Ocean Institute Tours

Photo by Annette Briers
Photo by James  Castillo


The entire family will enjoy learning about nature at Ocean Institute. Discover facts about animals and plants and how to help take care of the environment.

You'll soon see why this Dana Point place to learn about the environment is popular with travelers. If you're searching for more to see and do here, Mission San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point Harbor, and San Clemente Pier are in this area as well. They won't take you very long to reach from Ocean Institute.

Plan a trip to see Ocean Institute

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Crescent Bay Inn
Surf & Sand Laguna Beach

Browse tours and tickets to explore Ocean Institute

Tours & day trips

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Water activities

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History & culture

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Adventure & outdoor

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Classes & workshops

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Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Ocean Institute

Dana Point Marina Inn

Dana Point Marina Inn

3 out of 5
24800 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA
Dana Point Marina Inn
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa

4 out of 5
25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa
Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel

Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel

2.5 out of 5
34280 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA
Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel
Blue Lantern Inn, A Four Sisters Inn

Blue Lantern Inn, A Four Sisters Inn

4 out of 5
34343 Street Of The Blue Lantern, Dana Point, CA
Blue Lantern Inn, A Four Sisters Inn
Hilton Garden Inn Dana Point Doheny Beach

Hilton Garden Inn Dana Point Doheny Beach

3 out of 5
34402 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA
Hilton Garden Inn Dana Point Doheny Beach
Spectacular Oceanfront  - the Best Views in Dana Point !!!!!

Spectacular Oceanfront - the Best Views in Dana Point !!!!!

Dana Point
Spectacular Oceanfront - the Best Views in Dana Point !!!!!
Rare 10 bedroom property, newly remodeled, centrally located with a huge outdoor living space.

Rare 10 bedroom property, newly remodeled, centrally located with a huge outdoor living space.

Dana Point
Rare 10 bedroom property, newly remodeled, centrally located with a huge outdoor living space.
Centrally located, newly remodeled coastal elegance property with large outdoor living space

Centrally located, newly remodeled coastal elegance property with large outdoor living space

Dana Point
Centrally located, newly remodeled coastal elegance property with large outdoor living space
5 star location, newly remodeled coastal elegance property centrally located to downtown Dana Poin

5 star location, newly remodeled coastal elegance property centrally located to downtown Dana Poin

Dana Point
5 star location, newly remodeled coastal elegance property centrally located to downtown Dana Poin
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Ocean Institute

At the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, California, you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views while exploring the vibrant local restaurants and charming coastal shops. Engage in exciting activities such as surfing, sailing, and whale watching, or take part in marine life tours to learn more about the ocean's diverse ecosystems. Don't miss the stunning sunsets that make this destination truly unforgettable.

Shopping

While visiting Ocean Institute, check out the San Clemente Farmers Market, located 6 miles away, offering local vendors and fresh produce. If you're up for a drive, the Irvine Spectrum Center, 13 miles away, features a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment, shopping, and dining options for the whole family.

Recreation

The Coach House offers an intimate music concert experience, just 3 miles from Ocean Institute, perfect for enjoying live performances. Aliso Beach Park, located 4 miles away, invites relaxation and wellness amid stunning ocean views. For golf enthusiasts, Monarch Beach Golf Links is 2 miles away, blending sports and outdoor enjoyment.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Laguna Beach Paddle Boarding, located 7 miles from Ocean Institute, where you can enjoy the beautiful waters and stunning scenery. For tennis enthusiasts, Dana Hills Tennis Center, only 2 miles away, offers an exciting atmosphere for a friendly match.

Nightlife

At Ocean Institute, you can catch a film at Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas, just 2 miles away, offering a romantic atmosphere. For a cultural experience, head to Soka Performing Arts Center or Laguna Playhouse, both 7 miles away, where family-friendly performances create an enchanting evening vibe.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Ocean Institute

Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach day or an engaging city experience, the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, California, offers a variety of attractions. Explore the beautiful Dana Point Harbor, enjoy the scenic ocean views, or take a stroll through local urban parks. With options for outdoor activities and cultural experiences, there's something for every traveler to enjoy in and around the Ocean Institute.

  • Dana Point Harbor: Experience the stunning coastal views and vibrant atmosphere at Dana Point Harbor, located 0.7 miles from the Ocean Institute. Enjoy beach activities, dine at waterfront restaurants, or take a leisurely stroll along the marina, where you can watch boats and marine life.
  • Doheny State Beach: Only 1 mile away, Doheny State Beach offers a quintessential Californian beach experience. Relax on the sandy shores, swim in the ocean, or partake in water sports. This picturesque beach is perfect for sunbathing and picnicking with family and friends.
  • Mission San Juan Capistrano: Dive into history at Mission San Juan Capistrano, located 4 miles from the Ocean Institute. Explore this well-preserved church, learn about California’s mission era, and admire the beautiful gardens and architecture that reflect the rich cultural heritage.

Best time to go to Ocean Institute

The best time to visit Ocean Institute can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Ocean Institute falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Ocean Institute falls in February, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February56.7°F (13.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March57.7°F (14.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April60.1°F (15.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
May61.7°F (16.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June65.1°F (18.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July69.3°F (20.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August70.7°F (21.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September70.9°F (21.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October67.3°F (19.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November62.2°F (16.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ocean Institute

To save money on your visit to the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, plan your trip during the cheaper months of January to February or November, when accommodation prices drop. Stay on a Monday for the best hotel rates. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and consider package deals for flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can offer exclusive discounts and cash rewards for future bookings. Don't forget to explore free local activities and utilize public transport for budget-friendly travel around the area.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Ocean Institute are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Ocean Institute is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Ocean Institute is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort your results to display hotels from the lowest to the highest price, allowing you to find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Ocean Institute with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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