Regatta in Dana Point

Recent Adventure Far From The Trail

• 📍 Location: Dana Point, CA

• 📈 Elevation Gain: 0 ft

• 📷 Gear Used: Sony a7iv

Favorite moment: The whole day

A Different Kind of Adventure -

There’s something magical about Dana Point on a Saturday afternoon. The Pacific Ocean stretches endlessly, the breeze carries the scent of salt and sunscreen, and the harbor buzzes with anticipation. On this particular Saturday, that familiar coastal hum transformed into the electric energy of friendly competition as boats lined up for the start of the West Coast Yacht Club Sailing Regatta.

The sun hung warm and golden above the water, casting a shimmer over the harbor as crews prepped their sails, ran final checks, and exchanged jokes and strategy. Locals, weekend warriors, and seasoned racers gathered dockside, sharing snacks, sunscreen, and a collective sense of excitement. Here, racing isn’t just about crossing the finish line first; it’s about tradition, camaraderie, and a shared love of the sea.

With mainsails raised and jibs snapping in the wind, boats peeled away from the starting line, carving smooth arcs into the open water. The small fleet sparkled under the sun, each vessel dancing with the rhythm of the swells and the shifting afternoon breeze.

Saturday regattas here aren’t just races—they’re reminders. Reminders of the joy in a well-trimmed sail, the power of a shared breeze, and the simple thrill of being out on the water with good people. 

I was provided with the opportunity to capture this race on film.  It was a very different way for me to spend a Saturday, but being on the water is just as amazing as getting lost in the forest.  If you’ve never watched or raced in a regatta, mark your calendar. The sea will be waiting.

Thanks for journeying with me!
~ Bridget