Summer Programs

Looking forward to those lazy days of summer? We have an entire ocean full of adventure that will fill warm days (and even some cool nights)!

Parent/Child Overnight

Grunion Run Sleepover
Min. Age: 8*
Time: 7:00pm to 8:00am (next day)
Hours: 13 hours
Dates: July 10
Price: $70; Members: $65

Watch this amazing fish that comes up on the beach to spawn! Learn about grunion and other interesting mating behaviors of animals in the ocean in the Ocean Institute labs, then enjoy some hot cocoa around a bonfire at our fire-pit before venturing out onto the beach to try to see this curious fish. Grunion run after the high tide, not when we want them to, so it will be a late night! The night ends with a sleepover on the tent-like Sleeping Deck.

*children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; maximum of 2 children per adult

Voyage to Avalon
Min. Age: 8*
Time: 5:30pm to approximately 5:00pm (next day)
Hours: 23.5 hours
Dates: July 11, August 8
Price: $125; Members: $105

This fun overnight program combines an exciting island getaway with the unique experience of traveling aboard an historic tallship! Passengers will depart aboard the Spirit of Dana Point to Catalina Island, while enjoying a sunset dinner at sea. When the sun rises, guests will head ashore to spend the morning exploring the charming city of Avalon. In the afternoon, participants will enjoy a leisurely sail back to Dana Point. Throughout the voyage, guests are invited to participate in various maritime traditions such as storytelling, chantey singing, knot tying, and sailing. Price includes dinner, bunks for sleeping during the transit, a continental breakfast, and a water-taxi to and from Avalon. Lunch and any expenses in Avalon are not included.

*children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; maximum of 2 children per adult

Mysterious Lights
Min. Age: 8*
Time: 4:30pm to 8:00am (next day)
Hours: 15.5 hours
Dates: July 17, 24, August 21
Price: $70; Members: $65

Imagine living in a world of complete darkness. How would you find food, locate a mate, or defend yourself? By glowing, of course! This fun overnight program explores deep-sea adaptations and the phenomenon of bioluminescence in marine animals. Exciting laboratory activities, dissections, crafts, and movies prepare participants for an evening of fun on the sea. Watch the sunset over the Dana Point Headlands as we enjoy dinner and a bonfire at the fire-pit. After dinner, you’ll board the R/V Sea Explorer for our popular 2.5-hour bioluminescence cruise. The night ends with a sleepover on the tent-like Sleeping Deck.