Whale Watching in Orange County

Orange County offers some of the best whale watching on the West Coast, with year-round opportunities to see an incredible diversity of marine life just miles from shore.

The nutrient-rich waters off Orange County attract whales, dolphins, and other marine mammals throughout the year. Newport Beach and Dana Point serve as the primary departure points for whale watching excursions, with multiple operators offering daily trips.

From the epic gray whale migration in winter to the awe-inspiring blue whales of summer, there is always something remarkable to see. Common dolphins travel in pods of hundreds or even thousands, and humpback whales have been increasingly frequent visitors in recent years.

Recent Sightings

What's been spotted off Newport Beach over the last two weeks

Sightings data coming soon.

Sightings data courtesy of Newport Landing. Book a whale watching trip and support ACS Orange County.

Seasonal Calendar

Which whales can you see and when?

Winter / Spring

Dec - Apr
  • Gray Whales
  • Humpback Whales (early spring)

Late Spring

May - Jun
  • Humpback Whales
  • Minke Whales
  • Gray Whales (stragglers)

Summer / Fall

Jun - Oct
  • Blue Whales
  • Fin Whales
  • Humpback Whales

All Seasons

Year-round
  • Common Dolphins
  • Bottlenose Dolphins
  • Risso's Dolphins
  • Minke Whales

What to Know Before You Go

Tips from experienced whale watchers to make your trip great.

Before You Board

  • Take motion sickness medicine at least 1 hour before departure
  • Arrive 30 minutes early to check in and find your spot
  • Eat a light meal beforehand — not too full, not empty
  • Use the restroom before boarding (boats have them, but they are small)

What to Wear

  • Dress in layers — it is 10-15 degrees cooler on the water
  • Flat rubber-sole shoes for grip on wet decks
  • Only wear hats with a chin strap — loose hats WILL blow off
  • A windbreaker or light jacket, even on sunny days

Sun & Skin

  • Apply sunscreen before boarding — reapplying on a rocking boat is tough
  • SPF lip balm (the ocean reflection intensifies UV)
  • Sunglasses with a retainer strap so they stay on
  • You can sunburn on cloudy days — the marine layer does not block UV

What to Bring

  • Binoculars for spotting distant spouts and breaches
  • Camera with a zoom lens (phone cameras struggle at distance)
  • Reusable water bottle — stay hydrated
  • A small dry bag or ziplock for your phone

What to Leave Behind

  • Umbrellas — they are a hazard on windy boats
  • Large bags or backpacks — space is limited
  • Loose accessories (scarves, dangly jewelry)
  • Glass containers — most boats prohibit them

With Kids

  • Bring snacks and water — trips last 2-2.5 hours
  • Dress kids in layers and bring a change of clothes
  • The bow (front) of the boat has the best views
  • Hold small children near the railing and keep life jackets accessible

Should I Go Whale Watching Today?

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Whale Watch Operators

Book a trip with one of these local operators.

Whale watch operator information is being updated. In the meantime, popular operators include Davey's Locker in Newport Beach and Captain Dave's and Dana Wharf in Dana Point.