BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ocean Institute - ECPv5.15.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Ocean Institute X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://oceaninstitute.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ocean Institute REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Los_Angeles BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20260308T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20261101T090000 END:STANDARD TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20260101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261004T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261004T150000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20251013T220750Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T193319Z UID:58847-1791108000-1791126000@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:General Admission DESCRIPTION:General Admission\n \n \n \n \n \n 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM\n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n Ocean Institute’s general admission invites the public to engage with our immersive\, hands-on exhibits and rotating themes!\n \n \n \n \n \n Our rotating themes allow visitors to keep coming back to discover the ocean’s underwater world with our fun\, interactive spaces and activities that indulge curiosity.\n \n \n \n \n \n Explore marine mammal artifacts\, interactive exhibits\, and local aquaria. Interact with a shark and ray touch and an intertidal touch tank.\n \n \n \n \n \n Bring history to life and step back in time with a Sailor’s Life Tour onboard the deck of Spirit of Dana Point and a visit to our Maritime Village.\n \n \n \n \n \n \nPricing:\nAdult: $16\nChild (19 months – 13 y.o): $12\nSenior (55+) or Military: $14\nInfant/Toddler (0-18 months): Free!\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \nElevate your experience! Select add-ons at checkout:\n\nSquid Dissection: $5Sea Star Feeding: $10\n \n \n \n \n \n \nTickets must be purchased for all individuals. Ocean Institute Members receive complimentary year-round general admission! Not a member? Click here to join today!\n\n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/general-admission/2026-10-04/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Admission END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261004T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261004T133000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20251013T223253Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T123331Z UID:58748-1791109800-1791120600@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Squid Dissections DESCRIPTION:Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n Add-on experience for General Admission! \nDive into a hands-on experience suitable for all levels of curiosity with our squid dissections! Join our expert guides who will lead you through an exploration of anatomy and adaptations. Each dissection is 30 minutes long. \nEvery dissector requires their own ticket and may be accompanied by 1 additional person. Each dissector will receive their own squid to dissect. Note: Children under 18 months do not require their own ticket to accompany a dissector. \nDissections will occur at 10:30 am\, 11:30 am\, and 1:30 pm. \nAdd-on Price: $5 \nMust have a General Admission ticket to participate. Add on experience ticket during check out. \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/squid-dissections-2026/2026-10-04/ LOCATION:CA END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261004T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261004T123500 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20251013T224132Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T060244Z UID:58553-1791115200-1791117300@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Sea Star Feeding DESCRIPTION:Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n General Admission add-on experience! \nHave you ever wanted to hand-feed a sea star? Join us for this interactive feeding experience at 12:00 pm where you can prepare their food alongside our staff and hand feed a sea star with this up-close encounter you won’t forget! \nThe sea star feeding is a two-part experience\, the preparation and the feeding. During the preparation phase\, the guest will be using sharp knives. It is recommended that children 10 and under are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Sea star feeding is only held at 12PM on Saturday and Sunday. \nAdd-on Price: $10 \nGeneral Admission ticket purchase is required. Add experience to your cart at checkout! \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/sea-star-feeding-2026/2026-10-04/ LOCATION:CA END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261004T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261004T150000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20251013T231007Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T143313Z UID:58471-1791122400-1791126000@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Behind the Scenes Aquarium Tour DESCRIPTION:Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at the Ocean Institute? Join us on our immersive Behind the Scenes Aquarium Tour to learn all about what it takes to run an aquarium! This tour takes you beyond the eyes of the public to our husbandry prep kitchen\, the quarantine lab\, and the life support yard\, and then you’ll get to participate in a shark feeding! \nTickets are $35 a person and include general admission to Ocean Institute! \n  \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/behind-the-scenes-aquarium-tour-2026/2026-10-04/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Behind the Scenes Tours END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261005T093000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261005T103000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20260722T214251Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T220222Z UID:65496-1791192600-1791196200@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Tiny Tots DESCRIPTION:Calling all ocean explorers! Join us for this “Mommy & Me” style program dedicated to exploring your world through song\, movement\, and your senses. Enjoy new activities each session! \n  \n*Please note that a parent/guardian must participate and attend with their child. This is a “Mommy & Me” style class. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Classes are offered on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:30am to 10:30am. Each class contains ~30-minutes of led activities & ~30-minutes of structured play time. There will be new activities every class! \n \n \n \n \n \n Audience: Recommended ages ~2-4 years old. \nLocation: Ocean Institute \nPrice: $20 (Ticket includes one child and one adult) \n \n \n \n \n \n Build a Bundle and get 25% off! \nWhen enrolled in 3 classes or more! When you have 3 or more different class dates in your cart you will get each class for $15 (regular price $20!).\nDiscount will auto-apply in the cart. All classes must be booked all at once to receive the discount. Discounts will not be retro-applied for single drop-ins. Classes must be on different dates\, not multiple enrollments for the same date.\n \n TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tiny Tots Refund & Rescheduling Policy\n \n \n \n \n \n Please note that Tiny Tots tickets are non-refundable unless a doctor’s note is emailed to guestservices@oceaninstitute.org. \n\n\nA $5 transfer fee will be added to all rescheduled tickets.  If you need to reschedule a Tiny Tots class\, please send a rescheduling request with your new selected date to guestservices@oceaninstitute.org preferably at least 24 hours before the start time of your class. We will do our best to accommodate your transfer request\, pending availability\, and send you an updated confirmation email. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf a rescheduling request is received after your class has already taken place\, a valid medical note is required. Once received at guestservices@oceaninstitute.org\, we will gladly move you into another class\, pending availability. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/tiny-tots-7/2026-10-05/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Tiny Tots END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261007T100000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261007T110000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20260626T184202Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260626T184213Z UID:65254-1791367200-1791370800@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Little Currents: Powered by OI + Rivian DESCRIPTION:Toddler Time at Rivian South Coast Theater\n \n \n \n \n \n Ocean Institute is thrilled to partner with Rivian during their Toddler Time Wednesdays at the Rivian South Coast Theater in Laguna Beach! Little Currents: Powered by OI + Rivian is designed for children aged 0-2. This engaging program introduces little ones to ocean-inspired sensory experiences that foster early development and parent-child bonding and plant the seeds that can ignite a love for the world around them. \nThere will be a structured schedule of activities each session. Each session features a fun mix of sensory play\, sing-along circles\, themed crafts\, and interactive story time. Modeled after our popular Tiny Tots program\, this pop-up experience provides a safe and welcoming space for toddlers to explore while parents connect and learn about other family-friendly offerings from Ocean Institute. \n \n \n \n \n \n Location: Rivian South Coast Theater\, 160 South Coast Highway\, Laguna Beach\nRecommended ages 0-2 years old. \nFREE to the public! \n \n \n \n \n \n October Theme: Bugs\n\n\nButterflies\, beetles\, ants\, oh my! Small but mighty\, bugs of all kinds are important members of many food chains\, both on land and in the sea. They come in different shapes and sizes with different bodies and diets. Join us to find out what kind of bug you are!