Information about Whale Watching in Dana Point-
Dana Point Harbor
Information about Whale Watching in Dana Point California
Dana Point Whale Watching offers some great whale watching opportunities with both Dana Point Harbor and Newport Bay providing whale watching cruises along the Dana Point and Laguna Beach Coastlines. Newport Harbor has public parking next to the Balboa Pier and Dana Point Harbor has public parking in front of the harbor. For Whale Watching, Dana Point Whale Watching is better than some and doesn’t compare to others. It is relatively quick to get through both harbors, which means more time viewing whales and dolphin..
Dana Point Whale Watching Companies
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Newport Landing Whale Watching - Newport Landing whale watching is my favorite! Year round whale watching from a whale watching ship made for whale watching. A really good option for whale watching in Dana Point. They just started doing the year round whale watching trip last year and it was a blast. Unlike some of the more northern locals in Southern California, the seas always seem to be mild and the water blue. I came out during the summer whale watching cruises and had multiple blue whale sightings, two species of dolphin numbering in the thousands, sea lions, huge schools of fish, and even a thresher shark sighting. The great thing about whale watching with Newport Landing is that they stay the required distance from the whales but are very good at making the most out of each sighting with prolonged viewing opportunities. The narration is some of the best in southern California. During the Gray Whale migration, it is not uncommon to see a half dozen Gray Whales in one outing and many times just outside the harbor entrance. Beautiful coastline, abundant sea life, and top notch whale watching ship make this a great choice for the Dana Point Area.
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Dana Island Yachts - provides seasonal whale watching sailboat cruises during the Gray Whale migration. These sail boats only hold up to 6 passengers. The price is hard to believe at only $35 per person which includes a captain. There are some amenities onboard including a restroom, but this trip would not be the best for those with physical challenges. The narration and viewing opportunities are not up to the standards of some of the better whale watching operations in Southern California. There is limited indoor space and viewing can be a trade off between enduring the elements and not missing a potential sighting. Not my cup of tea, but might be for some.
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Ocean Institute - offers weekend marine mammal cruises during the Gray Whale migration. Their schedule is hard to pin down and they currently offer only fifteen or so cruises each season. With that said this is a neat option with the best narration in Dana Point. Plankton nets, video microscopes, sediment samplers, and other neat gadgets make this cruise an immersion in science. I have yet to join them as it is tough to coordinate with their schedule. The primary whale watching ship is a traditional ship with lots of amenities. They have the makings of a great whale watching operation, except being dedicated to whale watching. It may seem pretty simple to find whales and dolphin, but their is a lot of thought and planning to consistently finding these marine mammals. More time is spent on science projects then is spent searching on the water for whales and dolphin. The more time spent searching the better the viewings will be day in and day out.
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Davey's Locker – Davey’s Locker offers year round whale watching cruises to Dana Point & Laguna Beach. Partnered with the American Cetacean Society Orange County Chapter and providing thousands of school kids their first whale watching experience, Davey’s Locker is a great option for whale watching in Dana Point. As you would expect with their experience with schools kids, they are great with families and kids and I have gotten as much enjoyment from watching families seeing their first whale as any viewing for myself. I think this is what whale watching is all about getting people to view these magnificent creatures in their own environment. Seeing a grey whale breach off of Dana Point or Laguna Beach is very unique. You can’t compare this to sea world or a discovery channel special and I think that is great. For those with a sweet tooth, stop by Balboa Candy before boarding.
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Dolphin Safari - Dolphin Safari is an enjoyable company to go out with and the first of two that I would recommend out of Dana Point. They have a catamaran that holds up to twenty two passengers and they also have year round whale watching cruises. They take their whale watching cruises pretty seriously and have a pretty good success rate. As with some of the other Catamaran options there is limited space and amenities are not comparable to larger traditional whale watching ships. There is a restroom onboard but it requires climbing down a ladder which might be difficult for some. The price at $55 is a little expensive for me, but might not be for some. I think the biggest drawback is being exposed to the elements. It can get really cold on the water and if it is drizzly to boot, I couldn’t imagine it being too enjoyable. For whale watching in Dana Point this is the best option, unless you can drive the twenty minutes north to Newport Beach.
