Celebrate the Pacific in Dana Point, California

HAPPENING NOW

The largest gathering of tall ships on the West Coast, the Tall Ships Festival (Sep 8-9; $10, $8 ages 3-12; Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr.; 949/496-2274) includes cannon battles, living-history demonstrations, sea-chantey concerts, and public tours.

DO

Marine Wildlife Cruise Ocean Institute scientists lead excursions along the coast aboard the RV Sea Explorer to discover the wonders of sea life. INFO: 1-3:30 most Sun (call for dates); $35, $22 ages 4-12 (no children under 4), reservations required; 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr.; 949/496-2274.

Ocean Education Center On weekends, the Ocean Institute invites the public to explore its aquariums, experience working marine labs demonstrating water cycles, and board the square-rigged Pilgrim to learn knot-tying and sea chanteys. INFO: 10-3 Sat-Sun (Pilgrim open 10-2:30 Sun); $6, $4 ages 3-12, including Pilgrim admission; 949/496-2274

Kayaking Rent a kayak and poke around the harbor. INFO: UP Sports Kayak trailer, 34451 Ensenada Place, next to Baby Beach; from $20 per hour; 949/443-5161.

Cannons Seafood Grill All things from the sea at the casual blufftop restaurant with panoramic views. Live jazz on the terrace Sunday afternoons (4-7). INFO: $$$; 34344 Green Lantern St.; 949/496-6146.

Jon's Fish Market Fish and chips on the wharf; inexpensive and very fresh fare. INFO: $; 34665 Golden Lantern St.; 949/496-2807.