\n\n\n \n RSVP Coming Soon URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/little-currents-powered-by-oi-rivian-13/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Little Currents END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261008T093000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261008T103000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20260722T214251Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T223217Z UID:65497-1791451800-1791455400@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Tiny Tots DESCRIPTION:Calling all ocean explorers! Join us for this “Mommy & Me” style program dedicated to exploring your world through song\, movement\, and your senses. Enjoy new activities each session! \n  \n*Please note that a parent/guardian must participate and attend with their child. This is a “Mommy & Me” style class. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Classes are offered on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:30am to 10:30am. Each class contains ~30-minutes of led activities & ~30-minutes of structured play time. There will be new activities every class! \n \n \n \n \n \n Audience: Recommended ages ~2-4 years old. \nLocation: Ocean Institute \nPrice: $20 (Ticket includes one child and one adult) \n \n \n \n \n \n Build a Bundle and get 25% off! \nWhen enrolled in 3 classes or more! When you have 3 or more different class dates in your cart you will get each class for $15 (regular price $20!).\nDiscount will auto-apply in the cart. All classes must be booked all at once to receive the discount. Discounts will not be retro-applied for single drop-ins. Classes must be on different dates\, not multiple enrollments for the same date.\n \n TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tiny Tots Refund & Rescheduling Policy\n \n \n \n \n \n Please note that Tiny Tots tickets are non-refundable unless a doctor’s note is emailed to guestservices@oceaninstitute.org. \n\n\nA $5 transfer fee will be added to all rescheduled tickets.  If you need to reschedule a Tiny Tots class\, please send a rescheduling request with your new selected date to guestservices@oceaninstitute.org preferably at least 24 hours before the start time of your class. We will do our best to accommodate your transfer request\, pending availability\, and send you an updated confirmation email. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf a rescheduling request is received after your class has already taken place\, a valid medical note is required. Once received at guestservices@oceaninstitute.org\, we will gladly move you into another class\, pending availability. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/tiny-tots-7/2026-10-08/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Tiny Tots END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261008T203000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261008T223000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20260211T180811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T180811Z UID:63649-1791491400-1791498600@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Bioluminescence Night Cruise DESCRIPTION:BIOLUMINESCENCE NIGHT CRUISE \n8:30 pm – 10:30 pm\nThere’s a luminous underwater world just waiting to shine! Learn about the remarkable ability of some marine animals to glow in the dark and witness this curiously beautiful phenomenon.*\nCome aboard the R/V Sea Explorer and join us off the coast of Dana Point at night to explore the nocturnal world of marine birds\, sea lions\, and bioluminescent plankton. \nA meter net is deployed 600 feet deep to capture thousands of drifting organisms that can make their own light. Also\, witness the food chain under our deployed squid light–from the tiniest of plankton to fish and squid–and at times the sea lions and dolphins who feed on them!\nBioluminescence Night Cruises are only offered during the summer months.\n*Please be advised that forces of nature determine the abundance of bioluminescence at any given time.\nPricing:\nTicket: $55\nInfant/Toddler (0-1 y.o): $10\n \n BOOK NOW\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/bioluminescence-night-cruise/2026-10-08/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Bioluminescence Night Cruise,R/V Sea Explorer END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261009T203000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261009T223000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20260211T180811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T180811Z UID:63650-1791577800-1791585000@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Bioluminescence Night Cruise DESCRIPTION:BIOLUMINESCENCE NIGHT CRUISE \n8:30 pm – 10:30 pm\nThere’s a luminous underwater world just waiting to shine! Learn about the remarkable ability of some marine animals to glow in the dark and witness this curiously beautiful phenomenon.*\nCome aboard the R/V Sea Explorer and join us off the coast of Dana Point at night to explore the nocturnal world of marine birds\, sea lions\, and bioluminescent plankton. \nA meter net is deployed 600 feet deep to capture thousands of drifting organisms that can make their own light. Also\, witness the food chain under our deployed squid light–from the tiniest of plankton to fish and squid–and at times the sea lions and dolphins who feed on them!\nBioluminescence Night Cruises are only offered during the summer months.\n*Please be advised that forces of nature determine the abundance of bioluminescence at any given time.\nPricing:\nTicket: $55\nInfant/Toddler (0-1 y.o): $10\n \n BOOK NOW\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/bioluminescence-night-cruise/2026-10-09/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Bioluminescence Night Cruise,R/V Sea Explorer END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261010T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261010T151500 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20260507T155956Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260708T172439Z UID:64882-1791617400-1791645300@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Stoked on Science DESCRIPTION:Stoked on Science\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Stoked on Science Field Day\nSaturday\, October 10  |  7:30 am – 3:15 pm\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About\n \n \n \n \n \n Connecting Influential Scientists with the Next Generation of Ocean Ambassadors\nOcean Institute’s annual Stoked on Science teen conference introduces middle school and high school students to the diverse career opportunities in ocean science. This event connects professionals in the field with the next generation of ocean stewards. This year\, we are kicking off our first annual Stoked on Science Field Day\, where we bring the students to the professionals! This event aims to immerse the students in a professional setting\, seeing the scientists in action\, as well as mitigate the transit of immobile equipment and reduce any limited expression of the profession itself. \nDuring each tour\, a representative of the organization will give an overview of the day-to-day functions and walk through some equipment or resources that are specific to this space and commonly used there. \nLunch and snacks will be provided as well as a Stoked on Science Field Day t-shirt and goodie bag. Join us for a fun-filled day of science and leave with an interest to explore the ocean further! \nField Day will include visits to the following locations: \n\nKerckhoff Marine Laboratory\nSTABB Lab at CSU Long Beach\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Date: October 10\, 2026 \nTime: 7:30 am to 3:15 pm \nPrice: $100 \nAge: Middle School and High School students (Grades 6-12) \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Field Day Tour Locations\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kerckhoff Marine Laboratory\n \n \n \n \n \n Founded in 1930\, Kerckhoff Marine Laboratory has been a research lab for Caltech scientists and students since its inception\, and more recently started offering educational opportunities for the local community. With its optimal location along the mouth of the Newport Harbor\, it provides direct access to the Pacific Ocean and local marine ecosystems of Southern California. KML utilizes a seawater intake system\, providing filtered natural seawater available for research use. Over the years\, the lab has hosted multiple Nobel laureates studying a wide range of research interests. Today\, KML is led by director\, Dr. Victoria Orphan\, who is the James Irvine Professor of Environmental Science and Geology at Caltech\, and lab manager\, Stephen Ranson\, overseas day-to-day operations. The lab is managed under Caltech’s Division of Biology and Biological Engineering and is supported through division funding\, grants\, fellowships\, and donations. