Dive into the rich underwater world off the coast of Orange County and gain a deeper understanding of maritime history at Ocean Institute Dana Point. Located on 2.4 acres in Dana Point Harbor, the center welcomes visitors to explore the wonders of marine life through rotating monthly themes. Interactive tours of the adjacent protected area, whale-watching excursions on a research vessel, and high-seas adventures aboard a replica 1770s privateer schooner are all part of the fun.
Before You Go
The Ocean Institute caters largely to school groups and day camps during the week, so your best bet is to plan a weekend excursion. Reservations to visit the institute aren’t required, but it’s a good idea to check the event schedule ahead of time in case there’s a session that catches your eye. Little ones will enjoy twice-daily story times, adults will appreciate the Saturday afternoon whale talks, and all ages will be thrilled by the shark and fish feedings.
When You Get There
Inside the institute, interactive displays let kids learn and explore at their own pace. Feel the squishy tentacles of a sea anemone or let a hermit crab scamper across your palm in the touch tank. Brave kiddos can even sign up to dissect a squid.
Stroll down to the Pacific’s edge to see more sea creatures in their natural habitat. Sign up for an expert-led tide pool hike to find snails and starfish, or view wildlife from the water on a two-hour kayak harbor tour—you’ll catch glimpses of tangerine-colored garibaldi as they swim past your boat. You can also hop aboard the Sea Explorer to search for dolphins, sea lions, and whales by day and bioluminescent plankton by night. For a maritime experience, opt for a cruise on the Spirit of Dana Point, a replica of a schooner from the American Revolution era powered by 5,000 square feet of canvas sail.
Keep an eye on the calendar for special happenings. The annual Maritime Festival, held in September, has been going strong for nearly 40 years. Watch pirates in costume clash daggers and swords, hit up the food-truck rally, shop for local art, and enjoy a cold one in the beer garden decked out with traditional sailor tents.
After Your Visit
Once you’ve had your fill of fishes, stop for lunch at one of the waterside restaurants in Dana Point Harbor. Head to Harpoon Henry’s for a seafood fix of fish and chips or shrimp tacos, or go to Wind and Sea for oysters on the half shell and classic pub-style cheeseburgers. Kids can get a sundae from the Scoop Deck, while adults try a tasting flight at Frisby Cellars.
While in Dana Point, spend some time on the sand at Salt Creek Beach Park or Monarch Bay Beach. Kids will get a kick out of the sea caves, accessible by a short hike through the Dana Point Headlands. Other family-friendly, aquatic-themed attractions nearby include the Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach and the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. For more inspiration to visit this quintessentially Southern Californian destination, check out 6 Top Family-Friendly Things to Do in Orange County.
