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Whale watching trips daily, all year-round with Newport Landing. See giant blue whales, finback whales, gray whales and many more in their natural habitat and it's all possible on one of our whale watching cruises! With one the largest marine protected parks just outside of Newport Bay, whales and dolphin of all types can be viewed as soon as you leave the bay. Newport Whales offers some of the best whale watching California has to offer! Along with our California whale watching guide check out our Long Beach whale watching guide. Our whale watching tours serve Los Angeles whale watching enthusiasts by ship.

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Click here for a full list of all whale watching articles, whales by season.

Best Time of Year For Whale Watching

Spring time whale watching, reserve your whale-watching trip, make your online reservation below, or call (949) 675-0551 to reserve..

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WHALE WATCHING IN LA!

JOIN US FOR A WHALE WATCHING ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME

Welcome to Harbor Breeze's Whale Watching web site.

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HARBOR BREEZE WHALE WATCHING CRUISES

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• Los Angeles, CA
• Long Beach, CA
• Newport Beach, CA
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• Oceanside, CA
• Redondo Beach, CA
• Orange County, CA
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• Catalina Island, CA
• Laguna Beach, CA
• Manhattan Beach, CA
• Santa Monica, CA

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Los Angeles Whale Watching

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Join us for our annual fourth of july fireworks cruises blue whale season now no hidden fees or surcharges, whale watching, whale watch sightings.

Harbor Breeze Cruises

Whale Watching in California with Harbor Breeze Cruises

We are the top destination for whale watching in Long Beach and Los Angeles. Our custom built high speed vessels can cover waters north to Santa Monica and south to Newport Beach for maximum range coverage resulting in maximum marine life sighting success. Join Harbor Breeze Cruises on an exciting Southern California whale watching journey to view some of the largest mammals on the planet. For decades, Harbor Breeze Cruises has been trusted to provide the highest quality whale watching tours in Southern California. Our fleet of state of the art vessels adhere to strict safety codes and regulations, ensuring you and your friends and family enjoy a wonderful experience out on the water. All whale watching excursions embark under the guidance of highly trained captains not only equipped to man your boat, but also to provide informative narration of the wildlife you might encounter.

We offer a variety of tours that embark morning through afternoon year round, so you’re sure to find just the right option that fits with your schedule. Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the majestic Humpback Whale as it breaches the water’s surface or want to spot the massive Blue Whale, Harbor Breeze can turn your dream into a reality.

This exciting tour goes out into the open ocean. Please wear proper footwear, no high heels. Bring a jacket or sweater as it does get cooler on the ocean. If you are prone to motion sickness we recommend an over the counter medication or consult your doctor.

Southern California Whale Watching

We are the top destination for whale watching in Long Beach & Los Angeles. Join Harbor Breeze Cruises on an exciting California whale watching journey to view some of the largest mammals on the planet. Our experienced Long Beach crew and knowledgeable Aquarium of the Pacific educators will guide you on every voyage as we search for all types of awe-inspiring marine life.

Watch. Discover. Learn.

Aquarium of the pacific experts on every regularly scheduled 12:00pm and 3:00pm trip(pending availability)..

Harbor Breeze Cruises began whale watching trips to provide residents and visitors the opportunity to experience the high concentration of diverse sea life in our local waters. So, you’ve come to the right place for the best of the best in whale watching.

By joining a Harbor Breeze whale watching cruise in California, you just might see sea mammals including Humpback Whales, Killer Whales (Orcas), Blue Whales, Grey Whales, Minke Whales, Bottlenose Dolphins, Seals…and that’s just to name a few! To view pictures and learn interesting facts about the beautiful mammals you might see on your whale watching cruise, visit our gallery. If you have questions about the migration patterns of a specific species, feel free to contact us today to determine the right time of year to visit.

Let's Go Explore

The vast pacific ocean.

Just off the shores of the expansive Pacific Ocean live thousands of unique marine wildlife species most humans have yet to see with their own eyes. Today, whales, dolphins, sea lions, and more can be spotted year round off the Southern California shoreline with the prevalence of thrilling whale watching cruises. Harbor Breeze Cruises is the leading provider of whale watching tours suitable for sea lovers of all ages. The moment you step on a Harbor Breeze boat and push off from the dock, the adventure begins.

The best part about whale watching on the open ocean is that you are always in for a surprise. While we can’t guarantee which sea mammals you will encounter on your expedition, our expert staff will teach you the tips and tricks you need to spot the various creatures around you. From start to finish, we work hard to provide an unforgettable experience you’ll remember for years to come.

All Aboard!

Grab your camera, sunscreen, binoculars, jacket, and let’s go! Our experienced crew is standing by to help you choose the perfect whale watching cruise for your group of explorers. We are happy to accommodate groups of all sizes! Simply purchase tickets online or give us a call with any questions. We can’t wait to take you out on what is sure to be the most memorable part of your next visit to Southern California.

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Where To See Dolphins In Los Angeles – Complete Guide

If you’re looking for somewhere to see dolphins in Los Angeles then you’re in the right place.

Nothing can beat that amazing feeling of seeing a dolphin up close and personal in their natural habitat! Why not try it for yourself?

This post will tell you exactly where to see dolphins in Los Angeles including the exact locations and key information.

Click For Table of Contents

Can You Swim With Dolphins In Los Angeles?

Unfortunately, you can’t swim with dolphins in Los Angeles as it is actually illegal to do this in California.

According to the Marine Mammal Protection Act it’s illegal to feed or harass dolphins.

In fact, doing this could land you in serious trouble as swimming with dolphins in California can get you a fine of up to $11,000 and up to one year in jail (at the time of writing). Totally not worth it in my opinion.

Of course, if you’re just out swimming in the ocean and you happen to see a dolphin swimming near you, you won’t face any legal action.

The laws mainly prohibit you from harassing the animals and they state that a distance of 150 ft (100 yards) from the dolphins is an ideal distance.

If you happen to see one, just keep your distance and don’t try to get up close to the dolphin to try and touch it (as that will land you in trouble).

Disclaimer: This is definitely not legal advice .

Although you can’t swim with dolphins in Los Angeles, you can join a dolphin tour which gives you the opportunity to see them out in the wild.

I’d really recommend doing one of these if you can as it’s often a once in a lifetime experience to see these magical creatures up close.

And I personally think that seeing them in their natural habitat is far more fun than swimming with them yourself. They’re out in the wild where they belong.

Best Dolphin Tour In Los Angeles

I get asked this question a lot. What’s the best dolphin tour in Los Angeles?

The answer depends on the type of tour that you’re looking for.

Here’s an overview of the options available:

Small Group Dolphin Watching Tour

This dolphin and whale watching tour is ideal for most people and gives you a chance to escape the crowds and get up close with the dolphins.

• A boat tour which lasts 2.5 hours.
• See whales, dolphins, seals & more.
• Stunning views of local landmarks.
• Departs from Newport Beach.

