What is there to do near Dana Point (one hour south of Los Angeles)?

Fodor’s recommends Harbor Grill located in the mall. Southwind Kayak does a “back to nature” marine life tour for around $55. 800–768-8494. Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve near Huntington, Balboa Island, Laguna Art Museum, Monarch Adventures for surf lessons 949–254-8139.

Also, The Crab Cooker & Las Brisas in Newport (latter @ sunset, esp.) Finally, Ramos House Cafe in San Juan Capistrano.

All from Fodor’s.

Ramos House Cafe in San Juan Cap is wonderful! If you can make reservations to go out on all-day sailing tour, do it! It’s a beautiful area. Las Brisas in Newport is also very romantic.

Thanks for ideas. All sounds great.

For the sailing tour, which company would you recommend? And how much roughly..for all day or just a few hours?

What about shopping other than Laguna Beach? The one in Laguna beach by the coast, love their stores and beach.

Balboa Island, I heard have great waterviews. Where in Balboa Island have great spots?

Also breakfast place ideas?

Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching
(949) 496–5794
www.danawharfsportfishing.com
Prices: $15 to $25. Fun for the entire family, fully narrated, two-hour trips aboard large, comfortable vessels with expert skippers. Trips depart every hour during the Festival and three times a day through April 30. Guaranteed sightings! 1st Whale Watching company in Dana Point!

Dana Island Yacht Charters
(949) 248–7400
www.danapointwhalewatching.com
Encounter the gray whale migration in comfort and luxury aboard our fleet of large and roomy sailboats. $30 per person aboard our fleet of 6-passenger, fully-equipped luxury sailboats (36 – 40 feet in length). Learn about whale migration from one of our experienced, licensed captains. Smaller group sizes offer you more comfort and privacy. Special offer – save $30! Reserve the entire boat (up to 6 passengers) for only $150.

Ocean Institute Marine Mammal Exploration Cruises
(949) 496–2274
www.ocean-institute.org
$25 adults, $22 kids 4–12. Join scientists for an action-packed cruise designed to teach you everything you want to know about whales, dolphins and sea lions. Or, join us for Thar She Blows sailing excursions aboard the tallship Spirit of Dana Point.

Capt. Dave’s Whale & Dolphin Safari
(949) 488–2828
www.dolphinsafari.com
See, hear, and talk to the whales aboard a sailing catamaran with an underwater videocam and hydraphone. $45 adults, $35 kids (children 2 and under are free). 2 1/2 fun-filled hours.

Aventura Sailing
(949) 493–9493
www.aventurasailing.com
$30 per person, 6-passenger luxury