San Diego Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise
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 poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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.
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 - available for purchase
Snacks - available for purchase
Optional Gratuities
Parking - Free Parking on Quivira Road only
Options
Whale Watching Tour
Reviews
1,552 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Very Cool!
Juliane S,,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was an awesome experience! The crew was all very nice. We saw lots of whales and they got close to the boat! Highly recommended!
Amazing trip!
Penny A,,Dec 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was incredible to sail alongside the whales, and when we ran into the thousands of dolphins feeding frenzy! It was astonishing to see!
Excellent trip!
Margaret S,,Dec 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We saw several whales, one of which surfaced very close to the boat, and then cross in front of our bow and came up again several times. It was awesome!
Great afternoon experience!!
patricisv2018,,Dec 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was very lovely! Crew were all very friendly and knowledgeable. From check in to disembarking, it was a great afternoon! We did see a few whales and got up close to one that surprised us right alongside the boat! Would definitely recommend to any ocean lovers
It was awesome!! Spent a...
Heather N,,Dec 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was awesome!! Spent a lot of the time with a humpback whale. Even had to navigate around a navy ship and they got it done !!
Amazing
Jeffrey R,,Dec 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We were on our way back after seeing hundreds of dolphins, when all of a sudden the whales appeared!
Really good overall...
Ankit A,,Dec 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Really good overall experience. The people are super nice- Allison is a good naturalist and the crew do a great job at explaining things and pointing things out. You will see a lot of dolphins and some whales based on luck (we saw 2) They do a good job at being organized and really putting in the effort. They will upsell a priority booking. And I promise its not worth it. Basically- you can board first and get the best seat in the house- but then people who board last will come and stand in front of you and crowd out the whole bow - so save that ten bucks.
SD Whale Watching
88xingyur,,Dec 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very great experience！The whale-watching cruise was incredible! We were greeted by playful dolphins riding the bow waves, then witnessed a majestic whale breach and blow a sparkling spray. The journey ended with a breathtaking sunset painting the ocean in gold and crimson as the whale’s silhouette melted into the glowing sea. A truly magical moment where the vastness of the ocean met the wonder of life.
Incredible Experience!!!
Xiujing X,,Dec 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00amazing experience!!! Highly recommend it. We had the best luck today that we saw whale right after heading out, and thanks to crew we were able to saw the whale several times. And then a large group of > 500 dolphins! It was the best experience ever. Kudos to the whole team: Capt. Brian, Naturalist Alison, Deck Sam & Oscar, Galley Brandon, for an amazing job done!
Absolutely incredible!...
mandyklink07,,Dec 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Absolutely incredible! Saw 8 whales, hundreds of dolphins, and many sea lions. Truly an amazing experience!
From US$71.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by San Diego Whale Watching LLC