Your local guide will point out all of the landmarks and will tell you about the different types of animals that you’ll see from the boat which can include dolphins, whales, sea lions and various birds.

• Dolphin Watching Tour

Kayak & Stand Up Paddleboard Tour

This kayak or paddleboard tour in Marina del Rey is ideal for anyone looking for a bit of adventure.

• Tour lasts 2 hours.
• Suitable for beginners.
• Small-group tour.
• Learn about the marine life from your guide.

As well as dolphins, you’ll likely be able to spot sea lions which are super common in and around Marina del Rey.

• Kayak & SUP Tour
• Private Sailing Adventure

This private sailing tour is ideal for anyone who wants a luxury, private experience just for them.

• Private tour for groups up to 6 people.
• Boat tour lasts between 2 and 3 hours.
• Tour takes you around Santa Monica Bay looking for wildlife.
• Gourmet food and wine is served onboard.

On this private sailing experience, you’ll have the chance to spot dolphins, whales and seals up close and personal.

Best Places To See Dolphins In Los Angeles

Dolphins live in the coastal waters surrounding Los Angeles and are spotted super frequently. 

In fact, LA is home to various different dolphin species. The most commonly spotted ones are the Common Dolphin, the Bottlenose Dolphin and the Pacific White-Sided Dolphin.

You can easily tell these three different dolphin species apart based on their color and size.

Orcas and whales can also commonly be spotted off Los Angeles shores at certain times of year.

It’s actually super easy to see dolphins in LA if you know where to find them. 

Luckily, I’ve done all the hard work for you and listed the exact spots and locations below.

You can often spot pods of dolphins swimming in the ocean from the shores of many LA beaches. It’s worth bringing a pair of binoculars to see them properly.

Otherwise, you could head out into the water yourself on a kayak or stand up paddleboard for a closer up view. You can also try surfing.

Remember not to get too close as you don’t want to frighten the dolphins! Just watch them from a distance and let them do their thing.

Dolphins in Malibu

One of the best places to see dolphins in Los Angeles is in Malibu. Sightings of dolphins in Malibu are actually super frequent.

In particular, check out Zuma Beach which is popular with surfers and has a long stretch of sand. It’s also pretty popular with dolphins.

Surfrider Beach is also another good location for dolphins.

A great way to see the dolphins up close and personal is to get out onto the water. Why not join a stand up paddleboard tour in Malibu or book a surfing lesson on Surfrider Beach?

You could also hike up to Point Dume for a high-up view. This provides a broad view of the ocean giving you a great chance of spotting dolphins.

Check out the huge dolphin pod that was spotted from Point Dume in the video below:

There are actually also several restaurants and cafes which overlook the ocean in Malibu. This offers a more relaxed atmosphere where you can sit back and chill whilst looking out for dolphins.

Gladstones is an ocean view restaurant which offers seafood and cocktails. Dolphin sightings from its terrace are common. 

Duke’s is also another great option if you love Hawaiian food and drinks.

For an easy experience, you can book onto this private sailing tour which will take you and your group out onto Malibu’s waters searching for dolphins. You’ll get a great up close view from the boat.

• Stand Up Paddleboard Tour Malibu
• Surfing Lesson In Malibu
• Private Sailing Tour

Catalina Island

Catalina Island is a small island that lies off the coast of Los Angeles. It’s pretty famous for its wildlife and dolphins, in particular, are regularly spotted here.

Your best chance of seeing dolphins is on the ferry ride over to Catalina Island. Visitors regularly spot huge pods of up to 20 dolphins during this journey from the mainland.

The dolphins can usually be spotted jumping in and out of the ocean, playing with each other and sometimes searching for food. 

Check out what you can expect from the ferry ride and the dolphins of Catalina Island in the video below:

Pretty impressive, right!?

Visiting Catalina Island can be a bit of a hassle on your own. To make things easier, I’d recommend booking onto a day tour to Catalina Island from LA .

This tour includes the 1-hour ferry crossing, hotel pick-up and drop-off and a sightseeing tour of the island which includes all of the top sights.

As you make your way to and from the island on the ferry, you’ll get a great opportunity to spot dolphins in the waters surrounding the coast.

The ride takes approximately 1 hour each way which is more than enough time to see a pod of dolphins or two.

• Catalina Island Day Tour

Marina del Rey

Marina del Rey features North America’s largest man-made harbor which is home to around 5,000 boats. 

It also features several beaches, swimming areas and lagoons which are home to a wide variety of animals including sea lions and dolphins.

There’s tons of activities that you can take part in from Marina del Rey.

One of the most fun activities in my opinion is joining a kayak or stand up paddle boarding tour .

These are suitable for beginners as the guides will show you how to use the equipment. It gives you a chance to get out onto the water and see the wildlife of the marina up close and personal.

The marina is home to a wide range of wildlife including dolphins, sea lions and birds.

There are several beaches in the South Bay area where pods of dolphins are super common.

South Bay is located just south of the city and is actually a super popular surfing location. If you hang around long enough, it’s almost impossible not to see the dolphins, just keep your eyes peeled.

You could rent a surfboard and get out onto the water or, if surfing isn’t your thing, just look out for them on the shore.

Luckily, the dolphins in South Bay do come fairly close to the shore so it’s not impossible to get a good view of them from the beach itself.

Dolphins are often spotted off Hermosa Beach in South Bay, particularly in the afternoons just before sunset. If you walk to the end of the pier, you can usually see the dolphins playing in the ocean.

You can also commonly see dolphins at Redondo Beach.

Santa Monica

Another place where you have a good chance of seeing dolphins in Los Angeles is in Santa Monica.

These magical creatures are frequently spotted off the coast, as are various types of whales at certain times of the year. 

All you need to do is plonk your towel down on the beach and keep your eyes peeled. Sooner or later, you’ll likely see a dolphin! 

You can often see pods of up to 15 or 20 dolphins and sometimes even more.

Mornings and evenings (just before sunset) are the best times to spot dolphins in Santa Monica.

Check out the huge pod of dolphins spotted in Santa Monica in the video below:

Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, which is located just southeast of Los Angeles, is another fantastic place to see dolphins.

I’d suggest walking down the long Huntington Beach Pier and standing at the end, overlooking the ocean. This is a great spot where you can often see dolphins out in the ocean.

Dolphins are super frequent here and you’ll often be able to spot them frolicking in the ocean and playing with each other.

Best Time To See Dolphins In Los Angeles

Dolphins are present in the waters around Los Angeles all year round however the highest numbers of dolphins can be found in the winter months.

Dolphins use the coastline of LA as a thoroughfare to move southward and as a feeding ground so there are pretty much always dolphins around.

Whilst their numbers are higher during the winter, you’ll still easily be able to see dolphins if you join a dolphin watching tour during the spring, summer or fall.

Thanks for reading this post on where to see dolphins in Los Angeles which includes the exact spots and locations as well as the best rated dolphin watching tours in LA.

