Top San Diego Nature and Wildlife Tours

Swap city sightseeing for some time on the water with this exciting whale-watching cruise. Avoid the guesswork when trying to figure out where to spot whales, and let the experienced crew take you directly to places known for sightings. As well as whales, you may spot sea lions, sea birds, and sometimes dolphins—with commentary from the naturalist guides who can share plenty of facts about marine life.

Elevate your sightseeing experiences in San Diego with this luxury whale- and dolphin-watching cruise. Instead of doing any research, enjoy having a crew to take you to places known for their whale and dolphin sightings. The luxury vessel is air-conditioned with indoor seating, as well as a restroom and stabilizers to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride.

Meet some of the world's most exotic animals with your admission ticket to the renowned San Diego Zoo, one of California's top family-friendly attractions. More than 4,000 animals representing 800 species live in this state-of-the-art zoo, including some that are rarely seen at other zoos. Admire the animals and go in-depth during daily keeper talks. With mobile tickets, simply scan your phone for direct entry into the San Diego Zoo. Ticket must be redeemed on travel date selected. Tickets must be purchased at least one day prior to visit.

Encounter some of Earth's most magnificent creatures on a 2–3-hour whale-watching cruise in San Diego. The voyage departs right from Mission Bay, so you’ll be out into the open Pacific Ocean and looking for animals in just 10 minutes. Expert Guides and Naturalists on board help you spot whales and dolphins and learn about their lives in the deep blue sea.

Go on a whale-watching expedition in San Diego on a half-day cruise. Get the scoop from a guide who studies the migratory patterns of whales as you keep a lookout for the majestic marine mammals, as well as dolphins, turtles, and more. The yacht offers 360-degree views of the ocean and both indoor and outdoor viewing decks, for an all-round comfortable experience.

Go whale watching from San Diego aboard a replica of a historic sailing schooner that won the world’s first America’s Cup sailing competition in 1851. Throughout your cruise, your expert guide shares informative commentary about gray whales, dolphins, and other marine animals, along with details about the US Navy sites you pass as you head out on the Pacific Ocean.

This intimate, small-group tour in San Diego lets you get up close and personal to whales and dolphins. You’re not on a huge tour boat. Rather there is a maximum of six guests, where you have plenty of space for viewing marine life. Your captain takes you to the best spots while you relax aboard your boat.

View over 4,000 animals roaming in large enclosures on a 2-day visit to the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This admission ticket allows you to spend two days at the Zoo or Safari Park or split your time between the two. Access to all shows and exhibits and all in-park transportation are included. With mobile tickets, scan your phone for direct entry into the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.

Experience the beauty of the San Diego coastline on a peaceful sunset sailing tour, avoiding the crowds at popular viewing spots. Relax aboard your vessel as you take in stunning sunset views, along with possible sightings of dolphins, vibrant seabirds, and sea lions. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of the Coronado Bridge, Point Loma, and San Diego Bay.

Experience a day of imagination and fun at LEGOLAND® California Resort with over 60 rides, shows, and attractions made for families with kids ages 2–12. Explore Miniland USA, drive at Fun Town, and splash around at the Water Park. Visit the SEA LIFE Aquarium and dive into ocean wonders. Book a Sea Life or Resort Hopper and get a second day free to revisit the adventure.

Fantastic Private 10 hour tour from San Diego to stunning Joshua Tree National Park First stop will be at the Joshua Tree National Park visitor center and after that we will drive into the park to Skull rock, we will see Jumbo Rocks, stunning views from Keys View and time for a short hike if you would like at Hidden Valley Trail. The rock formations at Joshua Tree are incredible and you will see thousands of Joshua Trees. On the way back we will have time to stop at the visitor center again and you can pick up something to eat for the drive back to San Diego.

You will check-in 30 minutes before the time of departure. 15 minutes before departure we will escort you down to the boat. We will cruise for 2.5-3 hours looking for whales, dolphins, sea lions, and other life. If the weather doesn't permit leaving the bay, then we will spend most of our time cruising around Mission Bay enjoying being on the water.

Discover some of San Diego’s most incredible marine wildlife with the help of a local guide who knows the water like the back of their hand on this small-group boat tour. Try your luck spotting whales, dolphins, sea lions, and more while you enjoy the smooth ride on a former military boat.

