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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Dana Point

Food with parking

Made for those who want to enjoy a good meal without the added headache of navigating a difficult parking situation.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
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Updated May 2026
01
Doheny Cafe image 1
Doheny Cafe image 2
Doheny Cafe image 3
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American restaurant

Garage doors open to let in sea breeze, creating an open-air cafe feel with a laid-back, relaxed vibe. The space has a local, friendly atmosphere where families and dogs gather comfortably. Music plays softly, enhancing the positive, easygoing mood throughout the day.

Food comes out fresh and made in house with organic ingredients. Meals balance quality and quantity well, offering a healthy and delicious experience.

Free parking exists in the strip mall lot but it gets crowded around noon. Navigating the small parking lot can be tricky, especially with large vehicles like trucks.

People are saying

"The food here is really good, especially the biscuits and gravy."

"I loved the waffles; they had a hint of lemon."

"Parking is available and it's free."

Good to know

1

Doheny Cafe offers free parking in the strip mall parking lot.

2

The cafe gets busy around noon, so expect potential wait times.

3

The menu features organic ingredients, emphasizing quality and freshness.

02
El Caminante Bar & Bungalows image 1

Boutique hotel in a beautifully restored historic building offers ocean views, Spanish-style decor, and private patios with chiminea fire pits. Atmosphere blends romantic quiet with lively weekend DJ nights on the terrace. Free e-bikes encourage exploration of nearby beaches and riding paths.

Food and drinks come with careful curation and a homemade touch. The menu offers upscale and unique options, with outdoor tables that provide ocean views.

Onsite parking comes free and is included in the resort fee. There are fewer parking issues here compared to other places.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating offers amazing sunset views over the ocean."

"The food and drinks here are carefully curated and delicious."

"Parking was included in the resort fee, so I didn't pay extra."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a great beachfront location, perfect for beach lovers.

2

Expect music from the bar until 10:30 or 11 pm on weekends.

3

Sunday nights feature a DJ on the terrace for entertainment.

03
Blue Lantern Inn image 1

Hotel offers spectacular harbor and ocean views with a quiet, private setting that feels like a retreat. Spacious rooms include cozy amenities like fireplaces and bath salts, while a welcoming atmosphere extends to communal spaces and evening wine service.

Breakfast offers a wonderful selection with eggs benedict standing out. Staff handle dietary needs like gluten allergies with care. Food feels homemade and hearty.

Free parking is available with the stay. The area is quiet and safe, making parking hassle-free. Parking spots are easy to find at the inn.

People are saying

"The harbor views here are spectacular and so peaceful."

"The food here is amazing, with spectacular harbor views."

"The inn offered free parking."

Good to know

1

Prices for rooms range from $300 to $625 depending on the season.

2

The inn offers free parking for guests.

3

The hotel hosts a daily wine and cheese happy hour.

04
Jimmy's Famous American Tavern - Dana Point image 1

Restaurant offers beautiful harbor views and a warm, cozy atmosphere with tasteful decor. Seating includes cushioned booths and a patio with heaters and fire pits. The vibe is casual yet upscale, attracting diners looking for a relaxed but refined experience.

Food here stands out with fantastic flavors and consistent quality even near tourist spots. The menu pairs well with a great view and reliable service.

Plenty of free parking sits right outside with an accessible lot in front. Parking is never a problem here.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good."

"The dinner spots here have great food and friendly service."

"There was plenty of free parking available."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6 PM with great food and drink options.

2

Parking is available outside the restaurant, but can be limited during peak times.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait during busy hours.

05
Carlos Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with a large patio featuring a huge fire pit and live music that stays at a comfortable volume. The atmosphere is laid-back and festive, enhanced by cozy indoor seating with a fireplace and abundant plants. Patrons enjoy authentic dishes and a variety of margaritas in a welcoming, fun setting.

Authentic Mexican food stands out with fresh, delicious chips and salsa. The dishes consistently deliver great flavor and satisfy the palate.

Easy parking exists with quick in and out access. Some spots are limited and located right on PCH.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"The street tacos de birria were amazing with the consommรฉ."

"I found parking available and it was easy to get in and out."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right on PCH, but it can be limited.

2

The restaurant is pet-friendly and allows dogs on the patio.

3

Prices are reasonable and portions are generous.

06
Moulin image 1
French restaurant

French cafรฉ with vintage dรฉcor and eclectic European goods creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a patio vibe popular with locals and cyclists. The setting blends authentic French motifs with a small-town feel near the ocean.

Food features high quality and well-prepared French dishes like croque monsieur and custard flan. Drinks such as caffe latte complement the excellent flavors.

A small, free parking lot sits behind the shopping center with some covered spots. Parking is generally easy but somewhat limited in the front area.

People are saying

"I loved the French pastries and croissants here."

"The French food here is delicious, especially the pastries and sandwiches."

"Parking available is limited, but sometimes you get lucky."

Good to know

1

Parking is somewhat limited, but there is a small free lot for customers.

2

Expect long wait times during busy weekend brunch hours.

3

The inside seating is limited, especially during peak times.

07
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel image 1

Hotel perches atop a seaside bluff with breathtaking ocean views and access to a private beach. Atmosphere blends luxury and intimacy, with lively evening parties on the lawns and serene sunset vistas. Amenities include a top-tier spa, pool with bar, and shuttle service connecting to the beach.

Outdoor dining at 180blu offers panoramic ocean views with surfers visible in the water. The food comes with attentive service in a setting that highlights the clear blue sky.

Valet parking offers convenience with attendants who are kind and helpful. Overnight guests get a reduced parking rate.

People are saying

"I experienced spectacular ocean views and amazing sunsets."

"The food here offers spectacular ocean views."

"The valet parking here is convenient and helpful."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during events, especially on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for dining, especially during event weekends.

3

Parking can be limited during events; consider using valet service.

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Dana Point, California

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