If you love seeing animals out in the wild then you may also be interested in seeing seals in California .

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Whale Watching In Los Angeles: Whale Migrations, Boat Tours, And More

We're well-located for some stellar whale watching in Los Angeles, with gray whales, humpbacks, and even orcas making frequent appearances on our coastline.

Whale watching in and around Los Angeles is a thrilling local phenomenon that’s worth doing at least once in your lifetime. Now that we’re well into the winter, gray whale migration is about to take off along the California coast. Even from land, you could catch them spouting, slapping their tails (known as “lobtailing”) or breaching. We’ve put together a guide to local whale migrations and boat tours in Los Angeles. Read on for everything you need to know.

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When can you see whales in Los Angeles?

“Whale season” is almost year-round on the California coast because we see a series of staggered whale migrations in this area. Our proximity to the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary allows us to predict the presence of gray whales, blue whales, and humpbacks, among others. Here’s a breakdown according to Whale Alert West Coast .

Winter/spring: Gray whales

Gray whales are the most frequent visitors along the California coast in the winter and early spring, with over 15,000 of them traveling between their feeding grounds in the Arctic and the warm lagoons in Mexico. Gray whales can be seen in local waters from December through February during their southern migration, and from mid-February through May on their northern migration. They make one of the longest migrations of any mammal.

Summer/fall: Humpback whales and blue whales

Humpback whales migrate from their winter calving and mating grounds off of Mexico to their summer and fall feeding grounds off of central California. They often move around depending on the density of anchovies, sardines, and krill, but you can spot them between May and August.

Blue whales are a rare and thrilling sight, as they are the largest animal on the planet. They generally migrate in local waters between May and September.

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Boat tours for whale watching in Los Angeles

You’ll find that there’s a good selection of whale watching tours in Los Angeles. Here are a few popular options.

Newport Beach

• Davey’s Locker
• Newport Landing
• Ocean Institute
• Dana Wharf Whale Watching
• Captain Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Watching Safari
• LA Harbor Sportfishing
• Harbor Breeze Cruises
• Island Packers
• Channel Islands Whale Watching

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• Reserve a Rental
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Fun for the whole family!

See whales in their natural habitat.

Whale Watching Los Angeles Visitors $16

Information for los angeles residents and visitors.

Davey’s Locker Offers Daily Departures Year Round

For those visiting Los Angeles, Davey’s Locker whale watching cruises often end up as one of the favorite activities while in LA. Along with the pricing and schedule, Davey’s Locker has provided recommended hotels for those staying in Los Angeles as well as popular attractions and other activities that Los Angeles whale watchers might find to be a neat addition while visiting Los Angeles.

Buy tickets online or call (949) 673-1434 to schedule a cruise

Approximately 35 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, Davey’s Locker has provided whale watching to Los Angeles area visitors for over 30 years from one of the closest natural harbors to the city of Los Angeles, in Newport Bay. Marine life flourishes in the pristine waters just outside the bay’s entrance. It is not uncommon to see giant blue whales and finback whales just outside the bay during the summer and fall months. Multiple gray whales are often seen in this same area during the winter and spring months while on their annual migration. >> Check out the Whale Watching Cruise Times & Pricing Info .

Best Times Of The Year For Whale Watching In LA

There is really no better time of year for whale watching, as whales can be spotted throughout the year in Southern California and the Greater Los Angeles region.

Year-round we can spot Humpback Whales, Finback Whales, Minke Whales and a variety of dolphin.

From January through May we actively spot California Gray Whales. Gray Whales make an extensive migration during the winter and spring from the Chukchi and Bering Sea’s in Alaska down to three wintering lagoons in Baja Mexico. On the way down to Mexico, a majority of pregnant females end up giving birth just above Los Angeles and swim down along the coast with their small babies in tow. Around 20,000 Grays are moving up and down the coast during this time of year, which makes it a great time for whale watching.

The Blue Whale season starts in early summer. June through September we see one of the largest animals that have ever lived on the planet, feeding on krill and swimming right off the LA coast. These magnificent creatures weigh in at nearly 400,000lbs and stretch to lengths of close to 100ft long!

So anytime you want to go whale watching in Los Angeles during the year your chances of spotting whales are very high!

The Evolution of Southern California Whale Watching – With Year Round Options!

Whale watching is the practice of observing whales and other cetaceans in their natural habitat. Whales are watched most commonly for recreation, but the activity can also be for scientific or educational reasons. Whale watching as an organized activity dates back to 1950 when the Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego was declared a public spot for the observation of Gray Whales. In 1955 the first water-based whale watching commenced in the same area, charging customers $1 per trip to view the whales at closer quarters. The spectacle proved popular, attracting 10,000 visitors in its first year and many more in subsequent years. Southern California whale watching was the birthplace for whale watching throughout the globe.

Throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s whale watching spread throughout the world. In 1998 Erich Hoyt carried out the largest systematic study of whale watching yet undertaken and concluded that whale watching trips were now available in 87 countries around the world, with over 9 million participants generating an income to whale watcher operators and supporting infrastructure (such as accommodation, restaurants and souvenirs) of over one billion dollars. His estimate for 2000 was for 11.3m participants spending $1.475bn, representing a five-fold increase over the decade.

For 40+ years the Gray Whale has been California’s state marine mammal. If you were to speak to one of our boat captains 25 years ago, and asked “What’s the best time to come see whales?” they would have told you “Only during the Gray Whale migration in January through May.” And they were right! Not many companies were running year round whale watching at that time and, from what the boats reported, whale sightings were scarce. It was not until the 1990’s that people realized Humpback and Blue Whale populations were moving up and down California coast at other times of the year (summer season). As the number of whale sightings started to increase, it lead to more companies offering year round whale watching in the Los Angeles area.

Helpful Hints to Maximize Your Whale Watching Experience

What’s the best time of day to go whale watching?

Los Angeles is about 40-60 minutes from Newport Beach, an ideal location for whale watching. A question we get most often is, “what’s the best time of day for whale watching?” My favorite cruise times for Los Angeles whale watching visitors is the noon or 1pm cruise time and the 3:30pm departure time, as traffic is usually good and whales are often located on the earlier trips, meaning your cruise can spend more time viewing the whales and less time trying to locate them!

When should I arrive for my scheduled reservation & where should I park?

Please try to arrive at least 30 minutes before your cruise departure time. If you need help with directions or parking please visit our parking and directions page at https://daveyslocker.com/contact-us-directions/

What are some things I should bring onboard?

• Water Bottle
• Sun protection, such as sunscreen and a hat
• Light jacket
• Camera (recommended)
• Cash if you want to purchase light snacks or drinks from the galley
• Rent or bring binoculars

Checking the weather for Los Angeles and surrounding areas beforehand can be helpful in figuring out what would be best to wear, as it can get cold out on the water.

