Whale Watching in San Diego

Whale Watching in San Diego, California
 
For San Diego whale watching, Newport Landing provides year round whale watching cruises. With multiple cruises offered every day year round there is always an opportunity to view whales and dolphin. Winter and Spring offer the annual grey whale migration which brings thousands of grey whales along the San Diego and Southern California coastline as they travel to breeding grounds in Mexico and then back again to their summer feeding groups in the Pacific northwest. Giant Blue whales are common during the Summer and Fall months with sightings of the amazing creatures on almost every trip. These giant mammals attain lengths of 100 feet and eat 4-6 tons of krill in one day. Other whale species that can be encountered include finback whales, minke whales, humpback, and even killer whales on occasion. Along with whales, dolphins are also encountered. Several species of dolphin can be viewed and giant super pods of common and bottle noise dolphin numbering a thousand or more are often viewed making for an amazing sight. Sea lions and their pups are seen on every cruise as well.

Things You Might Need When San Diego Whale Watching
   
 

  • Jacket - Whether whale watching in the winter or summer it can be cool on the water. Layers are always the best bet, because it can be both cool and warm within a short period of time. Average temperature for Dana Point is 71 degrees. With temperatures rarely exceeding 10 degrees warmer or colder than the 71 degree average.

  • Hat - Whether to keep you warm during the winter months or to keep the sun away a hat is always a good idea. Just remember to be careful as more than a few hats have ended up floating away. Having a hat with a strap might protect from losing it overboard. The larger the brim the more the wind can pick it up and it can float away.

  • Sunglasses - Even on a 2 ½ hour whale watching cruise the sun can take its toll on your eyes. Sunglasses with UV protection are really a must. You can’t really use binoculars with sunglasses on but when taking a break I will definitely have my sunglasses on.

  • Motion Sickliness Medication - Although the waters of San Diego and Southern California are known for being extremely calm there are those that are very susceptible to motion sickness and may want to take medication. Bonnie seems to work very well. Take about ½ hour before boarding and you should be fine even if you are extra sensitive to motion sickness.

  • Camera – There could be no better activity for those that love to photograph nature. There are always opportunities to take unique pictures of a lifetime. Capturing the excitement of those viewing a whale or dolphin is always fun. And the scenery off of Dana Point is some the best in southern California.

  • Batteries For Camera - This is separate from Camera as having someone’s batteries die always seems to happen on a whale watching cruise. If you have taken the time and money to go whale watching it is always a good idea to get new batteries unless you are sure of the life of the old ones.

  • Binoculars - Are always recommended weather you rent a pair or bring your own. Not only can you help spot whales and dolphin but binoculars give you the ability to see amazing detail that you would miss with the naked eye such as the barnacles on a grey whale or the intricate markings of a risso dolphin.

  • Sunscreen - Even during the shortest days of the year sunscreen is always recommended, as the glare from the water can amplify the sun’s intensity. Cloudy days can be deceiving as well and San Diego does have its share usually during the late spring and early summer months. Don’t skimp on the sunscreen even on these cloudy days as it can result in a pretty nasty sun burn. SPF 30 or more.

  • Chap Stick - Same as sunscreen. Make sure to re-apply throughout the day.

  • Cash/Change - Okay this seems obvious, but not for your whale watching cruise, but for refreshments or a snack for the refreshment center. They provide cold drinks and hot drinks and snacks, but they only take cash. Parking is also sometimes via parking meters which only take quarters.
 

