Attended "a funeral for a friend" sailing out to sea to scatter her ashes. We had her Life Celebration at The Ocean Institute. This place is a very kick-back, clean, comfortable, and a very cool place to visit. We were there from 10am to almost 10pm. The staff are really great ppl always smiling, professional making sure everyone is taken care of. Located at the end of Dana Point Harbor (Drive), it's really quiet, peaceful, and tranquil. The beach is just a short walk. A great place for one to visit or to take the family for the day. There are many places to eat on PCH. Quick access to PCH from there: take Cove Rd to Green Lantern, turn right on Green Lantern, turn right on PCH. If you turn left, you will be in residences. read more

I took my 3 year old twin boys here and they had a ball! They are almost 4- for younger kiddos, it may be a bit much for them. I couldn't believe how informative and hands on their volunteers were. Amazing! One nice man (can't remember of his name) gave my boys a personalized marine scavenger hunt and was so patient with them. They enjoyed the touch and feel tanks, a guided tour and a beautiful gift shop. They even had an offering of souvenirs that wouldn't break the bank: 55 cent tiny marine animals! The octopi and eels were their favorites! Definitely recommend visiting this cool marine institute. read more

This is a favorite vacation spot for my family, my children, grandchildren and friends. Great excursions around the water area of ​​Dana Point are held here. The seashore near the institute is very rich in various aquatic organisms. Here we saw octopuses, crabs, squid and anemones with jellyfish. It is a pity that the magnificent sailing ship Pilgrim burned down... read more

Ocean Institute - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

This a hidden gem. Staffed with amazing staff and volunteers. Great exhibits and programs. Sara, Bill, and Elizabeth were all super engaging and educational. Beautiful location by the beach, only issue is some beach goers park in the Ocean Institute parking which takes away from the people actually going to the Ocean Institute. They probably should put a metered system at some point so they can make money off the beach goers too. read more

I came here with my mum group on a Monday during the December holidays. The staff were really friendly and told us about two tours we could get - one down on the dock in a small room where they talked about conservation and they had a couple of fish they were rehabilitating and the second tour was of the Pilgrim ship. Unfortunately, if you come during the week the main building is closed off for school groups, so we were really disappointed we didn't get to see the tanks inside. We all have young kids - under 2, so the talk and tour of the Pilgrim didn't appeal and we were looking forward to showing them the fish inside. I'm sure it's great on the weekend, when everyone can get in, but avoid going midweek if you actually want to go in the building. It was pretty stroller friendly and we enjoyed the small play area that has books. read more

See all

We came down to the water to try to see tide pools and ran into this gem. I don't know what normal pricing was for kids but they were having an anniversary special for 40cents for kids!! My boys loved dissecting a squid to see all the fish up close. The workers here were so interactive and informative. There were a couple older gentlemen who were above and beyond sweet to my children showing them all sorts of things. My boys were excited by everything they explained. The Columbus ship tour was cool as well. A little crowded but the guide did well with a full group. If you are looking for something different to do with you kids try this out! read more

Interesting place with lots of hands-on exhibits, good parking, and great views of the Harbor. We took a three hour tour on the tall ship Spirit of Dana Point and had a lot of fun. read more

My review is a bit different in the fact that I was just at the Ocean Institute for a private event. I was a hired musician for a private corporate party at the Ocean Institute with our steel drum band, Steel Parade. The ocean institute is top notch. The facilities are clean and informative. The attention to detail is noticeable. Most importantly, the staff at the Ocean Institute is knowledgeable and friendly. I am a full-time gigging musician of 20+ years here in the Southern California area. We've played almost every hotel, Civic Center, museum, and institute from The Valley down to the Mexican border. The members of our band have an awareness for facilities that I ran well. The Ocean Institute is definitely one of these facilities. If you're looking to have a corporate function, such as a mixer or any other type of celebration, the staff and the beautiful ocean views at the Ocean Institute cannot be beat. read more

Ocean Institute - Playing for guests in the beautiful courtyard at the Ocean Institute. - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

