Doheny State Beach

Doheny State Beach is a protected beach in the state park system of California, USA, located on the Pacific Ocean in the city of Dana Point. The beach is a popular surf spot located at the mouth of San Juan Creek, which flows from the Santa Ana Mountains southwest to the beach, where it forms a fresh-water lagoon. It is also one of the most polluted beaches in Southern California.HistoryThe beach was donated by oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny for public use on May 31, 1931. It was California's first state beach. On July 1, 1963 the beach was named Doheny State Beach in his honor. The original donation was 41acre. An additional 21acre was later added by acquisitions from the Santa Fe Railroad, University of California Regents, and the Union Oil Company. An additional 192acre not owned by the state are included in the site's official total area.Recreational usesThe beach covers an area of 62acre and includes a day use surfing beach at the northern end, as well as campgrounds in its southern area. The beach is one of California's most popular camping grounds and attracts over 850,000 people per year. The beach has tide pools and a visitor center with several aquariums.