Different Whales Sighted While Whale Watching In San Diego
GREY WHALE
Grey Whales are baleen whales, meaning that they strain their food from the surrounding water and mud using plates or baleen. Many biologists believe that Gray Whales were among the first whale species to evolve. Gray whales are among the largest whales although still half the size of the giant blue whales. San Diego Whale Watching centered on the grey whale migration and whale watching as activity was born with the discovery of the grey whale’s annual migration. The most commonly viewed whale in San Diego with thousands of grey whales passing by on their annual migration and then back again to feed to the north. Adults are about 35-45 feet long and weigh 22-35 tons. Females are larger than males.
BLUE WHALE
It is the largest animal on earth. A big blue whale can be 100 feet long and weigh up to 130 tons. That's as large as a Boeing jet. Its heart is as large as a small car. Fifty people could stand on its tongue. Its spout shoots up at least 30 feet when it surfaces for air. Blue Whales have become more common in the waters off of San Diego in the last couple of years. In 2009 over 500 blue whales were viewed just during the summer months. Huge concentrations of krill just off the coast are attracting these giants to the waters off San Diego. During its high feeding season, a blue whale consumes several tons of krill in one day. In order to get that much to eat, a blue whale can expand its throat to take in as much as 50 tons of water in one gulp. Then it forces the water out through comb-like plates which keep the krill in and let the water filter out. These huge plates are called baleen. Baleen is made of the same material as our fingernails.
HUMPBACK WHALE
The Humpback whale is one of the larger species; adults range in length from 40–50 feet and weigh approximately 79,000 pounds. Humpbacks feed only in summer, in polar waters, and migrate to tropical or sub-tropical waters to breed and give birth in the winter. Humpback whales are also fairly rare in our waters with maybe 30-40 sightings a year. Typically the spring months have the most sightings off of San Diego. During the winter, Humpbacks fast and live off their fat reserves. During the feeding periods Humpbacks have come up with some creative feeding techniques including bubble net feeding. It goes like this; a group of whales blow bubbles while swimming in circles to create a ring. The ring encircles the fish, which are confined in an ever-tighter area as the whales swim in a smaller and smaller circle. The whales then suddenly swim upward through the bubble net, mouths agape, swallowing thousands of fish in one gulp. This technique can involve a ring of bubbles up to 100 feet in diameter and the cooperation of a dozen Humpbacks.
ORCA "KILLER" WHALE
The Killer Whale's large size and strength make it among the fastest marine mammals, often reaching speeds in excess of 56 km/h (35 mph). The Killer Whale is an apex predator. They are sometimes called the wolves of the sea, because they hunt in packs (or in their case, pods) like wolves. Killer whales are a fairly rare sighting off of San Diego and only 30 or so sightings occur each year. They are also in captivity and Sea World San Diego is one location to view these amazing creatures.
FINBACK WHALE
The second largest whale and the second largest living animal after the Blue Whale growing to nearly 88 ft long. Finback whales have also become much more common in the last few years in San Diego. Finback whales are now the third most likely whale to be viewed when whale watching. Fin whales are also the world's fastest whale, traveling at speeds up to 35 mph! Fin whales have 800-900 baleen plates which they use to feed on schooling fish and krill. A fin whale can eat 2-3 tons of fish per day. Fin whales have a noticeable spout, or blow, that rises about 20 feet above the water and can be seen from a good distance away.
MINKE WHALE
Minke whales grow to be about 25-30 feet long, weighing about 6-7.5 tons. Females are about 2 feet longer than males, as with all baleen whales. Minke whales normally swim 3-16 mph, but can go up to 18-21 mph in bursts when in danger. Minke whales are sighted fairly regularly while whale watching in San Diego and are the fourth most common whale sighted.
SPERM WHALE
The Sperm whale is a toothed whale that lives in pods. It has a huge brain that weighs about 20 pounds it is the largest brain of any animal. Probably the rarest of all whales we sight with just a handful of sightings each year. This may be due to the fact the Sperm whales seem to travel farther off the San Diego coastline with sightings mostly coming from whale watching cruises further offshore. Adult males grow to be about 50-60 feet long, weighing about 40-50 tons. Sperm whales have the largest head of any animal. It can be about 20 feet long, 10 feet high, and 7 feet across, and is about one-third of the whale's body length. The head has a distinctive box-like shape. The heads are frequently covered with circular scars that are made by the suckers of the giant squid that they hunt and eat. Imagine the size of these giant squid!

