Arrribaaa! Where to Marg & Taco it Up this Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo lands on a Tuesday this year, which means you’re probably not going ALL out...or maybe??? Either way, here are our picks for the best places to celebrate in town – where the margaritas are actually good and the tacos are worth ordering more than one of.
– The Margaritas Worth Ordering –
Carlos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
A true Dana Point staple, Carlos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina has been pouring margaritas for locals and visitors alike for over 50 years, making it less of a stop and more of a tradition. Since 1972, this longtime cantina has built its reputation on classic Mexican flavors, a lively patio, and margaritas that don’t try too hard, they just deliver, every time.
Their lineup covers all the bases, from a solid, no-frills house margarita to elevated options like the People’s Margaritas with tequila, lime and pineapple juice to the Grand Cali-Cadillac with a float of Grand Gala or the “Presidential” with a splash of brandy. If you’re looking for something lighter, the skinny version made with fresh lime and organic agave keeps things crisp without losing that classic punch.
It’s the kind of place where the margaritas match the mood, uncomplicated, generous, and best enjoyed out on the patio as the sun starts to dip with some live music - guaranteed on Cinco de Mayo. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, Carlos feels like a built-in part of the Dana Point experience.
Cali Costa
Cali Costa is the kind of neighborhood spot that quietly becomes a regular, easy, welcoming, and always a good call when you’re in the mood for a margarita that hits the spot. Family- and locally-owned, it leans into that California-meets-Mexico energy with a full bar, fresh ingredients, and a laid-back patio that’s made for lingering.
Their margaritas follow that same approach, classic, unfussy, and done well, whether you stick with a house version or go for something a little more elevated like a Cadillac-style pour. It’s the kind of place where the drinks are strong enough, the vibe is relaxed, and no one’s rushing you out the door.
Whether you’re catching a game, meeting friends, or just stopping in on a whim, Cali Costa delivers that ideal balance of good drinks, good energy, and a true local feel, exactly what you want in a Cinco de Mayo margarita stop.
Sunset’s Bar
Just across from Capo Beach, Sunsets Bar is exactly what it sounds like—in the best way. A little beachy, a little divey, and perfectly positioned for post-beach drinks, it’s the kind of place where margaritas come with a side of ocean air and zero pressure to be anywhere else.
Their lineup goes beyond the basics, with options like a blood orange margarita with a tajín rim, a cucumber jalapeño for a little kick, or a pineapple chipotle that leans smoky-sweet—each one built with fresh citrus and a solid tequila base. Whether you keep it classic or go for something more playful, the drinks feel right at home with the setting.
Grab a seat outside, let the salt air do its thing, and settle in as the sun starts to dip—this is one of those spots where the margarita isn’t just the drink, it’s part of the whole experience
– Where the Tacos Hit –
White Rooster
With a tag of “Smoked Flavor, Dana Point Vibe” you can’t go wrong with tacos from White Rooster. Located in the same parking lot as Jack’s across from Doheny Beach, White Rooster brings a fresh, new coastal take to the taco scene, where smoke, fire, and flavor are at the center of every plate. Their tacos reflect the same easy, all-day rhythm as the rest of the menu, built around slow-cooked meats, thoughtfully sourced seafood, and vibrant, house-made salsas. Depending on the time of day, enjoy options like tri tip (queso tacos with “shrettuce”, “pickle” de gallo & papas del gallo) or hot honey chicken (chicken sweet & sour, avocado slaw, flour tortilla & cheese) tacos layered with bold seasoning and a subtle smokiness that comes from time, not shortcuts.
Each taco feels intentional, nestled into warm tortillas and balanced with bright citrus, fresh herbs, and crisp slaws, bringing together that signature blend of California freshness and South of the Border influence. Whether you’re stopping in for a casual bite or settling in for a full spread, it’s the kind of place where tacos aren’t just a menu item, they’re part of the experience, meant for lingering, sharing, and coming back for more.
