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Let the Good Times Roll

Dana Point Events

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.

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Beach Cleanup and Lunch & Learn

Baby Beach 34445 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point, CA, United States +1 more

What would happen if everyone picked up at least one piece of trash? Join us for a day of fun on the water, beach and surrounding areas to cleanup our natural world.  ​Sunday May 4, 2025 8:00 - 9:00 am Yoga on the grass at Baby Beach 9-10:30 Beach Cleanup 10:30 Free Lunch & Learn at […]

Stand Up To Trash Yoga, Beach Cleanup and Lunch & Learn

Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, United States +1 more

Happy Earth Day! What would happen if everyone picked up at least one piece of trash? Join Stand Up To Trash for a day of fun on the water, beach and surrounding areas to cleanup our natural world. We encourage the “BYOB” philosophy (bring your own bucket or reusable bag, reusable gloves, water bottle or coffee […]

Welcoming of the Whales Kickoff Ceremony & Reception

Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, United States

The Festival of Whales and Ocean Institute invite you to a sunset welcoming ceremony by members of the local Acjachemen Nation, along with a Dana Point Surf Club paddle out at the Marine Protected Area beach behind the Ocean Institute. Following the beach ceremony, a reception will be held inside the Ocean Institute. The event […]

Stand Up To Trash Beach Cleanup and Lunch & Learn

Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, United States

What would happen if everyone picked up at least one piece of trash? Join Stand Up To Trash for a day of fun on the water, beach and surrounding areas to cleanup our natural world. We encourage the “BYOB” philosophy (bring your own bucket or reusable bag, reusable gloves, water bottle or coffee cup) to help […]

Event Series Mermade Market

Mermade Market

Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, United States

Mermade Market is a hand-curated market with a mission to unite creators and community. Our culturally iconic spring and winter markets have become a local staple, celebrated by our loyal following. Shop small at this makers market November 15-17, 2024 at Ocean Institute. Learn more at mermademarket.com   Photo Credit: Emily McAllister Photography / Mermade […]

Ocean Institute’s Distinguished Speaker Series: Dean Sauer

Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, United States

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 […]

Spooky Seas

Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, United States

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, […]

Harbor Hayrides

Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, United States

Enjoy live music, apple cider, temporary tattoos and trick or treating all while cruising the beautiful Dana Point Harbor with the Ocean Institute onboard their R/V Sea Explorer! Harbor Hayrides are at 5:00pm, 6:00pm, and a special Glow Cruise at 7:00pm. Cruises are 45 minutes long. Drinks will be available for purchase onboard. Double the […]

Event Series Maritime Festival

Maritime Festival

Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, United States

The Ocean Institute's Maritime Festival celebrates California's rich maritime history and our connection to the ocean September 13-15, 2024! This is a fun filled weekend event with visiting Tall Ships, Cannon Battles, Beer Gardens, Mermaids Swim Show, Pirate School, Live Music, Reenactors and Sailor Camp, Vendors, Food Trucks and more. For more information and a […]

Ocean Institute’s Founders Day

Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA, United States

You're invited to attend Ocean Institute's annual Founders Day celebrating their founder, Stan Cummings. Ocean Institute is excited to open up its doors and welcome anyone and everyone to a day of live music, food, drinks, ocean education, animal encounters, and an opportunity to learn and sign up for all of their future events and […]