Let the Good Times Roll
Explore Dana Point's diverse event calendar, where coastal charm meets cultural vibrancy. From lively festivals and artisan markets to maritime celebrations and culinary showings, there's always something exciting happening in this picturesque Southern California town. Join locals and visitors alike in enjoying the unique blend of entertainment, community gatherings, and outdoor activities that make Dana Point a destination worth discovering year-round.
Celebrate the spooktacular season with the Ocean Institute's Spooky Seas! Back this year with new family friendly frights, from bioluminescence laser tag to the mad scientist laboratory, there's something fun for the whole family to enjoy! Bats & ghouls - come in costume to participate in our costume content, trick or treat throughout the night, […]
Join the Ocean Institute in welcoming Dean Sauer, the founder of PyroFarms, and dive into the vibrant world of oceanic bioluminescence. We’ll explore the vital role of phytoplankton, with a special focus on the bioluminescent species Pyrocystis fusiformis. Discover how these tiny marine plankton light up the seas and help support the entire ocean ecosystem […]
Join the crew at the Ocean Institute for a special Mother's Day whale-watching cruise! On this two-and-a-half-hour cruise, you'll get to experience everything the ocean has to offer from the harbor to miles beyond the jetty. Aboard the RV Sea Explorer, the Ocean Institutes 65' research vessel, you'll be in search of marine mammals such […]
With summer right around the corner, the Ocean Institute invites the community to a powerful evening focused on maritime safety and public awareness. The Institute’s Distinguished Speaker Series continues with an unforgettable evening with a panel discussion from public safety experts from the Orange County Sheriff's Department and Long Beach Fire Department. Conversations will include […]
Join the Ocean Institute this Summer for a chance to explore the ocean after hours! Get the unique experience to see sharks and rays at their most active, hands on exhibits, and live shark feeding to end the night! Food trucks, beer & wine, and live music will be there for entertainment as well, you […]
This summer, make your way to Dockside Drafts at the Ocean Institute’s Maddie James Seaside Learning Center and Historical Wharf. This scenic waterfront beer event is the perfect stop to enjoy craft brews while soaking in the sights and sounds of the harbor. Enjoy the waterfront views alongside exclusive craft beer, and a variety of […]
Join the Ocean Institute in kicking off the Maritime Festival with their Sails N' Ales event! Enjoy craft beer tastings from local breweries as well as food, wine, live music, and a prime viewing location of the visiting tall ships! Tasting tickets can be purchased ahead of time or at the event. Please note: Parking […]
Kickoff the 2025 Maritime Festival at The Ocean Institute with Sails N' Ales! An evening of craft beer from local breweries, live music, and tall ships under the stars! Activities include: Beer tastings Food trucks Tide pool touch tank Shark exhibit *Parking is limited. Ride share apps or carpooling is strongly recommended. Entry pricing is […]
There’s a luminous underwater world just waiting to shine! Learn about the remarkable ability of some marine animals to glow in the dark and witness this curiously beautiful phenomenon.* Come join the Ocean Institute's team on their new adventure this summer for a chance to witness the thousands of drifting organisms that can make their […]
This “Mommy & Me” style program encourages early learners to explore the natural world through song, movement, and sensory play. Each class introduces a new marine animal, offering exciting, hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and connection with the ocean. Recommended for children ages 2-4. Each class is $20 per ticket (including once child and one […]
