Festival of the Whales
Every Day of the Festival
Whale Watching
The incredible 5000-mile migration of the majestic California Gray Whale from Alaska to Mexico begins in December and continues through March. During this peak season, 40 – 50 whales pass by Dana Point each day, using the Dana Point Headland’s 200-foot cliffs near the harbor as a landmark to check their migration path. Dana Point offers the BEST whale watching along the California Coast – don’t miss it! There’s a whale watching excursion for everyone – note listings on final page.
Doheny State Beach Interpretive Center Open House
Doheny State Beach Interpretive Center 10 am – 4 pm at the entrance to Doheny State Park Aquariums, and the only indoor tide pool in Orange County! FREE 949-496-2704 or www.dohenystatebeach.org
Saturday, March 3
Street Faire
Hosted by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. Dana Point Plaza, 10am- 5pm Pacific Coast Highway North at La Plaza 800-290-DANA or 949-496-1555. Over 120 arts and crafts booths, including food vendors and live entertainment.
Festival of Whales Parade
“Magical Migration” is the 2007 theme. Parade begins promptly at
10 am with a route along Pacific Coast Highway from Selva Road to Golden Lantern in Dana Point.Parade entrants are encouraged to embrace the ocean theme, “Magical Migration,” when designing parade floats and costumes. Awards will be given to the Best Display of Parade Theme, Best Musical Unit, Best Youth Group, and Best Local Entry. For inquiries about giant balloon sponsorships and other parade questions, please contact Jennifer Anderson at the City of Dana Point (949) 248-3593. Parade applications will be posted to the City’s webpage after November 15, 2006, www.danapoint.org
“Whale of a Shoe” Horseshoe Tournament
Held at Doheny State Beach Park’s horseshoe courts located on the beach near lifeguard station #9 just south of the camping area. The entry sign-ups are at the courts Saturday before the 12 Noon deadline. Play begins at 12:30 pm using a tournament format appropriate for the number of entries. Bring your own horseshoes along with a $10 entry donation and enjoy this fun tournament with prizes for the winners. For more information, contact Hal Griswold at 949/496-0577 or email setibird@yahoo.com
Ocean Institute
During the festival weekends the learning labs will focus on new discoveries in marine mammal research and allow visitors to explore a variety of fascinating phenomenon unique to the magnificent whale. Families will have the opportunity to listen to underwater whale sounds to discover how they communicate, enjoy hands-on activities, learn from special speakers, and create fun children’s crafts. Public hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission price is $6 for adults (13 yrs+) and $4 for children (3-12yrs); Children 2 and under are free. Members are free.
Thar She Blows, aboard the tallship Pilgrim
Through living history demonstrations and exciting activities, this adventurous program offers visitors a unique glimpse into life at sea during the early whaling days. Program available 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Program included in price of admission to the Ocean Institute.
“Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California”
Award-winning filmmaker, Capt. Dave Anderson, of Dolphin Safari, Inc., will be screening his film, “Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California” winner of eight awards at the International Wildlife Film Festival and WildScreen. Screenings will be held at Reel Time between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. FREE
Sailing
Take a sailing ride and learn how to steer and sail a Capri 14! Ages 5 and up, 12 pm - 4. $15 per boat, three people maximum (half-hour session). Lifejackets provided. Dana Point Youth & Group Facility, 949-923-2215. Instructor: Westwind Sailing.
Harbor Music Series
Dana Wharf, Mariner’s Village Courtyard and Mariner’s Alley Courtyard 12 – 3 pm Enjoy a variety of musical styles and sounds. FREE
Meet Robert Lyn Nelson
The public is invited to meet Robert Lyn Nelson and enjoy an exhibition of his original paintings and limited editions at Dana Points Coastal Arts facility in Dana Arts Plaza, 34118 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, Saturday afternoon from Noon to 3 pm and Saturday evening from 6 to 9 pm. For additional information contact 949-240-8721 .
