Today it is time to return to Phoenix but first we want to explore a bit more around Dana Point. But before all that we need some sustenance so we walk into town to search for an open cafe. There are quite a few but we choose one with good reviews. Unfortunately the service is quite slow and haphazard, twice they brought us the drink for another table?!
The food and the coffee are however are quite good and fortified we are ready to check out of the AirBnB and drive the short distance to the Dana Point headland which we want to explore for views and birds.
We have two trails planned here, the first one we are not sure under whose supervision it falls but it is a short one with some nice views of the town and harbor area.
While the trails seriously restrict where you can go, many locals do not care and jump the ropes to take photos on the cliffs, which seems a bit dangerous. We are however distracted by a great view of a Coastal California Gnatcatcher, a target bird for us in the area.
At the end opposite the street is the best viewpoint with a good view of harbor and the many boats protected in it.
The second point of interest here is the Dana Point Preserve which we also intend to hike. There is no available parking spot inside but luckily it is within walking distance of the first trail so we simply walk to the entrance.
There are quite a few birds here even though the trail is quite busy. There are lots of bushtits and a peregrine falcon that likely is looking for an easy meal.
The trail similarly to the previous one is roped in but this time we don’t notice anyone jumping the ropes. Likely that is because you can get easily to the viewpoints using the trail, and also it is a longer hike to them.
The views are quite good but there are no whales out today. What we find is another Coastal California Gnatcatcher, an embarassment of riches really.
After returning to the car we drive to the harbor to walk and find a few caches. Unfortunately the wind is cold and strong in this area so soon we retreat to the car and it is time to drive to the next and last destination of our trip, the Mission San Juan Capistrano.
