SUSTAINABILITY IN DANA POINT HARBOR
Dana Point Harbor Partners are committed to a collective water quality initiative. From top-rated storm drain filtration systems to electric landscaping equipment, and marine engine upgrades to LED conversions, and beyond – Dana Point Harbor Partners strive to build a better future. We invite you to help Dana Point Harbor make a difference in supporting the planet and the ocean for generations to come.
ECO-CONSCIOUS DEVELOPMENT
Dana Point Harbor Partners are committed to sustainable development in partnership with the County of Orange. Every facet from new building and dock material selection to drought-tolerant landscaping to new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and beyond is being considered.
The brand-new docks at the Marina at Dana Point feature substantial environmental upgrades with stable, non-ferrous, environmentally friendly materials, no treated lumber, in-slip pump-out access for slips 30’ and larger, and themed adjustable energy-efficient LED lighting. Updated electrical and fire safety standards with built-in ground fault protection have also been implemented.
With the opening of the new parking structure, 16 electric vehicle (EV) chargers have helped avoid more than 8,000kg greenhouse gas emissions to date. Substantial infrastructure has also been preconfigured to expand this offering in the future.
CLEAN MARINA CERTIFIED
The Marina at Dana Point proudly maintains the Clean Marina designation.
Home to more than 3,000 vessels in the water and in dry storage, the program demonstrates unwavering commitment to protect the environment by reducing the total impact of boater facilities and services. Environmental best practices include emergency and fuel spill preparedness, improved maintenance and cleaning practices, and comprehensive boater education programs. Access to pump out stations, free bilge cleaning supplies, trash skimmer units, and expanded free recycling services of batteries, fuel and oil filters, waste oil, ATF and engine coolant all help minimize marine impact from the harbor.
REEL IN & RECYCLE
In partnership with California State Parks and California Coastal Commission, Dana Point Harbor has been recycling used fishing line since 2014. Since launch, the harbor has stopped 1,288 lb of fishing line from becoming waste. This fishing line is upcycled in numerous ways from benches to fishing spools, and more preventing wildlife endangerment and reducing litter through the Boating Clean & Green program.
Used fishing line receptacles are located within each of the approved designated fishing zones in Dana Point Harbor.
Mature Landscaping & Preservation
More than 400 tree and shrub specimens have been identified for the extensive landscape design throughout completed Phases 1, 2 and 3 of the commercial core. The new landscaping along Dana Point Harbor Drive began mid-March 2025, featuring hand-selected native specimens like the Bay Laurel, California Sycamore, Torrey Pine, Holly Oak and Pink Melaleuca to enhance the brand-new entrance to Dana Point Harbor.
In preparation for Phase 3 construction, more than 30 mature tree and shrub specimens were carefully boxed, transported, and preserved from the original harbor footprint to be replanted on-site in the finished project. Many smaller specimens were already transplanted into existing parkscapes throughout the harbor.
WHALE HERITAGE AREA
Dana Point officially earned the first Whale Heritage Area designation in the Americas, established by the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA), in January 2021. The WCA is the world’s largest marine conservation partnership, dedicated to promoting safe and sustainable whale watching. Whale Heritage Areas are part of the Wildlife Heritage Areas program, a global initiative developed by the World Cetacean Alliance and World Animal Protection, requiring a focus on protection, sustainability, education, research, public access, and awareness, as well as community engagement.
Whale Heritage Areas are places that celebrate cetaceans in local culture, arts and events; support local economic and environmental sustainability; and develop locally based science, research and education to benefit cetaceans and their habitats long term.
STAND UP TO TRASH
Dana Point Harbor Partners have proudly supported Stand Up To Trash since its founding in 2020, with its mission to protect and conserve our ocean by raising awareness of the negative effects of plastic pollution through environmental education. Beach Clean Ups and Lunch & Learns are hosted monthly at Baby Beach and the Ocean Institute.
In addition, in partnership with the City of Dana Point, Stand Up To Trash helped Dana Point achieve the new Caltrans Clean California Community designation which was awarded in September 2025.
Sign up for the next 2026 Beach Cleanup here.
Stand Up to Trash is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
FLUKE: A TALE OF PLASTIC
Sculpture by Joel Dean Stockdill & Yustina Salnikova
Commissioned by Dana Point Harbor Partners
The beloved life-sized depiction of an adult gray whale tail is constructed of recycled and reclaimed materials including reclaimed steel and damaged curbside trash bins, and features single-use water bottles collected by Stand Up to Trash volunteers.
Located at Dana Wharf, the sculpture was constructed at the 51st Annual Festival of Whales.
The installation highlights the arts, environmentalism, and the practice of sustainable development with a goal to transform the way people look at waste and inspire the way they interact with public space.
BALLOON-FREE ZONE
Dana Point Harbor businesses, locals and tourists alike have pledged to keep the harbor balloon-free 365 days of the year.
No matter the occasion, from weddings to birthdays to burials at sea, Dana Point Harbor vendors can help you choose biodegradable wildlife-friendly products to help you celebrate while reducing the impact to our waterways.
CYCLIST CENTRAL
Dana Point Harbor welcomes you to take the scenic route when visiting. Reduce your footprint and travel on two wheels whether it’s your beach cruiser, road bike, or e-bike. Bicycle racks may be found throughout the harbor for your convenience.