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Stingray and Butterfly Biomechanics (STABB) Laboratory\n \n \n \n \n \n The STABB Lab studies the kinematics\, kinetics\, and morphology of animals\, currently focusing on the round stingray\, Urobatis halleri. Despite the rate at which these encounters occur and the threat that they pose to public safety\, very little is known about the behavior of these stingrays and their tail strike events. Using high-speed cameras\, material testers\, 3D scanners\, and X-ray imaging\, principal investigator Ben and his team record and describe the tail strike behavior across the size range of the round stingray. The STABB Lab is putting the science behind the colloquial SoCal saying\, “do the stingray shuffle!” This information\, along with other experiments they are conducting in their lab with round stingrays\, will provide applications relevant to beach safety. The Lab also collaborates with the Catalina Island Conservancy\, taking undergraduate students to Catalina to conduct various field studies across the island\, focusing on the introduced Argentine ant and the endemic shrew.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Frequently Asked Questions\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I have heard of Stoked on Science\, but what is Field Day?\n Ocean Institute is excited to launch our first ever Stoked on Science Field Day! \nStoked on Science Conference – This is an annual\, one-day\, teen conference at Ocean Institute\, inviting middle school and high school students to meet\, learn from\, and conduct research with professionals in fields relating to ocean science. \nStoked on Science Field Day – This is our first event\, where we flip the script and take our middle school and high school students to these professional workspaces for behind-the-scenes tours. This year\, we are starting with two different locations for the day\, all local to Orange County. We all meet at Ocean Institute\, check our guests in\, then hop on the bus to head out to our first stop. We spend the day touring these locations together\, eat lunch together\, then head back to Ocean Institute before parting for the day. \nIf you have ever attended a Stoked on Science conference or a Girls in Ocean Science conference\, you’re going to love Field Day! \n \n \n \n \n \n What is the start and end time of Field Day?\n Schedule \n7:30 am   Check-in \n8:00 am   Bus departs \nPlease be on time or otherwise let us know ahead of time if you are running late. The bus must leave no later than 8:00 am.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Can participants leave early?\n We encourage participants to stay for the full duration of the event. Participants will spend the day together traveling to and from our two Stops via bus. \nIf a participant needs to leave early\, please notify us ahead of time so we can accommodate your request. \n \n \n \n \n \n What do participants need to bring?\n Please bring the following: \n\nclosed-toe\, closed-heel shoes\njacket\nhat\nsnacks\nreusable water bottle\nsunscreen\n\nParticipants will receive lunch\, snacks\, a Stoked on Science t-shirt\, and a goodie bag. \n \n \n \n \n \n Will food be served at the conference?\n Yes\, lunch and some snacks will be provided. We will not be providing breakfast or dinner. Please bring water\, snacks\, and let us know of any dietary restrictions to be aware of in your registration form.  \nIf you/your student has severe allergies or dietary restrictions\, you are more than welcome to bring your own lunch and snacks in a sealed lunch bag. \n \n \n \n \n \n Will parents\, teachers\, chaperones\, etc. be allowed on campus for the conference?\n Parents\, teachers\, chaperones\, etc. will not be allowed on the bus during this event. This program will only include participants\, Ocean Institute staff\, and our guest speakers. \n \n \n \n \n \n What if the participant needs medication during the program?\n Participant Medication: All medications must come in their original container with dosage and schedule indicated. Prescription medications must be accompanied by a physician’s note verifying the medication\, dosage\, and schedule. Over-the-counter medications must have a note from the legal guardian verifying medication\, dosage\, and schedule. \nPlease ensure any medication for motion sickness is administered before arrival OR sent in the original container with a note from the legal guardian verifying the medication\, dosage\, and schedule. \n \n \n \n \n \n Who can pick up my participant?\n Authorized Pick-Up List \nTo ensure the safety of our participants\, we follow these procedures for Check out: \n\nThe participant must be signed in and out by an adult (18 years or older). Participant will only be released to listed authorized persons.\nValid Photo Identification (such as a Driver’s License\, Passport\, etc.) is required to release to any individual\, including parents\, guardians\, relatives\, and emergency contacts. If participant has a valid Driver’s License\, they are able to sign themselves out; in which case\, the participant will need to be listed on their own Authorized Pick-Up list. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n LOOKING BACK AT PAST SCIENTISTS\nExploring Careers in Ocean Science\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2019\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2023\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2025\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2025\n\nRich German (Keynote) – Founder\, Project O and Blue City Network\nBill Lackey – Co-Founder and President\, Entangled Whale Response Orange County\nMagali Martinez – Facility Manager\, Orange Coast College Aquaculture and Aquaponics Program\nJonathan Appelbaum – Restoration Ecologist\, San Diego Canyonlands\nGregg Casad – Managing Director\, Exulans\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2024\n\nDr. Karla Heidelberg (Keynote) – Professor\, Biological Sciences and Environmental Studies\, University of Southern California; Director\, USC Sea Grant\nLouise Leborgne – Veterinary Technician\, Aquarium of the Pacific\nBrenna Chang – Husbandry Manager/Aquarist Technician\, Age of Aquariums\nDr. Jayme Smith – Senior Scientist of Aquatic Microbiology\, Southern California Coastal Water Research Project\nGarrett Staller – Research Assistant\, UCLA Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences and the Marine Operations Program\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2023 Conference Speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rich German \n Founder\, Project O \nA successful business coach\, philanthropist\, photographer and entrepreneur for over 20 years\, Rich has been paddleboarding off the coast of Laguna Beach\, California with dolphins and whales nearly every day since 2010. An encounter with a pod of 4 orcas in 2015 garnered international media attention and connected him with some of the leading ocean conservationist organizations. When he learned firsthand about the peril our ocean and marine life are facing\, his hobby turned into a passion to protect them. \nn 2017\, he founded the non-profit organization Project O\, dedicated to restoring\, protecting\, and sustaining the oceans and the sacred life within it. Two main initiatives of Project O include Blue City\, a certification program\, aimed at creating a global network of ocean-friendly and sustainable cities\, and Our Epic Ocean podcast\, a platform for experts working on solutions to our planet’s challenges. \nRich’s other passions lie in lifestyle and business coaching. Starting in 1999\, he has personally conducted over 18\,000 individual coaching sessions and has led seminars for thousands of people. His first book\, “Living the Law of Attraction” was a top 10 book on Amazon and his other work\, “Monetize Your Passion\,” currently has over 40\,000 copies in circulation. \nWhen not working Rich can be found on the ocean paddle boarding with dolphins and whales. He also enjoys exploring his creative side by playing the guitar\, painting\, writing\, and photography. \n \n \n \n \n \n Brett McBride\n Captain\, OCEARCH \nA dedicated mariner and waterman\, Brett McBride has spent the majority of his life surrounded by or in the water. Throughout his junior high and high school years\, he spent weekends and summers working on open party and long-range sport fishers\, before transitioning to private yacht-fishers and broadening his exploration horizons. Growing up in San Diego\, McBride spent a few seasons fishing along the coast of Baja\, California before permanently relocating to Cabo San Lucas\, Mexico where he called home for the next 21 years. \n\n \nHe served as a deckhand or captain on various sportfishing boats\, competed in fishing marlin tournaments\, began underwater filming\, ran a 48′ sportfisher for entrepreneur Chris Fischer\, upgraded to a 72′ custom yacht-fisher\, collaborated on Emmy Award-Winning “Offshore Adventures\,” and produced another show\, “Ocean Hunter.” Currently\, McBride works with Fischer on the 126′ Bering Sea crba fishing vessel\, OCEARCH. This vessel allowed for the creation of television series Shark Men\, where the captains assist scientists in capturing and releasing adult white sharks all over the globe. McBride’s expertise and leadership has provided researchers across the globe with unprecedented access to study our oceans’ apex predators and push science furhter. He appreciates all the gifts the ocean has given him over his lifetime and aspires to keep the ocean healthy through the conservation efforts of OCEARCH. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n OCC Dennis Kelly Aquarium Team\n Mary Blasius\, Coordinator | Robert Ellis\, Professor | E. Durazo\, A. Nguyen \n\n \nThe Dennis Kelly Public Aquarium at Orange Coast College is one of the cornerstones of their marine science department. This versatile resource is a unique training and community education facility where students get hands-on experience working with a remarkably diverse collection of aquatic organisms. The OCC Aquarium is a student-run aquarium that features facilitated peer education. Students working towards the Certificate in Aquarium Science play an active role in design\, maintenance\, and management of the OCC Aquarium. From leopard sharks to jellies\, the aquarium is a key resources for OCC students to refine their species knowledge\, animal husbandry\, and aquarium life support maintenance skills. \n\n  \n \n \n \n \n \n Leslie Nguyen\n Animal Care Specialist\, Aquarium of the Pacific \nLeslie graduated from San Jose State University with a bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology. During her undergraduate studies\, she volunteered at the Marine Mammal Care Center where she found her passion in animal care and conservation. She later accepted an internship with Reef Environmental Education Foundation in 2022 where she focused on education and citizen science. Leslie first joined the Aquarium of the Pacific as an African American Scholar in 2021\, and she now works there as an Animal Care Specialist. Leslie also takes pride in actively being a voice for underrepresented communities in marine science by supporting\, promoting\, and leading various programs and events that promote diversity in this field. \n \n \n \n \n \n Rick Erkeneff\n Director\, South Coast Water District \nA dedicated and passionate member of the South Coast Water District (SCWD) Board\, Rick represents Division 2 (Del Avion/Del Obispo\, Dana Knolls\, San Juan Capistrano). SCWD serves approximately 40\,000 residents and two million visitors a year in Dana Point\, South Laguna Beach\, and portions of San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente. \nWith a BFA from CSULB and previous roles including Art Director at Roxy Surf Company and co-founder of R&D Design\, Rich has honed his skills in simplifying complex issues for clear communication. Recognized with the Gold Award from the Ad Club of OC and the Surfrider Foundation Wavemaker Award\, he is inspired by diverse teamwork and is an unwavering optimist. In his free time\, Rick is passionate about surfing\, hiking\, and gardening. \n \n \n \n \n \n Gary Larson\n Head Surfboard Shaper and Designer\, Hobie Surfboards \nThe definitive Dana Point\, CA local; Gary Larson’s shaping exploration began with Infinity Surfboards in 1996. A few years down the line in 2008\, Larson joined the ranks of Hobie and\, more importantly\, the discerning eye and benevolent demeanor of Terry Martin. In tandem with Martin\, Gary honed his technique into the quality craftmanship it is today. G-Lar has a close relationship with all of our team riders\, but his relationship really glimmers with Rilynn Baker and Bucky Barry. Together\, Baker and Barry have developed some of Hobie’s most progrressive logging designs to date; the Rilynn and Uncle Buck. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2019 Conference Speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr. Jeff Nessler\n Professor\, California State University\, San Marcos \nI teach courses in Biomechanics of Human Movement and Human Motor Control in the Department of Kinesiology. My education was a combination of mechanical engineering and movement science\, and my early research focused on gait and locomotion in individuals with neurological injury. Recently\, I have become interested in other forms of locomotion\, particularly surfing and skateboarding\, and my research has focused on these areas. More specifically\, paddling mechanics\, balance and wave riding in surfers. \nMy career is intellectually stimulating\, and each day is different. I spend a lot of time reading and thinking about interesting research\, teaching it to others\, and coming up with fun experiments. \nI would like to provide important and impactful information for researchers\, athletes\, and coaches involved in surfing and skateboarding\, particularly as they begin to train athletes for the Olympics. \n \n \n \n \n \n Matt Kibby\n Forecaster\, Surfline \nI studied at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University\, and achieved a B.S. in Meteorology with a minor in math. Between growing up in\, around and on the ocean\, and becoming quite the weather nerd in my college years\, my career as a Forecaster at Surfline is extraordinary. I can combine two of my biggest passions. \nAs a Forecaster\, I am responsible for surf reports and forecasts along the West Coast of the U.S. and Hawaii\, as well as various international locations. In addition\, I perform statistical analysis of historical surf reports\, and model data for use in long term forecasts and climatological studies. \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr. Phil Bresnahan\n Research Engineer\, Scripps Institution of Oceanography\, UC San Diego \nI build tools (sensors and robots) to measure ocean chemistry—especially changes to ocean chemistry resulting from pollution. Right now\, my favorite instrument to work on is called Smartfin; it’s a surfboard fin with sensors embedded in it to measure temperature\, wave motion and position (GPS). We distribute Smartfins to surfers around the world to study their local home breaks\, and become more engaged in stewardship and protection of the waves they love. \nI would like to help scientists learn how to make stronger connections with their communities. There is so much scientific information that most people don’t know—partly because we’re learning new things all the time\, but partly because scientists don’t always know how to connect with non-scientists. I think it would be awesome to help a few more scientists\, especially those doing environmental work\, to figure out what they have in common with their community members outside of the lab. \nPeople come up to me all the time to ask why my fin is blinking and if it scares sharks away. I do not know about the second part but to the first\, I tell them it’s because I’m collecting data while I surf! URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/stoked-on-science-2/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:SOS END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261010T203000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261010T223000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20260211T180811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T180811Z UID:63651-1791664200-1791671400@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Bioluminescence Night Cruise DESCRIPTION:BIOLUMINESCENCE NIGHT CRUISE \n8:30 pm – 10:30 pm\nThere’s a luminous underwater world just waiting to shine! Learn about the remarkable ability of some marine animals to glow in the dark and witness this curiously beautiful phenomenon.*\nCome aboard the R/V Sea Explorer and join us off the coast of Dana Point at night to explore the nocturnal world of marine birds\, sea lions\, and bioluminescent plankton. \nA meter net is deployed 600 feet deep to capture thousands of drifting organisms that can make their own light. Also\, witness the food chain under our deployed squid light–from the tiniest of plankton to fish and squid–and at times the sea lions and dolphins who feed on them!\nBioluminescence Night Cruises are only offered during the summer months.\n*Please be advised that forces of nature determine the abundance of bioluminescence at any given time.\nPricing:\nTicket: $55\nInfant/Toddler (0-1 y.o): $10\n \n BOOK NOW\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/bioluminescence-night-cruise/2026-10-10/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Bioluminescence Night Cruise,R/V Sea Explorer END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261011T090000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261011T103000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20260224T203654Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T203654Z UID:63707-1791709200-1791714600@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Guided Snorkel Tour DESCRIPTION:Guided Snorkel Tour\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Explore the ocean with us!\n \n \n \n \n \n Join our semi-private guided snorkel tours and explore the stunning marine life of Shaw’s Cove! Meet at the beach where your expert guide will lead you through Southern California’s beautiful kelp forests. Enjoy 45 minutes in the water as our guide introduces you to the beauty of Southern California’s kelp forests and their marine life. All gear provided—just bring your sense of adventure! \n \n \n \n \n \n Your tour includes:\n\nComplete set of snorkel gear (mask\, snorkel\, fins\, and wetsuit)\nExpert tour guide with knowledge of the cove\, kelp forests\, and marine species\nAll gear setup and breakdown handled by your guide\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Pricing:\n$64.00 per person. (2 person minimum) \nRecommended for ages six and up. Guests must secure their own transportation to Shaw’s Cove. \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n To show our appreciation\, several Laguna Beach partners are offering exclusive promotions just for you. Simply show your ticket confirmation from your guided snorkel tour at the participating businesses to enjoy these special deals.\n \n \n \n \n \n Enjoy the perks—and the memories! \n \n \n \n \n \n \nMuseum of Make Believe – $2 OFF Adult Tickets\nSplashes – complimentary dessert w/ purchase of lunch entrée\nSoul Spark\, LLC – 2 free\, 1 hour coaching sessions (life\, career\, or both)\nGG’s Bistro – 15% discount (excluding Happy Hour) \nAçaí Republic Laguna Beach – 25% off\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Frequently Asked Questions\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where does the tour take place?