Please do not bring the following items on the boat: glass containers, outside alcohol, hard plastic coolers, and strollers.

What if I get motion sickness?

We typically don’t have many issues with this, but if you know you are prone to motion sickness a helpful tip would be to take Bonine or Dramamine AT LEAST 1 hour before you board the vessel. What has worked well for some is to take the motion sickness pill the night before your trip. Then when you wake up in the morning, take one more pill, that way you can combat any drowsy affects the motion sickness pill might have on you. These work great, and we also sell them in our office if you do not have time to pick them up on your way here.

Another option is wearing Sea-Bands which are a knitted elasticated wrist band, which works by applying pressure on an acupressure point on each wrist by means of a plastic stud. Because the bands do not use drugs, they do not cause any of the side effects associated with anti-nausea drugs and can be worn on each wrist whenever you feel nauseous. They are suitable for adults and children.

Those who prefer an herbal remedy may look into eating or chewing on ginger or ginger flavored candy, which can help relieve nausea.

Well we ended up seeing a Cow/Calf Gray Whale pair so the previous post is in need of an update! Species QUINTET seen today of Gray amd Fin Whales along with Bottlenose, Common, and Pacific White Sided Dolphins! A very special Sunday! http://www.newportwhales.com/dolphin-12-special.html #newportbeach #california #orangecounty #pacificocean #newportharbor #nature #animals #wildlife #whalewatching #graywhale #finwhale A post shared by Newport Whales (@newportwhales) on Jan 14, 2018 at 6:10pm PST

Too many baby dolphins lately to count! Bottlenose (top) and Long Beaked Common (bottom) calves seen here! Congratulations to the mothers and best wishes to the babies as they enjoy a wild and free ocean life! Get our social media discount with the following link: http://www.newportwhales.com/dolphin-12-special.html #newportbeach #california #orangecounty #pacificocean #nature #animals #wildlife #aww #toocute #babyanimals #babydolphin #wildandfree A post shared by Newport Whales (@newportwhales) on Jul 23, 2017 at 3:36pm PDT

Whale Species You Can See Whale Watching In Los Angeles

Baleen whales.

Gray Whales

(Eschrictius robustus) The gray whale is a baleen whale. It migrates between feeding and breeding grounds yearly and makes one of the longest annual migrations of any mammal, traveling some 5,000 miles each way from its northern feeding grounds in Alaska to its breeding and calving grounds in the warm lagoons of Baja Mexico. Gray whales can reach about 49ft long and weigh up to 72,000lbs.

Humpback Whales

(Megaptera novaeangliae) The humpback whale is extremely maneuverable and the acrobat of the whale world. Humpbacks can measure 40-50ft long (females are usually larger than males) and can weigh up to 80,000lbs. They feed mainly on small shrimp-like crustaceans commonly known as krill, other zooplankton and small schooling fish. Humpback whales are widely distributed over all the oceans from the poles to the topics, but there are distinct seasonal changes in their distribution. While whale watching in Los Angeles, you can see these animals year round.

Blue Whales

(Balaenoptera musculus) Blue Whales are one of the largest creatures to ever live on our planet! The average size of a blue whale is 80-90ft, with the largest recorded whale measured 110ft (that’s the size of two school buses parked end to end!) Blue whales are found in all oceans, and in the western Pacific Ocean, blue whales range from Gulf of Alaska, which is an area rich in food, all the way to Costa Rica, where it is believed they migrate to bread and have their young. Blue whales are currently listed as endangered animals with only about 2,500 left in the North Pacific population.

Minke Whales

(Balaenoptera acutorostrata) Minke Whales typically prefer cold and icy waters, and are rarely observed in the tropics. They are the smallest of the baleen whale family, only reaching about 27ft long. They have a small, weak, but visible, bushy blow that is about 6.5-10 feet high, but because they do not display their flukes when diving they are sometimes hard to find.

(Balaenoptera physalus) The Fin whale is a member of the rorqual family, which includes Humback whales, Minke whales, Blue whales, Bryde’s whales and Sei whales. The Fin whale is the second largest species of whale, the first being the Blue whale. They are very fast swimmers, capable of bursts of up to 23 mph, leading to its description as the “greyhound of the sea.” These whales can reach over 85ft long and can weigh between 100,000-140-000 lbs. Fin whales are very long lived with an average life span of 85-90 years old!

Common Dolphin

(Delphinus delphis) There are two species of Common Dolphin, the short-beaked common dolphin and the long-beaked common dolphin (both seen in here whale watching in Los Angeles). They are found in the North and South Pacific and Indian oceans, and are widely distributed in warmer temperate and tropical waters of all the oceans of the world. Both common dolphin adults range between 5 ft-5.5ft long, and can weigh about 300lbs. They are very fast swimmers, reaching speeds of up to 29 miles per hour, averaging about 100 miles per day, which is one of the reasons these dolphins don’t do well in captivity. Dolphins have a unique adaptation called echolocation. They create a series of clicking sounds, made from a specialized organ under the blowhole. These clicks are sent out of the melon and are like an ultrasound machine. They bounce off objects, and the information is sent back to the dolphin to create an image.

Bottlenose Dolphin

(Tursiops Truncatus) The bottlenose dolphin have a short stubby beak- hence the name “bottlenose.” The common bottlenose dolphin is the most familiar of the family of whales and dolphins (cetaceans) because of its coastal occurrence around the world and its prevalence in zoos and aquariums. Adults range between 8-12ft and may weigh as much as 1,430lbs. Bottlenose dolphins can reach speeds in excess of 18 miles per hour, and they have an average lifespan in the wild of about 30-40 years. Scientists working with the Aquarium of the Pacific in LA run a coastal bottlenose dolphin survey year round to help monitor and understand more about the bottlenose dolphin and its behavior.

Pacific White Sided Dolphin

(Lagenorthynchus obliquidens) Pacific white-sided dolphin is dark grey or black in coloration. As its name suggests, it has a greyish side patch which extends down the sides to just below the dorsal fin. These dolphin reach a length of 7-8 feet and weigh about 300lbs. Pacific white-sided dolphins are extremely agile, acrobatic and social. Generally traveling in groups of tens or hundreds of individuals, they can be seen in herds of 2,000 or more.

Risso’s Dolphin

(Grampus griseus) Risso’s dolphin is named after Antoine Risso, whose description formed the basis of the first public description of the animal. They usually weigh between 650-1100lbs and are about 10ft in length. These animals primarily feed on small schooling fish and squid, and when we have lots of bait in the area, these curious dolphin make an appearance.

Rare Species Seen off the Los Angeles Coast

Orcas or Killer Whales

(Orcinus Orca) Orcas are the best known of any whale, as they have been extensively studied in the wild and in sea parks and aquariums. Killer whales most widely distributed marine mammals, found in all parts of the oceans; most abundant in colder waters, including Antarctica, the North Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Orcas are the largest member of the dolphin family, with the males growing as large as 32ft, weighing 8-9 tons. Females can reach 23ft long and can weigh up to 4 tons. We have seen them while on whale watching cruises in LA in late Dec-early Jan.