Lupe’s
For something a little more casual, but no less dialed, Lupe’s Mexican Eatery is a go-to for tacos that locals keep coming back for. This isn’t your standard taco shop lineup, Lupe’s mixes traditional roots with creative, Baja-inspired combinations, all built on fresh, house-made tortillas and bold, well-balanced flavors.
The taco menu covers everything from classic al pastor and carnitas to standout options like beer-battered fish, spicy shrimp, and even surf-and-turf—each layered with things like guac, cabbage, pico de gallo, and house sauces that bring it all together. There’s a little bit of everything here, whether you’re in the mood for something traditional or something that leans more coastal and creative.
It’s the kind of spot you grab on the go or take to the beach…unpretentious, consistently good, and always busy for a reason.
Carmelita’s
At Carmelita’s, tacos take on a slightly more elevated, sit-down feel—where traditional flavors meet a more polished, coastal presentation. The menu leans into bold, layered dishes like their braised birria tacos, rich and deeply savory, or al pastor done with that perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Even the crispier options—like their taco plates or taquito-style dishes—feel intentional, finished with queso fresco, crema, and house salsas that add both texture and brightness. Everything is built with that same attention to detail, from roasted meats to fresh toppings, creating tacos that feel just a little more composed without losing their soul.
It’s the kind of place where you settle in, order a round of tacos (and probably a margarita to go with it, let’s be honest), and let the experience unfold…equal parts comforting and elevated, with just enough coastal energy to remind you you’re still in Dana Point.
Buena Vista Market
Tucked into a small corner of La Plaza, Buena Vista Market is the definition of a true local find, the kind of place you only know about if someone tells you, or you happen to follow the smell of something cooking in the back. Part neighborhood market, part taqueria, it’s unassuming, with a small kitchen turning out some seriously authentic tacos and burritos.
Head past the grocery aisles and you’ll find a simple counter where everything is made fresh, often in small batches, with traditional meats like carnitas, carne asada, and cabeza done right—no frills, just flavor.
It’s not about ambiance here, it’s about consistency, authenticity, and that “why is this so good?” moment after the first bite. Grab a few tacos, maybe something cold from the fridge, and either snag a seat or take it to-go. This is Dana Point taco culture at its most low-key…and definitely legit.
– For a More “Chill” Cinco de Mayo –
Young’s Beach Shack
Looking to skip the noise, sit outside, get one margarita and call it a night – all while enjoying a spectacular view of the ocean? Young’s Beach Shack is your spot. Perched just above Salt Creek’s iconic breaks, Young’s Beach Shack is the kind of spot you wander up to sandy, sun-soaked, and not in a rush to be anywhere else. Inspired by the original beach camp that once watched over this stretch of coastline, it leans fully into that easy, nostalgic surf culture, where a good margarita and ocean air are really all you need.
Their classic margarita hits just right after a session, made with fresh citrus and agave, best enjoyed at a picnic table with a salty breeze still in your hair. Young’s menu keeps things simple but thoughtful…fresh seafood like ceviche, beach-day staples, and a their shrimp tacos with lime crema, slaw, avocado and roasted salsa if you decide one drink turns into staying for a while.
It’s less about making plans and more about settling in…watching the waves roll in, catching a sunset if you time it right, and letting one margarita turn into just a little bit longer. Our kinda style.
Olamendi’s
Just across from Capo Beach, Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant feels like a piece of Dana Point history in its own right. Family-owned and rooted in generations of traditional Mexican cooking, this longtime favorite has been serving the community since the early ’70s, built on recipes, techniques, and flavors passed down with care.
When it comes to margaritas, Olamendi’s keeps things true to that legacy. Their cocktails are made with their own organic tequila and lean into bold, authentic flavor, fresh citrus, balanced agave, and just the right kick. Whether you go small or opt for one of their jumbo (yes, you read that right) signature variations, there’s a depth here that reflects decades of refinement behind the bar.
It’s the kind of place where you settle in a little longer than planned…chips and salsa on the table, ocean air just across the street, and a margarita that feels both timeless and transportive.