 

Different Dolphin Species Viewed Off Of San Diego
BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN
Bottlenose dolphins typically weigh 440 to 600 pounds and reach an average size of 11 feet (some reach as much as 14 feet). Bottlenose dolphins often live 30 to 50 years. Larger than their cousin the common dolphin, they also sighted on almost every whale watching cruise. It seems that bottlenose dolphin have taken up residence in the waters off San Diego year round due to abundant food sources. Bottlenose dolphins consume 13 to 33 pounds of food per day. They feed on a variety of fish, cephalopods (such as squid and octopus), and other sea life. They use echolocation bouncing sound off of objects to determine their location to hunt and use a series of high-pitched clicks to stun prey.
RISSO DOLPHIN
Risso dolphin are medium sized cetaceans can reach lengths of approximately 8.5-13 feet and weigh 660-1,100 pounds Risso dolphin are found in groups of 5-50 animals, but groups typically average between 10-30 animals. Much more rare that either the common dolphin or bottlenose dolphin in the coastal waters of San Diego and Southern California, they are still spotted about 80 days of the year. Occasionally this species associates with other dolphins and whales. Risso dolphins are capable of diving to at least 1,000 feet and holding their breath for 30 minutes, but usually make shorter dives of 1-2 minutes. They feed on anchovies, krill, and squid mainly at night when their prey is closer to the surface.
COMMON DOLPHIN
The common dolphin is between 5-8 feet in length and weigh on average about 160 pounds. The common dolphin is the fastest of the small dolphins, attaining speeds over 27 miles per hour. These animals are very social and often travel in enormous pods of more than a thousand. Common Dolphin is very “common” on almost every whale watching cruise and can be seen in huge pods numbering a thousand or more.
PACIFIC WHITESIDE DOLPHIN
The Pacific White-sided Dolphin has three tones of color. It is difficult to differiate from its cousins the common dolphin. The chin, throat and belly are creamy white. The beak, flippers, back, and dorsal fin are a dark gray. There are light gray patches on the sides and a further light gray stripe running from above the eye to below the dorsal fin where it thickens along the tail stock. A dark gray ring surrounds the eyes. They are viewed quite often while whale watching, but many times confused for common dolphin.
 

Sea Birds Encountered On A Dana Point Whale Watching Trip
Terns
Terns are small super fast birds that are commonly viewed inside the harbor or along the coastline of San Diego & Southern California. The Royal and The California Lesser tern are two of several types that frequent our waters. They can hover above the water until the moment comes for them to dive in and snatch up a fish. The agility makes them a favorite especially for the kids.
California Brown Pelican
California Brown Pelican is the smallest of the eight species of pelican, although it is a large bird in nearly every other regard. Once on the endangered list it has since been removed with healthy populations along California. It is very common to see a flock of pelicans soar just above the surf line while traveling in search of whales off of San Diego. Feeding frenzies with dolphins, huge schools of fish, pelicans, sea gulls, and even whales can be seen and is amazing sight.
Shearwaters
Of Shearwaters, surely the Black-vented Shearwater can be said to be a true so cal specialty. Some 30-50 thousand winter along the nearest-shore escarpments off Dana Point (large concentrations just north of the harbor). Thousands can be seen at times. They fly close to the waves, their flight more fluttery than that of other shearwaters and marine birds in general. They feed by snatching food from the water's surface and sometimes by diving. They also swim beneath the surface, aided by their wings. We commonly see them feeding on a school of fish and at times they can be confused with fish as they dive very deep. They make for a very active viewing experience. A pretty common sighting especially in the fall and winter months. A group of shearwaters are collectively known as an "improbability" of shearwaters
Pelagic Gulls
There are several species of gulls that are commonly viewed on almost every San Diego Whale Watching excursion including the California gull and Herring gull. Gulls or more commonly known as sea gulls are not shy and will follow the whale watching ship for some distance. They can put on a dizzying viewing opportunity when a feeding opportunity presents itself. And they can drop presents too.
Cormorant
A seabird that pursues and catches fish under water. When the cormorant catches sight of its prey, it dives swiftly into the water. They dive from the surface, though many species make a characteristic half-jump as they dive, presumably to give themselves a more streamlined entry into the water. Under water they propel themselves with their feet. Some cormorant species have been found, to dive to depths of as much as 145 feet. Wow! Cormorants can be seen year round although the summer and fall months have the most sightings.

