Children’s Programs--Kids can explore the county by...

Children’s Programs--Kids can explore the county by land and by sea through two local nature centers.

At Sea: Educational ocean cruises are offered every weekend throughout the summer at the Orange County Marine Institute. A night cruise examining the phenomenon of bioluminescence will feature a variety of local marine wildlife that can emit their own blue-green light. Over the 2 1/2-hour cruise, participants will also view feeding sea lions and black-crowned night herons. A 1,000 watt commercial squid light will be used to attract squid or flying fish.

The Bioluminescence Night Cruise will be offered Saturdays from 8:30 to 11 p.m. Two other cruises are also available. One examines marine wildlife, the other explores the history of Dana Point.

Programs are geared for children but parents and adults are welcome aboard. Prices range from $8 to $20. Reservations and information: the Orange County Marine Institute at (714) 496-2274.

On Shore: Oak Canyon Nature Center hosts several one-hour programs for children ages 3 to 12. The programs include nature hikes, scientific experiments, crafts and live animal demonstrations. The cost is $3 per child per session.

This week, tykes will play hide-and-seek with animals in a game designed to teach children about animal coloration and patterns. Once participants have finished the game, they will hunt for the real animals at the center. The program, designed for 2- to 4-year olds, meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 to 11 a.m.

Four- to 6-year-olds can explore the center on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. This Wednesday, children make their own bubble wands and learn the hows and whys of blowing bubbles.

Those ages 6 to 12 meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Upcoming activities and topics include a look at desert wildlife, which features live tortoises.

Registration and information: (714) 998-8380.