Top California Whale Watching

With a 99% success rate, this is how you up your odds of seeing whales on your visit to Monterey. On board one of the industry’s most comfortable boats, you’ll float out to a protected sanctuary to view humpback whales, gray whales, blue whales, killer whales, sperm whales, and other wild creatures, including dolphins, sea turtles, sea lions, otters, and more.

Set sail from Oceanside during a whale watching excursion led by a certified naturalist guide. Board a comfortable 50-foot (15-meter) catamaran with covered areas for seating and cruise along San Diego’s coastline to spot whales and other marine life, getting as close as possible without disturbing them. Plus, choose from multiple departures to easily fit this whale watching tour into your schedule.

Look for whales as they migrate through the waters of the Pacific Ocean off of California on this whale-watching cruise from Monterey. Your naturalist guide shares commentary about the whales and their habitat as you search for gray whales (most common), humpback and blue whales, and other marine life such as dolphins and sea lions during your cruise.

Maximize your chances of seeing dolphins, and other sea creatures in Dana Point on this whale and dolphin watching eco-safari. Cruise aboard a catamaran to some of the area’s best places to spot out different kinds of whales and dolphins. An on-board naturalist also provides on-going commentary the whole way to keep you educated and in the know about these sea creatures and their natural habitat.

Watch for whales and dolphins off Newport Beach aboard a double-decker catamaran with bow seating and 360-degree views. A diverse array of marine wildlife thrives in the protected area just outside Newport Bay, and you'll have the chance to see humpbacks, gray whales, finback whales, blue whales, seals, and several species of dolphins. The boat has a 96% success rate spotting whales or dolphins, making this a great way to explore California wildlife in a gorgeous natural environment.

Get the chance to seek out whales in the wild on this tour from Dana Point. Enjoy live narration from your experienced captain as you watch for whales, sea lions, and dolphins, and learn about the stunning diversity of marine life that flocks to the California coast. Listen to the distinctive calls of seabirds from a seat on deck, or relax by a window in the fully-enclosed cabin.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The ocean near Dana Point provides the perfect spot for catching sight of all kinds of whales and dolphins, and this whale-watching cruise combines an intimate experience limited to 20 people aboard an RHIB. Your guide, a marine naturalist, knows the best times and areas to spot wildlife, and also provides facts and commentary as you cruise.

Join our expert captains on a premier whale-watching charter, where you’ll witness majestic whales in their natural habitat. Whether you're a marine enthusiast or a first-time adventurer, this is your chance to see these incredible creatures up close. Book your tour today and create memories that last a lifetime! - 3 Hour whale-watching tour with expert captains - Suitable for all ages; family-friendly experience - Opportunity to see humpback whales and other marine wildlife - Book now for a memorable ocean adventure.

Set sail from Fisherman’s Wharf for an exhilarating 2.5-hour whale watching cruise aboard a state-of-the-art hybrid electric vessel. Encounter majestic Gray, Humpback, and Blue Whales, alongside seals, sea lions, and seabirds, all while enjoying stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands. With a live naturalist guide providing expert commentary on marine wildlife and ecology, this tour offers a unique educational experience for all ages. Accessible to families, children under 4 cruise free, and youth discounts are available. Enjoy the comfort of panoramic views indoors and outdoors, complemented by a full cash bar serving drinks and snacks.

Take an unforgettable boat ride in Monterey Bay to spot local marine wildlife, from humpback whales to Great white sharks to dolphins. This whale-watching adventure takes you to one of the best spots in the state to spot some of these majestic creatures. Sail over Monterey Bay Canyon, which is a nutrient-rich area known for attracting all kinds of underwater wildlife.

Looking for a whale watching tour that’s fast, personal, and unforgettable? At O’side Whales, we keep our groups small—just 6 passengers—so every seat is the best seat. Our speedy, stable boat covers more ocean, meaning more chances to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life. Whether you’re a wildlife lover or just looking for an epic ocean adventure, this is the experience you don’t want to miss. Book now and see the sea like never before!

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 with life jackets provided for your safety.

Venture into the depths of Monterey Bay for an unforgettable small-group whale watching experience aboard Enocean's 27-foot Robalo. Departing from Moss Landing Harbor, this tour offers unobstructed views of whales and dolphins as you explore the nearby Monterey Submarine Canyon. Opt for the extended 5-hour tour to increase your chances of encountering blue and fin whales, especially during peak seasons. Enjoy personalized onboard photography advice, and receive a photo package afterward, ensuring you capture every moment of your wildlife adventure. - Choose from 3-hour and 5-hour whale watching tours - Maximum of 6 passengers ensures a personalized experience - Opportunities to see a variety of marine wildlife including orcas and humpbacks - Private charters available for intimate group outings

Combine an exhilarating harbor cruise or a whale watching adventure with a visit to the historic Battleship USS Iowa in this engaging Southern California bundle. Depart from San Pedro to witness marine life and iconic landmarks during a scenic 45-minute harbor tour or a more immersive 2.5-hour whale watching cruise. Explore the USS Iowa Museum at your own pace, where you can walk the decks of this storied battleship and learn about naval history through interactive exhibits. Access the Main Galley, Crew's Mess Hall and the Museum on the second deck. This tour is ideal for families and history enthusiasts looking for outdoor sightseeing and educational discovery. - Choose between a narrated Harbor Cruise or Whale Watching adventure - Explore the USS Iowa Museum with self-guided admission - Family-friendly experience suitable for all ages - Flexible timing allows exploration on the same or another day - USS Iowa Museum provides luggage storage if needed

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.

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.

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.

This activity is for everyone of all skill levels. You don't need any experience. You don’t even have to know how to swim. It's very welcoming for Beginners and Advanced. We can also pull the little ones behind us or put them in the kayak with us. We can pull the elderly or handicapped. I can even teach you to snorkel if you feel brave. I can share some stories from the TV show I'm on. This tour is very educational and informative as well.

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