Public and Educational Programs at Doheny

Forms

PARENTAL/GUARDIAN PERMISSION

Community Beach Cleanups

Doheny State Beach Community Beach Cleanups flyer for 2026

Do your part and give back to the community by joining in on our Doheny State Beach Community Beach Cleanups!

We will have supplies, but if you can, bring your own recycled bag, buckets, gloves, or other cleanup supplies to make this event as ZERO WASTE as possible.

2026 EVENT DATES:

  • Sat, March 7 9am-11am
  • Sat March 21 8am-11am
  • Sat, April 18 8am-11am
  • Sat, May 16 8am-11am
  • Sat, June 20 8am-11am
  • Sat, July 18 8am-11am
  • Sat, August 15 8am-11am
  • Sat, Sept 19 8am-11am
  • Sat, Oct 17 8am-11am
  • Sat, Nov 21 8am-11am
  • Sat, Dec 19 8am-11am

WHERE:

  • Doheny State Beach
    • Park in the furthest parking lot before bridge. Meet at the picnic tables closest to Lifeguard Headquarters.

DETAILS:

Nature Hikes and Beach Walks

Nature Hikes and Beach Walks flyer for Spring 2026 at Doheny State Beach, San Clemente State Beach, and San Onofre State Beach

Join us to explore the beauty of our local parks and beaches! We will host a walk at the different South OC State Beaches each month.

We ask that participants wear closed toed shoes, bring water and sun protection. Bring binoculars and a camera if you have them.

2026 EVENT DATES:

  • Doheny State Beach: Meet at Doheny State Beach Visitor Center
    • Sat, March 7th 9am-10am
    • Sat, April 4th 9am-10am
  • San Clemente State Beach: Meet at San Clemente State Beach Visitor Center
    • Sat, April 4th 9am-10am
  • San Onofre State Beach: Meet in the parking lot of the San Mateo Campground Amphitheater
    • Sat, March 7th 9am-10am
    • Sat, March 14th 6pm-8pm (Sunset to Twilight)
    • Sat, April 18th 7:30pm (Family Night Walk)

Beach Walks: Doheny State Beach

Join a park naturalist to learn about the amazing adaptations of species that thrive in this unique environment. We'll walk approximately 1 miles along the shore, keeping an eye out for crabs, shorebirds, and maybe even a dolphin pod offshore! This program is an easy, flat walk suitable for all ages. Please bring comfortable walking shoes or sandals, water, and binoculars if you have them! Approximately 1 hour.


Nature Hikes: San Clemente Nature Trail

Immerse yourself in the vibrant beauty of the San Clemente Nature Trail, a precious pocket of Coastal Sage Scrub. Discover why this ecosystem is so vital and learn about the native plants and animals that call it home! This loop trail of approximately 1.5 miles features uneven terrain with some moderate inclines and declines. Suitable for ages 5+. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are recommended. Bring water, sun protection and a camera to capture the stunning views. Approximately 1 hour.


Nature Hikes: San Onofre State Beach

Sunset to Twilight Hike:     
Join us on a guided hike during the beautiful golden hour as we make our way to Trestles Beach. Along the trail, we will talk about some of the cultural and natural history of this area and why it is so special. We'll pause at the beach to watch the sunset, observe the many birds that frequent the mouth of the San Mateo Creek, and enjoy a peaceful walk back up as the twilight settles in. This out-and-back hike (approx. 5 mi long) features uneven terrain with moderate inclines and is best suited for ages 10+. Bring layers to prepare for the cooling temperatures as the sun goes down. Approximately 2 hours. 
 
Family Night Walk: 
Join us for a fun interpretive family night hike. We will explore the night using all our senses, listening for owls and other nocturnal animals, smelling sage and coastal plants, and letting our eyes adjust to the magic of the dark. This out-and-back hike (approx. 1.5 miles) features uneven terrain with some moderate inclines and declines and is best suited for adventurous hikers aged 5 years+. Dress in layers to adjust for the coolness of the night. Approximately 1.5 hours.
 
DETAILS:

March Events

Doheny March 2026 Events Flyer

Join us in exploring all the beauty Doheny State Beach has to offer!

MARCH 2026 EVENTS:

Festival of Whales - March 6, 7 & 8

  • The Festival of Whales pays homage to the majestic whales that grace our shores each year during their migratory journey. Enjoy "a vibrant tapestry of marine-themed activities, educational exhibits, and family-friendly entertainment that captures the essence of our deep-sea neighbor."
  • For more information, please visit www.FestivalofWhales.com

Beach Cleanup - March 7th, 8-11AM

Whale Presentation - March 7th, 6:30PM

  • Meet at Picnic Area A & B

Roving Whale Museum - March 8, 3-5PM