DO NOT SIGN YOUR CHILDREN UP FOR CAMP HERE!!! Warning! This camp is not flexible with date changes and refunds even when given 2 months notice. Not only will they not issue a full refund they are unwilling to give a credit for a future camp. Beware! Save your money in case something comes up you will NOT be able to get reimbursed. To top it off the staff is rude, disrespectful and unwilling to work with customers who spend hundreds of dollars and get zero in return. I would not recommend signing up your children for any of their summer camps. I hope this review saves many people a lot of waisted money. read more

Amazing Tall Ships Festival Hosted by Ocean Institute Free- Long distance viewing of docked Tall ships and 4pm Offshore ship cannon battle. Early bird parking 8am. Free Main Parking & Shuttle at Strand Park and Dana High School. Pricey food and drinks. Free water stations and refill. Straw dining area. $10 Tickets gets you aboard 7 docked Tall Ships with some allowing walks below deck. The Pilgrim,Spirit of Dana Point, California, America, Curlew, Irving, Johnson. 9am Mermaid Breakfast $30 10am-4pm(Last call 330pm) Tall Ship Tour Pirate Camp, Ocean Theater, Whaling Cabin, Music Stage. 100 people dress in period attire. $5 Pirate Academy. Squid dissection, Museum Tour. 11am, 3pm Dana Point Cannonfire 11am, 3pm Navy Vs. Pirates Reinactment. Photo afterwards. 4pm-7pm Sea Battle with 6 Tall Ships and 12-20 Modern Ships. Cruise is $35(Motor)-65(Tall Ship) Room for improvement: 7pm Lighted Ship Parade, 8pm Fireworks Finale read more

See all

Love the Ocean Institute. Our seven-year-old son did summer camp there for two weeks. Learned a lot and had so much fun.

I had the pleasure of chaperoning my daughters 5th grade class here for a science field trip. It was a great a learning experience for them and myself. The place is not too big and too be honest we didn't get to go in all the buildings but from what we saw and did I was pleased. In the back of the building there is a picnic area where we had lunch before starting our tour. It was beautiful back there with the ocean in site. You can see the waves crashing on the rocks and people kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, etc. Once our tour started we took about a two hour boat ride to see some sea life. It didn't take long for us to see animals. As we were pulling out along the rocks there was multiple bird species and sea lions just hanging out. As we got out further in the ocean we saw dolphins, sea lions feeding and whales migrating. We followed the whales for a bit and got to see them on their travel. The captain and crew on the boat were all very friendly. They were providing the kids with many facts and helping point out things to look for. They taught the kids how to collect water samples and plankton. How to identify different fish and had some they were able to pet. They also had crackers, water and meds for any kids who may have gotten sick. Once we were back at the institute they had different labs set up. The kids were taught about living systems and habitats, jellyfish life cycle, how to use and see small organisms thru a telescope, how to check ph levels in water and had the opportunity to dissect a mackerel fish. I was pretty stoked about that one. There is sea life to observe as well. They have a cute gift shop too!! The place is normally closed in the spring to the public and focuses on schools. However, they are open on weekends to the public and all other seasons daily. I will definitely be back with my younger son to explore. read more

