Dana House and Surf Lodge to Replace Dana Point Marina Inn, Bringing New Luxury and Affordable Lodging Options to Revitalized Harbor
The Dana Point Harbor is set to undergo a monumental transformation as the California Coastal Commission greenlights the construction of two new hotels. This marks the final piece of a $550 million overhaul aimed at rejuvenating the 53-year-old harbor.
New Hotels to Enhance Dana Point Harbor
Located along the harbor’s picturesque promenade, the two new establishments—Dana House and Surf Lodge—are poised to replace the existing 167-room Dana Point Marina Inn. Developer Bob Olson, president of Newport Beach-based RD Olson Development, shared his excitement about the project, which has been four years in the making.
Dana House: Boutique Luxury with a Beach-House Vibe
The Dana House will be a boutique-style hotel featuring three levels and a rooftop deck, designed to echo the elegance of the Lido House in Newport Beach. “It will be an updated version, but with more of a beach-house style,” Olson explained. The hotel will offer 130 rooms, including four townhouse-style, two-story units perfect for families or larger groups. Each unit will have its own outdoor space complete with barbecues, TVs, and fire pits. Guests can enjoy stunning water views from the rooftop lounge and restaurant. Room rates are expected to range from $300 to $500 per night.
Surf Lodge: Affordable Comfort for the Active Traveler
Catering to the more budget-conscious and active visitors, the Surf Lodge will offer overnight stays starting at $125. The hotel will feature a rooftop lounge and a large yard with storage for surfboards, paddleboards, and other watercraft. “It will really be for the active traveler,” Olson noted. This establishment will celebrate Dana Point’s rich surfing heritage, paying homage to the iconic Killer Dana wave, which was lost with the construction of the harbor’s breakwater in 1966.
Community-Centered Development
The Coastal Commission’s approval came with several stipulations designed to benefit the broader Orange County community. Programs will be established to serve underprivileged youth and disabled individuals, providing opportunities to learn water safety, swimming, and sailing. Internships promoting indigenous land stewardship and exercise classes for fixed-income seniors are also part of the community benefits package. Additionally, the hotels will support programs at the Sailing and Events Center, an initiative championed by Fifth District Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley.
A Vision Realized
Olson, who is part of the Dana Point Harbor Partners—a group that includes Joe Ueberroth of Bellwether Financial Group and Bryon Ward of Burnham Ward Properties. As the Dana Point Harbor continues its transformation, the addition of the Dana House and Surf Lodge promises to bring new life and energy to the area, offering a blend of luxury and affordability while honoring the harbor’s rich history and vibrant culture.
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