Sperm Whales

(Physeter microcephalus) The sperm whale is the largest of the toothed whales and the largest toothed predator with some whale reaching 67ft. They are found in very deep, pelagic ocean environments. Whale watching in Los Angeles, our last encounter with Sperm Whales was in October of 2014.

Bryde’s Whales

(Balaenoptera brydei) Bryde’s whales, pronounced brewtus, are baleen whales. They are also difficult to identify until one is close enough to see the number of ridges on top of the head, as it is very similar to a Fin whale, another common species we see year round. The Bryde’s whale is smaller, and the adult male measures 40 to 50 feet and weighs about 26,000lbs. These whale venture beyond 40 degree north or south, and are most common in tropical and sub-tropical waters. We usually see these tropical whales in mid-summer or during an extreme period of warming in our local waters.

Pilot Whales

(Globicephala macrorhynchus) The pilot whale, like the killer whale, is a member of the dolphin family, and is second only to the killer whale in size.The pilot whale feeds primarily on squid, although it’s known to eat octopus, cuttlefish, herring and other small fish when squid is unavailable. When we have lots of bait in the area, and warming local waters, these curious dolphin make an appearance.

False Killer Whales

(Pseudorca crassidens) False killer whales are large members of the dolphin family reaching about 20ft long. In adulthood, false killer whales can weigh approximately 1,500lbs. False killer whales have dark coloration except for some lighter patches near the throat and middle chest. They prefer tropical to temperate waters that are deeper than 3,300 feet. We usually see these tropical whales in mid-summer or during an extreme period of warming in our local waters.

What You Won’t See

What you can’t expect is to see whales where you want them to be exactly when you want them to be there. This is nature, real life; not a multimillion-dollar theme park where every surprise is scheduled. Patience must rule the day. When you do see whales, you will realize they were worth the wait. Also, you will return to shore exhilarated, better educated about a fascinating animal, and more aware of what’s at stake if we lose even one species to extinction.

Sometimes people are disappointed when they first see a whale spout. “That’s it?” they say. “That little puff of steam that the wind blew away?” But when you’ve had a chance to do some whale watching in LA, you will find out that each of the great whales has a distinctive spout. Literally a large roomful of air and mist is exhaled each time a whale breathes. If you’re familiar with the height and shape of the different blows, and if the wind isn’t too strong, and if you’re facing the whale head on, sometimes you can tell exactly what sort of whale you’re seeing even if you don’t get a glimpse of the body or the dorsal fin or some other telltale sign. And sometimes, of course, you can’t.

If you know what to expect, if you know that the great whales range in size from 45 to 90 or 100 feet and weigh as much as 1.5 tons per foot, you’re less likely to be disappointed at the sight of a spout. If you know that a blue whale can weigh as much as thirty-two elephants or that a toddler could crawl through the arteries of any full-grown great whale or that a humpback’s flipper is more than twice the height of the tallest person you know, then your sense of excitement about even a distant sighting will increase. Chances are good – guaranteed at some spots such as Newport Harbor during December thru April for California Grey Whales – that you will see much more than a spout. Take binoculars or rent them, to get a closer look at whales in the distance.

Naturalists on Board

Some trips are strictly for pleasure, some are research oriented, and some successfully combine both elements. Many whale-watch tours are family-run businesses; some are sponsored by scientific institutions and research organizations. Our Greater Los Angeles whale watching cruises combine both elements which makes each cruise an exciting and informative experience. Having a naturalist onboard means there will be extra narration, and information given during the whale watch trips. Some naturalists are marine biologists or oceanographers. Some are affiliated with, and trained by, research organizations and scientific institutions. On some trips, narration is provided by knowledgeable captains, people who have been going to sea with whales for years and have made a point of educating themselves so they can answer passengers’ questions correctly.

Educational Resources

The American Cetacean Society – Los Angeles Chapter : The American Cetacean Society has been dedicated to protecting whales since 1967. ACS, a nonprofit organization, protects cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises) and their habitats through public education, research grants and conservation activities. They have free lectures, courses to become a certified ACS-LA Naturalist, and have volunteer opportunities to participate in the Gray Whale Census they hold yearly to monitor California Gray Whales.

The Point Vicente Interpretive Center

A free museum open to the public daily from 10am to 5pm in the Los Angeles Area, has lots of interesting information about the peninsula’s geology, flora and fauna. There’s also a large portion of the museum dedicated to whales. The American Cetacean Society of Los Angeles volunteers gather daily at the center from late Nov through May to conduct a census of whales passing through the Catalina Channel. The friendly American Cetacean Society volunteers are happy to talk about whales and invite visitors to observe the Pacific Ocean through their spotting scopes.

The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

An incredible little aquarium with lots of interesting local fish exhibits. A section of the aquarium is dedicated to marine mammals, with a real juvenile Gray Whale skeleton displayed inside!

NOAA Guide to Whales for Kids

A comprehensive guide to marine mammal facts & information

Visit our webpage at newportwhales.com/school where you can find pre and post trip activity packets along with whale and dolphin information and additional fun and educational activities listed under “Curriculum Packets.”

Recommended Hotels

Recommended attractions, recommended nature & parks, book your trip online. $15 whale watching special.

For Los Angeles Visitor Whale Watching Coupons, please feel free to sign up for our monthly newsletter & follow us on Facebook. You’ll be kept up to date on all things whale watching Los Angeles, and of course holiday specials and promotions.

Map to Davey’s Locker from Los Angeles

– Whale Watching LA Visitors – Newport Beach Whale Watching Visitors – Whale Watching OC Visitors – Los Angeles Fishing Visitors – Catalina Island Fishing

– Ocean Fishing Long Beach Visitors – Newport Beach Boat Rentals – Blue Whale Watching SoCal Visitors – Party Boat Fishing Los Angeles Visitors – Sportfishing Trips Los Angeles

– Fishing Boat Rentals LA Visitors – Company Fishing Trip – Orange County Fishing Visitors – Orange County Boat Rentals – Orange County Whale Watching

See BLUE WHALES & MORE now! SAVE 16% on select safaris. Questions? Call 949-488-2828

Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Home of the world’s only underwater viewing pods, capt. dave’s dana point dolphin & whale watching safari.

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Signature Dolphin and Whale Watching Safari

If you’re looking for whale watching near Dana Point, we guarantee you’ve never experienced anything like this. Our exclusive underwater glass viewing pods put you face to face with some of the largest creatures on earth! Book your seat today!

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Zodiac Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Just like our Signature Safari, but faster and closer! Get within arm’s reach of wildlife on our speedy and fun dolphin & whale watching zodiac-style boats (rigid hull inflatables). VERY low to the water & GoPro friendly. Book your intimate experience now!