See all

This review is solely for wedding venue purposes: The Ocean Institute is an ideal place to have your wedding. Picturesque, unique, and beautiful, I had first seen this showcased in a wedding blog and my fiancee and I fell in love at first sight. An intimate, wonderful venue for evening receptions and/or ceremonies. We chose to have both our ceremony and reception here. During the ceremony, the sun did not shine directly in guests' face (even though we had our ceremony at 5:30 PM and the sun didn't set until 7:00-ish). Note that the wedding on-site coordinator is included in the venue fee, and staff will be there the day of the wedding to direct around your vendors although they are not responsible for actual day-of coordination. We brought our own wedding planner but Renee (the Ocean Institute coordinator) was very involved since day one, organized, and made sure the caterers/bartenders, and etc. were all on time for our event (even though Renee will not be there on the actual day of your wedding). Ocean Institute has picky rules, so we couldn't really do everything we originally wanted to do (flower petals, bubbles, certain decorations are not allowed during the ceremony), but overall the caterer/florist should help you execute your vision anyways. Note that although the Ocean Institute is next to the ocean, the way that the venue is structured, it virtually shields you from the wind, so you don't need to worry about messy veils, makeup smears, and outdoor props flying away. The venue allowed us to buy our own alcohol which saved us a tremendous amount of money. Also note that there is extra fee associated with A/V (slideshow/microphone), although it is worth every penny since the projection screen is large and covers the entire room. We had a photo booth for cocktail hour/reception, and it was located outside by the firepit. The firepit is a nice touch and is included in the venue fee. Note that you may want to work with the caterer in renting extra chair/tables for the outside as Ocean Institute does not include the cost of patio furniture (except for the standard chair/table set that is already by the fire pit). There is also a designated bucket/pail section for smokers by the lobster tank, and you can pay extra to open up the exhibit halls (which we did not decide to do). Ocean Institute will walk you through the day-of and prior to wedding festivities, you can even show up with your caterer to try the table setup (which was appreciated). Venue cost comes with 10" rounds and office chairs - we didn't like the look of the office chairs so we asked our caterer to price in some prettier Chivari chairs that went with our pink & gold theme. Just keep in mind that you will have to work off of Ocean Institute's list of approved caterers (which ranges from 4-6 that you may choose from). Note that if you have your reception here that they will promptly kick you out at 10:30 and that music must stop at a certain time due to local residents. The surrounding area is quite lovely as you are literally right next to the harbor and beach and can take pictures around the area that look beautiful on film. During our actual ceremony, there was a loud party boat that was circulating around the harbor and you COULD hear the music on the boat, but we didn't think it was too big of a distraction given the lovely setting. read more

Ocean Institute - our wedding reception @ the Ocean Institute! - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

My family did a last minute stop by on our trip to Doheny Beach to check the institute out. We were impressed by the location, educational set up and the knowledgeable staff. My daughter is usually hesitant about interacting with adults but as soon as she started taking part in the instructions and looking at the exhibits she broke out of her shell and was able to speak with the instructors and absorb the exhibits around her. She loved the squid dissection and the ROV exhibit. Her new favorite subject is whales. Highly recommend for kids 5 and up. read more

I took my daughter and three grand children to the tide pools, and on the way back we wanted to check out the institute. The lady at the counter was not very happy, and acted like she did not want to be there. We thought it was a aquarium but when she said it was tours only she was not helpful at all in what the tour includes. As I was talking to my daughter about going in the tour she made a remark that the lobby was not for public use! We were all shocked because we were trying to decide, and when you have one 6 year old, 2- 11 year old girls, it can be a challenge to get everyone on board. She needs a different position!!! We will never be back! read more

I LOVE going to this place!!! I work right up the street from here, I probably come 2-3 times a week after workJUST for the sunsets. Its a FANTASTIC beach location to bring the family. They have tidepools for the kids, educational classes and if you have an afternoon to burn, you can even take a boat to Catalina. This is my absolute favorite place to enjoy the beach read more

Ocean Institute - Beautiful sunset 2/13/15 - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

You won't be disappointed on visiting this place. Why would you be. I love running around this on my mornings. And I love the people that work here they always know I run by. And they're always with a beautiful smile!!! read more

Ocean Institute - What a nice morning!! The boat it's an awesome over view of the real one!!. - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

Yesterday, May 4th I sailed on the Spirit of Dana Point. It is a replica of an 18th century schooner owned and operated by The Ocean Institute in Dana Point CA. It was magical. There is nothing like sailing on the beautiful Pacific Ocean with the sun shining on a ship under full sail. The crew interacted with the passengers of all ages. The passengers who were willing and able helped raise the sails. The Captain was the best. He had amazing stories about sailing all over the world. We saw dolphins and sea lions swimming together! There was a girl scout troop from Ontario CA and they were delightful. We sailed for 3 hours, and everyone loved it. My fellow passengers ranged in age from 65 + to 3 years old. Best time ever!! read more

Ocean Institute - The Spirit of Dana Point - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

We went there last weekend. One of the tall ships was dismantled and it looks like it was burned in a fire. Now they are down to only one antique tall ship now. They have six exhibit buildings, and two of the six are closed. The petting aquarium has a net over about 80% of it which is an eyesore. They used to have a beautiful aquarium in the window with large jellyfish swirling around inside, that you could see at night walking on the sidewalk to the cove behind the institute. They have replaced the jellyfish with plastic bags????? So now there are plastic bags swirling around the aquarium???? Their souvenir shop is inadequately stocked and you can't find the sizes that you need. I do not recommend the oceanic institute. read more

The pilgrim program @ the ocean constitute in Dana point it is wonderful experience for kids My son and myself are here on school trip It all started yesterday about noon full day and night of activities kids had ton of fun Great experience for life They got to do work on the ship and night shift for 2 hours Dinner breakfast on deck Absolutely must try read more

Ocean Institute - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

See all

We had an afternoon to spend down south so thanks to Yelp (and all the great reviews) and a curious nature, Fred and I found our way here. It's small and not overwhelming ... so perfect for a few hours (we spent about 2 hours?). It's not the typical commitment of a $20 ticket to a giant science center with way too much to absorb. 4 different buildings with LOTS of hands on experience. It brought back memories of science class back in high school and being surrounded by the teachers who LOVED the subjects that they taught. I recalled why I love science and when I retire, I'd want to volunteer at a place like this. Don't miss the stroll outside to see the water, the man made harbor (and envy the paddle boarders) and apparently when the timing is right, the tidepools. read more

Mostly what makes this place awesome is its location right next to the beach and the harbor in Dana Point. My husband and I came here after we had visited the mission in San Juan Capistrano, and found it to be delightful. We spent a little time inside (it's a little ocean museum of sorts with a touch of marine life), and even bought a ticket to go on their "pirate ship" and take a mini tour (it's not actually a pirate ship, but I think it looks like one). We spent most of the time wandering about the beach and cliffs around the area taking pictures with my black and white film. What fun! read more

Great event with my sons Adventure Guides group. Tall ships festival was awesome- I recommend it to everyone. The facility is really cool and the boats are awesome, one boat is there year round. Tall ships festival is a period event, like pirate era. Kids loved it. read more

A great place for a morning of exploring with elementary age children. We came during a bonus day over the holidays (admission only $5 per person), and had a wonderful time. Our elementary-age children loved the squid dissection ($3 extra per person). The naturalist who guided the dissection was wonderful. She explained well how to do the work, and what the children were able to see. It was quite an experience for us adults, too, to see the ink sac, the ink pen, and to see the organs of male and female squids. The children also enjoyed the hands-on experience of touching see stars and see urchins in one of the buildings--and especially touching horned sharks and singrays in another tank. The young volunteers were super knowledgeable and, maybe more importantly, very passionate, a passion that passed on to our children. I can see how this might not be much fun for a preschooler--but for elementary--age children, it was a perfect way to spend a morning with friends. We followed up with a lunch at a bagel place near the harbor, and it was a wonderful stay-cation experience. read more

See all

We came here on the 4th of July this year seeing that we've never been here before and I figured it would be nice to check out an aquarium on our day off. If you're expecting a huge venue something along the lines like say Monterey Bay or even Long Beach... don't. We arrived here less than 2 hours before it closed and still was able to get through two tours they offered and all the exhibits within that time frame. Fortunately it's only $5 per person for admission, so I really can't complain too much or at all to be honest. It's a neat and cute place where you can kill an hour or two while in the area or if you want to take a break from absorbing some sun on the beach. It's located right on the verge of the ocean so you're able to see the docks, beach, and all the people having a blast in the water. I can see that a couple would be able to use this place as a wedding venue or maybe even for some small company event/party... but in my opinion, I still think it's way too small to hold either one. read more

Ocean Institute - A really big ol' starfish! - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

We've been members of the Ocean Institute for several of the last 10 years and we love this place! So excited to be there every time we visit. Recently a youth group I lead was accommodated for a private tour and we had a fantastic time. Our host Megan was extremely knowledgeable and passionate, was a master with handling our girls, and super helpful during our event. The place was immaculate and decorated with night lighting which was just beautiful and a special treat. I loved the pride and ownership the staff exudes being part of the OI team. Their field trips and activities are awesome. I'm so happy to live close by and have this be a part of our girls growing up. I highly suggest some of the memberships for families since it's so convenient, and for groups to consider as a local resource. PS - love that new fire pit! Watch out when lighting! read more