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Fun Zone Boat Company - The Fun Zone Boat Company is also one of my favorites with year round whale watching as well as the Gray Whale migration. Located right on the boardwalk next to the Ferris wheel, there are all kinds of fun things to do before and after your whale watching trip. The Fun Zone Boat Company is primarily a harbor cruise group but their whale watching tours are great. Lots of sightings and mild ocean conditions make Fun Zone Boat Company a great choice for the first time whale watcher.
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Dana Wharf Sport Fishing - Dana Wharf Sport Fishing does seasonal whale watching during the Gray Whale migration and has a catamaran that does year round cruises including whale watching. The seasonal whale watching cruises are aboard the Dana Pride a 95 foot ship with a plasma screen tv which holds 100 people. The catamaran holds up to 49 persons and boasts a full service bar for more information go to http://ococeanadventures.com/
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Aventura Sailing - offers a large array of boats that you drive yourself. Based on your nautical experience this could be a decent choice for doing multiple activities which might include whale watching. As with most ‘you drive’ options you will be handicapped both in knowledge of the most productive viewing areas and narration. Unless you have a background in marine biology or are a dedicated whale watching enthusiast. For the more experienced this could be a fun adventure.
Dana Point Festival Of The Whales
The Dana Point Festival Of The Whales takes place each year in March and is a celebration around the annual grey whale migration taking place just off the coast. There is a parade and street fair. The street fair features arts and crafts, craft booths, unique food, kid’s games, and live entertainment. A volleyball tournament and horseshoe tournament are just some of the many activities of this celebration of the whales in Dana Point. For more information check out their site Dana Point Festival Of The Whales
Lodging Options For Dana Point Whale Watchers
Need a place to stay on your trip? Try Dana Point vacation rentals.
There are a number of different hotel options all around Dana Point from budget conscious options to four star resorts. Here are some of those options:
Montage Resort & Spa- (949) 715-6000 - With sweeping panoramas of the Pacific Ocean, this elegant 262 - room resort offers the 20,000-square-foot oceanfront Spa Montage, three sparkling swimming pools, destination dining and over 20,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting space.
Surf & Sand Hotel - (949) 497-4477 - Located in the heart of enchanting Laguna Beach along 500 ft. of spectacular Pacific coastline, Surf & Sand is the perfect getaway. Don cozy cotton robes and order breakfast in bed. Relax poolside, overlooking the ocean. Dine at Splashes and enjoy mouth watering Mediterranean cuisines with California inspired influences. Stunning ocean views!
Best Western Laguna Brisas Spa Hotel -(949) 497-7272 - Low rise Resort Inn situated opposite beach, adjacent to shopping area. This is a great value for the Laguna Beach area with partial ocean views. The beach is within walking distance. Recommend staying in one of the rooms that do not face the South Coast Highway if noise is bothersome to you.
By The Sea Inn - (949) 497-6645 - This is a very quaint three-story motel. It has a pool, but it is small. Good location away from noise and crowds, yet close enough to walk to beach, restaurants, and galleries. Recommend requesting a room on the top floor, as there is lots of noise below.
Casa Laguna Inn - (949) 494-2996 - This was formerly an historic home/artist colony. The property is located just a mile or so off of 133 on South Coast Hwy 1 and it is just up and out of the crazy bustle of shops and restaurants. Library of classic movies on DVD, and DVD players in all rooms! There is also complimentary wine and cheese; hors d'oeuvres. This is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. Victoria beach is 10min walk away and gorgeous. All rooms equipped with free internet.
