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 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
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/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
Options
Whale Watching Tour
Reviews
1,578 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
x
Kristen C,,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I enjoyed it, I enjoyed it, I enjoyed it, I enjoyed it, I enjoyed it, I enjoyed it, I enjoyed it, I enjoyed iy
Left a whale to find more and then we spent 2 hours trying to find more and found nothing. It was disappointing
Stephanie m0m,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00The boat was good and the crew was nice but we saw a whale and then they decided to leave that whale to find more and we never found anymore. They told us before we got on that they saw a lot of whales that day. So it was disappointing that they left the whale we were watching and then saw nothing for another 2 hours.
A fun trip
S6992TAsusanm,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My son and his girlfriend gave me a whale watching trip for Christmas. We had a lot of fun being out on the ocean. We saw two whales. It was a beautiful, clear day so we could clearly see Ocean Beach and Point Loma from the water.
Beautiful trip!!
Megan S,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our trip was amazing! Warm with no wind and only 1-2 foot swells. We saw grey whales, common dolphins and white sided dolphins. There was plenty of space on the boat for everyone to get a look at the animals. The crew on board were friendly and the commentary was top notch. Highly recommend!
Organized and efficient crew!
Erica H,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We saw two sets of gray whales during our ride. It was nice having the person narrating as we went and being sure to point out the whales. They were also considerate of making sure both sides of the boat had the opportunity to see the whales.
We had a great time!
Deborah D,,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We saw Blue Whales, even a mom with a baby. It was amazing. We also saw white side dolphins up close. Some sea lions also followed the vessel. The crew was great and we learned a lot.
excellent value
scottminer53,,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Great staff and customer service. Even though we saw a few whales and dolphins they gave all passengers a re-ride pass. I highly recommend this company for a whale watching tour.
What an amazing...
Mallori W,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00What an amazing experience. We saw 2 Grey Whales and several pods of dolphins throughout our cruise. The weather was perfect and the staff were very accommodating. I highly recommend this cruise.
Whale watch
Carie B,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was beautiful! Super excited that we were able to see THE BLUE WHALES!! Allison was GREAT the only thing I would suggest is maybe a better sound system because it was really hard to hear her! Other than that it was a great experience!
Great experience
Sydney S,,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a lovely time seeing 10 whales and a bunch of dolphins. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and Alison was a star guider.
From US$71.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by San Diego Whale Watching LLC