\n Tours take place at Shaw’s Cove in Laguna Beach\, CA \n \n \n \n \n \n Where do we meet?\n Your guide will meet you by the bench at the top of the stairs at Shaw’s Cove in Laguna Beach. \n \n \n \n \n \n Is there parking near the meeting point?\n There is limited street parking available near Shaw’s Cove. You can park on Fariview\, Cliff Drive\, or other side streets. There is also metered parking along PCH.  \n \n \n \n \n \n What should I bring/wear?\n All snorkeling gear is provided! Wear your swimsuit under your clothes and bring a towel. Wetsuits are provided but are optional depending on the season. We also recommend bringing sunscreen and water. \nYou’ll also need to fill out and bring a copy of our Water-Based Recreation Waiver for each member of the group. \n \n \n \n \n \n Is the water cold?\n Southern California’s waters can be a bit chilly depending on the season\, but the wetsuit should keep you nice and comfortable for the duration of the dive! And the hot cocoa afterwards will certainly help you warm up!\n \n \n \n \n \n Do I need to know how to swim?\n Yes\, you should be comfortable swimming to enjoy this snorkeling experience. Our guides will have boogie boards available should you get tired\, so you can rest and enjoy the sights from the board!\n \n \n \n \n \n Do I need previous snorkeling experience?\n Our guides are trained to support all snorkeling experience levels\, including beginners!\n \n \n \n \n \n What if the weather conditions are bad?\n Safety comes first. If conditions aren’t suitable\, we’ll notify you and offer rescheduling or a full refund.\n \n \n \n \n \n How many people are on each tour?\n Tours are semi-private with a small group size to ensure personal attention and safety—we have a maximum of 5 guests per guide. \n \n \n \n \n \n Can I bring a camera or GoPro?\n Yes! Waterproof cameras are welcome\, but please ensure they’re secure. Guides may also take photos during the tour.\n \n \n \n \n \n How do I book a tour?\n You can reserve your spot online by clicking the Tickets button above\, or by contacting our Guest Services team at (949) 496-2274 ext. 111 or at guestservices@oceaninstitute.org.\n \n \n \n \n \n What happens after the tour?\n After exploring the ocean\, our guides handle the gear cleanup! We can also recommend some amazing local restaurants to enjoy – swimming can often make you hungry!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/guided-snorkel-tour-5/2026-10-11/ LOCATION:Shaw’s Cove\, Fairview Street\, Laguna Beach\, CA\, 92651\, United States CATEGORIES:Guided Snorkel Tours END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T123000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093911 CREATED:20251013T232821Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T063300Z UID:59626-1791711000-1791721800@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Whale and Marine Life Tour DESCRIPTION:Book Now!\n \n \n \n \n \n Join our crew for an experience you will never forget.\nYour 2 and a 1/2 hour adventure aboard the RV Sea Explorer\, Ocean lnstitute’s 65′ research vessel\, takes you miles beyond the Dana Point Harbor jetty in search of marine mammals such as migrating blue and grey whales; large schools of playful dolphin; the impressive sunfish known as mola-mola; and sleek harbor seals and sea lions. \nOcean Institute’s professional naturalists will brief you with information on our local species before boarding\, and they will be on hand during the cruise to provide insight on all the marine life you encounter. Possible hands-on activities include sorting through mud samples from the ocean floor and examining plankton under the microscope. \nOur cruises are safe and fun for the entire family\, and everyone will learn something new about our ocean and the life within it. \n \n \n \n \n \n Whale and Marine Life Tour Pricing:\n\n\nAdults and Children: $40 \nInfants/Toddlers (0-18 months): $10\n \nYour Whale and Marine Life Ticket includes access to the Ocean Institute for General Admission. \n \n Book Now!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n F.A.Q.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Can I bring food and drinks onboard?\n You are welcome to bring snacks\, water\, or soft drinks on the boat. Large cooler containers are not allowed.  Alcoholic beverages are not allowed to be brought on the boat. \n \n \n \n \n \n What should I wear?\n We recommend dressing in layers and wearing closed-toe shoes.  We also recommend bringing a hat and sunglasses if desired and wearing sunscreen.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Where should I park?\n Parking is free in the Ocean Institute\, Baby Beach\, and Cove Road parking lots. Please allow yourself extra time to navigate any potential traffic and to secure parking. We cannot guarantee parking availability. Refunds will not be offered if you are unable to find parking.  \n \n \n \n \n \n When should I arrive?\n Please arrive early to leave ample time for parking and check-in. Your ticket does include general admission to the Ocean Institute’s exhibits\, so make sure to stop by after your cruise to see them for yourself! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/whale-and-marine-life-tour-2026/2026-10-11/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:R/V Sea Explorer,Whale and Marine Life Tour END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T150000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251013T220750Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T200332Z UID:58848-1791712800-1791730800@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:General Admission DESCRIPTION:General Admission\n \n \n \n \n \n 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM\n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n Ocean Institute’s general admission invites the public to engage with our immersive\, hands-on exhibits and rotating themes!\n \n \n \n \n \n Our rotating themes allow visitors to keep coming back to discover the ocean’s underwater world with our fun\, interactive spaces and activities that indulge curiosity.\n \n \n \n \n \n Explore marine mammal artifacts\, interactive exhibits\, and local aquaria. Interact with a shark and ray touch and an intertidal touch tank.\n \n \n \n \n \n Bring history to life and step back in time with a Sailor’s Life Tour onboard the deck of Spirit of Dana Point and a visit to our Maritime Village.\n \n \n \n \n \n \nPricing:\nAdult: $16\nChild (19 months – 13 y.o): $12\nSenior (55+) or Military: $14\nInfant/Toddler (0-18 months): Free!\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \nElevate your experience! Select add-ons at checkout:\n\nSquid Dissection: $5Sea Star Feeding: $10\n \n \n \n \n \n \nTickets must be purchased for all individuals. Ocean Institute Members receive complimentary year-round general admission! Not a member? Click here to join today!\n\n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/general-admission/2026-10-11/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Admission END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T133000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251013T223253Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T130326Z UID:58767-1791714600-1791725400@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Squid Dissections DESCRIPTION:Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n Add-on experience for General Admission! \nDive into a hands-on experience suitable for all levels of curiosity with our squid dissections! Join our expert guides who will lead you through an exploration of anatomy and adaptations. Each dissection is 30 minutes long. \nEvery dissector requires their own ticket and may be accompanied by 1 additional person. Each dissector will receive their own squid to dissect. Note: Children under 18 months do not require their own ticket to accompany a dissector. \nDissections will occur at 10:30 am\, 11:30 am\, and 1:30 pm. \nAdd-on Price: $5 \nMust have a General Admission ticket to participate. Add on experience ticket during check out. \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/squid-dissections-2026/2026-10-11/ LOCATION:CA END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T123500 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251013T224132Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T063238Z UID:58554-1791720000-1791722100@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Sea Star Feeding DESCRIPTION:Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n General Admission add-on experience! \nHave you ever wanted to hand-feed a sea star? Join us for this interactive feeding experience at 12:00 pm where you can prepare their food alongside our staff and hand feed a sea star with this up-close encounter you won’t forget! \nThe sea star feeding is a two-part experience\, the preparation and the feeding. During the preparation phase\, the guest will be using sharp knives. It is recommended that children 10 and under are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Sea star feeding is only held at 12PM on Saturday and Sunday. \nAdd-on Price: $10 \nGeneral Admission ticket purchase is required. Add experience to your cart at checkout! \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/sea-star-feeding-2026/2026-10-11/ LOCATION:CA END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T150000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251013T231007Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T150301Z UID:58472-1791727200-1791730800@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Behind the Scenes Aquarium Tour DESCRIPTION:Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at the Ocean Institute? Join us on our immersive Behind the Scenes Aquarium Tour to learn all about what it takes to run an aquarium! This tour takes you beyond the eyes of the public to our husbandry prep kitchen\, the quarantine lab\, and the life support yard\, and then you’ll get to participate in a shark feeding! \nTickets are $35 a person and include general admission to Ocean Institute! \n  \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/behind-the-scenes-aquarium-tour-2026/2026-10-11/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Behind the Scenes Tours END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T203000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261011T223000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20260211T180811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T180811Z UID:63652-1791750600-1791757800@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Bioluminescence Night Cruise DESCRIPTION:BIOLUMINESCENCE NIGHT CRUISE \n8:30 pm – 10:30 pm\nThere’s a luminous underwater world just waiting to shine! Learn about the remarkable ability of some marine animals to glow in the dark and witness this curiously beautiful phenomenon.