Other Marine Creatures Viewed While Whale Watching
Giant Sunfish
Ocean sunfish, or molas, are one of the most unusually looking creatures that we encounter on a whale watching cruise. Huge and flat, these silvery-gray fish have tiny mouths and big eyes that vanish into an even bigger body with a stubby tail. Topping out around 6,000 pounds, molas are the world’s heaviest bony fish. They grow to a maximum of about 10 feet long and are often taller than they are long, up to 14 feet. Sunfish are commonly seen especially in the summer and fall months while whale watching. They seem to prefer the warm blue waters off San Diego during these months.
Flying Fish
While they do not actually fly, they will swim up to 30 mph and launch into the air, using their specially adapted fins to glide for up to 1/4 mile. Its tail fins will vibrate to taxi along the surface. During the summer and fall months large schools of flying fish frequent our waters and especially later in the afternoon, dozens can be spotted launching themselves and gliding as the whale watching ship cuts through the water off Dana Point.
Sharks
There are several species of sharks that can be seen while whale watching in San Diego including mako sharks, blue sharks, thresher sharks, and rarely even great white sharks. Mako sharks are seen with some frequency on whale watching cruises. They are very fast and usually their fin is spotted as they zip through the water. They can grow to over 1000 pounds, but many are juveniles from 60 to 100 pounds. They rarely attack man unless provoked although larger specimens are considered quite dangerous. Blue sharks are open ocean sharks that can appear in large numbers especially when there is a food source nearby. Occasionally seen while whale watching, they are harder to spot due to their coloration and smaller size in compared with other sharks of our region. Thresher sharks are seen while whale watching especially during the spring months during the grey whale migration. They are typically seen around huge schools of anchovy, sardine, and pacific barracuda. It is a quick and yet impressive sighting, as they can come completely out of the water while pursuing their dinner. They can be quite large especially when their tail is included. They are very unusual shark as they use their tail to catch their prey. Great White sharks are one of the rarest of sharks sighted during a whale watching cruise. Only a couple sightings a year occur and full grown adults are even rarer. One of the apex predators they can grow to 20 feet in length. Spring and early summer seem to have the highest number of sightings in the San Diego area.
Attractions In San Diego For Whale Watchers
Sea World San Diego - Although orcas or killer whales are what they are known for they also have Beluga whales, bottlenose dolphin. Just viewing these animals is pretty amazing. Couple the huge array of marine creatures and exhibits and this absolute must see for a whale watching enthusiast in San Diego. Look online for discount tickets as there are numerous ticket websites that offer them.
Birch Aquarium - Great exhibits if not quite as visually stunning as Sea World. Their “Voices In The Sea” exhibit is great exploring an area the sounds of whales and their ability to communicate. Their global warming exhibit is also very eye opening. Another must see.
Cabrillo National Park San Diego - What is considered the birth place of whale watching world wide, there is so much to do and see here. One of the best shore based whale watching locations for viewing the grey whale migration in California. Come from December through March and chances are you will see a grey whale. Viewing from land is definitely different than by ship and you are completely at the mercy of the whales. So don’t be too disappointed if the viewings don’t compare to those from ship. The experience of viewing a whale from land is really unique. Also definitely check their website as they have events of all sorts occurring throughout the year (especially in the winter/spring months) many centering around whale watching. Their tidal pools are also great. Definite must see.
San Diego Zoo - Although there is not much in the way of marine mammal exhibits this world famous zoo is pretty neat. And for me viewing animals on land is as much fun as viewing them in the ocean. The wild animal park a part of the San Diego Zoo is very interesting especially the Kilimanjaro Safari Walk 2 mile hike. If you are whale watching in San Diego it would be a hard decision not to visit this.
   
Whale Watcher’s Lodging Recommendations For San Diego Area
 

Humphreys Half Moon Inn & Suites - (877)740-7134 - The Humphreys Half Moon Inn and Suites is a waterfront resort on Shelter Island, approximately three miles from San Diego International Airport. Humphrey's is located within 10 minutes' driving distance of SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, beaches, and downtown. Mexico is roughly 20 minutes away. Hotel amenities include the tropical gardens, palm trees, and soothing waterfalls. Guests can enjoy the heated pool and spa, exercise room, city and bay views, lawn games, concierge assistance, room service, and award-winning restaurant and lounge.

