The lobster tales

Plus run clubs, Killer Dana anniversary party, local happy hour specials, and more

Hannah B
May 21, 2025

THE LOBSTER TALES

If you’ve ever been to Maine in the summertime, you can appreciate the deliciousness that is a lobster roll.

Buttery, soft-cooked lobster in a toasted brioche bun, french fries on the side.

Truly, nothing beats it.

Outside of Maine, you can still find lobster almost anywhere; but it’s almost always referred to as “Maine lobster.”

There are actually several kinds of lobster found in the seas, including California spiny lobster. Which got me thinking…why are Maine lobsters always served at restaurants, instead of the local variety?

Let’s dive in…

California Spiny lobster vs Maine lobster

The Dana Point State Marine Conservation Area, between Dana Point Harbor and Laguna Beach, covers nearly four square miles of marine habitat, and includes beaches such as Strands and Salt Creek. It also contains huge kelp forests, which provide refuge for a thriving population of California spiny lobster.

Without large claws, spiny lobsters are lacking in edible meat, other than the tail. Maine lobsters, on the other hand, have large claws, are quite meaty and often served whole. They’re also quite delicious, thanks to the very, very cold Atlantic waters they thrive in. Which gets us to flavor differences…

Let’s talk about the taste

When it comes down to it, the flavor of Maine lobsters are typically preferred over the CA spiny ones. Maine lobsters are known to be sweet and have a tender texture, while spiny lobsters are more briny and firm. Water temperatures play a factor in this flavor difference as well, where the colder Atlantic can contribute to a Maine lobster’s growth and flavor profile.

With the enhanced flavor, it’s no wonder the Maine lobster has become the universal crowd favorite for lobster in the U.S. Even the new seafood spot Hook & Anchor in Dana Point uses Maine lobster for their lobster roll on the menu.

So while spiny lobster might not end up on your dinner plate anytime soon, know that they’re deep beneath the ocean out by Salt Creek, amongst the vast habitat of kelp forests, living the life.

WEEKLY BULLETIN

DP & SC are buzzing with events this week leading up to Memorial Day weekend; surely to be a beautiful kickoff to summer 2025.

San Clemente Run Club + 3 year anniversary party 🥳

Whether you’re an avid runner or just getting started, check out San Clemente Run Club. The group meets on Wednesday nights at Station Craft in Dana Point, and Saturday mornings at the San Clemente Pier for a group run. Runs are followed by beer (Wednesdays) or coffee (Saturdays). Although you could drink a beer on Saturday morning too..we won’t judge.

Their 3 year anniversary is Wednesday, May 21st at Station Craft Dana Point. Come out and celebrate, even if it’s your first time, and enjoy a refreshing $5 beer afterwards. All levels welcome.

Check them out on IG: @sanclemente_runclub

Saturday, May 21st at 6:30pm @ Station Craft - Dana Point

Hook & Anchor - daily happy hour specials 🦞

All of that lobster talk got me thinking about where to score delicious lobster around here. Turns out you can find lobster deviled eggs, ceviche, fried green eggs, $5 beer and more on the happy hour menu at the new seafood spot Hook & Anchor in Dana Point.

Daily drink specials 3-5pm, daily food specials 4-5pm @ Hook & Anchor - Dana Point

Celebrate 34 years with Killer Dana 🌊

What a milestone! Come celebrate this Saturday, May 24th at Killer Dana in Dana Point for a festival filled with fun raffles, delicious bbq, live music and just a really good time in general. It’s party time in Dana Point!

Check out the deets on IG: @killerdanasurfshop

Saturday, May 24th from 11am - 3pm @ Killer Dana - Dana Point

THE LINEUP

May 23rd

Pop-up YogaSix @ Project Social 🧘‍♀️

Yoga followed by brunch on a Friday? Count us in. Checkout one of our favorite spots, Project Social, for a collab event with Yoga Six for some energizing yoga followed by delicious food and drinks.

Where: Project Social - Dana Point
When: May 23rd @ 9am
Sign-up: Email [email protected] or call/text 949-236-4455

May 24th

San Clemente Run Club 🏃🏾

All levels welcome! Meet at the park by the pier @ 9am for a 4 mile run along the beach and back, or 2 mile walk. Coffee after.

Where: San Clemente Pier
When: Saturdays at 9am
FREE

Dana Point Farmer’s Market 🍅

Support local businesses and score delicious fresh produce every Saturday from 9am - 1pm at the Dana Point Farmer's Market. Looking for the perfect gift? Checkout hand-made, unique accessories from local vendors, such as jewlery, clothing, candles and more.

Where: La Plaza Park - Dana Point
When: Saturdays from 9am - 1pm
FREE

May 25th

San Clemente Village Certified Farmer’s Market 🥦

Summer is getting started, and what better way to find the most delicious local produce, dairy, pastries, flowers and more. It just tastes better if it’s from the farmer’s market!

Where: 200th block of Avenida Del Mar
When: Sunday’s 9am-1pm, rain or shine
FREE

May 26th

Memorial Day Services 🇺🇸

Honor military personnel who have given their life defending and preserving freedom for our country with a solemn ceremony this memorial day, happening in San Clemente and Dana Point.

San Clemente Community Center - 11am - 12pm
Pines Park - Dana Point 10am - 11am
FREE

May 27th

Paint Night @ Artifex Brewing 🎨

Need a fun date night idea? Look no further than a paint & sip night @ Artifex. All painting materials are provided, just bring a smile and let your creative juices flow.

Where: Artifex Brewing - 919 Calle Amanecer, San Clemente
When: 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Tickets: $49.87/person, buy them here

May 28th

Weekly Story Time for Tots - Casa Romantica 📚

Looking for a new activity to for your toddler? Head on over to beautiful Casa Romantica in San Clemente. Kids can dance, roam and listen to book reading lead by volunteers.

Where: Casa Romantica - 415 Avenida Granada in San Clemente
When: Wednesdays from 10:30am - 11:30am

No RSVP needed; $8 (members and children under 12 are free). Learn more here

WATER CONDITIONS