Step from the marina into open ocean on a 2–2.5 hour guided whale watching cruise from Long Beach. Expert captains and Aquarium docents narrate likely sightings—gray, blue, humpback whales—and point out seabirds, sea lions, and dolphins.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The boat slips free from Dock 2 as gulls wheel above the harbor, and the city’s concrete edges give way to an endless blue. In two hours you move from marina pilings past the Queen Mary and out into open Pacific, where the ocean’s surface can rise with the breath of a gray whale or flash with a pod of dolphins.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves boarding a vessel and short periods of standing on deck
Wildlife
History
Long Beach’s harbor evolved from early 20th-century shipping and shipbuilding; attractions like the Queen Mary and the Aquarium tie maritime heritage to modern ecotourism.
Conservation
Cruise operators follow responsible viewing guidelines and use low-emission engines; visitors are encouraged not to feed wildlife and to dispose of waste ashore to protect marine habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Guided Whale Watching Tour from Long Beach today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Morning and offshore winds are cooler than the shore—bring a windproof layer and hat for deck viewing.
Bring motion-sickness options
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication or use acupressure bands before boarding; rougher seas can occur offshore.
Arrive early for boarding
Ticket booth at Dock #2 requires printing for each guest—arrive 30 minutes weekdays, 60 minutes weekends and holidays.
Use binoculars and a telephoto lens
Binoculars increase your chance to identify species and behavior; a 200mm+ lens helps capture distant blows and tail flukes.
Layered jacket
Windproof, warm layers keep you comfortable on the exposed deck.
Binoculars
Helps spot distant blows, dorsal fins, and behaviors before photos are possible.
Seasickness remedy
Prevention tablets or wristbands increase enjoyment for sensitive passengers.
Camera with zoom lens
A telephoto lens captures whales and dolphins beyond deck range.