Mayor’s Message
BY MAYOR MATTHEW PAGANO
WELCOME TO THE 54TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF WHALES
The City of Dana Point is honored to once again mark the annual migration of gray whales along the Dana Point coastline. Now in its 54th year, the Festival of Whales is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate these majestic creatures of the sea, as well as enjoy our beautiful city. As a longtime resident of Dana Point, I treasure these celebrations, because they remind us of what makes our Southern California city so special. Dana Point gained worldwide recognition as the first Whale Heritage Area in the Americas and Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World®
This claim to fame provides for numerous memories and awe-inspiring moments when you do catch a glimpse of a whale tail. If you haven’t gone before, make this your year to book a whale watching excursion to see the whales migrating along our coastline! You can also learn about these coastal creatures through numerous curated educational programs and events held throughout the festival weekend.
Another great aspect of Festival of Whales is the fun activities spread throughout the weekend. The festival includes everything from chowder cook-offs to live music, art, and more. This year, we are excited to introduce a carnival at Lantern Bay Park. Bring your family and friends to enjoy an array of exciting carnival rides, games, and delicious food. This fun-filled event is perfect for all ages and a great way to celebrate the annual migration of gray whales.
Whether it’s your first visit or one of many, the Festival of Whales is a wonderful way to create family memories and to enjoy the best of what Dana Point has to offer.
Whale Watching
BOTH DAYS OF FESTIVAL AND BEYOND
Whale watching during the Festival of Whales, held at the peak of the California Gray Whale migration, offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature’s majesty. It’s a chance for families and friends to witness firsthand the awe-inspiring spectacle of these magnificent creatures as they journey along the coast. Whether from land or sea, immersing oneself in this annual migration not only provides unforgettable memories but also fosters a deeper appreciation for marine conservation efforts. Join us in celebrating the wonder of our oceans and the remarkable journey of the California Gray Whale at this year’s Festival of Whales.
CAPT. DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING SAFARI
Captain Dave’s Whale Watching boasts a storied legacy spanning over two decades. Founded by Captain Dave Anderson, it has become renowned for its innovative approaches to eco-friendly whale watching, offering guests unforgettable encounters with marine life, including unique underwater viewing pods. Or save 20% instantly when you book a 2.5-hour Signature Safari or two-hour Zodiac Safari. Reservations, schedule, and information: (949) 488-2828 or visit dolphinsafari.com.
OCEAN INSTITUTE
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the Ocean Institute’s expert marine educators as you dive into the wonders of the ocea. During its immersive, 2.5-hour Marine Life Exploration program, you’ll search for some of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring creatures, from the tiniest plankton to majestic giants. General admission to the Ocean Institute is included with the ticket purchase. For more information or reservations, please visit oceaninstitute.org or call (949) 496-2274.
DANA WHARF WHALE WATCHING
Dana Wharf Whale Watching, the birthplace of whale watching in Southern California, has been a pioneer in marine ecotourism since its inception (by founder and beloved Festival patriarch, Don Hansen). With over 50 years of expertise, they’ve provided unparalleled experiences, showcasing the rich biodiversity and beauty of the Pacific Ocean to countless visitors.
Use promo code FOW25 to save $10 off all tickets, excluding special (already discounted) 8 a.m. trips. For reservations, call (888) 224-0603 or visit danawharf.com.
WHALE WATCHING FROM LAND
During this peak season, 40-50 whales pass by Dana Point each day, using the Dana Point Headlands’ 200-foot cliffs near the harbor as a landmark to check their migration path. Enjoy blufftop viewing from the Headlands Nature Interpretive Center.
For more information & expanded event listings, visit FestivalOfWhales.com
Schedule of Events
FRIDAY, MARCH 7
WELCOMING OF THE WHALES KICKOFF CEREMONY AND RECEPTION
5 to 8 p.m.
Ocean Institute,
24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive
A sunset ceremony by the Acjachemen Nation and a Dana Point Surf Club paddle out at the Marine Protected Area beach. Following the beach ceremony, a reception will be held inside the Ocean Institute. The event will include food truck cuisine and drinks for purchase, commemorative festival merchandise and the Ocean Institute’s free interactive educational activities and displays. RSVP: oceaninstitute.org 1
FESTIVAL OF WHALES CARNIVAL
6 to 10 p.m.
