Doheny — aka Doho — can be a fun break for the whole family, pending the crowd situation (and one’s mental state). It’s ideal for beginners and easy to access. Likewise, experienced longboard surfers also surf Doheny.

How to get to Doheny State Beach

From Interstate 5, take the Pacific Coast Highway/Rt. 1 towards Dana Point. Turn Left onto Dana Point Harbor Drive, then another immediate left onto Park Lantern. After passing the guard stand, turn right into the parking lot. (If you follow directions to “Doheny State Beach” in Google Maps, it will direct you further south but the best access point to the surf beach is closer to the guard stand. Apple maps will direct you to the guard stand only.)

Either display your annual California State Parks pass or purchase an hourly pass (QR codes and instructions are posted throughout the lot). You may also walk or ride a bike into the park for free.

The park has BBQ grills, volleyball nets, and a cafe, making it easy to spend the day with friends. There are restrooms with running water and outside showers to rinse off sand and salt water.

When and where to surf at Doheny

The break is most consistent during the summer with southern swells because the north swells can’t wrap around Dana Point. Low tide can be dicey with the rocks. Mid-tide is optimal. Party waves are the norm during summer daylight hours. Keep an eye on the swell because off-season can be very worth-while.

There are three main areas, all safe for longboards:

• Boneyard is furthest north, named for the rocks that get exposed quickly as the tide goes down. It’s a pretty consistent right and can be fun if a little competitive. With enough swell and skill, a surfer can ride the length of Doheny from that takeoff zone.
• “Second Spot” is just south from Boneyard where the rocks aren’t as much of an issue, nor are the waves as consistent.
• “The Hammer” is further south yet (where you can catch slightly shifty lefts or rights). Be brave and venture even further south to the Rivermouth.

Note: Doheny sits at the mouth of San Juan Creek, infamous for its toxic waterflow, especially after a good rain. Who cares it’s the best place to take the kiddos!

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