5.0 (455) · Dana Point · By Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
Embark on a swift and exciting wildlife expedition aboard our zodiac-style vessels, designed for up to 20 passengers. This 2-hour journey offers a thrilling encounter with Southern California's resident whales and dolphins. Reaching speeds of 30 knots or more, you'll maximize your viewing time and minimize travel. Experience the ocean's surface up close, feeling within arm's reach of marine life. As a special treat, you'll receive one of Mrs. Capt. Dave's renowned Triple Fudge Brownies at the end of your tour – some say they're even better than the whales!
We are proud to be a certified Responsible Whale Watching partner of the World Cetacean Alliance. Located in Dana Point, CA, recognized as the Dolphin and Whale Capital of the World®, and the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas, we are committed to ethical wildlife observation.
✓ A vessel inspected and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard✓ Cetacean Declaration: If no dolphins or whales are sighted, you are welcome to join us again for free within one calendar year.✓ Live commentary provided by our knowledgeable crew during the tour✓ A licensed Captain and a professional crew member to ensure your safety and enjoyment✕ Food and beverages are available for purchase at the check-in area.✕ Gratuities for the crew are not included.Activity Schedule
2 h
Your thrilling adventure begins in Dana Point, celebrated as the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas and the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World®. From May to October, you have the chance to witness the majestic Blue Whales, the largest animals on Earth. Between December and April, experience the awe-inspiring Gray Whale migration. Throughout the year, keep an eye out for Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, Minke Whales, and occasionally Orcas (Killer Whales), among other species. You'll also have year-round opportunities to see various wild dolphin species, sometimes in pods of up to 10,000.
Upon arrival, you'll find complimentary parking and a warm welcome from our "Dolphin Deck" team. If you or a member of your party is celebrating a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary, please inform us when booking to arrange a special acknowledgment. We kindly ask you to check in 30 to 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure. While you wait, relax under a shaded umbrella and enjoy a selection of sandwiches, snacks, ice cream, cold beverages, or hot coffee, all while taking in the best views of Dana Point Harbor, before being escorted to your vessel. Restrooms are conveniently located nearby for your use before boarding.
Dana Point Harbor Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. One ticket is required per booking.
Please ensure you arrive 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. Check-in is located upstairs at our "Dolphin Deck" building, situated by Baby Beach and the OC Sailing & Events Center in Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, Orange County, California.
Please ensure you arrive 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. Check-in is located upstairs at our "Dolphin Deck" building, situated by Baby Beach and the OC Sailing & Events Center in Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point, Orange County, California.
Kindly check in 45 minutes before your scheduled trip time. Public parking is available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.
IMPORTANT: Please allow sufficient time for your arrival and check-in. We are unable to delay the boat's departure or reschedule you for a later trip if you arrive late.
The minimum age for participation is 6 years old.
This tour is not suitable for individuals with head, neck, or back issues, other serious medical conditions, or for pregnant women.
Service animals are permitted on board.
Public transportation options are conveniently accessible nearby.
Infants must be seated on an adult's lap during the tour.
Participants should possess a moderate level of physical fitness.
The minimum age requirement for this activity is 6 years.
The tour operates regardless of weather conditions; please dress appropriately for the elements.
Be prepared for potential occasional ocean spray during the excursion.
Please refrain from bringing oversized bags or coolers on board.
24440 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629, États-Unis
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
This activity is not recommended for individuals with cardiovascular health concerns. Pregnant travelers are advised against participating in this tour. This excursion is not recommended for individuals with spinal injuries. Service animals are welcome to accompany their owners. Nearby public transportation services are available. Infants are required to sit on an adult's lap throughout the journey. Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness to participate. A minimum age of 6 years is required for all participants. The tour proceeds in all weather conditions; please dress accordingly. Occasional ocean spray may be encountered during the trip. Please do not bring large bags or coolers. Zodiac Safari 2-hour Zodiac Adventure Safari Arrive 45 minutes early for check-in. Dress in layers as ocean temperatures can vary. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. Consider motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness. Cameras are recommended to capture the amazing wildlife. Listen to your captain and crew for the best viewing opportunities and safety instructions. All sales are final. No refunds will be issued for cancellations.
Product code: 44596P3
Activity offered by Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Families Adventure seekers Wildlife enthusiasts Couples Thrilling 2-hour zodiac adventure Up-close encounters with whales and dolphins See Blue, Gray, Humpback, Fin, Minke whales, and Orcas Year-round dolphin sightings in large pods Certified Responsible Whale Watching partner Complimentary Triple Fudge Brownie at the end
Population 33,107 (2020)
Elevation 44 m
Currency United States dollar
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 120 V
Emergency number 911
Capital city Washington, D.C. Average temperatures 13° Jan 13° Feb 14° Mar 15° Apr 17° May 19° Jun 22° Jul 23° Aug 23° Sept 20° Oct 17° Nov 13° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the minimum age to participate? + The minimum age for this activity is 6 years old.
