Ocean Institute, Ocean education organization in Dana Point, California, US.
The Ocean Institute in Dana Point is an ocean education organization founded in 1977 as the Orange County Marine Institute. Its campus includes the Ecology Learning Center, the Packard At-Sea Learning Center, the Surfscience Learning Center with an oceanography test tank and shark and ray pool, and the Samueli Lecture Hall. The 70-foot research vessel R/V Sea Explorer is moored at the institute.
The institute was founded in 1977 and started its educational mission along California's coast. Over the decades it grew into a center for marine research and environmental protection.
The institute connects people with ocean science through hands-on learning programs and by keeping maritime traditions alive in the community.
The waterfront location means weather can change quickly, so layered clothing is a good idea when visiting. The interactive spaces are compact, so you can explore most areas in a few hours.
The institute offers overnight programs aboard research vessels where students can conduct real ocean experiments and gather data directly from the Pacific. This hands-on experience at sea stands out as one of the most memorable parts of a visit.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 92,632 contributors worldwide.