This is an interesting place. If you go during the week you can only get into half hour tours starting on each half hour. You are only allowed to pet star fish and a sea cucumber. Only 10$ for two adults and one kid. So not terrible. On the weekends you can go and look at any of the rooms on your own with no tour. Choose wisely. Staff is nice and friendly. Bring your beach attire as there is a beach in the backyard. Or baby beach inside the wave break is right next to it and close. You also have the opportunity to tour the pilgrim old wooden ship. Very cool! read more

Ocean Institute - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

Great place for a family affair or educational trip. Our college, UCR went recently and it was amazing! We had lots of fun on the cruise. read more

Ocean Institute - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

My son has gone here for summer camp both last summer and this summer. He seemed to really enjoyed learning about the ocean. The camps are a little on the more expensive side but I think it's worth it!!! Everyday the counselors send home a note of what they worked on that day, what they learned, and a note about what will happen the next day. I liked that they matched each days craft around an ocean book: ex. The Case of the Missing Crab and child brought back an art of some form on it. You can also purchase those books in their gift shop. Last year my son made a sea star from some foam-clay and I still have it to look at. This year made a sharks tooth necklace and it looks beautiful as well. I feel like the counselors do a good job of keeping track of the kids so I know that they are safe when they go eat lunch on Baby Beach everyday. For Buccaneer camp, kids go on that big Pirate boat and tell scary stories and pretend to be Pirates. Sounds so fun I wish I were 8 again lol. Drop offs and pick ups, you just bring an ID to pick up your child for security. Will totally be back next summer!! read more

Ocean Institute - Summer camps highly recommended - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

See all

An excellent place for learning! My brother and I brought our kids here (ages 7-16) to explore. We got there bright and early on a Sunday morning. You purchase tickets in the gift shop and they give you a wrist band. It also includes a tour of the Pilgrim Ship. My kids were excited because they felt like they were on a pirate ship. There were a lot of activities, displays and marine life. My son got to craft a bee and my niece got to dissect a squid. There's also access in the back to go out to the tide pools and the jetty. All of the employees were super helpful and friendly. It's a great spot to visit and I would definitely recommend it to other families or any ocean lovers. Plus, free parking! (41/100) read more

Director told us it closed at 4 and failed to tell us about the last tour time 3:15 So I got back with money to enter at 3:20 After I paid I was told last tour was at 3:15 I would have hustled to make the tour So I blew $20 and I'll chalk it up to my donation bc there wasn't anything to see that was worth $5 each wo the tour read more

It's gone downhill in recent years, esp since the Brig Pilgrim sank. (My kids spent a week on the Brig for their outdoor ed years ago, so we are familiar). The OI is only open on weekends (even for members & locals) and the wonderful gift shop has moved to the lobby from the generous space it once enjoyed. (Supposedly that space is now for education, although I've never personally witnessed students or educators actually using that huge space). The original gift shop had so many books for all ages & stages, plus gifts and amazing ocean-themed items (esp at the Holidays) but now it's a small space basically reduced to "tourist" T-shirts and an assortment of cheap imported toys. For families who are visiting from out of the area it's a shame they cannot access the Ocean Institute mid-week, and I have no idea if there are any plans to replace the Pilgrim with another tall ship. For locals, there's no incentives or discounts on general admission or mid-week programs & it's aggravating to see that beautiful space not being used to its full potential. SMH. read more

UPDATE: Manager reached out and said they would take care of us. We so appreciate it and look forward to actually getting to see stuff this time. Thank you. read more

A group of us came for the ships n ales beer festival tasting thing. Check in for wristbands was easier but parking wasn't. Luckily, we have boat parking since we are docked in this harbor and didn't have to take the shuttle. They ran out of popcorn so fast we didn't get any. However, the most important part was the beer which there was plenty of and they had something for everyone. I liked the cider the best and the island beer although I can't remember the name now, figures. I would recommend for special events but not a regular day. I've been and I don't think it would keep you entertained more than 20 minutes. They even had a mermaid in one of the tanks. The sunset view from here is nice and so was the fire pit. The price was a little steep but we made up for that in beer!! read more

