El Caminante Bar & Bungalows

4.0 star property
4-star beachfront hotel near Doheny State Beach
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Photo gallery for El Caminante Bar & Bungalows

Beach/ocean view
Lobby lounge
Exterior
Hacienda Suite | Terrace/patio
Interior entrance

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Housekeeping
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Parking included
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
34862 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA, 92624
  • Doheny State Beach
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • The Coach House
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Dana Point Harbor
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Orange County, CA (SNA-John Wayne)
    ‪29 min drive‬

Room options

Ocean View King ADA Accessible with Patio & Chiminea

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Ocean View King with Patio & Chiminea

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(6 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Ocean View King

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Hacienda Suite

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

El Camino Suite

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Ocean View King with Balcony

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

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About the neighborhood

Dana Point

On the beach.Within a 10-minute walk of this Capistrano Beach hotel, you'll find Poche Beach and Capistrano Beach Park. Also, South Day Use Beach is within half a mile (1 km) and Doheny State Beach is within 2 miles (3 km).

What's nearby

  • Capistrano Beach Park - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Doheny State Beach - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • The Coach House - 3 min drive - 2.4 miles
  • Dana Point Harbor - 4 min drive - 1.9 miles
  • Salt Creek Beach Park - 5 min drive - 3.0 miles

Getting around

  • San Juan Capistrano Depot - 11 min drive
  • John Wayne Airport (SNA) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Better Buzz - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪A's Burgers - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Rosetta Coffee Brewing Company - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪El Pollo Loco - ‬3 min drive

About this property

El Caminante Bar & Bungalows

4-star beachfront hotel near Doheny State Beach
There's a restaurant on site, as well as a coffee shop/cafe. You can enjoy a drink at the bar/lounge. WiFi is free in public spaces. Free self parking is available.

This 4-star Dana Point hotel is smoke free.

  • 28 guestrooms or units
  • 2 levels
  • Beach lounge chairs
  • Towels for the beach
  • Umbrellas for the beach
  • Breakfast available (surcharge)
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • No smoking on site
  • Bar or lounge
  • Coffee shop
  • Dining venue
El Caminante Bar & Bungalows offers 28 air-conditioned accommodations with coffee/tea makers and bathrobes. Pillowtop beds feature premium bedding. Refrigerators and microwaves are provided. Bathrooms include showers, slippers, and complimentary toiletries.

Guests can surf the web using the complimentary wireless Internet access (speed: 250+ Mbps (good for 3–5 people or up to 10 devices)). 47-inch flat-screen televisions come with digital channels. Additionally, rooms include irons/ironing boards and ceiling fans. In-room massages and hair dryers can be requested. Housekeeping is provided daily.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 250+ Mbps (good for 3–5 people or up to 10 devices)
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free 24-hour offsite parking
  • Street parking available
  • Free self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Daily cooked-to-order breakfast available 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM for a fee: USD 10 to 25 per person
  • A bar/lounge
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A restaurant

Things to do

  • Bodyboard
  • Free bicycle rentals
  • Hiking/biking trails

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 2 accessible parking spaces
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Front entrance ramp
  • Grab bar near toilet (33 inches high)
  • Tile flooring in room
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Visual alarms in hallways
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible restaurant

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • 47-inch flat-screen TV with digital channels

Bedroom

  • Pillowtop mattress
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer (on request)
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Slippers
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Free local calls
  • Iron/ironing board

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • No pets allowed, but service animals are welcome

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

Guests will be asked to pay the following charges at the property:

  • Resort fee: USD 35.00 per accommodation, per night
The resort fee includes:
  • Additional inclusions
  • Beach access
  • Concierge service
  • In-room coffee

We've listed all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Fee for cooked-to-order breakfast: approximately USD 10.00 to 25.00 per person

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, debit cards, and cash.

We should mention

  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Capistrano Seaside
Capistrano Seaside Dana Point
Capistrano Seaside Inn
Capistrano Seaside Inn Dana Point
Capistrano Seaside Hotel Capistrano Beach
El Caminante
El Caminante Bar Bungalows
El Caminante Bar & Bungalows Motel
El Caminante Bar & Bungalows Dana Point
El Caminante Bar & Bungalows Motel Dana Point

Frequently asked questions

How close is El Caminante Bar & Bungalows to the airport?

El Caminante Bar & Bungalows is 23.9 mi (27-min drive) away from the John Wayne Airport (SNA) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows?

As of Sep 8, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows on Sep 10, 2025 start from $183.6, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does El Caminante Bar & Bungalows have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows.