The Pacific Terrace Hotel - (800) 344-3370 - Overlooking the white sandy beaches of San Diego, the AAA 4-Diamond awarded Pacific Terrace Hotel in San Diego, California, nestles between the sun and the surf, between Mission Bay and La Jolla. Relaxing and rejuvenating, the Pacific Terrace Hotel is conveniently located near some of the finest oceanfront dining, shopping and entertainment San Diego has to offer, providing a range from the fun, surfer Pacific Beach nightlife to the elegance of the world-renown Village of La Jolla.

Best Western Cabrillo Garden Inn - (619) 234-8477 - Within walking distance, guests can spend the evening at San Diego Copley Symphony Hall listening to the classics or enjoy an afternoon of shopping and fine dining in the Gaslamp District. The San Diego Convention Center, home of major conventions such as the Fancy Food Show and Comic-Con, is only one mile from the hotel. Guests will also enjoy wandering through Balboa Park, visiting the San Diego Zoo or just relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Coronado. The Best Western Cabrillo Garden Inn is also minutes from the cruise terminal, ideal for guests leaving or arriving from an ocean adventure. Other nearby attractions includes the San Diego International Airport, Seaport Village and the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier.

Hyatt Regency La Jolla - (858) 552-6066 - Discover the many facets of Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine and enjoy a seaside destination with the charm of a European village and the panache of Southern California. Located in the city known as “The Jewel of the Pacific”, our stunning La Jolla hotel offers incomparable beaches, shopping, dining, galleries and attractions. Visit Stephen Birch Aquarium & Museum, spend a day kayaking, take a Baja Lobster or Wine tour, see live theater or shop San Diego’s trendy boutiques; all just minutes away.

California Suites Hotel - (800) 562-2217 - Welcome to California Suites Hotel, one of the prime options amongst budget San Diego motels and hotels. Not only do we offer one of the most competitive prices for vacation rentals and lodging in San Diego, but we are conveniently located, only 15 minutes away from San Diego International Airport, San Diego Zoo, Sea World, major shopping centers and white sandy beaches.

Crystal Pier Hotel - (858) 483-6983 - Though called a hotel, this wonderful property is actually a collection of 26 cottages built out on a pier. Most of these temporary travelers' homes were built back in the 1930s; all of them have been renovated in recent years. You'll wish you could just move right in, since each cottage has its own bedroom, living room, patio and kitchen. With parking just outside your door, it would be hard to find more cozy convenience at any other hotel in the area. From sunrise to sunset, you'll enjoy a view of the ocean and the waves that few others will ever see. Rates are seasonal.

The Westgate - (619) 238-1818 - The Westgate, San Diego’s premiere hotel continues to deliver on its original vision of classic luxury. Acclaimed as San Diego’s finest hotel, the Westgate, is beautifully appointed with exquisite European luxuries throughout. Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, steps away from the trendy Gaslamp Quarter, fashionable shopping and historic Balboa Park. We look forward to making your stay memorable.

Marriott Hotel & Marina - (619) 234-1500 - Spectacular waterfront settings in the heart of America's Finest City, the San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina truly represents the best location for business and pleasure. Conveniently located adjacent to the San Diego Convention Center and within walking distance to downtown San Diego and the Gaslamp District. San Diego features 92 golf courses, exciting spectator sports, luxury spas and gaming, a dynamic downtown District that features annual special events and unique holiday offerings, and much more. Popular attractions include the world-famous San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park, Sea World San Diego and LEGOLAND California. With a 446-slip marina, just steps from our San Diego, CA, hotel, our guest rooms reflect the spirit of our setting and boast sweeping bay views. Offering 1,362 spacious guest rooms and suites our downtown San Diego hotel rooms are richly appointed in a cool, coastal theme décor. Immerse yourself in our vibrant downtown San Diego, CA hotel at the San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina.