Ocean Institute - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

See all

I went on the bioluminescence night cruise and I would highly recommend it. It is absolutely worth every penny of your $35. That being said...it's definitely worth mentioning that I'm a biology nerd * 10^23. The cruise itself is exciting because, not only do you get to see glowing critters along the sides of the boat...they pull some up with a net and show you under a microscope! That's right...you get your very own biogeek explaining this amazing biological phenomenon! The night I went, there were dolphins swimming alongside the boat and getting covered with the bioluminescent organisms so that they were actually glowing! Lisa Frank couldn't have imagined that in her wildest dreams. If the other cruises and nerdly opportunities presented by the institute are as awesome as this cruise was, you won't be wasting your money. The next time I'm in SoCal, I'd like to check out more of what they offer (hint, hint) and you wouldn't have to pull my arm to get me on another bioluminescence cruise. Did I mention Dana Point is awesome? read more

So ... kind of weird. As a casual, unknowing visitor not included in any camps or programs, there wasn't a whole lot to see here, and it was surprising to see an admission price. If you're looking this way as a means to spend an afternoon, eh ... no. We did have a quality, say, hour or so here as the woman took us out back to see the sea stars and hyperactive octopus, but other than that, there just isn't much to this place. Certainly not on the level of a Scripps or Sea World or anything along those lines. Our visit wasn't bad by any means - there just wasn't much to it. read more

My Husband and I just recently had our wedding at the Ocean Institute and it was the best venue we could have hoped for! We had a lot of things we were looking for in a wedding venue and the Ocean Institute had it all! We wanted a venue near the ocean but had a difficult time finding somewhere available the hours we were hoping for, with parking, and a semi private venue where beach goers weren't walking through our ceremony and reception. Parking is available to all guests at no additional charge and since the Ocean Institute is at the end of the Harbor, it is not swarming with lots of people. Our wedding was from 5:30-11 which were perfect hours for us. The venue itself is so romantic. With the view of the harbor while you are saying your vows and the beautiful reception room it is a perfect blend of elegance and practicality. It is so great having a ceremony and reception at the same location with the ease of having access to the beach for beautiful wedding photos. Our guests were able to enjoy cocktail hour by the fire pit but could also walk an easy 200 feet to the jetty and enjoy the sunset over the ocean while we took our wedding photos on the beach. The Ocean Institute is absolutely perfect. Renee Strong is also a very easy person to work with when setting up a wedding at the Ocean Institute. She is organized and will help you in making decisions for your big day. She was so quick to respond to emails and always had answers for me. It is great having someone to talk to that knows the venues and sees weddings there all the time. We booked the Ocean Institute a yr and a half before our big day and in the time leading up to the wedding I feel in love with the venue more and more. We had lots of family and friends come from out of town and they were blown away with the beauty of the venue and location. For anyone looking for a beautiful venue with ocean and harbor views this is the best venue you could ask for in Southern California (trust me - we looked at all them!) read more

See all

The Ocean Institute of Dana Point is Awesome and not expensive. There is plenty to and plenty to see. There are Beautiful Ships docked outide and for those who get hot the waters are calm (so you can dip your toes) read more

Ocean Institute - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Dana Point, California

See all

Awesome location and great learning institute. Fun for an afternoon in Dana Point. Short walk also to the Dana Point Wharf where there are shops and dining options. read more

We took our 4-year old daughter on a Sunday afternoon and she just loved it. Don't go there expecting the Monterrey Aquarium because that's not what you're going to get. This is a tiny facility that has some cool up-close, hands-on encounters. The key is to pick up the schedule and do some of the activities. Our daughter got to dissect a squid and make a "moon jelly" out of an egg carton. We spent a little less than two hours which included a trip through the gift shop. We would have toured their sailing ship, but it was a very hot day and they warned us that the little kids weren't doing well in the heat that day. I highly recommend it, but bear in mind that it's small and interactive and you get out of it what you put into it. read more