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‘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
Available for purchase after 3 miles
Available for purchase
Available for purchase
(Optional)
Free Parking on Quivira Road only
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
Reviews
1,533 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience!
Belkis A,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00I highly recommend this experience. The staff are very friendly and knowledgeable. I felt safe knowing we had such an experienced captain and staff! I got lucky and saw multiple sightings. When you get on board you can rent binoculars and purchase snacks, drinks, medicine, souvenirs, and merch. I even saw some hoodies and a blanket. Keep in mind that it’s colder once you get out into water so dress warmly/ in layers. I’ll definitely come again and bring family next time!
Dolphin cruise
Elizabeth A,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Saw a large pod of dolphins in a feeding frenzy Saw a humpback whale, but boat didn't stay with whale so we could see more. He went back to shore.
Get there early, had a...
Michael T,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Get there early, had a wonderful time. We saw hundreds of dolphins and one whale. The crew was great.
Overall a Good Experience.
L4773HVcaseyl,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00The fee was fair in my opinion. I paid extra for Priority boarding but I don't think it would have mattered. We found whales within 30-45 minutes and didn't have to go far out into the ocean. We saw two humpback whales and that was all. I did not see any dolphins or anything else. I would recommend the tour to people who want to do something like this. I wasn't like "WOW I have to do this again!" but I would do it again if given the opportunity. I am from across the country so I wasn't sure when I would have the opportunity to do this again, so I am glad I did.
Great crew and hundreds of dolphins made it amazing
AKBFL,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was an amazing tour. We didn’t see any whales but did spend a lot of time with about 250 dolphins. It was incredible. If you’re up front, you will get wet. Many folks in our trip got seasick, so take meds if you’re prone to it. The crew remind you to do so as well. The crew was friendly and knowledgeable. It was a great experience.
Great tour.
Margarita T,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour was amazing. We saw the whales in the first 20 mins of the tour. Then crew was so nice and helpful.
Great Experience
Jeremiah C,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was great experience. Although we the whale only showed once. Dolphins are hanging around the boat and great experience watching them. Crews are very friendly and professional. Definitely will recommend this whale watching company to friends and family.
Great time
Cathy H,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a great day on the water and we saw a whale! We enjoyed the education about the whales. It was nice to have snacks and drinks available too.
Great experience. If you...
Delishia W,
Nov 2, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience. If you are someone who gets motion sickness, you might want to take something before. The crew offers motion sickness medicine on the boat. Jen was great!!
Anniversary Tour
Robert E,
Nov 1, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Well organized, clear and thoughtful. crew was great and went out of their way to make sure we enjoyed and saw as much marine life and ecosystems as possible
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Operated by San Diego Whale Watching LLC