Whale Watching
Last Updated: September 2026
Planning a first whale watch? These guides cover who can go, what you actually see, whale versus dolphin tours, seasickness, clothes, cost, kids, season, and the fact that wildlife does not punch a clock. Search a ZIP when you are ready to find an operator.
The first-timer product is a boat that leaves the harbor to look. Bring binoculars if you have them. Do not book a promise.
Looking for dolphins on purpose? See the Dolphin Tour.
Start here
- Can Anyone Go Whale Watching?
- What Does Whale Watching Feel Like?
- Whale Watching vs Dolphin Tours
- Are Whale Sightings Guaranteed?
- What to Wear Whale Watching
- What to Bring Whale Watching
- Will I Get Seasick Whale Watching?
- Whale Watching With Kids
Planning
- How Much Does Whale Watching Cost?
- Best Time of Year for Whale Watching
- Where to Go Whale Watching in the United States
Quick Facts
- Experience needed: none
- Product: look from a boat
- Sightings: not guaranteed
- Seasickness: plan for it
- Best first step: Can Anyone Go Whale Watching?
Find this near you
Search a city, state, or ZIP and filter to Whale watching. Or browse Water. Independent directory, not a booking service. Book on the operator's official website.
Find operators
Browse Water for Whale watching operators, or jump to one of these live listings:
- Kenai Fjords ToursSeward, AK
- Major Marine ToursSeward, AK
- Adventure Whale Watching San DiegoSan Diego, CA
- All Aboard AdventuresFort Bragg, CA
- Anchor Charter BoatsFort Bragg, CA
- Avila Beach Whale WatchingAvila Beach, CA
- Bodega Bay Whale WatchingBodega Bay, CA
- Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching SafariDana Point, CA
- Channel Islands Whale WatchingOxnard, CA
- Condor ExpressSanta Barbara, CA
- Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale WatchingDana Point, CA
- Davey's LockerNewport Beach, CA