OCEAN INSTITUTE
Experience is the teacher.
GENERAL ADMISSION
Saturday and Sunday
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Gift Shop Open Daily 7:00 am – 4:30 pm
Coffee Importers and Rubee June Bakery Open Daily, Hours Vary
Welcome
The Ocean Institute is a non-profit ocean education center in Dana Point Harbor where marine science and maritime history come to life. Visit our waterfront campus to explore Southern California’s marine life and rich maritime heritage through interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences for all ages.
On weekends, we’re open to the public with General Admission, Whale & Marine Life Cruises, Tall Ship Sails, and other engaging programs. During the week, our campus comes alive with immersive field trips and summer camps, inspiring thousands of students yearly through unforgettable educational experiences.
Founded in 1977, the Ocean Institute has served generations of students, families, teachers, and visitors. Today, more than 100,000 guests each year come to our waterfront campus to learn, explore, and deepen their connection to the ocean.
Using the ocean as our classroom, we inspire children to learn.
Set sail on the high seas aboard the Spirit of Dana Point.
Set sail aboard our historic schooner and experience California from the perspective of an early tall ship explorer.
Meet marine mammals on the R/V Sea Explorer.
Our 65′ research vessel takes you miles beyond the Dana Point Harbor jetty in search of marine mammals such as whales and dolphins.
Visit us during our general admission hours.
We are open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 3 pm. On weekdays, we are closed for school field trips.
Become a member.
Your membership supports the care of our marine life, operational needs, and overall mission of Ocean Institute. Thank you for being a key partner in our mission to explore, educate, and protect our oceans.
The ocean is our classroom.
Find us
Dana Point, CA 92629