Experience thrilling gray whale and sea lion sightings aboard the Black Pearl, navigating the protected Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve off Port Orford’s coast.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; the boat is stable and seating is available throughout the trip.
Wildlife
History
Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve was established in 2010 as Oregon’s first state marine reserve to protect vital marine habitats and species.
Conservation
The tour promotes awareness of marine conservation, encouraging visitors to respect wildlife and minimize impact on fragile ocean ecosystems.
South Coast Tours
Experience thrilling gray whale and sea lion sightings aboard the Black Pearl, navigating the protected Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve off Port Orford’s coast.
South Coast Tours operates out of Brookings, Oregon, offering guided kayak and boat excursions along the southern Oregon coast. The company runs a range of trips including ocean kayak fishing tours in Port Orford and Brookings, wildlife viewing paddles on the Chetco River estuary and coastal kelp beds, a whales and wildlife boat tour from Dolley Dock in Port Orford, snorkeling combined with kayaking at Orford Heads and Nellies Cove, and convenient boat shuttles between Bullards Beach State Park Campground and Old Town Bandon.
Trips feature Hobie kayaks for several ocean fishing and wildlife tours and include a boat-based option aboard the nearly unsinkable Black Pearl for Redfish Rocks and whale viewing. The Arches Territory inflatable paddle experience notes over 15 years of guiding in Samuel Boardman State Scenic Corridor. Tours target local species such as Blue and Black rockfish, Ling Cod, gray whales, sea lions, harbor seals, pelicans, kingfishers, and a variety of seabirds, plus kelp and tidepool life.
South Coast Tours serves families, anglers, hikers, snorkelers, and wildlife enthusiasts, with outings ranging from short estuary paddles to multi-hour fishing and snorkeling adventures. Departure points include Brookings and Port Orford, and specialized services include boat shuttles for Oregon Coast Trail hikers. Information provided in tour descriptions outlines durations, activities, and highlights for each trip. South Coast Tours offers coastal exploration options that connect visitors to the marine environment and local landmarks while showcasing southern Oregon’s natural diversity. Booking details, pricing, and seasonal availability are listed on their tour pages.
Base Location
Brookings, OR
Coastal access to southern Oregon
Vessels
Hobie kayaks & Black Pearl
Kayaks and motorboat adventures
Arches Experience
15+ years guiding
Samuel Boardman expertise
Tours Offered
11 distinct trips
Fishing, wildlife, snorkeling, shuttles
Reserve kayak, fishing, snorkeling or shuttle trips from Brookings and Port Orford today.
Dress for changing weather
Coastal conditions can shift rapidly; layering with waterproof gear is essential for comfort.
Bring binoculars
Increase your chances of spotting distant whales and sea birds with a good pair of binoculars.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and the marine environment by choosing environmentally friendly sunscreen products.
Keep voices low
Minimize noise to avoid disturbing sensitive marine wildlife during sightings.
Windbreaker or waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and sea spray for a more comfortable trip.
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing, especially for distant whales or birds.
Camera with zoom lens
Captures close-up shots of marine mammals without the need to approach.
Comfortable non-slip shoes
Ensures safe footing on wet boat decks during embarkation and disembarkation.