Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Set sail from scenic Mission Bay and encounter some of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring creatures on a 2–3 hour whale-watching adventure in San Diego. Time can vary based on the season and locations of sightings.
In just 10 minutes, you’ll leave the bay behind and be out in the open Pacific, scanning for whales, dolphins, and other fascinating marine life. Led by an expert guide and naturalist alongside a skilled captain, every moment is an opportunity for an extraordinary encounter.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please arrive 30-45 minutes prior to your departure time
Children ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Dress code is smart casual. The ocean is between 10°-15° cooler than the bay
What To Expect
South Mission Beach Park
South Mission Bay Park sits at the southern tip of the Mission Beach peninsula in San Diego, right where the ocean meets the bay channel. The Ocean Front Walk begins at the South Mission Bay and runs north/up the peninsula for biking, jogging, or strolling. Fire pits make this a nice spot for an evening bonfire by the beach.
Ocean Beach
After setting sail from Mission Bay, you'll head towards the open Pacific Ocean. In just 10 minutes, you'll pass through the jetties and enjoy a scenic view of Ocean Beach's famous Dog Beach and the iconic Ocean Beach Pier before venturing into the vast blue waters.
Options
Whale Watching Tour
What‘s Included
Expert guides identify wildlife and landmarks in real time over the microphone.
Free Parking on Quivira Road
Restroom on board
Galley with Food & Drink options for purchase
Alcoholic Beverages - Available for purchase after 3 miles
Soda/pop/snacks - available for purchase
Optional Gratuities
Parking Fees - Free Parking on Quivira Road only
Priority Boarding available upgrade for $10.00 a person
Binocular Rentals available for $6.00 a pair
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
1,695 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Friendly dolphin cruise
Nina V,Jun 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was pretty cold. Make sure you wear lots of layers and if you get seasick at all, be sure to take meds. Lots of people were sick. We saw hundreds of dolphins, but didn’t see any whales so that was sad but not something that could be controlled. All the crew were friendly and moved around the boat talking to folks throughout the cruise.
Whale and Dolphin watching
Fredrick F,Jun 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The dolphins stole the show. It was a nice and professional cruise overall. I know that some people got sea sick though.
Best excursion
Collin K,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The trip and crew couldn't have been better. No whales, no problem. Seeing so many dolphins was a amazing.
Whale Watching Tour Tuesday June 9
Michael M,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00We didn’t see any whales or dolphins on our trip which is no ones fault. The major disappointment was the crew and naturalist could be seen in the wheelhouse chatting amongst themselves for a good portion of the voyage. We would have hoped they could have spent more time actually looking for whales, dolphins… In addition, the naturalist could have spent time educating the people on whale, dolphin behaviors etc…
I totally recommended this whale watching company.
Cindy S,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a fabulous whale watching trip!! We saw humpbacks and a fin whale. And lots of dolphins, seals, and sea birds. We had a complete female crew. The captain, Vanessa. The naturalist, Alison. The deck person, Sarah. And the galley person, Katy. They all did a fabulous job. (Great speaker system too). Sarah was all over the place making sure that everyone was ok. We both loved the experience.
The crew was great and we...
Grayden W,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00The crew was great and we appreciate the voucher to come back since we were unable to spot a whale. Look forward to trying again
I completely recommend this company.
R3602KQcynthias,Jun 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great time!! All woman crew and they were all great. The speaker system was great and the naturalist had a great voice and gave us lots of info on whales and dolphins and pointed out everything she could. One humpback put on a great show. Lots of breaching!! We are visiting San Diego but I recommend this to anyone that wants a great whale and dolphin ride.
June SD trip
Road63996076963,Jun 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00First and foremost, what made this boat tour so special was seeing the fin whale and her calf! So exciting. The dolphins were also amazing. Secondly, I was so impressed with the crew. Everyone was so helpful and friendly. At one point one of the crew took my grandson to a better vantage point to see the whale! Highly recommend this tour company for any visitors to San Diego.
Do it
Curtis H,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was pretty cool. I’ve never been in the ocean and felt totally safe. The crew was friendly and knowledgeable. Definitely wear a coat and cover your ears. The whales totally cooperated. I would definitely do it again.
An experience of a lifetime!!
elleandress,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Flew to San Diego and was most excited about this activity for the trip. It did not disappoint! We saw HUNDREDS of dolphins surrounding the boat, we saw 6 different whales that kept surfacing and showing their tales and breathing and feeding, and finally we saw a whale breach! I will never forget it.
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Operated by San Diego Whale Watching LLC