Ocean Institute - Dana Point, California

Meghan W.

My daughter had fun checking out the touch tanks, jellyfish, and “cleaning” the gray whale skeleton. You could brush it with a toothbrush. The gift shop is the nicest thing about it. The staff is friendly and informative. I just wish they would renovate the property. It’s such a neat building and location, but the place is very rundown. I’m hopeful to see if they clean it up with harbor renovations happening and moving Coffee Importers down there.

Narek M.

I came here for a school field trip. It was one of the best field trips I had. The best part wad the 2 hour "cruise" where we spotted dolphins and whales. Very cool.

Kay

What an incredible place! We all found the Ocean Institute very educational and fun! The facilities are beautiful. All the staff and volunteers were super friendly and taught us a lot. Definitely worth the visit.

Doug F. G.

Enjoyable and educational. Kid friendly, but much of interest for the serious adult too. Absolutely beautiful location near the harbor in Dana Point, CA. There is also a beautiful beach and jetty just outside. It's definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.

Liz P.

I loved the tall ship festival this year! The only suggestion is some sort of shade while lined up for the cannon battle on the asphalt for 45 minutes in the scalding heat. We almost bailed 40 minutes into that but am so glad we didn’t. The battle was great!

Terrence K.

Had a very special night on the Bioluminescent Tour that takes place during the new moon when the sky is at it's darkest. I learned that interesting fact as well as a ton of other interesting insights on the nocturnal life of the ocean which is very much alive and teeming with life. Thanks to the very friendly staff for a memorable experience.

S

Eduardo on the pirate ship went above and beyond to help us today. He was patient, kind, incredibly intelligent and shared so much fascinating information about the ship and the institute. His partner on the ship was also very helpful. Thank you to both of them and all the helpers at the institute. We love it there!

James G.

My wife and I went to the Tall ship Sail festival 9-12-21. Is there such a thing as having too much fun? Not really. After all that has happened over the last 2 years, this festival screamed "have fun now". Large crowds, fantastic shuttle service, sailing on the ships for the "canon battles", helping hoist the main sail!! So many activities for everyone, even the children. Overhearing families talk about experiences, their children talked about what they did and the fun they had. This was what was needed, not to be missed. Even the those that worked for the Ocean Institute were friendly, loved to interact with the visitors. Thank you Jim for talking with us before the sail event and even looking us up after the event, asking about our adventure. This meant a lot too my wife and I. I was told about programs and camps for children and youths during the summer. Worth checking out parents. Fun was what the doctor ordered, I was not disappointed and would love to do it again in an heartbeat.

The only con was, (not their fault), was the food trucks. Now that was disappointing. Basic food for the cost of an arm and leg!!! Was not anywhere near worth it. Better to have brought your own food. We had the BBQ food truck, something "down" in the title. How bad it was, I forgot the name. 44 dollars for 2 sandwiches and 1 order of fries. The fries was the only good thing, basically from the season salt seasoning.

Otherwise, fantastic time!!!!!! Beautiful place!! Check it out!