Monterey Bay Whale Watching
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Monterey Bay Whale Watching

Active
(307 reviews)
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Sea Goddess Whale Watching promises a once-in-a-lifetime whale watching experience. Our whale watching tours depart from Moss Landing, right at the mouth of the Monterey Bay Canyon, one of the largest underwater canyons in the world! This nutrient-rich zone attracts all types of marine life, making Moss Landing the best place for whale watching tours in the entire Monterey Bay. With many migratory whales, we’re able to offer guaranteed whale sightings year-round.

Since we our tours depart out of Moss Landing – Less Travel Time than Monterey wharf departures, and More Whale Watching Time!

The Biggest & Nicest Boats on Monterey Bay with 360 Degree walk around deck, interior cabin with windows and clean bathrooms

Premium VIP Upper Deck seating available (best for viewing)

Favorite Whale Watching Tour by both locals and tourists

Marine Biologist Tour Guides to narrate your experience

FREE parking on street if available

Available options

Whale Watching -VIP Upper Deck

Whale Watching Cruise

What's included

All Fees and Taxes
Restroom on board

Detailed itinerary

1

The Monterey Bay is California’s best location for viewing humpback whales, killer whales a.k.a. orcas, gray whales, blue whales, great white sharks and the abundance of marine species including dolphins, jellyfish and mola mola, which call the Pacific Ocean home.

Sea Goddess Whale Watching promises you a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our whale watching tours depart from Moss Landing, at the mouth of the Monterey Bay Canyon, one of the largest underwater canyons in the world! The canyon is a nutrient-rich zone that attracts all types of marine life, making Moss Landing the best place for whale watching tours in the entire state of California, and Monterey Bay including San Francisco.

In fact, the Monterey Bay is home to resident whales & dolphins and visited by so many migratory whales that we’re able to offer guaranteed whale sightings year-round. Plan your day!

What's not included

Snacks
Alcoholic Beverages
Lunch
Soda/Pop

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5
35 reviews
5★
28
4★
2
3★
1
2★
2
1★
2
Tripadvisor 4.7
272 reviews
5★
242
4★
13
3★
4
2★
3
1★
10

Important information

Service animals allowed
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No Walkers allowed
Not Available for infants or children under 3 years old due to safety reasons

Meeting point

Head towards the Moss Landing harbor office and you will see our large mobile office for check-in.

Important notes

Check-in time is 30-45 minutes prior to departure. Once You’re There:
Follow the Whale Watching signs, and our check-in table is between the Harbor Master’s office and the bathrooms, at the red arrow in the satellite view.

About Monterey & Carmel

Monterey and Carmel are coastal gems in California, renowned for their stunning natural beauty, rich marine life, and artistic heritage. This area offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxed coastal charm.

Top Attractions

Monterey Bay Aquarium

One of the most renowned aquariums in the world, featuring a wide array of marine life and educational exhibits.

Nature 2-4 hours $54.95 for adults, $42.95 for children

Carmel-by-the-Sea

A picturesque town known for its fairytale-like cottages, art galleries, and beautiful beaches.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

A stunning coastal reserve with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking ocean vistas.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Cannery Row

A historic waterfront district made famous by John Steinbeck's novel, featuring shops, restaurants, and museums.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore, attractions vary

17-Mile Drive

A scenic drive through Pebble Beach, offering stunning views of the coastline, golf courses, and natural landscapes.

Scenic 1-2 hours $10.50 per vehicle

Must-Try Local Dishes

Abalone

A local delicacy, often served grilled or in cioppino, a seafood stew.

Dinner Not vegetarian or vegan

Monterey Bay Sardines

Freshly caught and often served grilled or smoked.

Snack Not vegetarian or vegan

Carmel Artisan Cheese

Locally made cheeses, often paired with wine and crackers.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Surfing Kayaking Beach lounging Spas Scenic drives Art gallery visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Peak season offers warm weather and vibrant activities, but also larger crowds and higher prices. Ideal for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.

15-22°C 59-72°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Pacific Time Zone (PT, UTC-8)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Monterey and Carmel are generally safe destinations with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use reputable taxi services
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help

Getting there

By air
  • Monterey Regional Airport • 5 km from Monterey
  • San Jose International Airport • 110 km from Monterey
By train

Monterey Amtrak Station

By bus

Monterey Bus Station, Carmel Bus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, but schedules may be limited in the evenings and on weekends.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Monterey Carmel-by-the-Sea Pacific Grove

Day trips

Big Sur
40 km south of Carmel • Full day

A stunning coastal area with dramatic cliffs, redwood forests, and scenic drive along Highway 1.

Santa Cruz
60 km north of Monterey • Full day

A vibrant beach town known for its boardwalk, surfing, and family-friendly attractions.

Salinas
30 km east of Monterey • Half day

A historic city known for its agricultural heritage and as the hometown of John Steinbeck.

Festivals

Monterey Jazz Festival • Mid-September Carmel Art Festival • October

Pro tips

  • Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium early in the morning to avoid crowds
  • Take a scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive for stunning views
  • Try the famous clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls at Fisherman's Wharf
  • Explore the art galleries and boutiques in Carmel-by-the-Sea
  • Go whale watching in season (December to April) for an unforgettable experience
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-100
1
Childs
Age 3-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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