How close is El Caminante Bar & Bungalows to the beach?

This hotel is on the beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does El Caminante Bar & Bungalows offer free breakfast?

Free breakfast isn’t provided at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows, but cooked-to-order breakfast is offered for a fee of between USD 10.00 and 25.00 per person. It's available every day from 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM.

Is there a casino at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows?

No, there is no casino at this hotel, but Casino San Clemente (4-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows?

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime.

Is there free parking at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows?

This hotel offers free self parking.

Does El Caminante Bar & Bungalows have a pool?

El Caminante Bar & Bungalows does not have a pool.

Does El Caminante Bar & Bungalows have a restaurant?

Yes, there is a restaurant on site.

Does El Caminante Bar & Bungalows have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is El Caminante Bar & Bungalows to downtown Dana Point?

El Caminante Bar & Bungalows is 1.8 mi away from Dana Point.

El Caminante Bar & Bungalows Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 192 out of 230 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 20 out of 230 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 12 out of 230 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 6 out of 230 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 230 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.2/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.6/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Carolina

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
So beautiful! The room was lovely, the only thing is that it mentions a microwave but there was none. The bar had some of the best cocktails we’ve ever had. There was a dj on our last night there and we had so much fun. We had a beautiful view of the beach. No complaints and would love to come back in the future.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jody

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Absolutely beautiful hotel! Very unique and well appointed. Service was impeccable!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ryan

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We will be back. Make sure you shower with the bathroom door closed or you’ll set off the fire alarm. Other than that we loved staying here.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shawn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Can’t wait to return

Beautiful property. So much history. The buildings have been beaufully restored. Each room is a private oasis. Incredible views of the Pacific. The bar is fully stocked. Our bar tender was a wealth of knowledge. Drinks were perfect.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cinthia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Mendra

Traveled with family
Liked: Amenities
We will be back but not in a room above us
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

William

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Not what I expected

The room was quite small, very tastefully appointed. It wasn’t quite what I was expecting, as the room itself was not the type of room you would want to stay in all day, but was great for sleeping. Common spaces were few and the balcony was not private, as it appeared to be in the photos online.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ethan

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff was amazing, my family was heard. Location great. But if I had to be nit picky, it would be, the living room tv wifi setup was not user friendly but I blame the tv not the property. Overall 9.8, seriously though, would recommend!
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

4/10 Poor

Christi

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

Leeann

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Malik

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

David

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
Staff was great but the bed and pillows were very uncomfortable. Also they need to let you know when you check in that room cleaning has to be set up day before if you want it.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deanna

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Hidden Gem

From the moment we arrived, the bungalow exuded warmth and character. The interior was spotless and well-appointed with a super comfy bed, soft linens, a small bar area loaded with a variety of snacks and drinks. Although the room is small, we enjoyed most of our time on the charming patio with its own small sofa, chair and chimenea. The staff is incredibly gracious and attentive without being intrusive. The bar was a place to retreat in the morning for a great cup of coffee or in the evening for a cocktail. They have a limited menu but enough to entice you to indulge! Although right on the Pacific Coast Highway, the noise was not an issue as we were also able to hear the crashing of the waves with the ocean being just across the street. Do yourself a favor, and book this location for your next getaway, you will be so glad you did! We are already planning our next visit!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sheila

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Birthday getaway

One day was not enough!
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Pefect getaway bungalow

This is a quaint vintage hotel that has been updated perfectly. Lush grounds, private patios, ocean view.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

tamara

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful property. The attention to detail is impeccable and the staff was kind, efficient and helpful. The remodel was very well done and makes this an Instagram worthy spot. Beautiful little bar and seating area with delicious breakfast options and drinks. Nice view of the beach, close to San Clemente, Laguna and Dana Point for great food and shopping. Would 100% recommend and stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chantal Alysia

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is a little hotel with ocean views, small rooms with simple luxuries and antique decor.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathlyn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Trevor

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great spot. 20 minute walk to the harbor... High end amenities and the shower were all amazing.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lucy

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Quiet and amazing view!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was very friendly and helpful especially the hotel manager. The design of the hotel was fun and charming. My husband and I enjoyed the use of the electric bikes that were free to use. The bar and interior lobby space was very inviting.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great for a short stay

Wonderful hotel -- renovation of an historic property done right. The rooms are small, with no closets, but furnished well, beautiful tile in the lovely bathrooms, excellent bed linens, towels and the soap/shampoo/lotions are all from Le Labo which is very impressive and classy! Everyone is friendly, it's comfortable for a short stay and location was perfect for what we wanted to do.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025