Bluff Top Trail – Dana Point, Calif.

You have got to go here…Bluff Top Trail – Dana Point, Calif.

Southern California is full of amazing beach views, but what I discovered is that some also have hidden history!

OK, so here is how the story goes…while driving around looking for good grub, I passed a little restaurant named The Shwack Beach Grill that was PACKED, so I stopped – don’t be afraid to try something new.  This blog is not about food, but it did lead me to my discovery:)  After having a yummy chicken sandwich (at a great price) and amazing spuds – see picture below – I noticed a park at the end of the street with a beautiful view.

The beautiful views belonged to Bluff Top Trail, which is located at the end of Amber Lantern St. There is ample parking on the streets, so no need to worry about that.

 

When I first arrived at the trail I spent some time looking at the gorgeous ocean.  You can see for miles…it was truly breathtaking!  After a few moments I noticed that there was a path along the bluff and decided to see where it would take me…

There are a lot of stairs, but go for it!  Take your time and enjoy the scenery.  At the half way mark there is a picturesque wooden bridge that also boasts great views…as I walked along the bridge I came across a historical marker.

Who knew that along this trail lied remnants of the Dana Point Inn, which was a lifelong dream of S.H. Woodruffs but was never finished due to the stock market crash and great depression.  It became a game for me to try to find what was left of this historic hotel.  Once I opened my eyes, there were pieces everywhere…phenomomonal arches and a deserted pathway!  My mind began to wonder…imaging what this hotel may have looked like in its prime.  Thinking of the upscale women who may have had tea in the parlour was like stepping back in time.

There was history at every angle…I was so excited to have stumbled upon this treasure.  Hidden behind million dollars homes was an amazing piece of California history!

I ended up walking the pathway several times trying to find new sites.  Take your time and see what you can discover.

This is a great place to take a date or the family.  It serves a dual purpose…beauty and brains!

Happy Historying,

Crystal