Good afternoon.
Happy Wednesday and official start of spring, South OC!
View from Badlands Trail in Laguna Niguel.
This weeks lineup:
Bon Appétit’s ribbon cutting, plus more restaurants coming to Del Prado this spring.
Top local news: DP council to challenge Headlands trail restrictions, what’s in store for the new Petrol Club and a look at the Harbor revitalization timelines.
Happenings: Between comedy shows, art crawls, wellness events and line dancing events, there’s something for everyone this weekend in South OC.
Home of the week: A fully turnkey 1960s home on an expansive 10k sq ft lot is indoor/outdoor living at it’s finest.
LET’S EAT
Last week, Bon Appétit had their official ribbon cutting, welcoming them to the Dana Point community.
Bon Appétit opened earlier this year, replacing Maison. They have a restaurant and a small cafe on the lower level called “le petite.”
Their French-inspired menu offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, with items such as croque madame, pancake souffle, poulet à la moutarde, beef bourguignon, and more.
We’re also keeping a close eye on the opening date for Nectarine Grove, set to open at the former location of Rip Curl on the corner of PCH & Amber Lantern, and Shelter Distilling, at the former location of Stillwater on Del Prado. Both are slated to open this spring. Stay tuned for more updates on those!
TOGETHER WITH
Love the skin (and town) you’re in.
Between the salt air and bright SoCal sun, our skin works overtime. Heading into summer, now is the perfect time to give it a little TLC at Dana Point Dermatology. From expert medical care to aesthetic refreshes, the dedicated team at Dana Point Dermatology is keeping South OC glowing all year long.
Book your consultation today (and mention South Coast Swell).
THIS WEEK’S HEADLINES
The Dana Point City Council has unanimously voted to legally challenge a decision by the California Coastal Commission to reduce public access to the Bluff Top Trail from seven days a week down to four. The restrictions were proposed by the Center for Natural Lands Management to protect the endangered Pacific Pocket Mouse, though city officials argue the move lacks scientific evidence and circumvents the proper public permitting process. Read the full story in the Dana Point Times.
The Dana Point Harbor revitalization is moving forward steadily, with Phase 3 landside demolition now underway to make room for over 100,000 square feet of new waterfront commercial space. Additionally, The Marina at Dana Point has reached two-thirds completion, with Phase 11 dock construction currently in progress and expected to open by late Spring 2026. For a deeper dive into the phasing map and specific project milestones, view the full construction update here.
The Petrol Club, a new automotive-themed specialty coffee shop, is set to open this April in a historic former gas station in San Clemente. Founded by local car enthusiasts, the space will serve as a community hub blending Porsche-inspired design with high-end coffee and dedicated space for vehicle gatherings.
The first major South swell of the season has arrived early in Orange County, bringing overhead waves to iconic spots like Lower Trestles and The Wedge. This "Godzilla swell" produced massive 8- to 12-foot faces in Newport Beach, drawing professional surfers and massive crowds to witness the heavy mid-March shorebreak. Read the full story here.
Do you love wholesome treats?
You’re in luck.
It’s no secret that finding gluten-free and refined sugar-free treats in South OC can be a challenge. We found a local baker looking to change that.
They are currently looking for community feedback. If you’ve been hunting for cleaner dessert options, check out their concept and weigh in.
ARTS & LEISURE
MARCH 25
Trivia night at Los Molinos at 6:30pm. 21+. Learn more.
MARCH 26
Shop Common Threads turns 20! Get 20% off storewide from 10am-8pm at Common Threads @ River Street Marketplace. Get the scoop.
Line dancing from 5-9pm @ Salt Creek Grille. Get the deets.
San Clemente art crawl from 7-10pm @ Los Molinos district. Learn more.
MARCH 27
Friday morning flow from 9:30am-10:30pm at The Ecology Center. RSVP here.
Live music Fridays at 3pm in front of Capo @ River Street Marketplace. Learn more.
Buckcherry at 8pm @ The Coach House. Buy tickets.
Laughin’ in San Clemente comedy show at 8pm @ Los Molinos. Buy tickets.
MARCH 28
Cars & Coffee from 7-9pm @ Dana Point Harbor. Free & open to the public for viewing. Contact Richard Schnyder to participate at [email protected]
Vuori x Barre3 workout and private shopping from 7:45am-10am @ Vuori San Clemente. Reserve your spot.
Spring equinox yin & sound bath from 6-8pm @ iHeart Yoga. Sign up.
MARCH 29
Rug hooking workshop at 9am @ Casa Romantica. No prior experience required. Sign up here.
FARMERS MARKETS
Fridays: Farmakis Farms Certified Farmers Market from 9am-1pm @ Farmakis Farms in SJC.
Saturdays: Dana Point Farmers Market @ La Plaza Park from 9am-1pm.
Sundays: San Clemente Farmers Market @ Del Mar from 9am-1pm.
Wednesdays: Dana Point Harbor Farmers Market @ 34555 Golden Lantern from 9am-1pm.
HOME OF THE WEEK
Presenting: 802 Avenida Presidio. This single-level mid-century home in San Clemente offers a stylish mid-mod design with a dedicated bar lounge, vaulted beamed ceilings, and a private backyard oasis featuring a spa and mountain views.
802 Avenida Presidio in San Clemente.
Property details:
3 bd, 2.5 ba
1,951 sq ft
10,065 sq ft lot size
Built in 1963
On the market for 25 hrs.
Features:
Single-level mid-century home on a rare 10,065 sq ft lot with coastal energy.
Oversized dining room and dedicated bar lounge with pitched wood-beamed ceiling.
Primary suite features dual closets and remodeled ensuite with soaking tub and dual vanity.
Outdoor paradise: turf, pavers, pergola with fire table, spa, outdoor kitchen, new fencing.
No HOA or Mello Roos; canyon and Saddleback views nearby.
Contact Michelle Wilson, First Team Real Estate, at 949-482-5505.
Thanks for reading,
— Hannah B
Interested in sponsoring South Coast Swell?
Email [email protected]