Holiday Inn - (949) 494-1001 - Two rooms, one large bedroom with an adjoining bathroom, and a large sitting room with a fold out queen sofa, coffee table, fridge, sitting area with table, and a fireplace. Both rooms have large flat screen televisions. The bathroom is massive, with a large jacuzzi spa tub. Although not right on the beach, it was less than 1/2 block away. Downtown is also very close - 2 blocks.
Laguna Riviera Hotel - (949) 494-1196 - This hotel is part French Riviera, part Mediterranean retreat. They offer a variety of rooms to satisfy every need, from ocean front studios with Jacuzzi tubs to grand one bedroom suites, some with a full kitchen, private ocean front deck, and cozy fireplace. All rooms offer a refrigerator, coffee maker, color TV, HBO, phone, voice mail, and hair dryer.
Best Western Laguna Reef Inn - (949) 499-2227 - The inn rooms are set back from the road behind lovely Palms and gardens which surround their cozy pool. Amenities include free parking, internet, and continental breakfast with no hassles. This hotel is one of the best for convenience. This location is near restaurants, unique shops, and galleries.
Capri Laguna Inn on The Beach - (949) 494-6533 - This location is within walking distance to all main attractions, restaurants, shops & the center of town. For the price, the rooms here are up to par.
Inn At Laguna Beach - (949) 497-9722 - Oceanfront Inn located 1 block from downtown stores and restaurants & 12 miles from John Wayne/Orange County Int'l Airport. This location has a rooftop patio with heaters for the evening chill. The pool area is just fantastic with a great hot tub for all your lounging needs.
Best Inn - Laguna Beach - (949) 494-6464 - If you’re on a budget, you’ll be nicely surprised by this place. If all you need is an inexpensive place to crash in Laguna and don't care about view or location then you will be very happy.
Courtyard Laguna Hills - (949) 859-5500 - Contemporary Motor Hotel, located off the I-5. They serve Otis Spunkmeyer cookies in the evening...which are delicious! This Courtyard has a very clean and inviting atmosphere. Nice bathrooms and towels.
Ayres Hotel Laguna Woods - (949) 588-0131 - An upscale European boutique hotel designed in Tuscan Villa Style with paintings, gas lamps & courtyard; near Aliso Viejo. 20 min. drive to the Pacific Coast Highway. You get a great value staying here. The hotel is located in a shopping center.
Comfort Inn at Laguna Hills - (949) 859-0166 - There are so many places to eat in 5 min drive. This hotel is very convenient and just completed renovations. This hotel is of Spanish-influence, and located downtown.
La Casa Del Rio Del Camino - (949) 497-2446 - Built in 1927, this intimate Orange County hotel is tucked between Pacific Coast Highway and the beach, seven blocks from the shops and galleries of central Laguna Beach. Also includes an eclectic Mediterranean/Asian restaurant, and a furnished rooftop deck. High-speed Internet access and complimentary premium channels.
Aliso Creek Inn - (949) 499-2271 - 2 miles from Downtown Laguna and tucked into a canyon, this golf resort offers condo-sized quarters with spacious rooms and full kitchens (including toasters, ovens, refrigerator, and stove). This is an ideal location for families, extended stay guests, or reunions. The only thing is that this Inn does not have air conditioning.
Holiday Inn - (949) 586-5000 - Modern Hotel with guest room amenities for the business or leisure traveler; set near the Freeway, 15 miles from SNA airport. It is across from the beach, grocery store and in the heart of Laguna Beach stores and galleries.
The St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort & Spa - (949) 234-3200 - The St. Regis Monarch stands along the pristine shores of the majestic Pacific Ocean. Experience the only California resort crowned with the Mobil Five-Star, Five - Diamond Award. This award-winning coastal retreat features an 18-hole golf course, 30,000-square foot Spa Gaucin and six ocean-view restaurants including celebrated chef Michael Mina's Stonehill Tavern.
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel - (949) 240-2000 - Consistently ranked among the world’s premier travel destinations, it provides the perfect getaway for the discriminating guest. Restore your spirit in the cleansing waters of our brand-new spa. Enjoy innovative seafood cuisine in our ocean-view restaurant. Treat yourself to a romantic California coast vacation in our richly appointed accommodations in a striking oceanfront setting.
