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The Dana Point Harbor entrance is located at 33 degrees 27.3 minutes N Latitude, 117 degrees 41.5 minutes W Longitude.

Dana Point Harbor is a small craft harbor in the lee of Dana Point. The harbor is entered from the east between two breakwaters each marked by a light on the seward end. The harbor has an east and west basin separated by a fixed highway bridge with a 45-foot channel span and a clearance of only 20 feet. An anchorage area is located in the west basin and is marked by yellow buoys.

Dana Point Harbor Patrol maintains a 24-hour radio watch on VHF channels 16 and 12. A speed limit of 5 miles per hour is enforced in the harbor.

There are several well known submerged rocks, each marked with a buoy. The Laguna Beach, San Clemente, and Capistrano Beach coastlines can be dangerous due to shallow depths filled with kelp, scattered rocks, and reefs. Remaining at least 1 mile offshore will keep you clear of those dangers.

Sailing in southern California is excellent all year. Prevailing winds in the area are normally moderate (about 5 to 10 knots) and blow from the southwest or west, becoming stronger in the afternoon. Strong winds from off the land, called "Santa Ana" wind conditions, sometimes occur in the fall and winter. These can cause unusual wave patterns and rough sea conditions.

A popular vacation destination is Avalon Harbor at Santa Catalina Island. Avalon is 32.5 nautical miles from Dana Point. Typical wind conditions make it necessary for the sailboat to motor to the island; travel time is around 6 to 8 hours.