Lantern Bay Park
The City of Dana Point invites you to the Festival of Whales three-day carnival with ocean views, carnival rides, games, and food. Pet Project Foundation will host a beer garden until 8 p.m. with a DJ. The Trolley will run from Dana Hills, throughout the Harbor and up to Lantern Bay Park on Saturday and Sunday. 16
SATURDAY, MARCH 8
CARDBOARD CLASSIC & DINGHY DASH
8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Westwind Sailing & Baby Beach
34451 Ensenada Place
A cardboard boat building contest and race, business barge exhibition, food, music, and awards. Proceeds benefit the Dana Point Aquatic Foundation’s programs for at-risk youth and special needs boaters. 2, 3
WYLAND ART LESSONS IN THE WILD – ON THE WATER
9 a.m. to noon
Dana Wharf, 34675 Golden Lantern
Marine muralist Wyland leads an art lesson aboard a Dana Wharf vessel. $16 per child, with part of the proceeds benefiting the Wyland Foundation. Includes a VIP presentation, exclusive art lesson, and a chance to have your art judged by Wyland. 13
MARINE
MAMMAL LECTURE SERIES: ALISA SCHULMAN-JANIGER
9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Harpoon Henry’s, 34555 Golden Lantern
A talk on the California Orca and Gray Whale Census with Alisa Schulman-Janiger. $15 admission includes continental breakfast. Whale-watching trip available after (separate admission). Proceeds benefit the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. 12
ART IN THE PARK
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
24500 Dana Point Harbor Drive
Local artisans display artwork in various mediums including painting, photography, jewelry and textiles. 5, 6
LITTLE FOLK CLUB
10 to 10:50 a.m.
Don Hansen Plaza, 34675 Golden Lantern
A family-friendly singalong for infants to pre-K, led by Victoria Bailey. 13
DOCKSIDE DRAFTS
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive
Enjoy a waterfront craft beer experience on the Maddie James Seaside Learning Center, featuring a curated selection of local brews, all set against the stunning backdrop of Dana Point. Free entry-just come thirsty! Delicious food and refreshing drinks will be available for purchase. 1
MODERN MAKERS MART
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Harbor Boardwalk, 34555 Golden Lantern
Local artisans showcase boutique goods including food, clothing, and home items along the East Basin Boardwalk. Festival merchandise will be available for purchase at the Mart. 12
CLASSIC CAR DISPLAYS
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Bump Out Park, 24354 Dana Point Harbor Drive
Iconic classic cars including muscle cars, hot rods, and cruisers. Featuring car clubs such as Pacific Coast Corvettes, British Invasion, Just Havin’ Fun, Cool Runnin’ Camaros, Hot Rods Unlimited, and SoCal Woodies. 5
CLAM CHOWDER COOK-OFF
11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
34451 Ensenada Place
Taste chowders from more than a dozen local restaurants and cast your vote for your favorite. $15 to taste all of the chowders, $7 drink garden for adults 21 and older. Live music by CC Stugino. Proceeds benefit Fish for Life. 3
HARBOR MUSIC SERIES
Noon to 4 p.m.
Dana Wharf Courtyard and Coffee Importers
Live music performances featuring various styles and sounds. 11, 13
FESTIVAL OF WHALES CARNIVAL
3 to 10 p.m.
Lantern Bay Park
The City of Dana Point invites you to the Festival of Whales
three-day carnival with ocean views, carnival rides, games, and food. Pet Project Foundation will host a beer garden until 8 p.m. with a DJ. The Trolley will run from Dana Hills, throughout the Harbor and up to Lantern Bay Park on Saturday and Sunday. 16
DANA POINT HISTORICAL SOCIETY WALKING TOUR
2 to 4 p.m.
