Top San Diego On the Water

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.

from $126

San Diego: 3 Hour Whale Watch Cruise with Legacy Whale Watch

4.7

(189)

San Diego Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise

from $34

4.6

(1,651)

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

from $71

Explore La Jolla Ecological Reserve's sea caves during a 90-minute kayaking tour. Follow your experienced guide through several diverse ecological habitats, home to one of the highest concentrations of sea life in California. Paddle toward the Seven Sea Caves, where you can get stunning views from inside Emerald Cave, the only north-facing cave in the state (conditions permitting). Explore a giant kelp forest inhabited by wildlife like harbor seals and sea lions. Use of all kayaking equipment is included; no kayaking experience is necessary.

Original La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour for Two

4.5

(895)

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $119

4.5

(3,083)

San Diego Harbor Cruise

from $37

Likely to Sell Out

San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

(2,406)

4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $85

Take in the highlights of San Diego Bay during a sightseeing tour by amphibious vehicle. Travel on both land and water, starting on the streets of Seaport Village and rolling down Harbor Drive alongside San Diego Bay. Transition into the water after departing Seaport Village. Cruise past the SeaWorld and Vacation Isle, experiencing the best of maritime San Diego on this fun and informative tour.

1 hour 45 minutesFree Cancellation

from $56

Go with the La Jolla water sports company consistently voted #1 in the area. We are a proud local company that is continually upgrading our equipment and involved in our community helping at-risk youth experience the water. We are also a member of 1% for the Planet, providing 1% of our profits for beach clean-up. Rent from us and you'll enjoy 90 minutes of kayaking for two in the beautiful La Jolla Ecological Reserve.

Kayak Rental for Two People in La Jolla

4.5

(76)

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $45

San Diego Dolphin Watch Sunset Cruise on Legacy Whale Watch

4.1

(8)

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $34

Explore San Diego bay like never before! Start your adventure at the Coronado Ferry Landing shopping center with breath taking views of the downtown San Diego skyline. Once checked in, you will be given a thorough safety briefing by our qualified team who will detail the use of the jet skis, regulations and restrictions during your experience. Once on the water, you can enjoy sightseeing of the beautiful downtown skyline, the Coronado bridge, navy base, the Midway aircraft carrier museum and if you are lucky, you may just see some seals and dolphins! Speeds up to 65mph!

Jet Ski Rental Adventure in San Diego Bay

(24)

from $129

San Diego Harbor Cruise on the Largest Catamaran in San Diego

Special Offer

4.9

(40)

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from

$44

$55

Guests get to kayak out into the La Jolla Ecological Reserve with trained professional guides to take them to various snorkel sports in the La Jolla Ecological Reserve (spot depends on safety and may change depending on the day.) Once the group arrivals at chosen snorkel spot, the guides will till all of the kayaks together with rope and drop a sea anchor, so the kayaks are stationary, and the guests get to hop out and snorkel in the majestic waters of the La Jolla Ecological Reserve. After the snorkeling portion, guests kayak back to the launching point. Entire duration last two hours. No snorkel experience necessary but preferred. Must be a comfortable swimmer in the ocean to participate.

Two Hour Kayak and Snorkel Tour for Two in La Jolla

4.4

(38)

from $159

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.

San Diego Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

4.7

(2,633)

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.

from $57

San Diego Bay Jet Boat Ride

(411)

30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $45

Set sail at one of the best times of day—sunset—during this San Diego Bay cruise. Board a comfortable sailing yacht and cruise along San Diego's coastline, taking in views of the scenic waterfront, military vessels, and historical landmarks. Catch sight of marine life and enjoy spectacular photo ops. Gorgeous sunset views and comfortable bean bag seating makes this tour a great choice for travelers celebrating a special occasion.

