The Ocean Institute will join in the celebration of Underwater Parks Day on Saturday, January 16, 2016, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Learn about and explore the species, habitats and resources that make our ocean exceptional. Visitors can learn about and explore our local Dana Point State Marine Conservation Area (DPSMCA) and understand the importance of protected areas such as this. Guided Tidepool hikes, sea urchin dissections and other activities will highlight this amazing environment and animals that live just feet from our door.
The day is a coordinated event by marine science centers throughout Southern California to educate the public about the statewide network of Marine Protected and Conservation Areas and explain the need for these “underwater parks.” Join us as we celebrate recreation and conservation along Southern California’s coast. Activities are included with general weekend admission.
The Ocean Institute is a non-profit organization which seeks to demystify the world of science, empower children to become tomorrow’s scientific leaders, and deepen society’s appreciation of how the ocean and science impact our lives. Established in 1977, the Ocean Institute uses the mystery and allure of the ocean to inspire 115,000 students per year with more than 60 award-winning ocean science and maritime history
programs. We’re located in Dana Point Harbor alongside the tide pools of a Marine Conservation Area, and we use the ocean as the classroom to inspire students of all ages to learn. We’re open to the general public. Weekdays, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., $5/person (members and children under 2 free). Facilities open: the atrium, alcove, courtyard & Maddie James Seaside Learning Center. Weekends, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., $10/adult, $7.50 seniors and children ages 3-12 (members and children under 2 free). Facilities open: the atrium, alcove, courtyard, Maddie James Seaside Learning Center & Ocean Education Center; includes Pilgrim tour on most Sundays, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Unique maritime and ocean-themed items are available in the Chambers Gallery daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Institute address: 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point.
Website: www.ocean-institute.org. Phone: (949) 496-2274.
Jim Graves
