Walk, Talk & Trek: Strand Beach 4-Mile Route

Join us for a beautiful, active morning featuring fresh ocean air, an extended 4-mile coastal route, and a 15-minute coffee stop on our way back.

Our route stretches from the beach boardwalk all the way up through the rolling greens of the golf links. It’s active enough to get your heart rate up and hit your step goals, but casual enough to easily chat along the way!

🕒 The Schedule

• 8:00 AM – 8:05 AM | Meet & Greet: Gather near the ocean overlook railing right at the edge of the free public parking lot.
• 8:05 AM – 8:55 AM | The Outbound Trek (2 Miles Out): We will head out on a steady, conversational 2-miles taking us down the paved paths, along the beach boardwalk, and winding up the scenic trail past the golf links.
• 8:55 AM – 9:10 AM | The Return Stop: On our way back we’ll make a quick, 15-minute pit stop at Monarch Cafe and grab a beverage. While we sip, we can chat about:
• A Local Gem: Share a hidden spot, great restaurant, or local service you love in South OC.
• A Positive Highlight: Share a win, a moment of gratitude, or a great experience from your past week.
• Looking Forward: Tell the group about a project, event, or hobby you are excited to dive into this weekend.
• 9:10 AM – 9:55 AM | The Final Stretch (2 Miles Back): We’ll finish the second half of our mileage on the return route and head back down the beach boardwalk, up the incline to parking lot.

📍 Location & Parking Details

• Meetup Spot: Strand Beach Parking Lot (34116 Selva Rd, Dana Point, CA 92629).
• Coffee Venue: Monarch Cafe (50 Monarch Beach Resort Dr N, Dana Point, CA 92629).
• Parking: 100% Free in the large, dedicated public lot off Selva Road. No meters or paid passes required!

✔ What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes or trainers (note: there are stairs and paved ramps on this route).
• A water bottle and your preferred sun protection (hat/sunglasses).
• Layers (it can start cool near the surf and warm up quickly by mid-morning!).

We pride ourselves on being a welcoming, inclusive group. If you are coming alone or this is your very first Meetup, don't worry! We will introduce you to the group right away. See you at 8 AM! ☀