History

Waterman’s Plaza

Waterman’s Plaza in Dana Point is a commemorative site dedicated to the maritime history and the significant contributions of watermen—those who engage in ocean and water activities, such as surfers and sailors. The plaza serves as a tribute to the local community’s strong connection to the ocean and celebrates the legacy of these individuals who have shaped the cultural and recreational landscape of Dana Point. The plaza features sculptures, plaques, and other installations that honor notable watermen and their achievements, making it a point of historical and cultural interest for both residents and visitors.

A crowd at a ribbon-cutting in front of a statue at Waterman’s PlazaBronze statue of tandem surfers, one lifting the other overheadMosaic of the poster for The Endless Summer

Visit Dana Point’s guide to the statues at Waterman’s Plaza

Richfield Tower

Tower-shaped PCH monument beside the highway, with palm trees behind
PCH Richfield Tower

Adjacent to this plaza is the Richfield Gas Station display. The Richfield Gas Station was standing in 1928-33 at the base of Doheny with the old Dana bluffs behind it.

“Coastlines: PCH—A Tale of Two Highways” (Picket Fence Media)

Display panel titled “The Richfield Tower Bright and Tall Over Dana Point”
Display panel titled “California’s Highway 1 Pacific Coast Highway”
Men sitting on the beach beside parked cars, with the Richfield tower in the distance
Richfield tower in background behind these guys lounging at Doheny 1950. Jim Gilloon (Hobie shop manager) and Bob Moore on the right
Historic night photo of the Richfield tower with its lettering litHistoric photo of a gas pump in front of the Spanish-style Richfield stationHistoric photo of the Richfield station forecourt with a parked carHistoric photo of the Spanish-style Richfield station buildingDisplay panel titled “PCH Monument” with a historic photo of the coast highwayVintage advertisement headed “Richfield Airway marked by Sperry Beacons”