Who we are

For the Verbeck family, Dana Point was more than just a beautiful coastal view; it was the backdrop upon which their family history was imprinted. But this idyllic scene began to fade when Parkinson's disease began its advance on Ray Verbeck, the family's patriarch.

His adult children, Deron and Julie, faced a heart-wrenching decision driven by his father's growing need for elderly-medical care. Deron and Julie collaborated a transition for their father. Deron decided to leave his life in Hawaii, and return to Dana Point. His mission was to address his father's needs.

Finding affordable, high-quality care for his father was an arduous task. But within this struggle, an idea began to take root. They relocated their father closer to Julie and her family in Idaho. And, out of necessity, the family conceived of offering extended-stay visitors and travelers a charming, fully furnished coastal respite – a true home-away-from-home. The income generated from this venture would then directly support his father's specialized care needs.


The Verbeck home was then transformed into the "Dana Point Coastal Art House," becoming both a comfortable haven for others and a testament to the Verbeck's innovative dedication and solution to the family's crisis.

Explore the Area

At Dana Point Coastal Art House, creativity doesn’t stop at the door — it’s woven into the waves, the festivals, the history, and the vibrant culture all around us. Whether you’re here for art, inspiration, or adventure, Dana Point and its neighboring communities offer endless ways to explore.

Coastal Celebrations & Festivals

  • Festival of Whales – Every March, Dana Point Harbor comes alive with one of the region’s most cherished traditions. Families, artists, and visitors gather to celebrate the annual gray whale migration through whale-watching tours, live music, ocean-inspired art, and community festivities.

  • 4th of July Fireworks – A breathtaking show launched from a barge off Doheny State Beach lights up the summer sky. The fireworks reflect across the water, turning the coastline into a living canvas of color and light.

  • Dana Point Maritime Festival – Hosted by the Ocean Institute in September, this nautical celebration features tall ships, pirate-themed fun, marine science programs, food, and live music — blending ocean history with hands-on learning.

  • Ohana Music Festival – Held at Doheny State Beach, this multi-day festival brings major artists to the coast, alongside cultural and environmental storytelling, food, and community connection.

  • Laguna Beach Festivals – Just up the coast, summer brings two iconic art events: the Pageant of the Masters, where famous works of art are recreated with live performers, and the Sawdust Festival, showcasing local artists, music, and hands-on workshops.

Heritage & History

  • Mission San Juan Capistrano – Known as the “Jewel of the Missions,” this historic landmark is filled with Spanish architecture, beautiful gardens, art exhibits, and centuries of California history.

  • Los Rios Historic District – Across from the Mission, this neighborhood is California’s oldest residential street, dotted with preserved homes, cafes, and boutiques. It’s a perfect place to wander, sketch, or simply absorb a timeless atmosphere.

  • Swallows Day Parade – A beloved springtime tradition celebrating the return of the swallows to the Mission. This lively parade is filled with equestrian groups, folklórico dancers, marching bands, and community spirit.

Ocean Adventure & Outdoor Inspiration

  • Whale Watching – Dana Point is often called the Whale Capital of the West. With year-round excursions, you can witness gray whales, blue whales, dolphins, and other marine life just offshore.

  • Stand Up Paddle & Kayak – Calm harbor waters and coastal coves make Dana Point a perfect spot to paddleboard or kayak. Rentals are available for both beginners and seasoned adventurers.

  • Catalina Express – Hop aboard the ferry to Catalina Island for a day trip of island beauty, hiking, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the unique island vibe.

  • Hiking & Mountain Bike Trails-

  • Beaches & Bluffs – From the San Clemente Pier to Doheny State Beach, The Strands Beach, Salt Creek and Monarch Beach to Laguna Beach the coastline offers surfing, tide-pooling, hiking trails, and dramatic ocean sunsets — endless subjects for photographers and plein-air painters alike.

Hiking & Mountain Biking in Dana Point and Orange County

The Dana Point area is a natural playground, where coastal cliffs meet rolling hills and canyon trails. From gentle seaside walks to rugged mountain bike terrain, Orange County offers an incredible variety of paths for outdoor exploration.

Local Dana Point Trails

  • Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area
    A series of bluff-top trails overlooking the Pacific. These short, accessible hikes are rich with native plants, panoramic ocean views, and the chance to spot whales and dolphins offshore.

  • Doheny Beach & Harbor Pathways
    Easy coastal trails ideal for a leisurely walk, run, or bike ride. The paved paths connect Doheny State Beach, Dana Point Harbor, and Capistrano Beach — perfect for a morning ride or sunset stroll.

  • Salt Creek Trail
    Winding from inland parks down to Salt Creek Beach, this trail is popular for both biking and hiking. Coastal breezes and ocean views make it a local favorite.

Iconic Trails Nearby

  • Top of the World (Laguna Beach)
    A must-do for hikers and bikers seeking epic views. Reached via several routes through Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, this trail ends at a panoramic bluff where you can see from Catalina Island to Saddleback Mountain.

  • Boat Canyon Trail (Laguna Beach)
    A moderately challenging trail that climbs from the canyon floor up through coastal sage scrub and ridgelines, rewarding hikers and bikers with sweeping views of the Pacific and Laguna Beach.

  • The Badlands (Laguna Niguel)
    Known for its sandstone formations and rugged terrain, the Badlands offer adventurous hiking and mountain biking trails with unique desert-like landscapes right in the heart of Orange County.

More Wilderness to Explore

  • Crystal Cove State Park – Over 18 miles of coastal canyon trails with varying levels of difficulty, great for both hiking and biking.

  • Laguna Coast Wilderness Park – 40+ miles of scenic trails through oak woodlands and coastal canyons, especially beautiful in spring.

  • Aliso & Wood Canyons – A 4,500-acre park with multi-use trails, sandstone caves, and popular mountain biking routes.

Mountain Biking Hotspots

  • Santiago Oaks Regional Park – A mix of technical descents and steep climbs, perfect for advanced riders.

  • Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park – Well-marked loops, from moderate to challenging, including the dramatic Red Rock Canyon.

  • Aliso & Wood Canyons – In addition to hiking, bikers enjoy flowy single tracks, ridge climbs, and thrilling descents.

Trails for Every Explorer

From bluff-top vistas and oceanfront paths to rugged canyon adventures, the trails around Dana Point and Orange County offer something for everyone — whether you’re walking with family, sketching landscapes, or chasing adrenaline on a mountain bike.

A Living Canvas

Every corner of Dana Point tells a story — from fireworks reflected on the ocean to centuries-old adobe walls at the Mission, from whales breaching offshore to the buzz of a local festival. At Dana Point Coastal Art House, we celebrate how art and place intertwine, inviting our visitors to experience not only creative workshops and exhibitions, but also the vibrant life that surrounds us.