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Private Boat Charters

Booking a private boat charter gives you all the beauty Dana Point has to offer, and with exclusivity of a private event. All boat rentals come with Captain & crew. Explore suggested private charter itineraries or make your own!

• Annual Holiday Favorite
• Cruise Ship DolphinSafari , Hoku Nai’a , Manute'a , AllsWell

July 4th Fireworks on the Water Cruise

Celebrate our nation’s Independence with a true Fourth of July tradition; a spectacular fireworks show over the water at Dana Point Harbor, synchronized to some of our national favorite tunes!

• Breakfast & Dinner Included
• Spacious, Upscale Cruise
• Cruise Ship Hoku Nai’a

Deluxe Catalina Island Cruise & Whale Watching

This summer, beat the heat with an upscale and relaxing Catalina Cruise! Unwind and connect with nature on an upscale catamaran that’s much more comfortable and less crowded than an express boat to Catalina. Warm continental breakfast and BBQ burger bar provided.

EYE-TO-EYE, EXPERIENCE THE CONNECTION WITH A DANA POINT WHALE WATCHING ADVENTURE!

“…the best whale watching in the world”, – cbs los angeles.

Have you ever dreamed of getting up close and personal with a blue whale or being eye-to-eye with a dolphin? Now you can make your dreams a reality with Captain Dave’s Dana Point Whale Watching and Dolphin Tours! As one of the highest-rated whale watching companies in Southern California, we offer year-round boat tours and educational whale watching field trips for an ocean adventure you’ll never forget. Join our email family for exclusive offers, the latest Dana Point whale watching videos, news, and more!

DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING

Private boat safari, special activities, dana point’s highest-rated whale watching adventure on tripadvisor.

Every single person working on our boat was amazing and engaging with everyone. The COVID precautions that are taken are wonderful and still allow you to have a fantastic time. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.. and seeing 6 humpback whales was definitely the cherry on top of a perfect day cake.

It was worth the time. The Captain and his crew are wonderful, knowledgeable and I felt safe(all around COVID-19 included) it was definitely a safari, I learned a lot about the different types of dolphin. We met up with several view of dolphins. But the adventure was in finding the Bryde's Whale and her calf. It was all so worth the speedy ride with few bumps and splash-

Had a great time and we saw bottlenose and common dolphins! Loved that the time was longer than other than other boat rides. Felt safe with the Covid precautions the company took. Great job Captain Steve and crew!

Really fun, would highly recommend, even if traveling with teenagers. Underwater viewing-pod was awesome, where dolphins were very interactive. Boat was very comfortable and never felt sea-sick. Crew was excellent, they are very knowledgeable, and answered all questions.

Capt Dave delivered. We spent about an hour and a half with two Blue Whales. I have travelled the world looking for these rare creatures and they were a 15 minute boat ride off the Californian Coast. Capt was very knowledgeable and gave us good viewing without interfering with the whales. Absolutely amazing tour. Oh, there were dolphins as well.

I have recommend this trip to all my friends coming to Southern California from the U.K. and EU. It’s just awesome...we had hundreds of dolphins which was incredible. The boat is great and you can move around so easily and get great views of the wildlife especially in the underwater pods. I will be back for another trip I am sure in the future. Well done guys you never disappoint!

The tour said that we would see dolphins and we saw plenty! Our trip was on one of the catamarans with the viewing windows which allow underwater viewings. Amazing close-up views of schools of these beautiful animals. Crew was friendly and helpful. Wear sunscreen!

My family and I were touring California on a road trip. We wanted to book a boat trip at some point in our holiday and read about Captain Dave's tours and were impressed by the reviews. I'm so glad we did this tour as it was one of the best experiences we have ever had.

I was so pleased by the whole experience. It was great!!! Not only did we see whales, but we saw a dolphin baby pod of some 400 dolphin...The under water viewing was so cool!!! Our trip lasted longer than advertised after group permission was granted (just in case someone needed to get back on time but no one did!).

My husband and I went on the 2.5 whale watching trip, and it was absolutely amazing! We saw 3 blue whales, sea lions, dolphins. It’s an experience we will never forget, and we will return and bring our children too. I highly recommend. Staff was amazing.

Our first trip with Captain Dave's was fantastic. The captain and crew were informative and welcoming. We felt safe and comfortable and, most importantly, saw hundreds of dolphins and a few sea lions. Luckily we went on a day when the boat was only about half-full but I think it would have been enjoyable even on a full boat. We look forward to going back in the future.

Whale watching at Dana point was amazing! Captain chuck, Hannah and Stacie are fabulous, friendly, attentive and very knowledgeable. Because of Covid the boat was not completely full, and plenty of seats to space out and distance. Masks are required the whole duration of the ride. We definitely did not mind at all. We were able to see several dolphins and at least 2 gray whales. It was amazing and I loved every minute of it. You do have a chance to purchase drinks and snacks before boarding the boat. Small restroom on board. If going for the last tour, bring a jacket, it gets cold. Also if you plan on sitting at the front of the boat, you will get wet! They will warn you, so don’t take that lightly. Overall it was a wonderful experience.

As Dana Point people, we have been on every whale watching outfit offered in Dana Point. Of all of them, Capt. Dave's is a repeater. From the warm reception and comfortable waiting area, to the length of the trip and the boats that are used.. the expertise of the crew, the cookies at the end of the trip and the great treatment of return visitors.. This is a great investment for anyone wanting to hit the waves while visiting the Dana Point/Laguna Beach/San Clemente/San Juan Capistrano area.

We saw the news on TV about the Dana Point whale watching festival on the next day and booked the ticket online that very evening. They had at least 3 tours on that day so there was no problem to get the tickets. The trip was really rewarding. I did one in Monterey Bay a couple of years back. Turbulent waters and no luck with whale at that time. This Dana Point trip was much more enjoyable, plus we saw so many times of the whales flipping their tales.

As a first time visitor to Dana Point for Whale Watching I HIGHLY recommend the "All Swell" smaller boat tour (max capacity is 28) it moves beautifully through the water, easy to see everything, and gets closer to the dolphins and whales! My Captain was Marie , and first mate Janelle. Great tour! Informative & fun! During our tour we saw common dolphins, a blue Whale! And Risso's dolphins! We took the 8:30AM Tour. You also get a brownie at the end of the tour :) #win

DANA POINT IS THE DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING CAPITAL OF THE WORLD !®

See what sets us apart by booking your high seas adventure today, if you’ve got kids, teens, or even babies….

You can go ahead and bring them on board with you for your Dana Point whale watching tour. All of our large catamarans are suitable for children of all ages and offer a whale watching tour that your little ones are unlikely to forget. They’ll have a “better than Disneyland” experience and disembark the boat with a newfound respect for marine life and the oceans.

Our adventurous Zodiac-style safaris are recommended for ages six and older on public excursions.