San Diego provides the perfect launching point for a whale-watching tour in California. Cruise on the Pacific Ocean in a sturdy boat with a professional crew, looking for gray whales as they migrate along the coast of North America. Dolphins, seals and seabirds are often spotted during this whale-watching tour and the crew provides informative commentary about the marine animals and environment. Bonus: if the crew does not find any whales during your cruise, you receive a complimentary ticket for another trip.

Take a trip through American naval history when you go for a self-led tour of the USS Midway Museum in San Diego, with the benefit of prebooked admission tickets. This enormous ship, the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, now offers a range of interactive exhibits, an audio tour, and numerous restored aircraft across its 4 acres (1.6 hectares). It’s an essential piece of the country's military history.

Explore the stunning marine life off the coast of San Diego with premier whale watching tours. Witness majestic whales in their natural habitat while enjoying an eco-friendly experience that emphasizes sustainability. The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the local ecosystem and the species you encounter, making the tour both educational and captivating. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike, this tour ensures an unforgettable day on the water. All tours depart from Seaforth Marina, offering a comfortable and accessible starting point for your adventure. - Eco-friendly whale watching tours departing from Seaforth Marina - Expert guides share insights on marine life and ecology - Family-friendly activities suitable for all ages - Enjoy a memorable day at sea while supporting sustainable tourism

Enjoy a thrilling new way to explore San Diego Bay—and enjoy speed, splashes, and spins along the way—on this high-speed jet boat tour. As you race along the scenic waterway, spot landmarks including the USS Midway, Coronado Island, Seaport Village, the Embarcadero, and the city skyline. Then, hang on as your captain takes your boat into power slides, 360-degree spins, and other high-octane maneuvers.

Spend a few hours relaxing and sightseeing in the waters just off San Diego during this 1- or 2-hour San Diego Harbor cruise. Sit back and relax as you take in a fully narrated tour, offering top-notch sight lines of the San Diego skyline, a cruise under Coronado Bridge, a look at the bustling US Naval fleet, and a chance to spot some of the harbor’s resident sea lions.

We are happy to introduce you to the 60-minute Glow Boat Experience on Electric boats, a romantic night date idea in San Diego Bay! The boat illuminate outside, and it is a lot of fun riding it after dark. To complete your experience, a stereo system will make your boat rock'n'roll. Electric Boat max capacity is up to 4 adults and 1 small child (4-5 years old). Max total weight is 650 lb. Our crew will guide everyone through San Diego Bay to ensure you feel safe and know where to go. On an average night, we have 3 Glow Electric boats and one boat with our safety crew. The ride will start at America's Cup Harbor, and after 10 minutes, you will find yourself in San Diego Bay with a beautiful Night view of Downtown. Listen to music, chat with your partner, and enjoy fantastic scenery! No experience is necessary to maneuver these electric boats; our crew will provide you with detailed instructions! You will stay dry all the time!

Go fishing off the San Diego Pier at Ocean Beach and try your luck catching sand bass, mackerel, calico bass, croaker, and more. Your guide will set you up with all your gear, so no need to worry about that. Learn a few pointers if you need them, then cast your lines and go to work. Enjoy this with a small group of max 10 and make a few new friends.

Explore some of the top highlights of San Diego with your or or two day trolley pass (depending on option selected) for the city’s Hop-on, Hop-off Trolley Tour. Choose your own adventure as you get on and off the trolley at any of the 11 included stops, covering famous sights including the Gaslamp Quarter, the San Diego Zoo, USS Midway and the Cruise Ship Terminal, Little Italy, and many more. This San Diego trolley tour also features live commentary from the on-board guide during your ride.

Unlock the full magic of the San Diego Zoo with a high-tech, self-paced adventure that ensures you never miss a rare sighting or a hidden trail. This interactive guide transforms your phone into an expert scout, leading you straight to the most active wildlife while revealing the incredible "behind-the-scenes" stories of the world’s most famous zoo.

Explore the depths of the Pacific Ocean on a thrilling blue shark diving expedition off the stunning coast of San Diego. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to encounter these graceful creatures in their natural habitat, guided by experienced professionals who prioritize your safety and enjoyment. With a remarkable success rate of over 90% for shark sightings, you're in for an unforgettable day at sea filled with awe-inspiring discoveries. Prepare for an adventure that connects you with nature like never before, as you glide through crystal-clear waters and observe the serene elegance of blue sharks.