easy
2–3 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required beyond boarding the vessel.
Join Dana Wharf in Dana Point for a daily whale and dolphin watching adventure offering guaranteed sightings and an exclusive art lesson. Discover ocean wildlife in style and comfort!
Our most popular trip!
Experience the thrill of whale watching with Dana Wharf, the original and premier company in Orange County. Enjoy breathtaking views of majestic gray and blue whales, playful dolphins, and diverse marine life year-round. Join unique art lessons on board and create unforgettable memories in the stunning waters of Dana Point.
#1/2 Price Tuesday is BACK!!! All tickets on Tuesday are 1/2 price * taken off the adult fare
#Wyland’s Whale and Dolphin Adventure Art Lesson is Back!#
Join us for the most creative experience on the water! Create your own art aboard the Dana Pride that will be judged by Wyland himself, with multiple winners.
#*The original whale watching company in Orange County, Dana Wharf is the Dana Point Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital ! Dana Wharf Whale Watching began in 1971 and was the first whale watching company in Orange County. Located in Dana Point we are the premier year-round whale watching facility in Southern California. If you are coming to whale watch you want to do it from Dana Point with Dana Wharf the pioneers of the industry.
##All of our cruises are narrated by our expert marine naturalist captains who will educate you on the abundant ocean life off our Dana Point coast. Trips are all 2 hours long, plenty of time to discover the world that lies beneath !
GUARANTEED MARINE MAMMAL SIGHTINGS- If you don't see a good showing of marine mammals (whale or dolphins), get a free Marine Mammal Rain Check to come back to Dana Point for another trip!
Every trip is a new experience, so be sure to come out often! See attractions such as: • Gray Whales (November - May) - These friendly Whales are up to 65 feet!
• Blue Whales (May - November) - They can grow up to 100 feet long and weigh up to 100 tons - you will not believe your eyes if you're lucky enough to see on of these impressive marine mammals! These whales visit Dana Point year round , Fin Whales, Humpback Whales, Bryde's Whales and Minke Whale
• Dolphins - take memorable photos as schools of playful dolphins frolic around the boat!
• Sea lions, pelican and other seafaring birdsplus possible sightings of Sharks ( Mako, Hammerhead, and Great White)
. ** Rare whales include Orcas, False Killer Whales, Pilot Whales , maybe even Sperm Whales
##About the Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventure Tour Join DANA WHARF OC's first (and local Dana Point favorite) whale watching company and delight in the exciting sights and sounds of the magnificent ocean creatures seen daily by Dana Wharf. Known as a landmark for marine life sightings, Dana Wharf's Dana Point Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventure Tours offer rare glimpses into a huge variety of underwater wildlife and gorgeous scenic views you'll never forget.
Whale Watching season is year-round, marine mammal sightings are guaranteed, meaning that if you do not see a whale OR dolphin, we'll give you a voucher for a free trip that never expires!
**Trips may be aboard our Ocean Adventure Catamaran, the only Catamaran with a raised viewing EYE SPY platform not a net so you never get wet!!*or the all new Lot a Fun Catamaran low to the water for excellent viewing
!Boats
##PRIVATE CHARTERS
Can I book a private charter?
Yes, all boats are available for private charters. Book a private Whale Watch
##More Questions? Check out our FAQ Page
Coastal weather can change quickly, so wearing layers keeps you comfortable at sea.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take precautions before the tour to ensure a great experience.
Arriving at least 30 minutes before departure lets you choose better seats on the boat.
Even on overcast days, UV exposure is high out on the water, so apply sunscreen generously.
Dana Point has been a historic coastal harbor since the early 20th century, hosting fishing fleets and marine expeditions.
Dana Wharf actively supports marine conservation through educational programs and promoting responsible whale watching practices.
Allows for adjusting to changing coastal temperatures and sea breezes.
Protects your eyes from glare reflecting off the water.
summer specific
Enhances distant marine mammal viewing for detailed observation.
Safeguards your electronics from ocean spray and moisture.