Coastal Kitchen, 34091 CA-1
Meet at PCH and Blue Lantern
Join historians on the Dana Point Historical Society’s annual historic town center Walking Tour. Guests on the 1.5-hourtour will see and hear the stories of historic landmarks and view the exteriors of historic Woodruff homes. The tour covers approximately one mile on mostly flat surface streets. For reservations,email museum@danapointhistorical.org. 15
PACIFIC MARINE MAMMAL CENTER, BOOTH AND INTERACTIVE WHALE EXHIBIT
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Grassy area by Island Way, 24650 Dana Point Harbor
Learn more about rescued marine mammals and engage in educational activities, like walking through Winston the Whale, a 56’ long inflatable whale. This life-sized exhibit offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the fascinating world of marine mammals up close! 7
DOHENY STATE BEACH WHALE WALK
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Doheny State Beach
The life-size display features paintings of whales that migrate past the beach’s shores, offering guests the chance to walk next to these ocean giants. The Whale Walk stretches along the asphalt promenade, nestled between the park’s green lawn and the sandy shoreline, extending from the lifeguard headquarters tower to the Dana Point Harbor breakwater. 14
SAIL ON SPIRIT OF DANA POINT
10 a.m to noon
24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive
Set sail on the Spirit of Dana Point for a hands-on family adventure. Raise the sails, navigate, take the helm, and stand bow watch. Experience a thrilling cannon demonstration and create unforgettable memories.Tickets are $40; $10 for infants and toddlers through age 18 months. 1
SUNDAY, MARCH 9
LITTLE PIRATES TREASURE HUNT
9 a.m. to noon
Baby Beach, 34451 Ensenada Place
Join the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club for a pirate-themed treasure hunt benefiting children’s charities-buy a $10 shovel, dress like a pirate, and dig for treasure with help from local high school Interact Club members! 3
STAND UP TO TRASH BEACH CLEANUP AND LUNCH & LEARN
9 to 11 a.m.
Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive
A beach cleanup with a talk by UCI’s Jessica Pratt on marine sustainability. Supplies provided; bring your own reusable items if possible. 1
MARINE MAMMAL LECTURE
SERIES: KIRSTEN DONALD
9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Harpoon Henry’s, 34555 Golden Lantern
A lecture on whale entanglements and sea lion rehabilitation by Kirsten Donald. $15 admission includes continental breakfast. Proceeds benefit the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. 12
ART IN THE PARK
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
24500 Dana Point Harbor Drive
Local artisans display artwork in various mediums including painting, photography, jewelry and textiles. 5, 6
INTERACTIVE SAILING RIDES
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
OC Sailing & Events Center, 34451 Ensenada Place
Learn to sail a Capri 14 for $10 per boat. Ages 5 and older, max three participants per boat. Proceeds benefit the Dana Point Aquatic Foundation. 2
...See page 19
CONCERT ON THE WATER & BBQ
Noon to 5 p.m.
Baby Beach, 34451 Ensenada Place
A free concert on a floating dock with barbecue for purchase. Proceeds benefit local organizations, including the Marine Corps League. 3
KIDS’ FISHING CLINIC AND FISHING TRIP
Noon to 5:10 p.m.
Dana Wharf Sportfishing, 4675 Golden Lantern
Kids can enjoy a free fishing clinic at noon, followed by a guided fishing trip from 12:45 to 5:15 p.m. Ticket prices are $69 for adults and $59 for children younger than 12, including equipment rental. 13
MODERN MAKERS MART
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Harbor Boardwalk, 34555 Golden Lantern
Local artisans showcase boutique goods including food, clothing, and home items along the East Basin Boardwalk. 12
DOCKSIDE DRAFTS
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive
A waterfront beer event featuring local craft brews. Free entry; drinks and food available for purchase. 1
HARBOR MUSIC SERIES
Noon to 4 p.m.
Dana Wharf Courtyard and Coffee Importers
Live music performances featuring various styles and sounds. 11, 13
CLASSIC CAR DISPLAYS
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Bump Out Park, 24354 Dana Point Harbor Drive
Iconic classic cars including muscle cars, hot rods, and cruisers. Featuring car clubs such as Pacific Coast Corvettes, British Invasion, Just Havin’ Fun, Cool Runnin’ Camaros, Hot Rods Unlimited, and SoCal Woodies.
FESTIVAL OF WHALES
CARNIVAL
3 to 9 p.m.
Lantern Bay Park
The City of Dana Point invites you to the Festival of Whales
three-day carnival with ocean views, carnival rides, games, and food. Pet Project Foundation will host a beer garden until 8 p.m. with a DJ. The Trolley will run from Dana Hills, throughout the Harbor and up to Lantern Bay Park on Saturday and Sunday. 16
DANA POINT HISTORICAL SOCIETY WALKING TOUR
2 to 4 p.m.
