In 1991 a major storm swept in from the ocean at sunset providing a spectacular light show for coastal residents from Long Beach to San Diego. People reported seeing a "column of fire" rising from the ocean. The storm seemed to reach its peak as it approached the Dana Point Headlands. This photo was taken as the storm was just off the southern end of Strands Beach in Dana Point. A bolt of lightning passed through the sunset just as the shutter was clicked No filters were used for this photograph!

The bluffs of the Dana Point Headlands are unique in their own way. Composed of a strange conglomerate of rock found only in one other place along the Southern California Coast. It is believed to have been formed by submarine landslides millions of years ago and then uplifted by the fault that runs directly through the point.

Numerous sea caves and a large natural arch line the base of the bluffs. The tide pools and waters offshore are protected and are the home of seal lions, dolphins, and during the winter, gray whales. Large kelp forests grow just off shore providing nutrients for these animals.

There are also several Ancient American sites on the land above the bluffs.