What should I do if I don't see any whales or dolphins? + If no dolphins or whales are sighted, you will receive a Cetacean Declaration allowing you to return for free within one calendar year.
Can I bring my pet on the tour? + Service animals are allowed on board. Other pets are not permitted.
What happens if the weather is bad? + The tour operates in all weather conditions, but may be canceled if conditions are deemed unsafe. If canceled by the operator due to weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Is there parking available? + Yes, free public parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
What is the cancellation policy? + All sales are final, and no refunds are available for cancellations.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
5 amazing stars
685julieg, October 2026
Gary was our captain and he made our experience even more memorable.
So enthusiastic…
We spotted whales and dolphins and other wildlife.
I can’t recommend this company enough.
The photos I have attached do not show how amazing the trip was…thank you for an incredible experience
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
An Unforgettable Whale Watching Experience!
Escape38435334843, October 2026
Absolutely amazing whale watching tour! Maria and Chloe were excellent guides- knowledgeable, friendly, enthusiastic, and passionate about marine life. They made the entire experience so much fun and truly unforgettable.
We were lucky enough to see a humpback whale fluke, hundreds of dolphins swimming and playing alongside the boat, flying fish soaring above the water, and even a devil ray! The marine life we encountered was incredible, and every moment was exciting
Maria and Chloe made the trip extra special with their expertise and enthusiasm. If you're considering a whale watching tour, 1 highly recommend this one. An incredible adventure from start to finish-we would absolutely do it again!
Response from the operator · Gisele Anderson Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We're thrilled our awesome crew helped make your trip so memorable, and it’s fantastic that you were able to see such an incredible array of marine life. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to welcoming you back for another unforgettable adventure!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Highly recommend!
500terir, October 2026
Absolutely amazing experience! Have been on quite a few "whale watching trips" and haven't seen a whale until
Now! Our Captain Scott was great at getting us to the action and Amanda knowledge as the guide was completely fascinating! Saw a Minky whale, dolphins, Sea lions, flying fish! Brought my
Sister and 83 yr old Mom and we all had a blast! Staff was great, what a great excursion. Asked for a recommendation for lunch and Amanda told us Coastal Kitchen which was close with delicious food and drink! Definitely a great day!
Response from the operator · Gisele Anderson We're glad you had a wonderful time! It's always nice to get such a warm review like yours, so we can relive the experience with you. Thank you so much for your lovely compliments to our stellar crew. We are amazed you got to see so much wildlife and love that you were able to share such a memorable day with your mom and sister. Thanks again for joining us! We hope to welcome you on board again soon.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Thankful for this Experience!
U5321IIdarylb, October 2026
A big thanks to Captain Jerry and Hannah for an incredible experience. They were insightful and cordial with neighboring whale watching communities and were able to locate a pod of orcas that was visiting during a rare El Niño season. Captain Jerry was able to get up close with the pod and follow their pattern. We were always close enough to not to disturb with their routine, but the orcas became curious enough to swim up to our boat and say hi. Hannah was very insightful and excited to answer any questions that were asked, and we were able to learn a lot about this specific pod and their migration patterns, eating habits, and hunting style. I felt very lucky to have guides that were super enthusiastic about spending quality time with the orcas as much as I was. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. Definitely a dream come true for me to see orcas in their natural habitat. And let's not forget the traditional homemade brownie after the trip.
Response from the operator · Gisele Anderson Thanks so much for coming aboard! We're amazed you got such a lucky and rare look up close at the orcas, and we're thrilled you had such a fantastic time on board learning, watching, and experiencing these amazing animals in the wild. We are truly thankful for your lovely compliments to our wonderful crew, and love knowing the trip was simply incredible. Here's hoping you can join us for another unforgettable adventure!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Dolphins and speed
abcmcd, September 2026
Meet up was easy. There is free reserved parking right at the site. Captain Gary was a fantastic guide. He answered all our questions and was a wealth of knowledge about all the sea creatures and birds we saw along the way, and even ones we didn't. The weather was perfect, and although it was hot on land, believe them when they say to bring a jacket. Out on the ocean gets windy and chilly. The ride was fast and fun. Our group was all there early, so we didn't wait for the clock and just got a little longer ride. Being from the east coast, we're not used to being able to see land eight miles into the ocean. Captain Gary knew right where the dolphins were. It was incredible to see a pod of over 100! We didn't see any whales, but got a great fast ride up and down the coast and saw several flying fish. Being on a zodiac, I felt closer to all the action. I will definitely do this trip again if I'm ever back that way.
Response from the operator · Gisele Anderson We're glad you had a fantastic time on board! Thanks so much for taking the time to rate and review us. It's our pleasure to have had you join us, and we're thrilled you had such good weather and great sightings of the dolphins and flying fish. We hope the next time you're on the West Coast, you'll return for another dolphin and whale watching adventure!
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