Niguel Art Association Show & Sale
The Niguel Art Association, a nonprofit organization supporting local high school art departments, will host a juried art show and sale from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The art will be on display at the Harbor Boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village on the south side of Harpoon Henry’s restaurant. Watercolor, oil, acrylic, photography, and other media by many award-winning local artists will be available for purchase. 949-363-5247 or Franksfotoimages@aol.com
Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour and Open House
The Open House will be open from 11 am to 4 pm. At 2 pm, meet at the Museum located at 24642 San Juan Avenue for the Walking Tour. For more information, call 949-248-8121 www.danapointhistorical.org. FREE
Saturday Evening Campfire Program
Listen to sea tales and learn about whales, sharks and other sea life by the fire at Doheny State Beach Campfire Center FREE 6pm, 949-496-2704 or www.dohenystatebeach.org
Sunday, March 4
Street Faire
Hosted by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. Dana Point Plaza, 10am- 5pm Pacific Coast Highway North at La Plaza 800-290-DANA or 949-496-1555. Over 120 arts and crafts booths, including food vendors and live entertainment.
Ocean Institute
During the festival weekends the learning labs will focus on new discoveries in marine mammal research and allow visitors to explore a variety of fascinating phenomenon unique to the magnificent whale. Families will have the opportunity to listen to underwater whale sounds to discover how they communicate, enjoy hands-on activities, learn from special speakers, and create fun children’s crafts. Public hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission price is $6 for adults (13 yrs+) and $4 for children (3-12yrs); Children 2 and under are free. Members are free.
Thar She Blows, aboard the tallship Pilgrim
Through living history demonstrations and exciting activities, this adventurous program offers visitors a unique glimpse into life at sea during the early whaling days. Program available 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Program included in price of admission to the Ocean Institute.
“Whale of a Shoe” Horseshoe Tournament
Held at Doheny State Beach Park’s horseshoe courts located on the beach near lifeguard station #9 just south of the camping area. The entry sign-ups are at the courts Saturday before the 12 Noon deadline. Play begins at 12:30 pm using a tournament format appropriate for the number of entries. Bring your own horseshoes along with a $10 entry donation and enjoy this fun tournament with prizes for the winners. For more information, contact Hal Griswold at 949/496-0577 or email setibird@yahoo.com
Festival of Whales Junior Charity Regatta 2007
Be a part of a Southern California tradition celebrating the annual whale migration as junior sailors race Naples Sabots on two short courses followed by the challenging “around the Island race.” Join the fun and excitement as these junior sailors compete for the coveted Festival of Whales Perpetual Trophy. The first race starts promptly at noon with the first warning at 11:55 am. This regatta is open to any advanced junior sailor with race experience and their own Naples Sabot sailboat. For more information, including directions, Notice of Race and Entry Forms please visit us at www.dpyc.org or call DPYC at 949-496-2900. Parking for spectators is available at Dana Point Yacht Club on the west end of Dana Drive (The Island). Entry fee of $25 includes T-shirt. Proceeds to benefit the Dana Point Youth Charitable Foundation.
Afternoon Fish-Feeding Program
2:30 pm Doheny State Beach’s Lead Aquarist will show you what’s really hiding in our indoor tide pool and aquariums 949-496-2704 or www.dohenystatebeach.org
Niguel Art Association Show & Sale
The Niguel Art Association, a nonprofit organization supporting local high school art departments, will host a juried art show and sale from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The art will be on display at the Harbor Boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village on the south side of Harpoon Henry’s restaurant. Watercolor, oil, acrylic, photography, and other media by many award-winning local artists will be available for purchase. 949-363-5247 or e-mail Franksfotoimages@aol.com
Sailing
Take a sailing ride and learn how to steer and sail a Capri 14! Ages 5 and up, 12 pm - 4. $15 per boat, three people maximum (half-hour session). Lifejackets provided.Dana Point Youth & Group Facility, 949-923-2215. Instructor: Westwind Sailing.
Harbor Music Series
Dana Wharf, Mariner’s Village Courtyard and Mariner’s Alley Courtyard 12 – 3 pm Enjoy a variety of musical styles and sounds. FREE
Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour and Open House
The Open House will be open from 11 am to 4 pm. At 2 pm, meet at the Museum located at 24642 San Juan Avenue for the Walking Tour. For more information, call 949-248-8121 www.danapointhistorical.org. FREE
Sunday March 10
3rd Annual Rendezvous for Life Walk: Join The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Dana West Yacht Club at this fundraising walk around beautiful Dana Point Harbor to celebrate and commemorate lives touched by cancer. All money raised will benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, whose mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Online registration and more information is available at www.leukemiacup.org/ocie or contact Helen Hawkins at 949-212-9115. Day-of-walk registration starts at 9:00 a.m. at the Henry Dana statue out on the Island. The walk will begin at 10:00 a.m.
