Experience a private 3.5-hour whale and dolphin watching cruise off the coast of San Diego. Encounter gray whales, dolphins, and sea lions with expert naturalist guides on board.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires only basic mobility to board and move around the boat comfortably.
Wildlife
History
San Diego’s coastal waters have long been a migratory route for gray whales, with indigenous peoples historically observing their passage and using the marine resources sustainably.
Conservation
Five Star Tours promotes marine conservation by educating guests about local ecosystems and supporting responsible wildlife watching practices to minimize disturbance.
Five Star Tours
Experience a private 3.5-hour whale and dolphin watching cruise off the coast of San Diego. Encounter gray whales, dolphins, and sea lions with expert naturalist guides on board.
Five Star Tours is a San Diego, California-based tour operator offering a range of guided experiences across Southern California.
Operating from a coastal hub in San Diego, Five Star Tours provides narrated bay cruises, whale- and dolphin-watching excursions, city sightseeing trips, multi-stop Los Angeles tours, and guided hikes to local landmarks like Potato Chip Rock. The company also offers practical traveler services such as luggage bag storage for short-term and overnight needs.
Tours include a San Diego Champagne Brunch Cruise, two-hour harbor cruises with sea lion sightings, a 3.5-hour winter whale and dolphin watching adventure, and small-group San Diego City Tours that stop at La Jolla, Balboa Park, and Old Town. For holiday travelers, Five Star Tours runs festive Holiday Lights City Tours with complimentary hot cocoa and treats. Transportation-based offerings extend to longer Los Angeles itineraries showcasing Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Griffith Observatory, and classic attractions like the TCL Chinese Theatre and Farmers Market.
Guides provide local narration, photo stops, and curated routes tailored to each itinerary. Luggage storage is priced at $7 per bag with discounts for multiple bags and includes overnight service. Five Star Tours caters to families, day-trippers, and visitors seeking convenient, narrated experiences of San Diego and Los Angeles attractions. The company's operation focuses on clear itineraries, varied trip lengths, and accessible departure points in San Diego.
Location
San Diego, CA
Coastal departure point for tours
Cruises & Boats
Champagne • Harbor • Whale
Multiple narrated water cruises
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking & Wildlife
Potato Chip Rock and sea life viewing
Luggage Storage
$7 per bag
Overnight service and discounts available
Reserve narrated cruises, whale-watching, city tours, or secure luggage storage today — plan a seamless day in San Diego or an extended Los Angeles sightseeing trip.
Dress in layers
San Diego’s coastal weather can be chilly and breezy, especially out on the water, so layering is key to staying comfortable.
Bring binoculars
Binoculars will help you spot distant marine mammals and appreciate details you might miss with the naked eye.
Wear sunscreen
Even in winter, UV rays can be strong when reflected off the water, so protect your skin during the cruise.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive at the dock 15-20 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding experience.
Layered Clothing
Keeps you warm and adaptable to changing weather conditions on the water.
winter
Binoculars
Enhances your ability to view distant wildlife during the cruise.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects you from sea spray and occasional rain showers.
fall
Sun Protection
Includes sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to guard against UV exposure.
summer