7 Great Ways to See the Whales In San Diego This Season
Active Life
by Catie Warren The season for whale watching in San Diego is officially upon us! For the next couple of months, we’ll have a great opportunity to see the whales as they make their annual migration.
Seeing these beauties is one of the coolest experiences, um, maybe ever, so we definitely recommend making a plan to do it.
Whether you want to hike, kayak, take a private charter, or go on a “cruise” to see the whales, we’ve outline some great options for you.
From Land
If you’d like to see the whales, but from a very safe distance on land, then we’d recommend Scripps Park just above La Jolla Cove, the Birch Aquarium and Torrey Pines State Reserve as three good places to see them.
And of course, ‘Whale Overlook’ near the lighthouse at Cabrillo National Monument is a great choice.
From a Kayak
If you own your own kayak or want to rent one and do a self-guided tour, have at it! However, we can’t recommend enough the benefit of letting an expert guide you. Because, you know, if you go alone, who will take your picture? #SomethingToThinkAbout
La Jolla Kayak
Prices start at $59 for a single kayak and $89 for a double kayak. All tours last about two and a half hours and begin at 10am.
Hike Bike Kayak
For pricing, please contact Hike Bike Kayak directly with the desired date of your tour.
Everyday California
Everyday California is a unique company that is both a kayak tour company and a California lifestyle apparel company. But don’t be concerned about a lack of focus; they are rated #1 on TripAdvisor for Boat Tours & Water Sports in La Jolla!
Single kayaks start at $60 per person and doubles go for $40 per person (so $80 total).
Check for Discount Tickets to Everyday California Whale Watching Tours
From a Boat
If you’re planning to whale watch with a big group (corporate event or field trip) or are bringing small kids, then a cruise is probably the way you want to go — and there are tons of great companies to choose from!
H&M Landing
H&M Landing is the oldest sport fishing company on the west coast, so they know these waters! They offer 3 hour and 5 hour tours, with tickets starting at $24 per person for weekday trips, and $48 per person for weekend trips. Ask for the military, senior and children discounts for weekend trips!
Check for Discount Tickets to H&M Landing Whale Watching Tours
Whale Watching on the Vintage Yacht Jada
Climb aboard the authentic classic yacht Jada – the gorgeously handcrafted 65-foot Philip Rhodes yawl – and experience true comfort and style as you sail out of San Diego to get up-close and personal with one of the world’s great wonders: the Gray Whale. Limited to 25 people at a time.
Check for Discount Tickets to Yacht Jada Whale Watching Tours
San Diego Whales and Dolphins
This three hour tour is $80 for adults and $50 for children (10 and under). These charters are much more intimate, with only a handful of people on each tour. Private tours are available for $175 an hour.
Hornblower Cruises
Check for Discounted Tickets to Hornblower Whale Watching Cruises
This three and a half hour cruise is narrated by both the captain and on-board whalers from the San Diego Natural History Museum. Tours begin at 1:30pm and are $44 per person.