Ocean Institute
During the festival weekends the learning labs will focus on new discoveries in marine mammal research and allow visitors to explore a variety of fascinating phenomenon unique to the magnificent whale. Families will have the opportunity to listen to underwater whale sounds to discover how they communicate, enjoy hands-on activities, learn from special speakers, and create fun children’s crafts. Public hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission price is $6 for adults (13 yrs+) and $4 for children (3-12yrs); Children 2 and under are free. Members are free.
Boarders Away: The Battle of the USS Essex on a British Whaler!
Witness dramatic gun battles and sword fights as the Naval Historical Education Foundation presents a series of exciting and sensational historical re-enactments onboard the Pilgrim throughout the day. These spectacular, award-winning performances highlight the USS Essex’s engagement with British Whaling ships during the War of 1812. Three 25-minute shows will be offered along with the opportunity for visitors to meet and interact with these naval officers and whaling men of the past. So step back in time and join us for this extraordinary event between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Program included in price of admission to the Ocean Institute.
Little Dolphin Day
Enjoy a magic show, crafts, body painter, Heebie & Jeebie and clowns. In front of Harpoon Henry’s and Mariner’s Alley. 11am-2 pm 949-923-2255 FREE
Doheny State Beach Traveling Whale Fact Museum
12-3pm, north end of day-use area at the state beach. Hands-on exhibit along the whale boardwalk. See a life-size sperm whale! 949-496-2704 or www.dohenystatebeach.org FREE
Sailing
Take a sailing ride and learn how to steer and sail a Capri 14! Ages 5 and up, 12 pm - 4. $15 per boat, three people maximum (half-hour session). Lifejackets provided. Dana Point Youth & Group Facility, 949-923-2215. Instructor: Westwind Sailing.
Fun & Free Kayak Demo Day
Come test paddle on a large variety of kayaks and chat with the Southwind instructors and guides about the newest and best paddling gear. There will be 20-30 touring, sit-on-top, single and double kayaks for test paddling. This is a great opportunity for novice and intermediate paddlers. Starts at 8:30 am and runs until 2 pm. Children under 18 must have parent in attendance. Meet on the beach adjacent to Dana Point Youth & Group Facility. Call to confirm program in the case of inclement weather 949-261-0200.
Niguel Art Association Show & Sale
The Niguel Art Association, a nonprofit organization supporting local high school art departments, will host a juried art show and sale from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The art will be on display at the Harbor Boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village on the south side of Harpoon Henry’s restaurant. Watercolor, oil, acrylic, photography, and other media by many award-winning local artists will be available for purchase. 949-363-5247 or E-mail Franksfotoimages@aol.com
Saturday Evening Campfire Program
Hear sea tales and learn about whales, sharks and other sea life by the fire at Doheny State Beach Campfire Center 6pm 949-496-2704 or www.dohenystatebeach.org. FREE
Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour and Open House
The Open House will be open from 11 am to 4 pm. At 2 pm, meet at the Museum located at 24642 San Juan Avenue for the Walking Tour. For more information, call 949-248-8121 www.danapointhistorical.org. FREE
Sunday, March 11
Whale of a Pancake Breakfast
Hosted by the El Camino Real Junior Woman’s Club at the Dana Point Youth & Group Facility from 8:30 - 11:30 am. Delicious, fluffy pancakes and tasty sausage served hot off the griddle with juice, milk or coffee. Many great prizes will be raffled with proceeds going to support local charities. Come join the fun and enjoy a great breakfast! Adults - $5, Children under 12 - $3
For information 949-923-2215
Ocean Awareness Day
Interactive displays, demonstrations and entertainment showcasing ocean and environmental programs and issues related to our ocean. Dana Point Youth & Group Facility Grass Area 11am –4 pm.
Ocean Institute
During the festival weekends the learning labs will focus on new discoveries in marine mammal research and allow visitors to explore a variety of fascinating phenomenon unique to the magnificent whale. Families will have the opportunity to listen to underwater whale sounds to discover how they communicate, enjoy hands-on activities, learn from special speakers, and create fun children’s crafts. Public hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission price is $6 for adults (13 yrs+) and $4 for children (3-12yrs); Children 2 and under are free. Members are free.
Thar She Blows, aboard the tallship Pilgrim
Through living history demonstrations and exciting activities, this adventurous program offers visitors a unique glimpse into life at sea during the early whaling days. Program available 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Program included in price of admission to the Ocean Institute.