*\nCome aboard the R/V Sea Explorer and join us off the coast of Dana Point at night to explore the nocturnal world of marine birds\, sea lions\, and bioluminescent plankton. \nA meter net is deployed 600 feet deep to capture thousands of drifting organisms that can make their own light. Also\, witness the food chain under our deployed squid light–from the tiniest of plankton to fish and squid–and at times the sea lions and dolphins who feed on them!\nBioluminescence Night Cruises are only offered during the summer months.\n*Please be advised that forces of nature determine the abundance of bioluminescence at any given time.\nPricing:\nTicket: $55\nInfant/Toddler (0-1 y.o): $10\n \n BOOK NOW\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/bioluminescence-night-cruise/2026-10-11/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Bioluminescence Night Cruise,R/V Sea Explorer END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261012T093000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261012T103000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20260722T214251Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T230229Z UID:65498-1791797400-1791801000@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Tiny Tots DESCRIPTION:Calling all ocean explorers! Join us for this “Mommy & Me” style program dedicated to exploring your world through song\, movement\, and your senses. Enjoy new activities each session! \n  \n*Please note that a parent/guardian must participate and attend with their child. This is a “Mommy & Me” style class. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Classes are offered on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:30am to 10:30am. Each class contains ~30-minutes of led activities & ~30-minutes of structured play time. There will be new activities every class! \n \n \n \n \n \n Audience: Recommended ages ~2-4 years old. \nLocation: Ocean Institute \nPrice: $20 (Ticket includes one child and one adult) \n \n \n \n \n \n Build a Bundle and get 25% off! \nWhen enrolled in 3 classes or more! When you have 3 or more different class dates in your cart you will get each class for $15 (regular price $20!).\nDiscount will auto-apply in the cart. All classes must be booked all at once to receive the discount. Discounts will not be retro-applied for single drop-ins. Classes must be on different dates\, not multiple enrollments for the same date.\n \n TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tiny Tots Refund & Rescheduling Policy\n \n \n \n \n \n Please note that Tiny Tots tickets are non-refundable unless a doctor’s note is emailed to guestservices@oceaninstitute.org. \n\n\nA $5 transfer fee will be added to all rescheduled tickets.  If you need to reschedule a Tiny Tots class\, please send a rescheduling request with your new selected date to guestservices@oceaninstitute.org preferably at least 24 hours before the start time of your class. We will do our best to accommodate your transfer request\, pending availability\, and send you an updated confirmation email. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf a rescheduling request is received after your class has already taken place\, a valid medical note is required. Once received at guestservices@oceaninstitute.org\, we will gladly move you into another class\, pending availability. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/tiny-tots-7/2026-10-12/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Tiny Tots END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261015T093000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261015T103000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20260722T214251Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T233214Z UID:65499-1792056600-1792060200@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Tiny Tots DESCRIPTION:Calling all ocean explorers! Join us for this “Mommy & Me” style program dedicated to exploring your world through song\, movement\, and your senses. Enjoy new activities each session! \n  \n*Please note that a parent/guardian must participate and attend with their child. This is a “Mommy & Me” style class. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Classes are offered on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:30am to 10:30am. Each class contains ~30-minutes of led activities & ~30-minutes of structured play time. There will be new activities every class! \n \n \n \n \n \n Audience: Recommended ages ~2-4 years old. \nLocation: Ocean Institute \nPrice: $20 (Ticket includes one child and one adult) \n \n \n \n \n \n Build a Bundle and get 25% off! \nWhen enrolled in 3 classes or more! When you have 3 or more different class dates in your cart you will get each class for $15 (regular price $20!).\nDiscount will auto-apply in the cart. All classes must be booked all at once to receive the discount. Discounts will not be retro-applied for single drop-ins. Classes must be on different dates\, not multiple enrollments for the same date.\n \n TICKETS\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tiny Tots Refund & Rescheduling Policy\n \n \n \n \n \n Please note that Tiny Tots tickets are non-refundable unless a doctor’s note is emailed to guestservices@oceaninstitute.org. \n\n\nA $5 transfer fee will be added to all rescheduled tickets.  If you need to reschedule a Tiny Tots class\, please send a rescheduling request with your new selected date to guestservices@oceaninstitute.org preferably at least 24 hours before the start time of your class. We will do our best to accommodate your transfer request\, pending availability\, and send you an updated confirmation email. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf a rescheduling request is received after your class has already taken place\, a valid medical note is required. Once received at guestservices@oceaninstitute.org\, we will gladly move you into another class\, pending availability. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/tiny-tots-7/2026-10-15/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Tiny Tots END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T110000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251104T202524Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260508T233228Z UID:59276-1792227600-1792234800@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Kayak Tour DESCRIPTION:Explore the ocean from the water!\nJoin the Ocean Institute for a 2-hour interactive kayak tour around the Dana Point harbor. Learn about the history of the harbor and its unique ecosystem from one of our expert Naturalists. All experience levels are welcome. Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.\nPricing\nAdults (14 y.o and up) $36 \nChildren (3-13 y.o) $25 \nMust be at least 3 years old to participate. Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. \n \n \n \n \n \n Included:KayakPaddleLife JacketOcean Institute Naturalist \nWhat to bring:Moisture-wicking clothingWeather dependent clothingHatSunglassesSunscreenWater \nPlease check in by 8:45 am. \n \n Book Now!\n \n \n \n \n \n All participants must complete a Water-Based Recreation Waiver\, which will be collected at check-in. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/kayak-tour/2026-10-17/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Kayak Tours,Summer END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T123000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251013T232821Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T070321Z UID:59627-1792229400-1792240200@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Whale and Marine Life Tour DESCRIPTION:Book Now!\n \n \n \n \n \n Join our crew for an experience you will never forget.\nYour 2 and a 1/2 hour adventure aboard the RV Sea Explorer\, Ocean lnstitute’s 65′ research vessel\, takes you miles beyond the Dana Point Harbor jetty in search of marine mammals such as migrating blue and grey whales; large schools of playful dolphin; the impressive sunfish known as mola-mola; and sleek harbor seals and sea lions. \nOcean Institute’s professional naturalists will brief you with information on our local species before boarding\, and they will be on hand during the cruise to provide insight on all the marine life you encounter. Possible hands-on activities include sorting through mud samples from the ocean floor and examining plankton under the microscope. \nOur cruises are safe and fun for the entire family\, and everyone will learn something new about our ocean and the life within it. \n \n \n \n \n \n Whale and Marine Life Tour Pricing:\n\n\nAdults and Children: $40 \nInfants/Toddlers (0-18 months): $10\n \nYour Whale and Marine Life Ticket includes access to the Ocean Institute for General Admission. \n \n Book Now!