Sunset Sail Along the San Diego Skyline

4.9

(616)

We’re excited to introduce our 60-minute Glow Boat Experience on Electric Boats — a romantic night date in San Diego Bay. The boats glow beautifully after dark and come equipped with a stereo system so you can enjoy music while cruising. Each boat fits up to 4 adults and 1 small child (4–5 years old), with a maximum total weight of 650 lbs. **Note: If your group of 4 is under 650 lbs and you’d like to stay on one boat, purchase 2 tickets. Our crew provides full instructions and guides all boats on the water, with safety crew present. You’ll stay dry and comfortable the entire ride.

from $99

Unique night date idea in San Diego Bay for couples with dogs and families with kids

Glow Electric Boat night date experience in San Diego Bay

(16)

Located on Shelter Island, a well-known area of San Diego where some of the best seafood restaurants and fishing landings are located. Our crew will explain the basic operation and safety tips, and you will be ready for a fantastic time. The boats are equipped with pedal propulsion, so your hands are free to do anything else. Explore the best photo spots and enjoy amazing sightseeing in San Diego Bay at the same time. Get a good workout and find serenity among the waves.

from $75

Special Offer

Explore the beauty of San Diego Bay on sun-shaded and comfortable pedal boats! We will cruise as a group, and our guide will share great tips about the area with the group and capture lovely photos.

Pedal Boat rental in hidden part of San Diego Bay! Family fun

(34)

Gondola Cruise through the Coronado Cays

50 minutesFree Cancellation

from $74

Price varies by group size

Glow Boat is a unique Night experience in San Diego Bay! Amazing night date idea for couples or fun getaway for families with kids.

Glow Nightime Pedal Boat Rental in San Diego Bay

(340)

from $105

Experience the thrill of driving a speedboat—and enjoy a new way to sightsee—on this two-in-one San Diego Harbor tour. Learn the basics of boating from your guide before following their boat around the harbor, cruising past highlights such as the USS Midway, Coronado Bridge, the San Diego Maritime Museum, and more. Discover the stories behind the landmarks via the on-board, two-way communication system, and stop for photo ops.

Special Offer

San Diego Harbor Speed Boat Adventure

(734)

from

$79

$89

Likely to Sell Out

Whale and Dolphin Watching in San Diego

(145)

Experience the ultimate party on the water with Paddle Pub San Diego! Our 26-passenger, pedal-powered pontoon boat is designed for endless fun and excitement. With a powerful sound system, 12 pedaling stations, a spacious sundeck, and vibrant party lighting, you and your friends are in for an unforgettable adventure. Mission Bay, just north of San Diego, offers stunning views and a lively atmosphere. Pack a cooler with your favorite snacks and drinks, and pedal your way around the beautiful lagoon. After the cruise, explore the iconic Mission Beach. Set sail with Paddle Pub and discover what sets us apart from other boat tours—a unique blend of fun, fitness, and scenic beauty!

from $149

Paddle Pub San Diego Party Cruise: Drinks & Dancing for up to 26

(46)

1 hour 30 minutes

from $50

Deluxe Sunset & Day Sail Small Group

(270)

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $119

Likely to Sell Out

Admire views of San Diego that many other visitors miss—and help keep your sightseeing personal—on this small-group sailing excursion that's timed for sunset. Travel aboard a Catalina–style sailboat, and soak up the peaceful ambiance, plus a photo-worthy perspective on the city skyline, Old Point Loma Lighthouse, Coronado Island, and other highlights. Along the way, enjoy beer, soft drinks, and snacks, plus blankets in case you get cold.

Small-Group San Diego Sunset Sailing Excursion

4.9

(610)

San Diego Harbor Cruise on the Largest Catamaran in San Diego

from $127

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What are people saying about San Diego

O_B, Mar 2026

Birthday celebration!

I was hesitant to book this experience with so many options out there but after reading the great reviews that were totally on point I am so happy I did. My husband had a great time celebrating his birthday with this crew which made sure that everyone was taken care of. We booked the sunset cruise where the views were great and the music helped everyone to get up and dance together. Total strangers dancing together! Also the drinks were great and only thing we forgot is to take were some snacks but everyone was so great, we met a group that shared their charcuterie board without hesitation. If youre looking for a great time at sea with just you and ur loved ones or if youre up to meeting new people this is a great experience I recommend!!! I suggest taking a blanket if you want to sit outside when it gets late and temp drops.

