San Diego Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise

4.6 (1,767 reviews) San Diego, USA
Duration2h - 3h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 100 travelers

Overview

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.

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

What to expect

  1. South Mission Beach Park
    Pass by
    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.
  2. Ocean Beach
    Pass by
    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.
  3. Mission Beach Boardwalk
    Pass by
    Set sail from Mission Bay and slip past the Mission Beach Boardwalk—surfers, skaters, and the Belmont Park coaster off the beam—before we head into the open Pacific to find whales.
  4. Belmont Park
    Pass by
    Palm-lined promenade, volleyball courts, and the Belmont Park coaster in view
  5. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
    Pass by
    Enjoy a pass-by view of Sunset Cliffs—golden sandstone bluffs, sea caves, and surfers below.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Ticket booth / Check-in:
Look for a grey shed with a blue awning facing the water.
Located between H2o Jet Ski rentals and the Fish & Chips Restaurant.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/1P1Qt8Uea5m8ZpM56

End point

Ticket booth / Check-in:
Look for a grey shed with a blue awning facing the water.
Located between H2o Jet Ski rentals and the Fish & Chips Restaurant.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/1P1Qt8Uea5m8ZpM56

Additional information

  • 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.

Reviews

4.6 (1,767)
From
$71.00 per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
More activities in San Diego
From
$71.00 per person
Check availability