Octa's transportation blog

For a Whale of a Time, Ride Metrolink to the Festival and Enjoy Discounts

Dana Point is a favorite destination for all who love the sea, including the California Gray Whales who pass by this beautiful town each spring on their annual migration between the Arctic Circle and Mexico.

Now in its 45th year, the Festival of Whales celebrates this amazing 10,000-mile roundtrip journey with two weekends of fun events for the whole family. This year, the festival will be held March 5-6 and March 12-13.

Join us to kick off the Festival of the Whales on Saturday, March 5, starting at 9:00 a.m. at the Tustin Metrolink Station. Come early ‒ the first 50 people will receive a free Metrolink ticket. Enjoy free refreshments and bring a non-perishable food donation to play Plinko and win prizes. After the kickoff event, board Metrolink Train 660 and depart for San Juan Capistrano at 9:46 a.m.

For train schedules and information about how to reach the festival after you step off your Metrolink train, click here.

By using public transportation, you can get to the festival for less and save on whale watching excursions, overnight hotel stays and more. Board the FREE trolley to all event locations or take advantage of Metrolink’s exclusive discount on the Harbor water taxi. Click here for discounts available by showing your Metrolink ticket, OC Bus pass, or 91 Express Lanes transponder.

On weekends, you can save with a Metrolink $10 Weekend Day Pass, valid system-wide for multiple trips on either Saturday or Sunday.