Omni San Diego Hotel - (619) 231-6664 - With miles of sandy beaches and an average 70-degree year-round temperature, it’s no wonder San Diego is a premier travel destination. The four-star Omni San Diego Hotel is one more reason to visit this fabulous seaside city. Nestled in the heart of the historic Gaslamp Quarter across from the Convention Center, the Omni San Diego Hotel puts you close to the city's top sites and attractions. Explore Balboa Park, take a harbor cruise or catch a Padres baseball game at PETCO Park, connected to the hotel via a pedestrian skywalk.

Catamaran Resort - (800) 422-8386 - Welcome to an experience that awakens the senses, relaxes the body and soothes the soul. Think paradise, and exotic tropical pleasures come to mind. Explore hidden gardens of over 1,000 types of eclectic plants and flowers, exotic birds, 100 varieties of palm trees, and 30 types of hibiscus. Surround yourself with striking sunsets, the splendor of secluded sandy beaches, and the sights and sounds of nature all in one place.

Embassy Suites - (858) 453-0400 - The concierge and reception desks are next to a tropical atrium lobby soaring the full height of the hotel and filled with koi ponds, waterfalls, and lush foliage. Located across from a shopping mall and five miles from La Jolla, the hotel attracts both those with business in the area and vacationers. An indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center are complemented by an outdoor spa tub and sundeck. Wireless Internet access is available throughout the hotel (surcharge), including the lush atrium lobby where complimentary daily buffet breakfast is served and nightly manager's receptions are held. Adjacent to the hotel, University Towne Center houses many shops and department stores, as well as a food court that surrounds a public ice-skating rink.

Doubletree San Diego Del Mar Hotel - (858) 481-5900 - With its Pacific breezes, convenient location and stylish Sweet Dreams® guest rooms, the Doubletree Hotel San Diego/Del Mar is the ideal location for your next business trip or family vacation. The Doubletree Hotel San Diego/Del Mar is close to world-class, championship golf courses, some of the best Southern California beaches and top southern California attractions such as the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park, Legoland and the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. In addition to a friendly and caring staff who will strive to ensure you have a pleasant stay, the hotel offers amenities such as a resort style swimming pool that includes hot tub and children's pool, an exercise room, a business center, meeting and event space and Sydney's restaurant, featuring French and Italian-infused California cuisine. And don't forget the famous warm Doubletree chocolate-chip cookie upon check-in

Ocean Park Inn - (858) 483-5858 - Stay at the Ocean Park Inn and see for yourself why San Diego is known as America’s finest city. Superior location, year-round sunshine, incredible ocean views and an abundance of activities are only a few things this contemporary San Diego inn has to offer. Surrounded by some of the best dining and shopping in Pacific Beach, this hotel is only minutes away from the upscale village of La Jolla, historical Gaslamp Quarter, and many attractions including the famous San Diego Zoo, Legoland, Indian Gaming Casinos, Wild Animal Park, Balboa Park and San Diego Aerospace Museum.

Surfer Beach Hotel - (866) 251-2764 - Welcome to Surfer Beach Hotel! Our beachside lodgings offer an affordable vacation experience coupled with a retro-chic, boutique hotel sensibility. You’ll find dozens of attractions, including SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo, just minutes away. We offer standard guest rooms, one-bedroom suites, and two-bedroom suites.

The W San Diego - (619) 398-3100 - Welcome to W San Diego, where summer never ends. Explore our new redesigned surf-inspired Living Room lounge, poolside Veranda bar and Wet pool deck. Sip on a cocktail at our rooftop bar, Beach, featuring a sand floor with intimate cabanas and stunning skyline views or romance your taste buds at Rice.
Valuable Links When Planning To Go San Diego Whale Watching
San Diego Weather Forecast
San Diego Whale Watching Sightings
Whale Watching Tips
Comprehensive Information On Whales And Other Marine Life
Whale Conservation
Cabrillo National Park San Diego
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Pacific Marine Mammal Center
 
 
Call (949) 675-0551 for reservations
Newport Landing Whale Watching 309 Palm St - Balboa CA. 92661
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