This marks a major milestone in the landside portion of the Dana Point Harbor revitalization project

Dana Point Harbor is celebrating the completion of the new parking structure and new entrance into the harbor on the cusp of Independence Day. This marks a milestone in the landside revitalization with the first two phases, both Phase 1 and Phase 2, complete.

The new entrance and the three-level parking structure at the corner of Golden Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Drive are now open to the public. The new entrance provides improved access for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles alike. Guests will now find expanded walkways and heightened pedestrian safety, increased traffic flow with four lanes instead of two and three direct parking structure ingress and egress points, with plans for both valet and dock drop points. The completed parking structure includes just under 1,000 spaces, electric vehicle charging stations, energy-efficient parking technology and upgraded boater service facilities featuring covered designated parking stalls, showers, restrooms and whale cart storage. View full specifications.

“The opening of the new entrance and parking structure sets the tone and caliber of the future Commercial Core development and reflects Dana Point Harbor Partner’s long-term commitment to not only add much needed parking, but to prioritize innovation and sustainability for future generations to access and embrace the full waterfront experience,” said Bryon Ward, President of Burnham-Ward Properties and partner of Dana Point Harbor Partners. “We are thrilled to unveil these highly anticipated modern amenities from expanded parking for our retail tenants and their customers to state-of-the-art technology, including electric vehicle (EV) parking spaces, smart parking technology, energy-efficient LED lighting and innovative natural daylighting techniques. Still to come are iconic vintage photo displays, sweeping art installations and additional wayfinding for a truly unparalleled arrival into Dana Point Harbor.”

Structure Highlights:

• 3 Levels totaling 984 Spaces

• 3 Dedicated Entrances and Exits for Ease of Access

• 93 Designated Boater Spaces with Upgraded Boater Services: Restrooms, Showers, Cart Corral

• 16 Electric Vehicle Charging Spaces with Future Expansion Capability

• 4-Sided Natural Light plus Central Skylit Walkway

• Mature Landscaping, including Vintage Specimen Trees

• Beautified Hardscapes and Pedestrian Connectivity

• Secure Bike Storage

• Safety & Security:

  • 24/7 Camera Feeds from 66 Locations

  • On-site Security Team

  • Open-Air Stairwells

  • LED Energy Efficient Lighting

  • LAZ Parking Management Team

DPHP will soon break ground on Phase 3 of the Commercial Core, which features seven new waterfront buildings totaling over 100,000 SF. These will be home to new restaurants and retail spaces with distinctive coastal 4-sided architecture alongside ample parkscape featuring mature landscaping, soft seating areas, public art and programmable spaces. Phase 3 is anticipated to begin late August 2025, with completion projected for the end of 2026 or early 2027. Learn more about Phase 3.

In anticipation of the demolition of older buildings, many existing tenants have been relocated into the Wharf area and the remaining Mariners Village buildings. Earlier this spring, DPHP announced that the Wharf area will reach 100% occupancy by August with relocations of tenured existing businesses Art Sea, Gift Chateau, Frisby Cellars and Vintage Yacht Club, alongside the recently opened newcomer Coco Bloom Coffee.

Harbor-favorite existing businesses, including The Brig, Beach Harbor Pizza, Gemmell’s, Wind & Sea, Jon’s Fish Market, Proud Mary’s and Turks will remain open and operating during Phase 3 construction. Throughout construction, Dana Point Harbor Partners (DPHP) maintains their commitment to keep shops, restaurants and excursions open and operating to the public.

“It is never easy to undertake such complex and extensive construction while keeping a property open to the public. We are beyond proud of our team and our tenants for being able to do so. We are also deeply grateful to the public for the patience and continued patronage of our businesses. It has always been and remains a priority to keep the harbor open to support our local business owners and the community throughout each phase,” said Scott Burnham, CEO of Burnham-Ward Properties and partner of Dana Point Harbor Partners.

The new parking structure, combined with the existing west side surface parking lot, has created more parking than ever before, streamlining access to all businesses during the ongoing construction.

For more information and to stay informed on revitalization updates, visit Dana Point Harbor at danapointharbor.com, or visit the Dana Point Harbor Community Room open weekly Wednesdays 10 a.m.  – 12 p.m.