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n F.A.Q.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Can I bring food and drinks onboard?\n You are welcome to bring snacks\, water\, or soft drinks on the boat. Large cooler containers are not allowed.  Alcoholic beverages are not allowed to be brought on the boat. \n \n \n \n \n \n What should I wear?\n We recommend dressing in layers and wearing closed-toe shoes.  We also recommend bringing a hat and sunglasses if desired and wearing sunscreen.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Where should I park?\n Parking is free in the Ocean Institute\, Baby Beach\, and Cove Road parking lots. Please allow yourself extra time to navigate any potential traffic and to secure parking. We cannot guarantee parking availability. Refunds will not be offered if you are unable to find parking.  \n \n \n \n \n \n When should I arrive?\n Please arrive early to leave ample time for parking and check-in. Your ticket does include general admission to the Ocean Institute’s exhibits\, so make sure to stop by after your cruise to see them for yourself! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/whale-and-marine-life-tour-2026/2026-10-17/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:R/V Sea Explorer,Whale and Marine Life Tour END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T120000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251014T154744Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260403T090333Z UID:58699-1792231200-1792238400@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Adventure Sail DESCRIPTION:BOOK HERE\n \n \n \n \n \n Set sail with OI for an unforgettable family adventure! Start with a muster and dive into hands-on activities like raising sail\, navigation\, helmsmanship\, and bow watch. Enjoy a thrilling demonstration of the ship’s cannon as our crew showcases naval gunnery. This exciting program is perfect for families looking to create lasting memories on the open water. Join us for a day of adventure and fun! \nTickets: \nAdults – $40 \nChildren (19 months to 13 years) – $40 \nInfant/Toddler (0 to 18 months) – $10 \n \n BOOK HERE\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About the Spirit of Dana Point \nThe Spirit of Dana Point is a traditionally built replica of a 1770s privateer schooner used during the American Revolution. These ships were known for their speed and were used for smuggling. The ship is 118 feet long with a rig height of 100 feet… and 5\,000 square feet of sail! \nIt was Dennis Holland’s dream to build an accurate replica from the period when America fought for independence. Armed with talent\, determination\, little money and plans he purchased from the Smithsonian Institution\, he laid the keel in his Orange County yard on May 2\, 1970. Thirteen years later\, this fast privateer was launched and continues to sail the ocean. Everywhere you look on board is the craftsmanship and pride of early America. \nFormerly the Pilgrim of Newport\, the re-named Spirit of Dana Point is an excellent teaching platform where students directly experience life at sea as it has been for hundreds of years.  The 118-ft. schooner is used for living history and at-sea maritime programs throughout the year. \nThe Spirit of Dana Point is also available for public and private charters\, coastal sails\, corporate team building\, and filming opportunities. \nFor private charters\, events or wedding onboard the Spirit of Dana Point please e-mail: events@oceaninstitute.org\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n F.A.Q.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Can I bring food and drinks onboard?\n You are welcome to bring snacks\, water\, or soft drinks on the ship. Large cooler containers are not allowed.  Alcoholic beverages are not allowed to be brought on the ship. \n \n \n \n \n \n What should I wear?\n We recommend dressing in layers and wearing closed-toe shoes.  We also recommend bringing a hat and sunglasses if desired and wearing sunscreen.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Where should I park?\n Parking is free in the Ocean Institute\, Baby Beach\, and Cove Road parking lots. Please allow yourself extra time to navigate any potential traffic and to secure parking. We cannot guarantee parking availability. Refunds will not be offered if you are unable to find parking.  \n \n \n \n \n \n When should I arrive?\n The ship will depart promptly at the start time. Please arrive to check in no later than 15 minutes before the start time. Your ticket does include general admission to the Ocean Institute’s exhibits\, so make sure to arrive early to see them for yourself! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/adventure-sail-2026/2026-10-17/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Adventure Sail,Spirit of Dana Point END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T150000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251013T220750Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T203335Z UID:58849-1792231200-1792249200@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:General Admission DESCRIPTION:General Admission\n \n \n \n \n \n 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM\n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n Ocean Institute’s general admission invites the public to engage with our immersive\, hands-on exhibits and rotating themes!\n \n \n \n \n \n Our rotating themes allow visitors to keep coming back to discover the ocean’s underwater world with our fun\, interactive spaces and activities that indulge curiosity.\n \n \n \n \n \n Explore marine mammal artifacts\, interactive exhibits\, and local aquaria. Interact with a shark and ray touch and an intertidal touch tank.\n \n \n \n \n \n Bring history to life and step back in time with a Sailor’s Life Tour onboard the deck of Spirit of Dana Point and a visit to our Maritime Village.\n \n \n \n \n \n \nPricing:\nAdult: $16\nChild (19 months – 13 y.o): $12\nSenior (55+) or Military: $14\nInfant/Toddler (0-18 months): Free!\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \nElevate your experience! Select add-ons at checkout:\n\nSquid Dissection: $5Sea Star Feeding: $10\n \n \n \n \n \n \nTickets must be purchased for all individuals. Ocean Institute Members receive complimentary year-round general admission! Not a member? Click here to join today!\n\n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/general-admission/2026-10-17/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Admission END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T103000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T133000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251013T223253Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T133255Z UID:58768-1792233000-1792243800@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Squid Dissections DESCRIPTION:Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n Add-on experience for General Admission! \nDive into a hands-on experience suitable for all levels of curiosity with our squid dissections! Join our expert guides who will lead you through an exploration of anatomy and adaptations. Each dissection is 30 minutes long. \nEvery dissector requires their own ticket and may be accompanied by 1 additional person. Each dissector will receive their own squid to dissect. Note: Children under 18 months do not require their own ticket to accompany a dissector. \nDissections will occur at 10:30 am\, 11:30 am\, and 1:30 pm. \nAdd-on Price: $5 \nMust have a General Admission ticket to participate. Add on experience ticket during check out. \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/squid-dissections-2026/2026-10-17/ LOCATION:CA END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T123500 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251013T224132Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T070240Z UID:58555-1792238400-1792240500@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Sea Star Feeding DESCRIPTION:Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n General Admission add-on experience! \nHave you ever wanted to hand-feed a sea star? Join us for this interactive feeding experience at 12:00 pm where you can prepare their food alongside our staff and hand feed a sea star with this up-close encounter you won’t forget! \nThe sea star feeding is a two-part experience\, the preparation and the feeding. During the preparation phase\, the guest will be using sharp knives. It is recommended that children 10 and under are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Sea star feeding is only held at 12PM on Saturday and Sunday. \nAdd-on Price: $10 \nGeneral Admission ticket purchase is required. Add experience to your cart at checkout! \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/sea-star-feeding-2026/2026-10-17/ LOCATION:CA END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261017T150000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251013T231007Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T153324Z UID:58473-1792245600-1792249200@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Behind the Scenes Aquarium Tour DESCRIPTION:Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at the Ocean Institute? Join us on our immersive Behind the Scenes Aquarium Tour to learn all about what it takes to run an aquarium! This tour takes you beyond the eyes of the public to our husbandry prep kitchen\, the quarantine lab\, and the life support yard\, and then you’ll get to participate in a shark feeding! \nTickets are $35 a person and include general admission to Ocean Institute! \n  \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/behind-the-scenes-aquarium-tour-2026/2026-10-17/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Behind the Scenes Tours END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261018T090000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261018T103000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20260224T203654Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T203654Z UID:63708-1792314000-1792319400@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Guided Snorkel Tour DESCRIPTION:Guided Snorkel Tour\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Explore the ocean with us!