Guided Whale Watching Tour from Long Beach

Los Angeles , United States

Guided Whale Watching Tour from Long Beach

Active

(254 reviews)

2h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The price you see is the price you pay, no hidden fees or surcharges. We are the top destination for whale watching in Long Beach and Los Angeles. Our custom built high speed vessels can cover waters north to Santa Monica and south to Newport Beach for maximum range coverage resulting in maximum marine life sighting success. Our fleet of state of the art vessels adhere to strict safety codes and regulations, ensuring you and your friends and family enjoy a wonderful experience out on the water. All whale watching excursions embark under the guidance of highly trained captains not only equipped to man your boat, but also to provide informative narration of the wildlife you might encounter. Marine life we encounter includes: Gray Whales (November-April), Blue Whales (may-November), and year-round we can see Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, Minke Whales, Orcas, Dolphins, Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, rare Marine Birds, and much more!

Available options

Guided Whale Watching Tour from Long Beach

What's included

low emission engines means whales and their marine environment are not harmed or disturbed

2 to 2.5-hour whale watching cruise

Expert educators from the Aquarium of the Pacific highlighting all sights

Multiple Restrooms onboard

Sealife Guarantee If no sealife is seen, we'll issue you a free Voucher to join us in the future

custom built state of the art whale watching catamarans, offering amazing stability and comfort

Inside seating with climate controlled interiors, large windows, and outside seating

Seasoned Captains and crew who specialize in whale watching. Over 30-years whale watching experience

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Our vessel will pass by the world famous Queen Mary while departing and coming back from your whale watching cruise

We will travel out into the open Pacific Ocean to search for amazing marine life including Whales, Dolphins, Sea Lions, rare Marine Birds, and much more!

Stop 3 Pass by

One of the top attractions in Long Beach with a collection of over 11,000 animals, over 500 different species. You can enjoy animal encounters.

Stop 4 Pass by

Cruise Ship Terminal

Once Home of the Spruce Goose, a massive, wooden flying boat designed and built by Howard Hughes during World War II

Part of the largest commercial port in the world

One of the largest Breakwater's in the USA.

What's not included

No food or drink are included but they are available for purchase onboard

Parking not included. We offer validation for discount parking in structure across the street

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

150 reviews

5★

105

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

104 reviews

5★

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

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Sealife Sightings are not guaranteed but if we don't see any Sealife you can come back in the future for free

Meeting point

Our ticket booth is located at Dock #2 across the street from Bubba Gump Shrimp Restaurant and between the Aquarium of the Pacific and Hooters Restaurant. Please arrive with your Viator order and we will print every one in your party physical tickets to board the vessel.

Important notes

Please arrive to our ticket booth at dock#2 at least 30 minutes on weekdays and 1 hour on weekends and holidays prior to your cruise. Dock #2 is located in between the Aquarium and Hooters, across the street from Bubba Gump Restaurant entrance. We recommend parking at the Aquarium or Pike parking structures. We validate parking for a day rate of $8.00, regular day rate for parking is $15.00 without validation.

Disclaimer
Whale and Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed due to the unpredictable nature of wildlife. We have expert Captains and Docents from the Aquarium of the Pacific onboard ensuring the best chance to see whales but it is up to the majestic mammals if they show up for work. We do offer a Sealife Guarantee - If aboard your cruise, we don’t encounter any of the amazing sealife that makes the Pacific Ocean such an incredible place, we will issue you a Return Voucher to come back aboard and join us again in the future

About Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a vibrant, multicultural city known for its Hollywood glamour, sunny beaches, and diverse cultural attractions. From iconic landmarks to world-class dining and entertainment, LA offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Hollywood Walk of Fame

A must-visit for film and entertainment enthusiasts, the Hollywood Walk of Fame features over 2,700 stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring celebrities in the entertainment industry.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Santa Monica Pier

An iconic beachfront amusement park with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and numerous rides, the Santa Monica Pier offers fun for all ages.

Entertainment Half day Free entry, rides cost extra

Griffith Observatory

A public observatory offering stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood Sign, as well as educational exhibits about space and astronomy.

Nature 2-3 hours Free (some exhibits and shows have fees)

The Getty Center

A world-renowned art museum featuring European paintings, drawings, sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and photographs.

Museum Half day Free (parking fee applies)

Venice Beach

A vibrant beach community known for its boardwalk, street performers, and eclectic shops, as well as its beautiful sandy beaches.

Beach Half day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish Tacos

A popular street food item featuring grilled or fried fish in a tortilla, topped with salsa and crema.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with various types of fish, vegetarian options available.

Korean BBQ

A staple of LA's Korean food scene, featuring marinated meats grilled at the table and served with side dishes.

Dinner Contains meat, vegetarian options available at some restaurants.

Avocado Toast

A trendy dish featuring toasted bread topped with mashed avocado, often garnished with eggs, tomatoes, or other toppings.

Breakfast/Brunch Vegetarian, vegan options available.

Tacos al Pastor

A traditional Mexican taco featuring marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork, vegetarian options available at some restaurants.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Griffith Park Rock climbing in Joshua Tree National Park Surfing in Malibu Beach day in Santa Monica Spa day in Beverly Hills Yoga in Venice Beach Visiting museums in Downtown LA Exploring historic sites in Olvera Street

Best Time to Visit

April to May, September to November

The peak seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. This is the best time to visit for comfortable sightseeing and exploring the city's attractions.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Pacific Time Zone (PT), GMT-8 (Standard Time), GMT-7 (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

LA is generally safe for tourists, but some areas can be risky, especially at night. Stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious at night and in less touristy areas
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air

Los Angeles International Airport • 20 km from city center
Bob Hope Airport • 30 km from city center

By train

Union Station

By bus

Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Metro Rail system includes several subway and light rail lines that cover most of the city. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hollywood Santa Monica Downtown LA Venice Beverly Hills

Day trips

Santa Barbara

150 km from LA • Full day

A charming coastal city known for its Spanish architecture, wineries, and beautiful beaches.

Disneyland Resort

50 km from LA • Full day

A world-famous theme park featuring Disney characters, rides, and attractions for all ages.

Joshua Tree National Park

200 km from LA • Full day or overnight

A unique desert landscape featuring iconic Joshua trees, rock formations, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Hollywood Bowl Summer Concert Series • June to September LA Pride • June LA County Fair • September to October

Pro tips

Use public transportation or walk whenever possible to avoid traffic and parking issues
Book tickets in advance for popular attractions and events
Explore beyond the tourist hotspots for a more local experience
Be prepared for traffic and congestion, especially during peak hours
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as LA can be hot and sunny year-round