Coastal Kitchen, 34091 CA-1
Meet at PCH and Blue Lantern
Join historians on the Dana Point Historical Society’s annual historic town center Walking Tour. Guests on the 1.5-hourtour will see and hear the stories of historic landmarks and view the exteriors of historic Woodruff homes. The tour covers approximately one mile on mostly flat surface streets. For reservations, email museum@danapointhistorical.org. 15
PACIFIC MARINE MAMMAL CENTER, BOOTH AND INTERACTIVE WHALE EXHIBIT
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Grassy area by Island Way, 24650 Dana Point Harbor
Learn more about rescued marine mammals and engage in educational activities, like walking through Winston the Whale, a 56’ long inflatable whale. This life-sized exhibit offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the fascinating world of marine mammals up close! 7
FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES & OPEN HOUSES
Explore a variety of open houses, self-guided experiences, and general admission activities through the Festival of Whales. From interactive exhibits to special promotions, these offerings provide unique ways to enjoy the festival at your own pace. All events are March 8 and March 9, unless otherwise noted.
DOHENY STATE BEACH WHALE WALK
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The life-size display features paintings of whales that migrate past the beach’s shores, offering guests the chance to walk next to these ocean giants. The Whale Walk stretches along the asphalt promenade, nestled between the park’s green lawn and the sandy shoreline, extending from the lifeguard headquarters tower to the Dana Point Harbor breakwater. festivalofwhales.com/event-details-registration/ dsbv25
WHALE OF A KIDS’ ART CONTEST
Submissions due by March 3rd
The life-size display features paintings of whales that migrate past the beach’s shores, offering guests the chance to walk next to these ocean giants. The Whale Walk stretches along the asphalt promenade, nestled between the park’s green lawn and the sandy shoreline, extending from the lifeguard headquarters tower to the Dana Point Harbor breakwater. festivalofwhales.com/event-details-registration/ dsbv25
OCEAN INSTITUTE GENERAL ADMISSION
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Explore:
• Gray Whale Museum: Migrate over to the courtyard to see gray whale artifacts, images, and understand just how large these gentle giants are.
• Artifact Restoration Station: Learn from expert curators how to restore and maintain whale artifacts.
• Shark Senses: Sharks are known for their incredible senses. Explore these senses and others with a VR exhibit, “Senses of the Sea.”
• Fish Finder: Explore tanks of local animals and learn what makes each fish uniquely adapted to their homes. Free for Ocean Institute members. $15 for adults; $10 seniors and military; and $7.50 kids.
NEW!CARNIVAL
Buy your tickets early and save big! Rides, games, food, and more. Join us Friday through Sunday; afternoons at Lantern Bay Park. Visit bit.ly/FOWCarnival for tickets, times, and details.
BBQ & CONCERT
SUNDAY, MARCH 9th | 12PM to 5PM | BABY
BEACH
|
34451 ENSENADA PL.
Bring your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy an afternoon of music, food, and spirits! Bands will be playing o Baby Beach on a specially designed oating dock for this free concert. BBQ lunch options will be available to purchase bene tting local youth sports programs. A Spirit Garden for those 21+ will be available with proceeds bene tting the Marine Corps League, South Coast Detachment.
BAND LINEUP: 1:00PM - 2:30PM Upstream | 3:00PM - 4:30PM Surf’s Up FREE! ...And so much more!
Don’t miss the kicko ceremony, chowder cooko , lecture series, art programs, makers mart, classic cars, treasure hunts, beach clean-up, shing trip and clinic for kids, and all that the Dana Point Harbor has to o er throughout the weekend!
LANTERNBAYPARK
GETTING TO THE FESTIVAL
Nestled along the sun-kissed California coastline, Dana Point beckons you with its breathtaking beauty and coastal charm. Imagine azure waters meeting golden sands, framed by rugged cliffs and swaying palms – a perfect backdrop for the annual Festival of Whales. With whale watching excursions, family-friendly activities, and a sense of community that’s as warm as the sun-soaked shores, the Festival of Whales invites you to embark on a coastal escape like no other. Come join us in this seaside haven, where every wave whispers tales of wonder and every moment promises cherished memories
TROLLEYS & SHUTTLES
Getting to and around the Festival of Whales is easy with free trolley and Harbor shuttle services!
In light of ongoing Harbor construction, we invite you to take advantage of our convenient trolley and shuttle services—or enjoy exploring the area on your ebikes and bicycles—for a fun and efficient way to navigate the Harbor.
DANA POINT TROLLEY
Running Saturday, March 8 & Sunday, March 9, the special Festival of Whales trolley route will service most areas of Dana Point Harbor as well as select downtown stops. For real-time tracking, visit dptrolley.com or download the DP Trolley App.
TROLLEY HOURS:
Saturday: 7:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.
Sunday: 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Free parking is available at Dana Hills High School (33333 Golden Lantern). There will be a trolley stop near the high school.
