55th Annual Festival of Whales

Quick Details

Events: March 6, 7 & 8 2026
Ages: All Ages

Welcome to the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World!

Join us for the 55th annual Dana Point Festival of Whales to celebrate the annual return of the majestic California gray whales. We are thrilled to welcome you back to Dana Point Harbor to witness this awe-inspiring migration.

But it’s not just Gray Whales! You may also spot traveling Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, and three different types of Dolphins—you never know what marine life will join our party!

Key Events & Dates

Event	Date & Time	Location	Details
Welcoming of the Whales Ceremony	Friday, March 6th at dusk (approx. 4:30 PM)	Beach behind the Ocean Institute	Includes speakers, food trucks, refreshments, and hands-on educational activities. The Ocean Institute will be open to the public after the ceremony.
Whale Watching Excursions	March 7th & 8th (All Day)	Dana Wharf	Expanded schedule with 2-hour trips. Book now
Whale of a Deal (Special Pricing Trip)	March 7th & 8th at 8:00 AM	Dana Wharf	Only $38.00 per person! (Normal pricing: Adults $65, Seniors $55, Kids $49.) Book now
Wyland Art Lesson in the Wild	Saturday, March 7th at 9:00 AM	Ocean Adventure Catamaran	Limited to 20 kids. Followed by a 10:00 AM Whale Watching trip. Sign Up Today

Marine Mammal Lecture Series

When: March 7th & 8th | 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Where: Wind & Sea Restaurant (34699 Golden Lantern | Dana Point Harbor)
Cost: $15 per person at the door (Includes continental breakfast)
Proceeds Benefit: Pacific Marine Mammal Center
Speakers:
- Saturday, March 7th: Alisa Schulman-Janiger (California Orcas / Gray Whale Census)
- Sunday, March 8th: Dr. Alissa Deming (Pacific Marine Mammal Center)
Post-Lecture Trip: Join us for a whale watching trip aboard the Ocean Adventures departing at 11:00 AM (trip not included with lecture fee). Book now