Complement their wildlife experience…

with a visit to our on-board micro-museum! They will have the chance to see dolphin and whale artifacts, and you can accompany them to our exclusive underwater viewing pods where they can “swim with the dolphins” — all without getting wet on our Dana Point whale watching cruises!

Instill an even deeper love and appreciation…

for ocean creatures by joining us for the annual Dana Point Festival of Whales or discover our other whale watching tours in Southern California like our wildlife-intensive Whale Geek Safari or private yacht Orca charter ! No matter which one you choose, we promise you’ll have a whale of a time!

Highest-Rated Whale Watch

Consistently awarded for Best Customer Service, our dolphin and whale watching Dana Point tours are among the highest rated on TripAdvisor, Yelp, Facebook, and Google.

We are a recipient of Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice award since its inception in 2010 (prior to 2020, the award was known as the Certificate of Excellence).

Underwater Viewing Pods

Experience an eye-to-eye underwater adventure with dolphins and whales in our two exclusive underwater viewing pods on Manute’a. The perfect view for Dana Point whale watching!

Truly Eco-Friendly

As a dedicated eco-friendly Dana Point whale watching tour group in Southern California, we are dedicated to providing only sustainable wildlife viewing. We believe in being good stewards of the ocean. That means using the best sustainable technology available and not watching whales from a fishing boat.

Blue Whales

How large is a blue whale ? Blue whales are the largest known animal on earth. These gentle giants can typically be seen during your Dana Point whale watching cruise between the months of May and October. One rare occasions blue whales will be seen as early in the year as February and as late as November.

More Dolphins

Dana Point features more than just whale watching — we have more dolphins per square mile than anywhere else! Imagine dolphins surrounding you in every direction as far as the eye can see. Thousands of wild dolphins swimming, jumping, and playing.

Numerous species of dolphins are seen throughout the year, including five kinds that are encountered on a regular basis. And Dana Point made famous the dolphin stampede !

More Variety of Wildlife

Dana Point whale watching tours enjoy 60+ species of whales, dolphins, sharks and other fish, sea lions, birds, and more throughout the year.

You might see not just one species of dolphin or whale, you could see several!

Never Crowded

Our customized catamarans carry up to 49 passengers and offer ample elbow room. Some of our vessels carry as few as six guests for a more intimate Dana Point whale watching experience.

For those seeking an intimate cruise, we offer private boat rentals with Captains aboard all six of our vessels.

Whale Rescue

We don’t just watch whales… we rescue them too! Captain Dave founded and organized Orange County’s first whale rescue group. He and other trained rescue team members have been recognized worldwide for their whale rescue and conservation efforts.

Every day over 1,000 dolphins and whales around the world die from fishing gear entanglement .

One Word: BROWNIES!

Mrs. Captain Dave’s famous Triple Fudge Brownies are served complimentary on every Dana Point whale watching experience. Some guests have told us they enjoyed these delectable delights even more than seeing whales!

Dana Point: Dolphin & Whale Capital of the World ®

Dana Point whale watching tours introduce you to a variety of year-round whales, more dolphins per square mile than anywhere else in the world, pristine coastline, calm seas, the first and longest-running annual Festival of Whales, and a captivating harbor minutes from the open ocean.

It’s no wonder that Dana Point, California, is the official Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World ® !

Whale, hello there!

Whale watching Dana Point visitors can join us on an exciting adventure aboard Manute’a, our catamaran sailboat. This one-of-a-kind vessel features  eye-to-eye viewing pods  and comfortable seating for guests. For a major adrenaline rush, whale watching Dana Point visitors can reserve a Dolphin & Whale Watching tour aboard our Zodiac boat, Fast Cat.

Whether you’ll be joining us for a public tour or private boat charter , whale watching Dana Point visitors can always expect exceptional, personalized service. Whale watching Dana Point visitors will even be treated to one of Mrs. Captain Dave’s famous brownies as our way of saying, “thanks.” It’s the special touches that make us one of the best whale watching tours in Southern California, and it’s what keeps our customers coming back again and again!

THE LARGEST VARIETY OF MARINE MAMMALS

Whale watching season in Dana Point offers the highest number of dolphins per square mile than anywhere else in the world! This area is also home to a variety of large whales , including:

Not only does Dana Point have the highest number of dolphins per square mile than anywhere else in the world, but it is also the home of a variety of large whales, including:

The blue whale is the largest animal on earth weighing more than 400,000 pounds! Whale watching Dana Point visitors will have the opportunity to see these magnificent blue whales from May through October. In the summer months, there are more blue whales in Dana Point than anywhere else in the world! Whale watching Dana Point visitors love hearing interesting blue whale facts while we’re on the water. Blue whales can hold more than 1,000 tons of food and water, hear other whales up to 1,000 miles away underwater, and shoot their breath at 200 miles per hour.

Gray Whales

Whale watching Dana Point visitors will have the chance to see gray whales from November through May. These gentle, slow-moving animals weigh approximately 90,000 pounds! Gray whales feed on small crustaceans called amphipods found in the bottom sediment of cold waters near Alaska. Many gray whales go months without feeding during their migration. Whale watching Dana Point visitors may be able to witness barnacles and lice hugging the 40-50 foot body.

Humpback Whales

Humpback whales are known for being energetic and creating soothing underwater melodies. Whale watching Dana Point visitors can see these 60-foot creatures putting on magnificent shows, breaching, fluking, and lobtailing. Humpback whales can eat up to 3,000 pounds per day, the equivalent of eating 12,000 tacos with extra toppings!

Whale watching Dana Point visitors may encounter the long, sleek fin whales during one of our dolphin and whale watching safaris. Fin whales have a unique V-shaped head and two v-shaped chevrons behind their blowhole. Whale watching Dana Point visitors sometimes spot these sleek giants cruising at accelerated speeds.

Minke Whales

Minke whales are the smallest member of the great whales, reaching lengths of up to 35 feet and weighing 20,000 pounds. Whale watching Dana Point visitors have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the common minke whale as they are a year-round visitor in the Dana Point, California area.

Killer Whales

Killer whales have a set of 50 razor-sharp teeth and can accelerate up to 30 miles per hour to take down their prey. These intelligent creatures use underwater sound, unique to their pod, to communicate, navigate, and feed. Whale watching Dana Point visitors may see killer whales year-round, especially in the winter months.

Common Dolphin

A typical pod consists of about 200 dolphins, but the largest pod in the Dana Point area is no less than 10,000 dolphins!  Common dolphins  eat anchovies, squid, mackerel, and sardines

Bottlenose Dolphin

These beauties are often seen bow-riding in front of massive blue whales. Adult bottlenose dolphins can weigh up to 1,400 pounds.

Pacific White-Sided Dolphin

Whale watching Dana Point visitors might catch these dolphins bow-riding or playing with gray whales.

