El Caminante Bar & Bungalows

4.0 star property
Beachfront hotel for sun and fun
VIP Access

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for El Caminante Bar & Bungalows

Beach/ocean view
Hacienda Suite | Terrace/patio
Lobby lounge
Exterior
Ocean View King with Balcony | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View in a map
34862 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA, 92624
  • Place, South Day Use Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Capistrano Beach Park
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Doheny State Beach
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Airport, Orange County, CA (SNA-John Wayne)
    ‪24 min drive‬
VIP Access
Curated for quality and service, VIP Access stays consistently receive our highest guest ratings.
  • Expect exceptional service
  • Extra savings and perks for Rewards members

Room options

Ocean View King ADA Accessible with Patio & Chiminea

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Room, 1 King Bed, Patio (Ocean, 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
(4 reviews)
  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

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About the neighborhood

Dana Point

Located in Capistrano Beach within a 5-minute walk of Poche Beach, El Caminante Bar & Bungalows is within a 15-minute stroll of Capistrano Beach Park. This 28-room, 4-star hotel has a restaurant, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • South Day Use Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Pines Park - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Poche Beach - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Capistrano Beach Park - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Doheny State Beach - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile

Getting around

  • San Juan Capistrano Depot - 14 min drive
  • John Wayne Airport (SNA) - 35 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Doho Cafe - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Better Buzz - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Rosetta Coffee Brewing Company - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪A's Burgers - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Sunsets Bar & Grill - ‬3 min walk

About this property

El Caminante Bar & Bungalows

Beachfront hotel for sun and fun
Guests staying at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows enjoy free WiFi in public areas and free use of bicycles. Free parking is available if you drive. Front-desk staff are standing by 24/7 to assist with any requests.
47-inch flat-screen TVs come with digital channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Pillowtop beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer free toiletries and bathrobes. Refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers are also available.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include complimentary bicycles.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

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

Restaurants on site

  • El Caminante Bar

Things to do

  • Bodyboard
  • Free bicycle rentals
  • Hiking/biking trails

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Guidebooks

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Outdoors

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels
  • Beach umbrellas
  • In a nature reserve
  • On the beach

Spa

  • In-room massages

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

More

  • 2 floors
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Pillowtop mattress
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

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

Entertainment

  • 47-inch flat-screen TV with digital channels

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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these 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

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

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

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

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

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
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • 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.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • 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

Is a free cancellation option available at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows?

El Caminante Bar & Bungalows offers free cancellation on some room rates. For additional details, look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

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

As of Nov 28, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows on Nov 30, 2025 start from $204.0, 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.

What is there to do within easy reach of El Caminante Bar & Bungalows?

This hotel is situated in Capistrano Beach within a 10-minute walk of Capistrano Beach Park and Poche Beach. You'll also find Mission San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente Pier within a short drive.

Is there parking available at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel. Accessible parking is also available for guests.

Does El Caminante Bar & Bungalows have a casino on the premises?

No, El Caminante Bar & Bungalows doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

Is El Caminante Bar & Bungalows good for couples?

This beachfront hotel offers many amenities for couples, including in-room massages as well as a bar and a restaurant.

Are there hot tubs at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does El Caminante Bar & Bungalows feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, El Caminante Bar & Bungalows serves a cooked-to-order breakfast for a surcharge each morning at El Caminante Bar.

Will El Caminante Bar & Bungalows allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows though service animals are welcome.

Does El Caminante Bar & Bungalows have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

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

The closest major airport to El Caminante Bar & Bungalows is John Wayne Airport (SNA), which is 26.5 mi away (35 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows?

Yes, some guestrooms at this hotel offer either a balcony or a deck where guests can enjoy ocean views.

Reviews

El Caminante Bar & Bungalows Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.2/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.6/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 228 out of 277 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 25 out of 277 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 16 out of 277 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 6 out of 277 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 277 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Yiyang

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Benny

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The grounds are beautiful and well kept. While the rooms are small they are comfortable. The restoration was beautifully done
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Nico

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Yue

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Braden

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

10/10 Excellent

Dr. Lindokuhle, Newport beach

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice and cozy. Partly, homely.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cristy, Broomfield

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Simply a very cool place, really well done!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Vickie

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peteris

Excellent
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bayley

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Melissa

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

Cute Rooms + Killer Cocktails

Loved it! Pretty small room, but lots of charm and really loved the onsite bar - incredible cocktails and yummy light bites!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I adored this wonderful spot! The staff is amazing. They are kind, efficient, and able to do so many things incredibly well. This is a place that resists the tedious monotony of chain hotels with its charm and authenticity. From listening to vinyl while lounging in a beautiful antique chair with a signature cocktail to sitting on our private patio with a fire and the smell of blooming flowers, we loved the entire stay. Add in the attention to detail with comfort, like large towels, great water pressure, luxurious bedding, and every amenity we needed and it elevated our experience. We also loved that we could use the electric bikes and local trolley and never had to get in our car. Bliss.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Helen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
We really enjoyed our stay in this place! Already missing it.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathy, Redlands

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Absolutely charmiing and the staff made us feel like family. Beautifullly decorated and well maintained. Perfect place for a sister retreat. Definitely coming back!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Best place to stay in Dana Point

This place is a gem. We couldn’t be happier with our stay. It was gorgeous. The courtyard outside was the perfect spot to sip wine and eat Sonny’s pizza. The bar makes delicious cocktails. We loved the details of the decor and amenities. It was the perfect weekend stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

TIMOTHY

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matthew

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

Our new 1-day getaway headquarters.

Went down for a 1 night getaway on a Friday, and it was wonderful. This is now our getaway place from now on. 35 minutes from our house, but a different world all together. The architectural design and landscaping are a highlight, it's feels "old school" and the staff is great. Very casual, helpful, kind of felt like staying at a friend's house. For some reason, it felt like we spent an entire weekend there and it was barely 24 hours. Love it. Can't recommend any higher.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dan

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bobby

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

Unique & Cozy, but has some drawbacks

This is a great, swanky place to stay. Great views of the beach, especially on the 2nd floor. The decor is unique and intriguing. Downsides: There was only one person on staff to check us in, but he was also the cook/bartender. It took a while for him to finish the food before we could get checked in. Parking was okay, but they had a yoga class on the lawn that was open to the public. They took all of the parking spots, and we had to park on the street. The placement of the bed was awkward. It was literally placed in the middle of the room, facing the great view out the window, but there were cords from the lamps going to the wall on one side, which became a bit of a trip hazard. (We unplugged the lamp so I could access the bathroom instead have having to walk around the entire bed.) Plus, the TV was on the side wall; not convenient for watching tv if that is an issue for you. Overall, we would still go back! It is a great atmosphere and the food was wonderful.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jesus

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

10/10 Excellent

Black Aaron

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

ryan

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

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne

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

10/10 Excellent

Lee

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

Great room

Very cozy and clean Bed was extremely comfortable Beautiful view of the ocean Adorable room with many extras. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025