Dana Point in the 1950s

This is what Dana Point looked like in the 1950s, before the marina was built. You may recognize the winding road and the gazebo in the upper right hand corner of the photo. Otherwise, the scene has changed drastically. 

The 1950s were a major turning point for Dana Point. Early attempts at development began in the 1920s -- first promoted by Anna Walters and later by Sidney H. Woodruff of Hollywoodland fame. But they got their start just before the Great Depression hit, deferring the dream of a growing beach town above Capistrano Bay. It wasn't until the 1950s -- after World War II had passed and the economy rebounded -- that the town began to take shape in a significant way. 

Today, the Ocean Institute would be visible at the left side of this view. The headlands, of course, are now being covered with houses -- because Orange County clearly isn't developed enough yet.