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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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Event Series Bioluminescence Night Cruise

Bioluminescence Night Cruise

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

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 […]

$55
Event Series Tiny Tots: Ocean Explorers

Tiny Tots: Ocean Explorers

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

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 […]

$20

Ocean Encounters

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

The Waldorf Astoria, Monarch Beach Resort's Summer kids club presents Ocean Encounters. Explore the ocean without ever leaving the shore. Stop by Kids Club to delight in a complimentary interactive experience as Ocean Institute presents a hands-on exhibit where you can touch, feel, and learn about various creatures that live in our ocean waters. Activities […]

Event Series Dockside Drafts

Dockside Drafts

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

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 […]

Event Series Sharks After Dark

Sharks After Dark

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

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 […]

$15

Speaker Series: Guardians of the Coast: Meet the First Responders Who Answer the Call

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

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 […]

$10

Event Series Mermade Market

Mermade Market

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

Mermade is a hand-curated market with a mission to unite creators and community. Our culturally iconic spring & winter markets have become a local staple, celebrated by our loyal following. May 23, 9am - 6pm (Fri) May 24, 9am - 5pm (Sat) May 25, 9am - 5pm (Sun)

Moms & Muffins Mother’s Day Cruise

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

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 […]

$40

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 […]