\n \n \n \n \n \n Join our semi-private guided snorkel tours and explore the stunning marine life of Shaw’s Cove! Meet at the beach where your expert guide will lead you through Southern California’s beautiful kelp forests. Enjoy 45 minutes in the water as our guide introduces you to the beauty of Southern California’s kelp forests and their marine life. All gear provided—just bring your sense of adventure! \n \n \n \n \n \n Your tour includes:\n\nComplete set of snorkel gear (mask\, snorkel\, fins\, and wetsuit)\nExpert tour guide with knowledge of the cove\, kelp forests\, and marine species\nAll gear setup and breakdown handled by your guide\n\n \n \n \n \n \n Pricing:\n$64.00 per person. (2 person minimum) \nRecommended for ages six and up. Guests must secure their own transportation to Shaw’s Cove. \n \n Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n To show our appreciation\, several Laguna Beach partners are offering exclusive promotions just for you. Simply show your ticket confirmation from your guided snorkel tour at the participating businesses to enjoy these special deals.\n \n \n \n \n \n Enjoy the perks—and the memories! \n \n \n \n \n \n \nMuseum of Make Believe – $2 OFF Adult Tickets\nSplashes – complimentary dessert w/ purchase of lunch entrée\nSoul Spark\, LLC – 2 free\, 1 hour coaching sessions (life\, career\, or both)\nGG’s Bistro – 15% discount (excluding Happy Hour) \nAçaí Republic Laguna Beach – 25% off\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Frequently Asked Questions\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where does the tour take place?\n Tours take place at Shaw’s Cove in Laguna Beach\, CA \n \n \n \n \n \n Where do we meet?\n Your guide will meet you by the bench at the top of the stairs at Shaw’s Cove in Laguna Beach. \n \n \n \n \n \n Is there parking near the meeting point?\n There is limited street parking available near Shaw’s Cove. You can park on Fariview\, Cliff Drive\, or other side streets. There is also metered parking along PCH.  \n \n \n \n \n \n What should I bring/wear?\n All snorkeling gear is provided! Wear your swimsuit under your clothes and bring a towel. Wetsuits are provided but are optional depending on the season. We also recommend bringing sunscreen and water. \nYou’ll also need to fill out and bring a copy of our Water-Based Recreation Waiver for each member of the group. \n \n \n \n \n \n Is the water cold?\n Southern California’s waters can be a bit chilly depending on the season\, but the wetsuit should keep you nice and comfortable for the duration of the dive! And the hot cocoa afterwards will certainly help you warm up!\n \n \n \n \n \n Do I need to know how to swim?\n Yes\, you should be comfortable swimming to enjoy this snorkeling experience. Our guides will have boogie boards available should you get tired\, so you can rest and enjoy the sights from the board!\n \n \n \n \n \n Do I need previous snorkeling experience?\n Our guides are trained to support all snorkeling experience levels\, including beginners!\n \n \n \n \n \n What if the weather conditions are bad?\n Safety comes first. If conditions aren’t suitable\, we’ll notify you and offer rescheduling or a full refund.\n \n \n \n \n \n How many people are on each tour?\n Tours are semi-private with a small group size to ensure personal attention and safety—we have a maximum of 5 guests per guide. \n \n \n \n \n \n Can I bring a camera or GoPro?\n Yes! Waterproof cameras are welcome\, but please ensure they’re secure. Guides may also take photos during the tour.\n \n \n \n \n \n How do I book a tour?\n You can reserve your spot online by clicking the Tickets button above\, or by contacting our Guest Services team at (949) 496-2274 ext. 111 or at guestservices@oceaninstitute.org.\n \n \n \n \n \n What happens after the tour?\n After exploring the ocean\, our guides handle the gear cleanup! We can also recommend some amazing local restaurants to enjoy – swimming can often make you hungry!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/guided-snorkel-tour-5/2026-10-18/ LOCATION:Shaw’s Cove\, Fairview Street\, Laguna Beach\, CA\, 92651\, United States CATEGORIES:Guided Snorkel Tours END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261018T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261018T123000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251013T232821Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T073307Z UID:59628-1792315800-1792326600@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:Whale and Marine Life Tour DESCRIPTION:Book Now!\n \n \n \n \n \n Join our crew for an experience you will never forget.\nYour 2 and a 1/2 hour adventure aboard the RV Sea Explorer\, Ocean lnstitute’s 65′ research vessel\, takes you miles beyond the Dana Point Harbor jetty in search of marine mammals such as migrating blue and grey whales; large schools of playful dolphin; the impressive sunfish known as mola-mola; and sleek harbor seals and sea lions. \nOcean Institute’s professional naturalists will brief you with information on our local species before boarding\, and they will be on hand during the cruise to provide insight on all the marine life you encounter. Possible hands-on activities include sorting through mud samples from the ocean floor and examining plankton under the microscope. \nOur cruises are safe and fun for the entire family\, and everyone will learn something new about our ocean and the life within it. \n \n \n \n \n \n Whale and Marine Life Tour Pricing:\n\n\nAdults and Children: $40 \nInfants/Toddlers (0-18 months): $10\n \nYour Whale and Marine Life Ticket includes access to the Ocean Institute for General Admission. \n \n Book Now!\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n F.A.Q.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Can I bring food and drinks onboard?\n You are welcome to bring snacks\, water\, or soft drinks on the boat. Large cooler containers are not allowed.  Alcoholic beverages are not allowed to be brought on the boat. \n \n \n \n \n \n What should I wear?\n We recommend dressing in layers and wearing closed-toe shoes.  We also recommend bringing a hat and sunglasses if desired and wearing sunscreen.  \n \n \n \n \n \n Where should I park?\n Parking is free in the Ocean Institute\, Baby Beach\, and Cove Road parking lots. Please allow yourself extra time to navigate any potential traffic and to secure parking. We cannot guarantee parking availability. Refunds will not be offered if you are unable to find parking.  \n \n \n \n \n \n When should I arrive?\n Please arrive early to leave ample time for parking and check-in. Your ticket does include general admission to the Ocean Institute’s exhibits\, so make sure to stop by after your cruise to see them for yourself! \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/whale-and-marine-life-tour-2026/2026-10-18/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:R/V Sea Explorer,Whale and Marine Life Tour END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261018T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261018T150000 DTSTAMP:20260725T093912 CREATED:20251013T220750Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T210344Z UID:58850-1792317600-1792335600@oceaninstitute.org SUMMARY:General Admission DESCRIPTION:General Admission\n \n \n \n \n \n 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM\n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n Ocean Institute’s general admission invites the public to engage with our immersive\, hands-on exhibits and rotating themes!\n \n \n \n \n \n Our rotating themes allow visitors to keep coming back to discover the ocean’s underwater world with our fun\, interactive spaces and activities that indulge curiosity.\n \n \n \n \n \n Explore marine mammal artifacts\, interactive exhibits\, and local aquaria. Interact with a shark and ray touch and an intertidal touch tank.\n \n \n \n \n \n Bring history to life and step back in time with a Sailor’s Life Tour onboard the deck of Spirit of Dana Point and a visit to our Maritime Village.\n \n \n \n \n \n \nPricing:\nAdult: $16\nChild (19 months – 13 y.o): $12\nSenior (55+) or Military: $14\nInfant/Toddler (0-18 months): Free!\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \nElevate your experience! Select add-ons at checkout:\n\nSquid Dissection: $5Sea Star Feeding: $10\n \n \n \n \n \n \nTickets must be purchased for all individuals. Ocean Institute Members receive complimentary year-round general admission! Not a member? Click here to join today!\n\n \n Get Tickets\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Click here for our Refund and Ticket Transfer Policy. URL:https://oceaninstitute.org/event/general-admission/2026-10-18/ LOCATION:CA CATEGORIES:Admission END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR