There are many options when it comes to whale watching in San Diego, both for those who wish to stay on land and for those willing to step aboard a sea-going vessel and catch sight of the animals up close. On a clear day, you can watch for the spouts of passing whales at the Cabrillo National Monument, at the very end of Point Loma. There is a small fee to enter the national park, but the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, San Diego Bay, Coronado Island, and the city skyline, are well worth it. The new glass-enclosed observatory is the perfect place to spot the gray whales, along with helpful plaques explaining what to look for and coin-operated viewing machines to make the job easier. Another great place to watch for the Gray whales is at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, in La Jolla.
If you’re ready for a closer look, you can take a half-day whale watching excursion right out of San Diego Harbor. Both Flagship Cruises (formerly San Diego Harbor Excursion) and Hornblower Cruises offer three and a half trips out to view the whales up close on large, comfortable ships. Both companies have two daily sailings, morning and afternoon, and provide a whale sighting guarantee: If you don’t see a whale on your trip, you are provided with a voucher for another free excursion! On-board, you also have the chance to see dolphins, sea lions, harbor seals, and enjoy a short tour of San Diego Bay on the way in and out of the harbor. Another perk for Coronado locals and visitors, is the option to take the convenient Coronado Ferry across the bay, which drops you off mere feet away from the docks housing both whale watching fleets.
Some whale watching essentials include: binoculars, camera, warm clothes (even on warm, sunny days the conditions can get chilly out on the water), sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and patience. Also, don’t forget to take some over-the-counter anti-seasickness medication before boarding, if needed; I’ve learned that it never hurts to be prepared! If you are prone to seasickness, it’s also best to stay outdoors and towards the center of the ship, and keep your eyes focused on the far horizon.
Both adults and children will love the thrill of sailing out to sea on a whale watching adventure. From experience, I recommend staking claim to the very prow of the ship, or as close to the front as possible. When whales are sighted, the ship’s captain often points the ship towards them, putting you in the ideal whale viewing position, and able to see in both directions as well. You never know what you will encounter, and it’s always wise to keep your camera poised and ready!
Recently, I set sail on my own whale watching excursion out of San Diego Harbor, and captured these great shots of the California Gray whales, fellow whale watching boats, and gorgeous views of my hometown, Coronado.
