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Let the Good Times Roll

Dana Point Events

Dana Point events range from rocking music festivals on the beach to surfing competitions. Good times and good vibes can be found nightly at Dana Point bars and music venues. Head to one of our oceanfront resorts for their iconic events like Yappy Hour—a shindig for you and your furry friend. Stroll the Farmers Market on Saturday mornings or take a walk through history at the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center.

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Songs of the Sea

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

SONGS OF THE SEA Lyric Opera OC returns to the Ocean Institute for a beautiful evening of sea-themed melodies & music. The evening begins with a reception, hosted by Dana Point Sister Cities, with light hors d’oeuvres and wine overlooking Dana Point Harbor. Don’t miss one of the most elegant evenings and your chance to […]

Ocean Institute Jazz Gala 2023

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

Ocean Institute • 03.11.2023 @ 05:00 PM (PST) • Tickets: $200/ Person Jazz is back again for another night of live music, great food, thrills, and philanthropy! Join us for our annual Gala that raises funds for Ocean Institute's Adopt-A-Class Program and general operations.   EVENT OVERVIEW March 11, 2023 at 5:00 - 11:00 pm Ticket […]

Beach Cleanup & Lunch and Learn

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

Celebrate the grey whale migration with us during the 52nd Festival of Whales! 🐋 Sunday March 5 Beach Cleanup and Lunch & Learn 9-10:30 am Beach Cleanup 10:30 Lunch & Learn at Ocean Institute Theme: Celebrating Grey Whales Speaker: Naturalist Laura Lopez from Dana Wharf 11:00 - Lunch Provided We encourage the “BYOB” (bring your […]

Dana Point Festival of Whales

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

Celebrate the migration of the grey whale with a two day event and join the 52nd Anniversary celebration of the Dana Point Festival of Whales! For more information, visit the Dana Point Festival of Whales website here!

Ocean Institute’s Spooky Seas

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

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 contest, trick or treat throughout the night, and enjoy food, drinks, and alcoholic drinks available for purchase. […]

Maritime Festival

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

This festival celebrates California’s rich maritime history and our connection to the ocean! This is a fun filled weekend event with, visiting Tall Ships, Cannon Battles, Pirate and Mermaid Ball, Beer Garden, Mermaids Swim Shows, Pirate School, Live music, Reenactors and Sailor Camp, Vendors, Food Trucks and more!

Ocean Institute’s Yule-Tide Holiday Market

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

The Ocean Institute's Yule-Tide Holiday Market will bring local makers, artists, and craftspeople together with the community for a unique holiday shopping experience filled with high quality one-of-a-kind handmade goods. Enjoy an eco-friendly event and purchase gifts for their loved ones in a way that will make a positive impact on participating small businesses as well as a […]

Tall Ships and Ocean Festival

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

In celebration of California’s rich maritime history, the Ocean Institute annually hosts a fleet of historic tall ships that sail into Dana Point Harbor.  This extraordinary event takes place each year in September.  History comes alive, as crews from each ship, along with historical re-enactors, engage the public in cannon battles, pirate adventures, mermaid encounters, ship tours, and much […]

Mother’s Day Cruise

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

This Mother’s Day, the Ocean Institute is offering a unique alternative to the traditional brunch. Enjoy a champagne toast while cruising along the coast in search of whales, dolphins, seal lions, and other local wildlife aboard the R/V Sea Explorer. Special Mother’s Day treats will include mimosa’s for mom, along with coffee and tea, cupcakes […]

Jazz Festival featuring Denise Williams

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

Spend your weekend at the 17th Annual Jazz Festival! Friday Concert:  Enjoy small bites from the best local restaurants.  Mix and mingle while enjoying hosted bars, a silent auction and more. Saturday Jazz Gala:  A four-course gala dinner presented by the Executive Chefs from Monarch Beach Resort, The Ranch at Laguna Beach, Montage Laguna Beach, and The […]