San Diego Whale Watching Tour
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Our trips depart from Mission Bay, which requires only a short 10 minute journey access to the open ocean where whales and dolphins can be seen! The search for whales and other animals begins as soon as you depart the dock and our marine biologists are on the microphone explaining exactly what to expect and what you are seeing from the get go!
Typically our trips are 2.5-3 hours in length, but time can vary based on seasons and locations of sightings.
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
Marine biologists are on the microphone explaining exactly what to expect.
What To Expect
Ocean Beach
The tour will take you to the ocean without stopping
Options
Whale Watching Tour
Reviews
1,411 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
No whales, but lots of dolphins
Kim C,
Aug 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00We saw so many dolphins that we weren't disappointed we didn't see any whale what so ever. The guides we awesome.
Underwhelming Experience
Lory E,
Aug 8, 2025
- Viator
3.00The crew was great and the team was trying really hard to find things for us to see. However, It should be considered to be changed to Dolphin watching with potential whale sighting. We wanted to see a whale. We’ve seen dolphins before. We were extremely excited, especially my kids. So it was disappointing and underwhelming. For the price I wouldn’t try again for the potentially same outcome of not seeing anything other than dolphins and birds.
The tour was great. We...
Yelena S,
Aug 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00The tour was great. We saw plenty of dolphins and sea birds. Unfortunately we did not see any whales, which was our main reason for going on this tour. The captain and all crue were awesome.
We found a Minke whale...
Sharon S,
Aug 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00We found a Minke whale that kept surfacing and a school of about 150 dolphins that swam along side us. It was very cool to see!
Awesome San Diego whale...
mykola k,
Aug 6, 2025
- Viator
5.00Awesome San Diego whale watching trip! Captain and crew were super knowledgeable, spotting humpbacks and a huge pod of dolphins playing near the boat. The vessel was fast and cozy, perfect for getting close to the action. Got a bit chilly, but the views were unreal. Only hiccup was a short wait to board.
Related Experiences
Operated by San Diego Whale Watching LLC