When you think of a mini-moon to Orange County (The OC) most folks think of Newport Beach, Laguna Beach and Huntington Beach. Those are all great places, of course, but I found what I consider to be the most romantic destination in The OC: Dana Point. Nestled in between Laguna Beach and San Clemente, Dana Point is a beach community that is worth the little extra drive south. The city has a lot of great eateries, the beaches are vast and beautiful, and there are adventures not to miss–Dana Point is considered the dolphin and whale watching capital of the world, after all!

Blue Lantern Inn Dana Point Orange County Southern California Mini-Moon Honeymoon Real Weddings Magazine

What to do first in this wonderful little city? A great home base for your getaway is to check into Blue Lantern Inn, a Four Sisters Collection property. This wonderful inn is a cross between a boutique hotel and a bed and breakfast. There are 29 well-curated rooms and the inn is situated on a bluff overlooking the harbor and the Pacific Ocean. The views are spectacular, the service is warm and gracious and the amenities will cause you to go back year after year. It’s a perfect honeymoon spot. Breakfast for two is served each morning before you head out to explore the area and each afternoon features your private mini wine and cheese picnic to enjoy in your room or in the patio of the inn. Perfect at the end of day exploring all that Dana Point has to offer!

Blue Lantern Inn Dana Point Orange County Southern California Mini-Moon Honeymoon Real Weddings Magazine

Blue Lantern Inn Dana Point Orange County Southern California Mini-Moon Honeymoon Real Weddings Magazine

Blue Lantern Inn Dana Point Orange County Southern California Mini-Moon Honeymoon Real Weddings Magazine

Just south of the harbor that Blue Lantern Inn overlooks is Doheny State Beach. Relax on the beach, surf or walk along the trails. Additionally, whale watching is one of the prime attractions of Dana Point. You can enjoy an excursion led by a marine scientist for a truly up-close view, or bring binoculars and study the ocean giants from bluffs above.

Blue Lantern Inn Dana Point Orange County Southern California Mini-Moon Honeymoon Real Weddings Magazine

Eat, drink, stay, shop, hike, surf, relax. Dana Point is a hidden gem for any romantic getaway–mini-moon, anniversary or, our favorite, just because! And don’t miss out on the many other Four Sisters Collection properties throughout Northern and Southern California–each is unique and perfect for any celebration or getaway!

Blue Lantern Inn Dana Point Orange County Southern California Mini-Moon Honeymoon Real Weddings Magazine

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Blog post by Real Weddings Magazine Associate Publisher, Debra Linn.

All images courtesy and copyright of Blue Lantern Inn.