Each spring, Dana Point hosts one of the most popular coastal celebrations in Orange County: the Dana Point Festival of Whales. The annual event celebrates the migration of gray whales along the Southern California coastline and brings the community together for a weekend filled with ocean-themed activities, entertainment, and family-friendly fun.

If you’re searching for things to do in Dana Point, the Festival of Whales is one of the highlights of the year.

Dana Point Festival of Whales 2026 Event Details

The 55th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales will take place March 6–8, 2026 at Dana Point Harbor. The festival celebrates the annual migration of California gray whales, which pass along the Southern California coast each spring.

Location
Dana Point Harbor
34571 Golden Lantern
Dana Point, CA 92629

Festival Schedule Highlights

Friday, March 6

The weekend begins with the Welcoming of the Whales ceremony behind the Ocean Institute. The kickoff event typically includes educational exhibits, food trucks, and family activities celebrating the start of the whale migration season.

Saturday, March 7

Saturday is the busiest day of the festival with events throughout Dana Point Harbor, including:

  • Magical Migration Parade (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)

  • Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash (8:00 AM – 12:30 PM)

  • Modern Makers Mart (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

  • Clam Chowder Cook-Off (11:00 AM – 3:30 PM)

  • Harbor Music Festival with live performances (10:30 AM – 5:30 PM)

Sunday, March 8

Sunday features additional family-friendly events and community activities such as:

  • Beach Cleanup & Ocean Education Event (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM)

  • Classic Car Show (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

  • Antique & Classic Boat Show (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

  • Concert on the Water (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

  • Kids Fishing Clinic (12:00 PM – 5:15 PM)

Throughout the weekend, visitors can also enjoy whale watching tours, harbor activities, local vendors, and live entertainment.

Why Dana Point Is Known for Whale Watching

Dana Point is often called the “Whale Watching Capital of the West.” The city sits directly along the Pacific migration route for gray whales traveling between Alaska and Baja California.

During migration season, whale watching tours departing from Dana Point Harbor frequently spot:

  • Gray whales

  • Dolphins

  • Sea lions

  • Occasionally blue whales later in the year

This makes the Festival of Whales the perfect time to experience one of nature’s most impressive migrations.

Living Near Dana Point Harbor

Events like the Festival of Whales highlight why Dana Point is one of the most desirable coastal communities in Southern California. Residents enjoy easy access to beaches, coastal trails, waterfront dining, and year-round events held at Dana Point Harbor.

Nearby communities like Niguel Shores offer ocean-close living just minutes from the harbor, allowing residents to enjoy the coastal lifestyle while staying close to Dana Point’s many attractions.

Dana Point Events Near Niguel Shores

The Festival of Whales is just one of many popular Dana Point events held throughout the year. Dana Point Harbor regularly hosts outdoor concerts, seasonal festivals, and community gatherings that bring both locals and visitors together.

Living near Dana Point means having access to some of the best coastal events in Orange County, along with beautiful beaches and scenic harbor views.

Dana Point Homes for Sale

Many people visiting Dana Point for events like the Festival of Whales quickly fall in love with the area’s relaxed coastal lifestyle. From ocean-view properties to beach-close homes, Dana Point offers a wide range of real estate opportunities.

If you’re interested in exploring the area further, you can browse available properties using the free MLS home search on our site to view the latest Dana Point homes for sale.

Learn More About the Festival

For the full event schedule and additional details, visit the official event page here.