Festival General Admission

Hours Today:

Laurena G. Chambers Gift Shop

Hours Today:

Mermaid Grotto Meet & Greet

September 12 and 13

11:15 am – 12:00 pm

Join us at the Mermaid Grotto for an exclusive meet and greet with a mermaid! Guests will have the chance to ask questions, meet a mermaid up close, and capture a unique photo with these mythical beauties, creating lasting memories of your magical encounter. Plus, every ticket includes a Festival Adventure Pass for even more fun and excitement throughout the day! This is an experience you and your family will not want to miss!

This experience does not include a mermaid swim show. 

Event Highlights:

  • Exclusive Meet and Greet with a Mermaid
  • Opportunity to Ask Questions
  • Unique Photo Opportunity
  • Festival Adventure Pass Included with Every Ticket

Pricing:

Adult/Senior/Child – $35

Infant/Lap Child (0-18 months) – $10

Please check in at the ticketing tent located at Ocean Institute’s main parking lot.

F.A.Q.

What time should I be there?

Check-in begins at 11:15 am. Please arrive at least an hour before your scheduled start time in order to find parking and check-in. The event will begin at 11:30 am. 

What should I bring?

Please make sure to have your ticket on your phone or printed out. Mermaid costumes are encouraged! 

Where do I park?

There is no on-site parking at the festival. We recommend parking at the Dana Point Harbor Parking Structure and taking the trolley to Stop N7B: Baby Beach / Ocean Institute for quick and convenient festival access. Check out our Parking page for more information. 

What is included?
  • This event does not include a mermaid swim show. Your ticket includes an interactive story time and photo opportunity with the mermaid.  Also included is the Festival Adventure Pass 
  • The pass gives you access to the Ocean Institute’s exhibits and tours of all the visiting ships, for both days of the festival! The Institute and ships will open at 9:00 am. Ship tours will end at 2:00 pm to start battle preparations, so make sure to see those first!  
  • Children cannot attend the Mermaid Grotto Meet and Greet by themselves; adults must also purchase tickets. 

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