Friday, February 29, 2008

Dana Point's festival of gray whales

The majestic giants of the sea, the California Gray Whale, are gracing the public with their presence during their 5,000-mile migration from Alaska to Mexico. The migration already began in December and continues through March, the last month. During the peak season, 40 to 50 whales pass by Dana Point each day, using the headland's cliffs near the harbor as a landmark to check their path.

The city of Dana Point and other agencies will be hosting the Festival of Whales, from March 1 through 9 in honor of this incredible event.

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 each day of the festival and create fun children’s crafts.
Naturalist Doug Thompson
will discuss his research in Baja and his newest book Whales: Touching the Mystery from 12:30 to 1:30 pm.
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.

Best whale watching price:

Ocean Institute Whale Watching Cruises
(949) 496-2274
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 ½ hour cruise! Cruise times are 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 1:30 to 4:00 PM. Members: $22/adult and $19/child (4-12yrs) Non-Members: $35/adult and $22/child (4-12yrs)

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