Five Family Days in Dana Point

As the dolphin and whale watching capital of the world, southern California’s Dana Point already has a lot going for it. Add to that an easygoing vibe, gorgeous beaches and an abundance of family-friendly activities, and you have a prime spot to gather for five unforgettable days.

Day One

3:30 PM

Check in to the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach resort and settle the whole family into their Presidential Suite, a penthouse that sleeps six and is the perfect home away from home.

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach

1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, CA, United States

View Property Details

6:30 PM

After a few hours by the pool, it's dinnertime at the resort's Aveo restaurant with Dungeness crab for the adults and Super Mario's Spaghetti for the kids.

Day Two

7:00 AM

For the early risers, the day begins with yoga on the beach. After, everyone gathers for breakfast, then heads to Part & Parcel to pick up a curated family picnic basket for later.

11:00 AM

Climb aboard for a private whale watching excursion! With the whole boat to yourselves, go in search of dolphins, gray whales, and even the magnificent blue whale. Enjoy your Part & Parcel picnic for lunch while out on the water.

1:45 PM

Visit the Ocean Institute to learn all about the animals you just saw and their fascinating marine environment.

6:30 PM

All tuckered out, you opt for a casual dinner via room service so you can pore over photos and videos from the day's adventures.

Day Three

9:30 AM

After breakfast, it's on to a round of golf at the Monarch Beach Golf Links for some, a morning of pampering at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club Spa for others, and endless hours of play at the kids' pool splash pad for the rest!

1:15 PM

Lunch is poolside at Sombra Cantina with Dip n' Dots for dessert.

3:15 PM

A few hours of fun lawn games and crafts with the resort's Kid's Club.

7:00 PM

The adults indulge in steak, halibut, lobster and more at the Bourbon Steak restaurant by Chef Michael Mina.

Day Four

9:30 AM

After breakfast, it's beach time! Head to the exclusive Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Club where surf lessons, boogie boards and plenty of other activities await.

12:30PM/6:00PM

Not wanting to leave the waves, the beach club's restaurant serves for both lunch and dinner, with the "Beach Bum Burger" and fish tacos proving most popular among the group.

8:15 AM

On your last morning together, it's smoothies, waffles and huevos rancheros for breakfast at Aveo.

10:00 AM

Before checking out, the kids squeeze in one last resort adventure with the "Kids' Escape Room" experience!