2-Hour GoCar Tour of Downtown San Diego and Old Town

Michael_C, Feb 2026

Such a Unique Experience!!

This was one of the most unique and dope excursions that I’ve ever done! The ability to take a smart go kart through different parts of the city while it not only navigates but narrates was a true one of a kind. And then driving on the road with all the other cars just made it that much more interesting and fun. Would definitely recommend!!!

Private Sailing Charter on San Diego Bay

Linda_H, Jan 2026

Beautiful boat & captain

Jason was an amazing captain. We wanted a peaceful ride and the experience did not disappoint. It was a beautiful day with just enough wind, a beautiful boat, a knowledgeable captain, good friends, and good music made for an unforgettable experience. Would do it again!

Deluxe Sunset & Day Sail Small Group

Laura_W, Jan 2026

Amazing

Book this!! Many reviews say this was the best thing they did in SD and that was true for us as well. Our captain, Ann was amazing, so fun to talk to and very accommodating for everything we needed. Definitely recommend the sunset timeframe, it was beautiful.

2-Hour San Diego Pier Fishing Experience

Karen_W, Dec 2025

Great first step into fishing

This was a great activity to do with our 6 year old grandson who had never fished before. Angel, our instructor, was kind and patient and very experienced with helping kids and adults bait, cast, and catch fish. Our grandson caught his first fish and in 2 hours we caught and released two stingrays, 3 smelt and and a perch! Location on Crystal Pier was perfect.

Gondola Cruise through the Coronado Cays

Catherine_K, Dec 2025

First Gondola Ride

Our first gondola ride was a beautiful experience. It began just after sunset. It was quiet and peaceful. The water was so smooth, just like velvet. Some of the houses already had their Christmas lights up. Beautiful! Our gondolier was highly skilled. The water barely rippled as he turned the gondola around.

Whale and Dolphin Watching in San Diego

Robert_L, Nov 2025

Exceptional way to spend our Anniversary

Had a perfect experience on this trip and so glad we did it. Ray was truly amazing providing details about San Diego, the coast, the animals, "the competition"... he's got some stories, and also his own past that made the entire experience very enjoyable. Not to mention we ended up having boat to ourselves that afternoon and only hoped to see Dolphins but saw Humpback Whales as well (at least 3), 100's and 100's of dolphins (riding in this type of boat with the dolphins right next to you is truly magical), and seals/sea lions to top it all off. Truly awesome experience, can't recommend it enough.

San Diego Shore Excursion: San Diego Seal Tour

Diane_D, Sep 2025

Outstanding!!!

Very very enjoyable, seen dolphins and sea lions but no whales this time but they said we can come back any time for free if we didn't see any whales. Very friendly very helpful staff, very fun and interesting. Seen about of other interests which the crew have information on. You can even help raise the sail of you wish. Definitely coming back

2-Hour Private Sailing Experience in San Diego Bay

Shep_D, Aug 2025

Wonderful sail!

We had a beautiful and relaxing sail with experienced and courteous Captain Liz. My wife and two kids really enjoyed the day sail. We took a relaxing trip through the harbor and saw a pelicans, sea lions and other beautiful ships. Snacks and drinks were included. If you are looking for a beautiful sailboat experience, this is one for you, especially with children. The boat is beautiful and well maintained.

Champagne Brunch Buffet

Michael_B, Jul 2025

Awesome time!

Under sold and over delivered!! It was extremely organized and very professional. The staff was amazing and very welcoming. We were greeted with mimosas and our glasses were never empty…And so much amazing food! Such a nice time and even better than we had planned. Will be back with friends in the fall. (There were others onboard that were returning customers as well.)

Glow Electric Boat night date experience in San Diego Bay

Amanda_C, Jun 2025

Amazing Date Activity

This is our 3rd time doing the Glow boats ! We decided this time to do the electric boat. I prefer the pedal boats just because your more in control but we had an amazing time. The reason why we continue to come back is because the staff are all amazing !!! They are so friendly and hyped up even at 10pm. We will definitely be doing this again !! :)