Risso’s Dolphin

These are some of the larger dolphins encountered on our whale watching safaris, weighing up to 1,100 pounds and ranging up to 10 feet long. Whale watching Dana Point visitors may not see these dolphins as they are rather shy around boats.

WHAT TO BRING WHALE WATCHING

• Camera/Drone – Capt. Dave’s safaris are great for whale watching Dana Point visitors interested in wildlife photography.
• Jacket – Whale watching safaris can be a bit chilly, so an extra layer is highly recommended.
• Sunscreen – Guests can bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for protection at sea.
• Binoculars – Whale watching Dana Point visitors can bring binoculars to enhance the overall experience–like spotting lice and barnacles hugging a gray whale.
• Water & snacks – Guests are encouraged to bring small snacks and water, and keep track of any wrappers, etc.

On your whale watching Dana Point tour, you’ll want to keep your eyes open and your camera ready because we regularly see a wide range of other marine animals, too! This includes seals, sea lions, sharks, sea turtles, local marine birds, jellyfish, and much, much more!

While we do see dolphins and whales on more than 95% of our tours, our large marine friends occasionally decide to take the day off. Don’t worry if this happens! We will provide you with another tour within the year—totally free of charge!

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

If you’ve got kids, teens, or even babies, you can go ahead and bring them on board with you during our whale watching Dana Point tours. Most of our large catamarans are suitable for children of all ages and offer an experience that your little ones are unlikely to forget.

Complement their wildlife experience with a visit to our onboard micro-museum! Whale watching Dana Point visitors of all ages will have the chance to see dolphin and whale artifacts, and you can accompany them to our exclusive underwater viewing pods where they can “swim with the dolphins” — All without getting wet!

Instill an even deeper love and appreciation for ocean creatures by joining us for the annual Dana Point Festival of Whales or discover our other whale watching Dana Point tours in Southern California like our wildlife-intensive Whale Geek Safari or luxury private yacht Orca charter tour ! No matter which one you choose, we promise you’ll have a whale of a time!

JOIN US FOR THE HIGHEST-RATED DANA POINT WHALE WATCHING ADVENTURE TODAY!

Boasting the highest ratings on Tripadvisor, Yelp, and Google, Dana Point’s whale watching season in Southern California doesn’t get any better than Captain Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours. Contact us or view our FAQs for more information and book your unforgettable adventure in Dana Point—the dolphin and Whale Watching Capital® of the world!

(949) 682-3892

Dana Point Whale Watching

Begin your Dana Point whale watching experience today!

Why Dana Point?

Discover why Dana Point, in Southern California, is the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World®. From magical year-round whale watching to stunning coastlines, Dana Point whale watching tours offer a world-class experience for all ages.

Dana Point is a Whale Heritage Site as established by the World Cetacean Alliance.

Where to Watch?

Explore how you can get up-close and personal with Dana Point’s whales, dolphins, and other sea life. Dana Point whale watching cruises are offered every day, throughout the year.

With year-round whales, dolphins, sea lions, and more, any time is a good time to book your Dana Point whale watching experience!

What Will I See?

Dive deeper into Dana Point’s year-round abundant and diverse marine life with our photo gallery of what we see and when.

Giant blue whales, playful humpbacks, breathtaking pods of wild dolphins, and so much more await your Dana Point whale watching adventure.

Dana Point, California, USA

The Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World®

A Whale Heritage Site

Explore Dana Point

Why Dana Point? Go Whale Watching Dining Hotels Festival of Whales

Dolphin & Sea Lion Tour

Quick Details

• Users Ages: Ages 4+
• Clock Duration: 1 hour
• Map Marker Location: Catalina's sparkling coastline
• Wheelchair Accessibility: Guests must be able to transfer from their chair and navigate several stairs within the vessel.
• Binoculars Terrain: The Dolphin & Sea Lion Tour travels along a Catalina's scenic coast at high pace. This ride can get pretty bumpy at points - pregnant guests may not ride.
• Heart Restrictions: For additional health considerations, please see the restrictions below.
• Hour Glass Check-in Requirement: Guests must check in 15-20 minutes prior to tour start time. Late guests will not be accommodated and no-show guests will not receive a refund.

Explore Catalina Island’s abundant wildlife and scenic coastline

• A beautiful and thrilling adventure that takes full advantage of Catalina Island’s abundant wildlife and scenic coastline
• Take a ride on one of our comfortable six-passenger boats out into the Pacific Ocean
• Search for our favorite species, the Common Dolphin, and get the chance to see sea lions, too
• Remember your camera to capture these gorgeous animals and scenic views of Catalina from the water
• Minimum age to ride is 4 years of age. Minimum 2 passengers, Max 6 passengers.

*Refunds & Exchanges are subject to availability. Click here to read our cancellation policy.

• Chevron down What to Expect

Venture along Catalina Island’s beautiful coastline. Experience Santa Catalina Island’s rugged waterfront in a comfortable six-passenger boat. This unique boat ride operated by long-time residents will show you the best of our island on an adventurous boat ride in the waters around Avalon.

After you check in with the team in the office, you’ll take a short stroll to the pier to meet your captain and board the boat. This tour ventures down toward the island’s east end to look out for all kinds of wildlife in the ocean, on the rocks, and in the air. Enjoy the salt spray and sunshine on this fun and fast-paced ride while learning about the island and the animals that call it home. This one-hour boat ride will drop you back off at the pier right in the center of all the excitement.

Make sure to use the restroom before you board, as there are no restrooms on the boat.

• Chevron down Restrictions

For your safety, you should be in good health & free from high blood pressure, heart, neck, or back problems, motion sickness, or other conditions that could be aggravated by this exhilarating tour that travels over the ocean waves. Guests who are pregnant cannot ride. This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Guests must be able to transfer on their own and navigate several stairs within the vehicle. Guests must be at least 4 years of age to participate.

• Chevron down Weather

Weather may impact this excursion. Please contact us in the event of inclement weather or high seas.

• Chevron down What to Bring

This tour is in an open-air boat so we recommend you consider wearing layers to be comfortable no matter the weather & time of year. We recommend using sunscreen before/during the tour. A light sweatshirt or windbreaker is recommended along with a hat and/or sunglasses – make sure they can be secured/won’t fly off when the boat gets moving. While a gratuity is not expected, it is always appreciated. You may also wish to bring a bottled water with you on tour – just be cautious when taking a sip over bumpy portions of the tour.

• Chevron down Where to Meet

Catalina Coastal Tours 205 Crescent Avenue Unit 106, Avalon, CA 90704

Related Activities

• Clock 2 hours & 15 minutes
• Users Ages 10+

Zip Line Eco Tour

Zip away over Catalina’s gorgeous Descanso Canyon. Soar from platform to platform over the blue Pacific. Exhilaration is just a step away!

• Clock 2 hours & 30 minutes
• Users Ages 21+

Catalina Food Tour

Stroll through downtown Avalon like a local and savor Catalina Island restaurants’ flavors on this mouthwatering food tour.