose rocks and uneven surfaces. At times close enough to water where you might get wet. Tide will determine if tour is available.

  • Access to a “local secret” hidden, less-traveled beach
  • Walk along “Shell Beach” on what feels like a deserted island
  • Sea lion colony viewing (when they are there and not out at sea)
  • Dramatic rock formations and geological wonders
  • Marine mammal biology and conservation discussion
  • Sweeping coastal vistas perfect for photography
  • Closed-toe shoes that can get wet (water shoes ideal)
  • Water bottle
    Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
  • Camera with zoom or macro capability
  • Small notebook (if you like to journal)
  • Light jacket (can be cool near water)
  • Towel (just in case 😎)
Start
Meet at Salt Creek Beach parking lot by bathrooms
Part 1
Walk down to Salt Creek beach and walk along shore
Part 2
Explore the shore and see what washes up discussing marine ecology
Part 3
Walk along coast to first secret beach
Part 4
Walk along coast to main secret beach and look for shells
Part 5
Walk along cliffside to find the best part of the tour!
Final Stretch
Walk back to the parking lot sharing stories and Q&A

"Three Caves" Exploration

Uncover Hidden Coastal Secrets

Discover the secret caves and coves that only locals know about. This adventurous tour combines trail running with cave exploration and historical storytelling. Learn where to find the best local experiences, from dining to outdoor adventures. 

Majority of the walk will be on loose rocks and uneven surfaces. At times close enough to water where you might get wet. Tide will determine if tour is available.

  • Walk across the rocky shore to the Coastal Cave
  • Geological insights into cave formation and coastal erosion
  • Smuggler and Giant Octopus legends
  • Typically one 2 of the 3 caves are accessible (unless you don’t mind getting wet)
  • Wildlife and marine life spotting along the way
  • Photography in dramatic natural settings
  • Closed toe or sandles with a strap (no Flip Flops)
  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Athletic clothing
  • Sense of adventure!
Start
Meet at Dana Point Harbor – Pier by Baby Beach
Part 1
Learn about the Harbor and coastal ecology
Part 2
Walk along the coast discussing topics related to cliff formations and erosion, tidepools, and a variety of other topics
Part 3
Reach the cave and explore all caves accessible (tide depending)
Final Stretch
Return at your preferred pace – Continued learning and Q&A

Tidepool Exploration

Discover Life Between the Tides

Discover the tidepools and learn about coastal ecology, the geology of the headlands and most importantly, discover all the hidden marine life living just below the water in the intertidal zone. This tour does require walking on rocks and uneaven surfaces.

  • Close-up views of sea anemones, sea stars, crabs, and more
  • Marine biology insights from an experienced naturalist
  • Learn about intertidal ecosystems and conservation
  • Tide timing education – best times to visit tidepools
  • Coastal geology and rock formation stories
  • Responsible tidepool etiquette and environmental stewardship
  • Closed-toe shoes that can get wet (water shoes ideal)
  • Water bottle Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
  • Camera with zoom or macro capability
  • Small notebook (if you like to journal)
  • Light jacket (can be cool near water)
  • Towel (just in case 😎)
Start
Meet at Dana Point Harbor – Pier by Baby Beach
Part 1
Walk to prime tidepool area – Safety briefing and guidelines
Part 2
Free explore and yell out when you find something cool!
Final Stretch
Return from the tidepools and finish at the Ocean Institute or Coffee Importers to begin the next part of your adventure

Private & Custom Tours

Planning a group outing, corporate team building, or special event? I can create a custom tour tailored to your group’s interests and fitness level.

Whats Included

  • Customized route and topics
  • Flexible pace and distance
  • Private group experience
  • Local insider tips
  • Group size up to 15 people

Perfect For

  • Corporate team building
  • Friends visiting for a wedding
  • Family gatherings
  • Special occasions
  • Running clubs
  • Customized experiences