Offshore Birding Adventure with Dawn Charters in San Diego
Difficulty
easy
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable sitting and standing for extended periods, with no specific fitness level required.
Overview
Join Dawn Charters for a full-day offshore pelagic birding trip out of San Diego. Over 520 bird species await as you cruise the Pacific, spotting remarkable seabirds and soaking in the ocean’s vast beauty. Get your binoculars and camera ready for a birdwatching adventure that offers a mix of education, wildlife viewing, and oceanic scenery—perfect for avid birders and nature lovers alike.
Full Day Pelagic Birding Trips - Offshore
Private Charter! • 12 hours • All ages • Up to 6 people
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About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 12-hour bird watching tour in San Diego County, home to over 520 bird species. Experience the region's rich biodiversity, with opportunities to spot endemic birds and 103 species right from the dock. Bring your camera and binoculars for an unforgettable adventure in nature!
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Duration
12 hours
About
We offer a variety of bird watching tours.
San Diego County boasts the biggest bird list of any county or of any area of equal size in the United States; over 520 species across the county.
We hope you get out there to experience our amazing, biodiverse region, where you may see exciting endemic birds.
eBird records having spotted 103 species at our dock/marina location alone. Once you embark out of the bay, within 10 miles of Mission Bay eBird records indicate another 74 species have been sighted.
What to bring
- Extra layers of clothing for both sun and temperature
- Sun protection (hats, longsleeves, sunscreen)
- Camera and/or Binoculars
Adventure Tips
Bring binoculars and camera
High-quality binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens will help you capture distant birds and get a better view of the species you encounter.
Wear layered clothing
Ocean conditions can vary; dressing in layers ensures comfort during the long day on the water, especially with wind and sun exposure.
Use sun protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are vital to shield yourself from prolonged sun exposure while on deck.
Arrive early
Getting on board early maximizes your time birding, especially around sunrise when bird activity is highest.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Humpback whales
- Dolphins
History
San Diego’s maritime history dates back over 200 years, with a long tradition of preserving marine and coastal ecosystems.
Conservation
Dawn Charters is committed to sustainable tourism, minimizing environmental impact while sharing the beauty of the Pacific coast.
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Adventure Hotspots in San Diego
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
A good pair of binoculars enhances your ability to see distant birds clearly across the water.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective sunglasses are key for sun safety on the open water.
Layered clothing
Bringing layers ensures comfort across changing weather conditions at sea.
Camera with zoom lens
Capture stunning shots of seabirds and the ocean scenery during your trip.