Dana Point Harbor Project Receives Long-Awaited Permit

The $330 million redevelopment of Dana Point Harbor has moved one large step forward with Bellwether Financial Group – regional developer, global marina builder and operator – receiving the California Coastal Commission development permit, jumpstarting the harbor revitalization.

The massive mixed-use project will include renovating an aging marina as well as constructing new restaurants, shops and hotels.

“We have a once in a lifetime opportunity to revitalize this iconic Orange County asset and create a destination for generations to come,” said Joe Ueberroth. Ueberroth is the founder and president of Bellwether Financial Group, the developer of the new Dana Point Harbor, and chairman and CEO of Bellingham Marine, the builder and operator under his Bellport marina management company.

Bellwether Financial has many years of experience in marina redevelopment, repositioning and operations including the complex entitlement process. This coupled with embracing and planning for a variety of special conditions was critical to ensure approval from the Coastal Commission.

Distinct new plans for the marina include flip flopping the parking and retail space, so retail, hotels and public parks will be on the waterfront. The public will now have access to the docks and newly created public areas expanding recreational opportunities.

Bellwether is partnering with community organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, OC Youth Sailing, Surfrider, and the YMCA to provide 1,000 youths with sailing, ocean education programs, whale watching, swimming lessons and a variety of water activities yearly.

With the Coastal Commission’s green light, the next step is to finalize construction plans and pull various city and county permits. A partnership created to redevelop and operate the harbor, Dana Point Harbor Partners is comprised of Bellwether Financial Group, Burnham-Ward Properties and R.D. Olson Development. Under the public-private partnership, the developer will design, fund, and build the improvements, then operate the harbor for the duration of the 66-year lease. Bellwether-owned entity Bellingham Marine will develop and build the marina, while sister company Bellport will oversee operations. The project is slated for completion in 2026.