Ocean Institute Tours

Photo by Annette Briers
Photo by James  Castillo


Browse tours and tickets to explore Ocean Institute

Tours & day trips

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Water activities

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Adventure & outdoor

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History & culture

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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
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
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
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
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

5 out of 5
1 Ritz Carlton Dr, Dana Point, CA
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club

5 out of 5
1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, CA
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club
Beachfront Inn and Suites at Dana Point

Beachfront Inn and Suites at Dana Point

2.5 out of 5
34734 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA
Beachfront Inn and Suites at Dana Point
Hilton Vacation Club Riviera Beach & Shores

Hilton Vacation Club Riviera Beach & Shores

3 out of 5
34630 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, CA
Hilton Vacation Club Riviera Beach & Shores
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

While visiting the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, don’t miss the breathtaking ocean views and stunning sunsets. Engage in exciting activities like surfing and sailing, and explore the local restaurants for a taste of the area. Take part in marine life tours and whale watching to experience the rich biodiversity of the Pacific. Discover the charm of Dana Point and make the most of your vacation with these unforgettable experiences.

Shopping

Visit the San Clemente Farmers Market, located 9.7km away, offering fresh produce and local goods in a vibrant atmosphere. For a broader shopping experience, if you're up for a drive, check out the Irvine Spectrum Center, 20.9km away, featuring diverse shops and entertainment options.

Recreation

Experience live music at The Coach House, just 4.8km from Ocean Institute, where vibrant entertainment creates a lively atmosphere. For relaxation, visit Aliso Beach Park, 6.4km away, offering serene beach vibes. Finally, enjoy a round of golf at Monarch Beach Golf Links, located 3.2km from the institute.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Laguna Beach Paddle Boarding, a water sport located 11.3km from Ocean Institute, where you can enjoy beautiful coastal views. For a different adventure, visit K1 Speed Irvine, 29.0km away, for exciting go-kart racing, or head to Dana Hills Tennis Center, only 3.2km away, for some tennis action.

Nightlife

Catch a film at Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas, just 3.2km from Ocean Institute, for a cozy night out. For a dose of culture, enjoy a performance at Soka Performing Arts Center or Laguna Playhouse, both 11.3km away, offering a perfect blend of romance and entertainment.

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

Find the best attractions near Ocean Institute

During your visit to the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, California, explore the beautiful beaches and enjoy outdoor activities at nearby urban parks. Don't miss the scenic Dana Point Harbor for stunning ocean views and a vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, local churches offer a glimpse into the community's culture. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, the Ocean Institute and its surroundings provide a perfect blend of city and seaside experiences.

  • Dana Point Harbor: A picturesque harbor located 1.1km from the Ocean Institute, Dana Point Harbor offers stunning coastal views and a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy waterfront dining, stroll along the marina, and watch sailboats glide by while soaking in the serene beach vibes.
  • Doheny State Beach: Located 1.6km away, Doheny State Beach is a prime spot for sunbathing and beach activities. Known for its gentle waves, it's perfect for swimming, surfing, and picnicking, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the sun.
  • Mission San Juan Capistrano: About 6.4km from the Ocean Institute, this historic church embodies rich cultural heritage. Explore the beautifully maintained gardens and learn about California's history through fascinating exhibits and architecture.

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 RainSunnyAverageSlightly 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 RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
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 on your trip to the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January, February, or November, and aim for a Monday stay to avoid higher weekend rates. Use Expedia’s tools to filter and sort hotel options by price and type, including eco-friendly choices. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for greater savings. Public transportation is a cost-effective way to get around, and don’t forget to explore free activities along the beautiful coastline.

  • 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 makes it easy for you to set your budget and choose your ideal location, among other preferences. You can organize your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type—selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will highlight sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • 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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia