Ocean Institute

Perched on 2.4 acres along the edge of Dana Point Harbor in Dana Point, California, the Ocean Institute is a nonprofit marine science and maritime history center that has welcomed groups to its waterfront campus since 1977. Situated steps from a Marine Protected Area, the facility offers a genuinely distinctive backdrop for private events — one where tall-ship replicas dock at the working wharf and ocean views frame nearly every space. Four distinct event venues span a range of guest counts and atmospheres. The Samueli Conference Center & Courtyard seats up to 180 guests beneath vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, while the open-air Surf Deck delivers 180-degree ocean views for more intimate gatherings of up to 80. The Maddie James Maritime Wharf places events directly on the waterfront, overlooking the harbor and the Institute's historic vessels. For smaller meetings, the Executive Boardroom accommodates up to 18 with harbor views and integrated AV. In-house event staff assist with planning and day-of coordination. The campus catering kitchen is available to outside caterers, and add-on experiences — including live animal encounters and youth programming — are available for groups that want to make use of the Institute's broader educational offerings.