Marriott Newport Coast Villas - (949) 464-6000 - Perched high upon a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Marriott's Newport Coast Villas offers fully equipped kitchen, living/dining area, washer/dryer and private balcony/patio. They have 4 outdoor pools, 3 whirlpool spas, fitness center, tennis courts, and activity center with game room.
Balboa Bay Club & Resort - (949) 645-5000 - This is a high end resort directly off the bay with a wonderful view. Immaculate rooms with high quality sheets and bedding. Great pool, and dogs are allowed for an extra fee.
Balboa Inn - (949) 675-3412 - Ideally situated, overlooking the beach, but right in the middle of everything. This is a very nice and friendly atmosphere. The perfect destination for families, as the Balboa Peninsula’s “Fun Zone” is nearby. There the kids will enjoy a Ferris wheel, arcade, and shops. A very relaxed, touristy feel, but around plenty of good restaurants and action! One thing, no air conditioning.
Four Season Hotel - (949) 759-0808 - Luxury, resort hotel that is elegant and immaculate. If you are attracted to shopping you will be right at home here. The Four Seasons is right next to Fashion Island. It has nicely appointed rooms with plenty of space. From an abundance of 100% cotton oversized bath towels in our marble bathrooms to their uniquely designed mattresses with Italian linens and goose down duvets, your every home-away-from-home needs are happily met. Step-out balconies and/or furnished patios are featured in each and every one of our rooms to ensure a truly Southern California experience, complete with ocean-fresh breezes and the option of Newport Harbor and Pacific Ocean views. This location is great for business travelers and families.
Hyatt Newporter - (949) 729-1234 - With over 900 palm trees on this beautiful property, the Hyatt NB is a distinguished resort & convention hotel set in 26 acres overlooking Newport Beach's Back Bay. In addition to well-maintained, cabana-like rooms, you can entertain clients on their par-3 golf course or swim in one of our sparkling pools. Entertain clients on our par-3 golf course or swim in one of the very nice, sparkling pools. Take advantage of deluxe amenities, including generous work area with high-speed Internet access, a refrigerator and an in-room safe. Enjoy video-on-demand, cable/satellite channels, dual-line speakerphone with voicemail, daily newspaper, coffeemaker and exclusive Portico bath products.
Best Western Newport Beach Inn - (949) 642-8252 - They have very clean and nice rooms and are close to the beach. Most rooms have a partial beach view. This hotel is located about halfway between Downtown Newport Beach and Downtown Huntington.
Marriott Newport Beach Hotel - (949) 640-4000 - The newly remodeled hotel accommodations offers a whole new take on coastal living with sleek, modern style. Retreat to an elegant guest room, and enjoy sweeping Pacific views, a vibrant decor, and plush furnishings.
Little Inn By The Bay - (949) 673-8800 - The pier and beach is a 10 minute walk away. Smaller, older Inn, but the rooms are nice and it’s close to all the Newport action. Each distinctively decorated guest room in the 18-room Little Inn By the Bay invites comfort and relaxation, as it’s one of the most affordable hotels in Newport Beach. Whether a weekend get-a-way or a mini vacation, the Little Inn is a nice place to stay.
Marriott Suites Newport Beach - (949) 854-4500 - Each suite offers high speed internet access, dry bar and our Revive Bedding Collection for a good night's rest. The courtyard overlooks Newport's Back Bay and holds events for up to 120.
Radisson Newport Beach - (949) 833-0570 - Located just a 1/2 mile from the John Wayne Airport, and offers a FREE shuttle ride away, we offer the perfect location for both business and leisure travelers.
Sutton Place Hotel - (949) 476-2001 - Sutton Place Hotel is the industry favorite for business people seeking amenities and a close proximity to the Orange County business scene near John Wayne / Orange County Airport.