The Whale – Rubber Ducky Race
Hosted by the Dana Point Woman’s Club, this fun spin on a traditional “Rubber Ducky Race” will be held from 11AM – 2PM at Baby Beach. Rubber Ducks can be pre-purchased at the Street Faire on March 3 & 4 and at Baby Beach the day of the event. Prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. $3 per Rubber Duck or 2 for $5. You do not need to be present to win. Funds raised through this event will benefit the Woman’s Club scholarship fund. 949-496-4539 or www.danapointwomansclub.org
Niguel Art Association Show & Sale
The Niguel Art Association, a nonprofit organization supporting local high school art departments, will host a juried art show and sale from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The art will be on display at the Harbor Boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village on the south side of Harpoon Henry’s restaurant. Watercolor, oil, acrylic, photography, and other media by many award-winning local artists will be available for purchase. 949-363-5247 or E-mail Franksfotoimages@aol.com
Harbor Music Series
Dana Wharf, Mariner’s Village Courtyard and Mariner’s Alley Courtyard 12 – 3 pm Enjoy a variety of musical styles and sounds. FREE
Sailing
Take a sailing ride and learn how to steer and sail a Capri 14! Ages 5 and up, 12 pm - 4. $15 per boat, three people maximum (half-hour session). Lifejackets provided. Dana Point Youth & Group Facility, 949-923-2215. Instructor: Westwind Sailing.
Kids Karnival
Kids Karnival—Ocean-themed carnival games for kids ages 3-12. Dana Point Youth & Group Boatyard 10am-2pm. Just 25 cents per game! 949-923-2215
Ocean Crafts
Create festive ocean keepsakes from 10 am - 2pm. $1 per craft, including craft supplies, materials and supervision. Recommended for ages 5 –12 years old. Dana Point Youth & Group 949-923-2215
Afternoon Fish-Feeding Program
2:30 pm Doheny State Beach’s Lead Aquarist will show you what’s really hiding in our indoor tide pool and aquariums 949-496-2704 or www.dohenystatebeach.org
Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour and Open House
The Open House will be open from 11 am to 4 pm. At 2 pm, meet at the Museum located at 24642 San Juan Avenue for the Walking Tour. For more information, call 949-248-8121 www.danapointhistorical.org. FREE
Whale Watching Excursions
See why Dana Point is the “Whale Capital of the West!” Most excursions are 2-3 hours long. Reservations recommended. Please note: prices below are subject to change.
Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching
(949) 496-5794
www.danawharfsportfishing.com
Dana Point’s first whale watching company will take you out to see California Gray Whales in their natural environment. Giant Grays may spy hop, breach, or fluke. Also enjoy the playful dolphins and sea lions. Whale or dolphin sightings guaranteed or ride again free. Prices $25.00 adult, $20.00 senior and Military, $15.00 child 3-12 years, 2 and under are free. Trips depart on Festival weekends every hour from 8 am to 4pm and all trips are only 2 hours.
Dana Island Yacht Charters
(949) 248-7400
www.danapointwhalewatching.com
$30 per person aboard our fleet of large & luxurious sailboats. Up to 6 passengers per boat. Smaller group sizes offer more comfort and privacy while you learn about whale migration from our experienced, licensed Captains. Special offer - reserve an entire sailboat for only $150 by mentioning this ad. A $30 savings!
Ocean Institute Marine Mammal Exploration Cruises
(949) 496-2274
www.ocean-institute.org
Journey to sea with Ocean Institute naturalists and they’ll introduce you to the local marine wildlife including microscopic plankton and the animals that live in sediment retrieved from the ocean floor. Encounter a pod of playful dolphin or witness the majesty of a traveling whale. Discover the amazing life that lives just beneath the waves in this 2 1/2 hour cruise! $25 adults, $22 kids 4-12.
Capt. Dave’s Whale & Dolphin Safari
(949) 488-2828
www.dolphinsafari.com
See, hear, and talk to the whales aboard a sailing catamaran with an underwater videocam and hydraphone. $45 adults, $35 kids under 12. 2 1/2 fun-filled hours.
Aventura Sailing
(949) 493-9493
www.aventurasailing.com
$30 per person, 6-passenger luxury sailboats, 2 ½ hour trips. Applicable in February and March only. Six passenger minimum required.