DANA POINT HARBOR SHUTTLE
A free daily shuttle will run throughout the Harbor with designated overflow parking at the East Island Lot (24701 Dana Drive). The shuttle provides courtesy transportation to Mariner’s Village, Wind & Sea, and Dana Wharf, making it easy to access festival activities. Follow posted signage for the Dana Wharf Shuttle.
Shuttle Hours: Daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
PARKING
Many of the parking lots in the Dana Point Harbor are free parking, limited to four hours maximum. Hourly parking and day parking passes are available at Doheny State Beach at the automated payment kiosks.
E-BIKE PARKING
The Clean & Green Way to Travel to the Festival
A FREE e-bike corral will be available for the public at the location below courtesy of Doheny Bike. Riders must supply their own lock.
Saturday, March 8
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Baby Beach
Sunday, March 9
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Baby Beach
DANA POINT: A FRONT-ROW SEAT TO THE GRAY WHALE MIGRATION
Each year, Dana Point welcomes one of nature’s greatest spectacles—the migration of gray whales. Known as the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World®, this coastal gem provides a rare front-row seat to witness these magnificent creatures as they make their annual journey from the icy feeding grounds of Alaska to the warm, sheltered lagoons of Baja California. Traveling up to 12,000 miles round-trip, gray whales undertake one of the longest migrations of any mammal, a journey fueled by instinct and survival. As they pass through Dana Point’s waters, often accompanied by their calves, they offer breathtaking moments for locals and visitors alike.
Gray whales, known for their curiosity and resilience, were once hunted to the brink of extinction. Today, thanks to conservation efforts, their populations have rebounded, allowing us to witness their incredible migration each year. Despite their recovery, these whales still face challenges, from warming ocean temperatures to shifting food availability. Scientists and marine enthusiasts alike continue to study their migration patterns, noting shifts in their behaviors and numbers as they navigate an ever-changing environment.
Dana Point’s annual Festival of Whales is a beloved tradition that celebrates this incredible migration, drawing crowds for ocean excursions, educational exhibits, and cultural festivities. As visitors gather to witness these gentle giants, they also gain a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s delicate balance and the need to protect marine ecosystems. Whale-watching excursions provide not only stunning views of these animals but also valuable insight into their behaviors, feeding habits, and the challenges they face in a rapidly changing ocean.
“These experiences offer people an opportunity of a lifetime—allowing
them to witness the beauty and complexity of marine life, inspiring a deeper connection to the ocean,” says Ocean Institute President and CEO Dr. Wendy Leavell. “By engaging with these magnificent animals, we can foster a sense of stewardship that encourages future generations to protect our oceans.”
Whether you’re attending the Festival of Whales or simply hoping to catch a glimpse of these extraordinary travelers, Dana Point offers an unforgettable experience—one that connects us to the natural world in a profound and lasting way.
Elaine Jung LaVine Ins Agy Inc
Elaine LaVine, Agent
Elaine Jung LaVine Ins Agy Inc
Elaine LaVine, Agent
Elaine Jung LaVine Ins Agy Inc
Elaine LaVine, Agent
34080 Gldn Lantern St Ste 105 Dana Point, CA 92629-2679
Bus: 949-240-8944
34080 Gldn Lantern St Ste 105 Dana Point, CA 92629-2679
34080 Gldn Lantern St Ste 105
Dana Point, CA 92629-2679
Bus: 949-240-8944
elaine@elainelavine.net www.elainelavine.net
elaine@elainelavine.net
Insurance License #0F64179
Bus: 949-240-8944
www.elainelavine.net
elaine@elainelavine.net
Insurance License #0F64179
www.elainelavine.net
Insurance License #0F64179
MERCHANDISE FESTIVAL OF WHALES
The 2025 Dana Point Festival of Whales commemorative merchandise features a vibrant selection of adult and children’s short-sleeved T-shirt, cozy crewneck sweatshirts, zip-front hoodies, hats, tote bags and more. These limited-edition pieces celebrate the spirit of the festival. So grab your favorites while supplies last.
MERCHANDISE BOOTH LOCATIONS
FRIDAY, MARCH 7
REMEMBER TO TAG US IN YOUR PHOTOS
5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Ocean Institute Welcoming of the Whales Ceremony 1
SATURDAY, MARCH 8 AND SUNDAY, MARCH 9
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Dana Wharf Walkway 13 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Baby Beach 3
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