FACTS AT-A-GLANCE

2012 Festival Dates

The Festival of Whales celebrates migrating whales that use Dana Point's headland as a landmark on their journey southward with a two-weekend festival, March 3, 4 and 10, 11, 2012. This year marks the 41st annual celebration.

About the Festival

The Festival of Whales began 41 years ago as an annual seaside event in the picturesque town of Dana Point. The community and visitors celebrate the migration of the California Gray Whale and other species with ocean-themed events and activities with an emphasis on education and environmental responsibility.

Why Dana Point is "The Whale Capital of The West"

Located midway between Los Angeles and San Diego, experts believe the 200-foot cliffs jutting out into the sea at Dana Point serve as a landmark for the migrating whales.

Approximately 25% of the migrating whale population follows the coastline throughout their migration, coming especially close to shore at Dana Point. During peak season, (December through March), 40 to 50 whales pass by Dana Point every day, making Dana Point Harbor the best spot to Whale Watch in Southern California and a popular destination for winter vacationers. In addition to California Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, and even pods of Killer Whales have been spotted in recent years. The Harbor's design allows for quick access to the open water, allowing more time for whale watching (and less time traveling out to sea).

Where are the Whales going?

Gray Whales migrate from Alaska to Mexico to give birth or mate. They perform the longest migration of any mammal each year - traveling more than 6,000 miles in each direction.

Number of Whale Watchers

Over 20,000 passengers (average from previous years)

Number of Festival Attendees

More than 100,000 visitors from around the world (average from previous years)

History of the Festival

2012 will mark the 41st Annual Festival of Whales celebration which began when Dana Point Harbor was first constructed. Author and historian Doris Walker was the first chairperson of the Festival.

2012 Activities to Include

The BEST Whale Watching, a fabulous kick-off parade, Sand Sculpting, Ocean Awareness Day, musical entertainment, on-the-water Concert, Whale of a Block Party, Art Shows, Pancake Breakfast, BBQs, Kids Interpretive Crafts, Classic Car Exhibits, Lectures/Seminars at multiple venues including the Ocean Institute, Historic Walking Tours, Paddling Events, Sailing/Rowing/Kayak/SUP Demos, plus much more!

Information Line: (888) 440-4309
Festival Website: festivalofwhales.com

Volunteers make it happen:

Participating non-profit organizations include Dana Point Historical Society, Dana Point Fine Arts, Dana Point Woman’s Club,

Ocean Institute, Veterans of Foreign War, Dana Point Youth Charitable Foundation, Dana Outrigger Canoe Club, Monarch Beach

Sunrise Rotary, Friends of Harbors, Beaches and Parks, Southern California Chapter of the National Woodie Club, Metropolitan

Club, Hot Rods Unlimited and more.

 

Festival Sponsors:

The City of Dana Point, OC Dana Point Harbor Department, State Parks, Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, Dana Point Harbor

Association and multiple corporate sponsors.

 

More to do in Dana Point:

• Board the Ocean Institute's tallship, The Brig Pilgrim, an exact replica of the 19th century ship Richard Henry Dana sailed to explore the California Coast. The Pilgrim also acts as a floating classroom where students relive the rugged history of early sailing days.
• Explore the romantic caves and natural tide pools along Doheny State Beach. Campgrounds and picnic areas make it a great place for family gatherings.
• Dana Point is home to unique shops, art galleries, and world-class hotels, spas, and restaurants.
• Stay in a variety of local accommodations, from the Marina Inn located right in Dana Point Harbor to the seaside Doubletree Hotel, the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, the five star St. Regis Resort and Spa, or the Marriott Laguna Cliffs Resort & Spa overlooking Dana Point Harbor. (Many hotels offer Whale Watching packages --Call for more information or visit them online.)
• Dana Point is world renowned for deep-sea fishing.
• At Christmastime, Dana Point Harbor has a unique Santa Boat Ride program, which is free to the public. The Holiday Boat Parade features over 100 decorated boats lighting up the harbor as they cruise by.
• Located between Laguna Beach and San Clemente, Dana Point is the ideal vacation destination to experience the best of Orange County.

Media Contact:

Penny Elia
(949) 499-4499
trademarkmg@cox.net

Photos, interviews and media whale watching excursions available

Facts and Fun

Overview
Festival of Whales
Facts at-a-Glance
Gray Matter
Mongoose Cup Press Release
Ocean Awareness Day Press Release