At a groundbreaking ceremony February 7, developer Burnham Ward Properties officially commenced work on a $600-million makeover of Dana Point Harbor.

The project, which is being carried out in partnership with R.D. Olson Development and Bellwether Financial Group through Dana Point Harbor Partners,  has already seen work within the marina itself - including the replacement of 580 older docks. The landslide construction, referred to as the "Commercial Core," will create new space for shops, restaurants, and events, while retaining existing attractions including Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching and the Catalina Express.

Boathouse and public spaceDana Point Harbor Partners

“This is a historically and culturally significant milestone in the revitalization of Dana Point Harbor and it’s been a tremendous effort to get the landside revitalization to the point of a groundbreaking,” mentioned Burnham Ward president Bryon Ward. “Waterfront development of this scale is an especially complicated undertaking and the entire revitalization plan has been over 15 years in the making and so many people that came before us are to thank for that.”  

The roughly 120,000-square-foot landside portion of the project is split into five phases:

  • Phases 1 and 2 includes a new three-level parking garage, as well as upgrades to existing utility infrastructure, and a new pedestrian path which will connect to the harbor. Work is expected to be completed in 12 months.
  • Phase 3, expected to start work after the completion of Phases 1 and 2, will include waterfront development and is expected to be completed in March 2025.
  • Phases 4 and 5 will include the redevelopment of buildings within the Harbor's Wharf, including 12 new or remodeled commercial buildings, a food hall called "Boathouse."

Rendering of proposed hotelsDana Point Harbor Partners

SMS Architects is designing the buildings, which are described as having a "coastal-inspired" aesthetic with rooftop decks overlooking the breakwater. Plans also call for outdoor gardens with seating areas, and public event spaces. The project will also double the size of the Harbor's waterfront boardwalk, which connects Doheny State Beach to Baby Beach.

Other components of the plan, including two proposed hotels which would replace the Dana Point Marina Inn, remain in the entitlement phase and are on track to secure approvals later this year.

See more at the project's website.

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