![Welcome](/images/mClubBadge0.gif)
Plan Your Experience
Welcome to Ocean Institute
All programs are designed to maximize immersion, spark curiosity, and inspire a deep commitment to learning.
Ocean Institute’s annual Founders Day celebrating our Founder, Stan Cummings!
Learn about him here: https://oceaninstitute.org/stan-cummings-scholars/.
Ocean Institute is excited to open up our doors and welcome anyone and everyone to a day of live music, food, drinks, ocean education, animal encounters, and an opportunity to learn and sign up for all of our future events and programs! We especially encourage teachers and school personnel to come learn about our many educational offerings!
On this Founder’s Day, we also celebrate the Grand Opening of our newest exhibit, the Maritime Village!This 45-minute cruise aboard the RV Sea Explorer, Ocean Institute’s 65’ research vessel, takes you around the picturesque Dana Point Harbor. Ocean Institute’s professional naturalists are on hand to introduce you to the harbor's inhabitants, from seabirds to sealions. Our cruises are safe and fun for the entire family, and everyone will learn something new about our ocean and the life within it.
Member Registration: Monday, March 11th*
General Public Registration: Monday, March 18th
Our week-long camps promise an immersive journey into the wonders of marine science and maritime history! Whether sailing on a historic tall ship or exploring tide pools in a marine protected area, our camps encourage life-long learning for your camper!
Register your camper for an unforgettable summer filled with adventure, learning, and lasting friendships.
Take advantage of our early registration and 10% member discount on Summer Camp!
*Family, Senior, Sea Star, Captains Compass, Sea Life Sponsor, and Ocean Advocate Members. Click here to Become a Member!
A $10 registration fee (convenience fee) will be added at checkout for each camper registered. Before registering please familiarize yourself with our cancellation, transfer, and refund policy located on our Summer Camp Website.
Come enjoy the sophisticated side of ocean exploration with special hours for seniors-only.
General admission is included with tour ticket
Our sharks are very active at night, making it a great time to observe them; however, touching will not be permitted.
Light snacks & Refreshments available for purchase at event.
Sail Ticket includes access into Ocean Institute for General Admisson.
Whale and Marine Life Ticket includes access into Ocean Institute for General Admisson.
Learn about the remarkable ability of some marine animals to glow in the dark and witness this curiously beautiful phenomenon.
For payments over $1,000, payment can be made via check. To arrange your membership, please email development@oceaninstitute.org.
Join our Adopt-an-Animal program at the Ocean Institute and become an 'Adoptive Parent' to your favorite marine creature. Your adoption fee supports the well-being of our fascinating marine life, empowers educational initiatives, and ensures smooth operations at Ocean Institute. Dive into a world of ocean education and make a meaningful impact today!
Your adoption includes:
- Downloadable Certificate of Adoption
- Downloadable Animal fact sheet
- Adopt-an-Animal tote bag*
- Adopted animal sticker*
- (2) General Admissions Tickets (expire 1 year after purchase date)