Two-Hour Luxury Whale Watching Tour from Oceanside

Carlsbad , United States

Two-Hour Luxury Whale Watching Tour from Oceanside

Active

(918 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Every trip is guided by a certified marine naturalist who offers live narration and expert insight into the incredible marine life we encounter. Onboard, you'll find educational materials, fun facts, and recent sighting photos to help you spot and identify dolphins, whales, sea lions, and more.

Our 2-hour tours strike the perfect balance—long enough to explore, short enough for all ages. Whether you're planning a family outing, a romantic date, a private party, or a corporate event, this ocean adventure is designed for anyone who loves the sea and the wild creatures that call it home.

Available options

2 Hour Whale & Dolphin Cruise

What's included

Local guide and professional guide

Cruise

What's not included

Food, drinks, and alcoholic beverages (available to purchase cash only)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

277 reviews

5★

219

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

641 reviews

5★

521

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

On board, you will find a snack and beverage cash only bar (additional expense)

No private groups may book through VIATOR, also no one person or group may buy more then 10 tickets for any cruise time.

Due to the nature of our cruises no refunds or reschedules will be given for no shows or cancellations .

Meeting point

Please CHECK IN at our kiosk in front of Rockin' Baja Lobster restaurant near the historic Oceanside Harbor Lighthouse AT LEAST 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO BOAT DEPARTURE TIME. 45 MINUTES ON HOLIDAYS AND WEEKENDS. If you are lost please call us. *There are no refunds or rescheduling for no shows .

Important notes

• Please bring voucher with you to check in at our kiosk.
• Detailed Directions:

256 Harbor Drive S, Oceanside, CA 92054 . We are located next to the Oceanside Harbor Lighthouse. Please look for our check-in kiosk next to Rockin Baja Lobster restaurant. You must check in at the office to pick up your boarding pass at least 30 mins prior to departure on weekdays, 45 minutes on weekends and holidays. Do not go straight to the boat. If you are lost or running late, please call (760) 277-3737.
• If you cancel at least 7 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee. If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee. If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
**PARKING:**
Due to the harbor being busy please allow for adequate time to find parking. Free parking can usually be found in the lot across from Joe’s Crab Shack through the tunnel, however if the the tunnel is blocked off, please enter through the back way. For the back parking lot entrance please take Harbor Dr. to Carmelo Dr., which will lead to the parking lot. Carmelo Dr. is by the Del Taco, Day’s Inn, and the Holiday Inn.
If you have any questions or running late please give us a call at (760) 277-3737.

***Parking tickets: Do not park where it states slip renters parking or parking permit. Ticketing will be enforced!***

To our valued customers, effective 3/18/22 we will need to impose a temporary fuel surcharge that is added to each ticket, once the fuel falls we will remove this fee.

About Carlsbad

Carlsbad, California, is a charming coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant arts scene. Nestled along the Pacific coast, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a popular destination for travelers of all kinds.

Top Attractions

Carlsbad State Beach

Carlsbad State Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline known for its clean sands, clear waters, and excellent surfing conditions.

Beach Half day Free

Legoland California

Legoland California is a popular theme park designed for families with children. It features Lego-themed rides, shows, and attractions.

Entertainment Full day Expensive

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

The Flower Fields offer a stunning display of colorful flowers, particularly in the spring. It's a great place for a peaceful walk and photo opportunities.

Nature Half day Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish Tacos

A local favorite, featuring fresh fish, crispy batter, and fresh toppings like cabbage and salsa.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free

Avocado Everything

Carlsbad is known for its avocados, and they are featured in many dishes, from salads to smoothies.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Surfing Hiking Kayaking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Visiting art galleries Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This is the best time to visit Carlsbad for warm weather, clear skies, and outdoor activities. The beaches are particularly popular during this period.

15-28°C 60-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Carlsbad is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of ATMs in isolated areas
• Avoid leaving belongings unattended on the beach

Getting there

By air

San Diego International Airport • 40 miles (64 km)
McClellan-Palomar Airport • 5 miles (8 km)

By train

Carlsbad Village Station

By bus

Carlsbad Village Terminal, Carlsbad Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system covers most of the city and is a convenient way to get around. Buses are clean, reliable, and frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Carlsbad Village La Costa Bressi Ranch

Day trips

San Diego

35 miles (56 km) • Full day

San Diego offers a variety of attractions, including the world-famous San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and the historic Gaslamp Quarter.

La Jolla

20 miles (32 km) • Half day

La Jolla is known for its beautiful beaches, upscale shopping, and dining. It's a great place for a relaxing day trip.

Temecula

50 miles (80 km) • Full day

Temecula is known for its wine country, with numerous wineries offering tastings and tours. It's a great destination for wine lovers.

Festivals

Carlsbad Village Festival of Arts • Annual in September Carlsbad Avocado Festival • Annual in April

Pro tips

Visit the Flower Fields in the spring for the best experience
Explore Carlsbad Village for a mix of shopping, dining, and historic sites
Try local specialties like fish tacos and avocado dishes
Check the tides and surf conditions before heading to the beach
Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak seasons