Whale Watching & Wildlife Boat Tour with South Coast Tours in Gold Beach

In the coastal town of Port Orford, Oregon—just a short drive from Gold Beach—South Coast Tours offers an immersive boat journey that promises wildlife enthusiasts a front-row seat to the Pacific’s vibrant marine life. Departing from Dolley Dock, the vessel Black Pearl takes adventurers into the waters of the Redfish Rocks Marine Research Reserve, an area renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning sea vistas.

This tour delivers a true maritime adventure. As the nearly unsinkable Black Pearl glides through the Pacific, expect to spot impressive gray whales breaching and spouting, sometimes mere yards from the boat. Sea lions lounge on rocks, vocal and curious, while seabirds buzz overhead. The reserve’s rocky shores are dotted with colorful anemones and kelp forests sway beneath the surface—each scene a vibrant testament to the region's dynamic ecosystem.

South Coast Tours stands out by weaving in the area’s history alongside wildlife watching, giving visitors a layered understanding of this rugged stretch of coast. The tour’s intimate size and knowledgeable guides create a personal connection to the surroundings, making it ideal for families, seasoned naturalists, or anyone with a curiosity about ocean life.

Whether you’re aiming to witness the migration or simply yearning for a day on the water that ignites your sense of discovery, this trip is a highlight of the Oregon coast’s outdoor scene. It’s a chance to experience the wild pulse of the Pacific and learn about ongoing conservation efforts that help protect these marine treasures for future generations.