Ocean Institute - Dana Point, California

Address: 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629.
Phone: 9494962274.
Website: ocean-institute.org
Specialties: Museum, Aquarium, Gift shop, Learning center, Non-profit organization, Tourist attraction, Whale watching tour agency.
Other points of interest: Onsite services, Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, Gift shop, Restroom, Restaurant, Getting tickets in advance recommended, Good for kids, Free parking lot, On-site parking.
Opinions: This company has 374 reviews on Google My Business.
Average opinion: 4.7/5.

📌 Location of Ocean Institute

☎️9494962274

⏰ Open Hours of Ocean Institute

Monday: 10 AM–3 PM
Tuesday: 10 AM–3 PM
Wednesday: 10 AM–3 PM
Thursday: 10 AM–3 PM
Friday: 10 AM–3 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–3 PM
Sunday: 10 AM–3 PM

Okay, here’s a detailed description of the Ocean Institute, crafted as a helpful and informative assistant, adhering to your specifications:

The Ocean Institute: A Premier Coastal Educational Destination

For those seeking an engaging and educational experience focused on the wonders of the ocean, the Ocean Institute stands out as a truly remarkable destination. Located at 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629, and reachable by phone at 9494962274, this non-profit organization offers a diverse range of programs and exhibits designed to captivate visitors of all ages. You can also find more information, including schedules and booking details, on their website: ocean-institute.org.

Specialties and Offerings

The Ocean Institute’s expertise encompasses a wide spectrum of marine-related activities. It functions as a museum, showcasing fascinating artifacts and exhibits detailing the history of ocean exploration and marine science. As an aquarium, it houses a variety of marine life, providing close-up views of local species. Furthermore, it serves as a vibrant learning center, offering educational programs tailored to different age groups and interests. Visitors can explore a well-stocked gift shop, and enjoy the convenience of onsite dining options. Notably, the Institute is also a respected whale watching tour agency, offering guided excursions to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Key Features and Accessibility

The facility itself is thoughtfully designed to enhance the visitor experience. It includes a range of onsite services, such as restroom facilities and ample free parking. Wheelchair accessible entrance, wheelchair accessible parking lot, and wheelchair accessible restroom are prioritized, ensuring inclusivity for all. The Institute is particularly popular with families, offering an environment that is demonstrably good for kids. Advance ticket purchases are highly recommended, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and secure your preferred tour time.

Visitor Feedback & Reputation

The Ocean Institute consistently receives positive feedback from its visitors. With over 374 reviews on Google My Business, the average opinion stands at an impressive 4.7/5. This high rating suggests a consistently positive experience centered around knowledgeable staff, engaging exhibits, and memorable activities. It’s clear that visitors appreciate the dedication to marine education and the commitment to providing a fun and enriching experience.

Recommended Visit Information

Location: Dana Point Harbor, Southern California
Phone: (949) 496-2274
Website: ocean-institute.org
Hours: (Check website for current hours)
Admission: (Check website for current pricing)

👍 Reviews of Ocean Institute

Ocean Institute - Dana Point, California

Narek M.

5/5

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

Kay

5/5

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

Doug F. G.

5/5

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

S

5/5

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

Liz P.

5/5

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

Terrence K.

5/5

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

James G.

5/5

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

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

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

Chris A.

3/5

Hats off for the fossil exhibits and kid-friendly environment. However, you need to get rid of the tanks, which are seriously old-school and do not include any rescued or rehabilitating animals. Instead you are violating your own advisory sign against removing animals from their ocean homes. In some cases the tanks are totally devoid of natural habitat and mind-numbingly (literally) small. Perfectly healthy wild animals do not belong in cages. High tech videos and hands on replications, along with rehabilitation and rescue work are perfectly adequate and becoming the new norm in zoological care and education.