General Admission
SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Closed for Educational Programs
Monday-Friday
Gift Shop Hours
7 Days A Week 7:00am – 4:30pm
Coffee Importers
and Rubee June Bakery
Open 7 Days A Week
7:00am – 3:00 pm
CRUISES & Sails
Join us on the water! We offer Whale and Marine Life tours, sailing on the Spirit of Dana Point, and more!
Click here to learn more.
FIELD TRIPS
Labs for all ages in ocean science, cruises on our research vessel, living history, and overnight programs!
Click here to learn more!
Weekend Admission
Discover the ocean with interactive tours and activities that indulge your curiosity.
Click here to learn more!
Plan Your Experience
Welcome to Ocean Institute
All programs are designed to maximize immersion, spark curiosity, and inspire a deep commitment to learning.
Whale and Marine Life Excursions
Experience our exciting, educational cruises as you encounter fascinating species in their Pacific Ocean habitat. Get up-close-and-personal as you observe sea life from the deck of our R/V Sea Explorer.
Chambers Gallery Gift Shop
The Laurena G. Chambers Gallery Gift Shop carries ocean-themed items and the latest educational products. Proceeds benefit Ocean Institute programs. Visit the store to find a variety of maritime books, puzzles, jewelry, home decor, and apparel.
Calendar
Ocean Institute is open on the weekends from 10am- 3pm. For questions please e-mail guestservices@oceaninstitute.org
Field Trips
At the Ocean Institute, Experience is the Teacher. Our programs range from immersing students in historical reenactments to empowering students to build robots for undersea exploration and everything in-between.
About
Virtual Opportunities
If you can’t come to Ocean Institute, we want to bring Ocean Institute to you!
Plan Your Visit
Indoor and outdoor activity options with social-distancing in mind.
Leadership and Board of Directors
Corporate and community leaders committed to sustaining the Ocean Institute’s mission to provide profound learning opportunities that advance scientific and environmental awareness.
Our Sponsors
The Ocean Institute is honored to recognize its 2023 generous individual, corporate and foundation donors.
Press & Media
The Ocean Institute is nationally known for its award winning, hands-on marine science, environmental education and maritime history programs.
Making Waves
“Ocean Institute programs have succeeded brilliantly in the most important mission: reaching and actively engaging the imagination of American youth.”
– Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Maritime Education
Contact
Information
Address
24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr.
Dana Point, CA 92629
Phone
Pricing Update FAQ
Why are prices increasing?
As a nonprofit, the Ocean Institute works hard to keep prices low and accessible for all. Due to rising operational costs — such as wages, supplies, and utilities — we are implementing modest price increases on select tickets and public programs. This helps us continue offering high-quality educational experiences and maintain our ships, facilities, and staff.
Will all ticket and program prices increase?
No. Not all programs will be affected. Only select tickets and public programs will see modest increases. Many experiences will remain at their current pricing. In fact, some ticket prices will be right-sized to better align with similar offerings, which may result in a slight decrease for certain experiences.
Are membership prices changing?
No. Membership pricing will remain the same at this time. Members will continue to enjoy the same great benefits and discounts.
How can I see what prices are changing?
Updated pricing will be available on our website starting July 1, 2025. If you have questions about a specific program, feel free to ask our Guest Services team or email us at info@oceaninstitute.org.
I already purchased tickets for a program later this year — will I have to pay more?
No. All existing reservations and ticket purchases made before July 1 will be honored at the price paid at the time of purchase.
Where does my money go?
Every dollar supports the Ocean Institute’s mission to provide ocean education to students, families, and the community. Your support helps maintain our historic ships, care for marine life, offer hands-on learning, and fund field trips for local schools.
I have more questions — who can I talk to?
Our Guest Services team is happy to help! Visit us at the front desk, call (949) 496-2274, or email guestservices@oceaninstitute.org.