5 (720)
Dana Point
Dana Point Whale Watching: Underwater Pods & Brownies!
150
Overview
Dana Point Dolphin and Whale Watching Eco-Safari is the highest-rated whale watching tour for families, kids, and friends! For over 25 years, this tour has offered unique and eco-friendly trips to see amazing whales and dolphins. Dana Point is the Dolphin and Whale Capital of the World®.
Guests might see Blue Whales, Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, and even Orcas! Several types of dolphins, seals, marine birds, and sharks also call these waters home. The tour boat is a high-tech catamaran. It is uncrowded, so everyone gets a good view. Expert guides share cool facts about the sea life. Guests also enjoy free triple fudge brownies!
The tour leaves from Dana Point, the 1st Whale Heritage Site in the Americas. Depending on the time of year, guests could see giant Blue Whales or Gray Whales on their migration. No matter when you go, there's a good chance to spot Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, and lots of dolphins. Sometimes, there are mega-pods of up to 10,000 dolphins! The boat may have special Underwater Viewing Pods for an even closer look. 
Highlights
See Whales and Dolphins Up Close: Watch whales and dolphins in their natural home. Get close to Blue Whales, Gray Whales, and more!
Ride on a Cool Boat: Enjoy the ride on a high-tech catamaran with expert guides. Sometimes the boat has underwater viewing pods.
Free Brownies: Enjoy complimentary triple fudge brownies.
Expert Guides: Learn cool facts about whales and dolphins from the knowledgeable crew.
Eco-Friendly Tour: Feel good knowing you are on a responsible whale watching tour.
Dolphin and Whale Guarantee: Join us again for free within one calendar year if you don't see any dolphins or whales.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally had a fantastic experience, praising the abundance of marine life, the expert crew, and the overall comfort of the tour. A few wished for a longer trip or noted potential crowding.
Guests loved seeing lots of whales and dolphins up close.
Many reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable and friendly crew.
Families appreciated the comfortable boat and smooth ride.
Customers enjoyed the included brownies and drinks.
Some guests wished the tour was longer.
A few reviewers mentioned that it can be crowded.
The Journey
Dana Point Harbor
Dana Point Harbor is the departure point for your whale watching adventure. Known as the Dolphin and Whale Capital of the World® and the 1st Whale Heritage Site in the Americas, it provides a scenic backdrop with views of the harbor, where you can relax and enjoy refreshments before your trip.
The Pacific Ocean
The Pacific Ocean off the coast of Dana Point is a prime location for whale watching. Depending on the season, you might witness the migration of Gray Whales or the presence of Blue Whales, along with various other marine species like Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, Minke Whales, dolphins, sea lions, and sharks.
Dolphin Deck
The "Dolphin Deck" is the welcoming area where you'll find free parking and a friendly team to assist you upon arrival. It offers a relaxing space with umbrellas, snacks, and beverages while overlooking Dana Point Harbor, allowing you to unwind before boarding the boat.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a licensed Captain and professional crew on a U.S. Coast Guard inspected boat. Guests will also receive a Cetacean Declaration. If guests don't see any dolphins or whales, they can join another tour for free within one calendar year. Food and drinks are not included. Gratuities are not included. DVDs and souvenir photos are available to buy. The meeting point is at the Dolphin Deck in Dana Point Harbor. Free parking is available.
Hot Tip
Bring layers of clothing, as it can get chilly on the water, even on a sunny day. Consider bringing binoculars for an even better view of the whales and dolphins. If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication beforehand.
5
0
Newport Beach
Newport Beach Whale & Dolphin Watch: Private 2-Hour Tour
Private 2hr Supreme Whale/Dolphin Watching Tour, Newport Beach CA, offers an exciting and personal way to see amazing marine life. Unlike crowded boats, this private tour ensures comfort, connection, and customization. It’s a chance to get up close with whales and dolphins in the waters off Newport Beach and Balboa Island. What to Expect: This tour uses fast, state-of-the-art 26' boats to reach whales and dolphins quickly, allowing for more viewing time. The experience is tailored to small groups of 2-6 people for a more intimate encounter. A USCG licensed and Certified Naturalist captain with over 24 years of experience guides each trip, ensuring safety and providing expert insights into the marine wildlife. This tour departs from Newport Harbor and explores the coastal waters surrounding Balboa Island. What's Included: The tour includes a USCG licensed Master captain with over 24 years of experience in the industry. These captains are also Certified Naturalists. What's Excluded: Transportation to and from the departure point is not included.
From
$ 495
5
120
Carlsbad
Oceanside Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour
Dolphin & Whale Watching in Oceanside, Carlsbad & Encinitas Coastal Waters offers an unforgettable adventure on the open sea. This tour provides an intimate experience with nature’s most majestic marine life. Instead of large crowded boats, guests enjoy a closer, more personal view of dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. What can visitors expect? Expert guides share fascinating insights into marine biology and the behavior of these gentle giants. The tour focuses on providing uninterrupted moments of awe and tranquility. It includes a professional guide and a scenic cruise along the beautiful coastline. This experience excludes personal expenses. With a focus on quality and conservation, this tour promises an ethical and memorable encounter with marine wildlife.
From
$ 85
5
150
San Diego
San Diego Catamaran Adventure: Sail, Sun & Sea Life
The 2.5 Hour Catamaran Sail Adventure offers a memorable San Diego experience. Enjoy comfortable sailing on a stable catamaran with bow nets for sunbathing and sea life viewing. This small-group tour ensures a personalized experience, escaping the crowds for an exhilarating ride on the water.
From
$ 119
5
0
Newport Beach
Newport Beach Whale & Dolphin Watch: Intimate 6-Person Adventure
Supreme Whale/Dolphin Watching: Enjoy an intimate, 2-hour Newport Beach tour with Captain Nick. Limited to 6 guests, this luxury experience offers personal attention aboard a quiet vessel, ensuring close encounters with marine life without disturbing them. Witness whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories.
From
$ 119