Adventure Collective
Whale Watching Tours from San Francisco Pier 39 - San Francisco

Whale Watching Tours from San Francisco Pier 39

San Franciscomoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness required to stand for extended periods on a moving boat, with occasional light walking.

Overview

Set sail from Pier 39 for a 3-4 hour adventure spotting humpback and gray whales amid iconic Bay Area landmarks. Experience close encounters with marine mammals and stunning shorelines.

San Francisco, California

Golden Gate Whale Watch and Beyond

November-December • 4 Hours

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Adventure Photos

Golden Gate Whale Watch and Beyond photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable winter adventure from Pier 39, where you'll search for majestic whales and diverse wildlife in the San Francisco Bay and Pacific Ocean. Experience breathtaking views of iconic landmarks and stunning shorelines while enjoying the thrill of spotting humpback and gray whales, seals, and more on this 3-4 hour tour.

Key points about this tour:

Join us during the winter months to view the whales and wildlife in and around the San Francisco Bay and into the Pacific Ocean.

Each tour will depart Pier 39 in search of whales and wildlife. The route of the tour will depend on the location of the wildlife on any given day. Some tours may explore the SF Bay while others may venture further offshore for a more extensive search.

This is a 3-4 hour tour.

Possible highlights include:

Humpback whales (April-December) Gray whale sightings (December-March) Porpoises, seals, sea lions and abundant sea bird colonies Views of the Golden Gate Bridge, waterfalls and gorgeous shorelines Angel Island, Fort Cronkite, Muir Beach, Stinson Beach, Bolinas, Double Point, the Point Reyes National Seashore and Lighthouse

Check out recent sightings on our social media @SFWhaleTours on Facebook and Instagram.

  • What to Bring: Warm, water-proof clothing (T-shirt, sweatshirt, winter coat, long pants, warm socks and water-proof shoes and outer layer) Hats and gloves Food and beverages of choice with plenty of water We highly recommend taking a preventative for seasickness such as Dramamine, Bonine, ginger candies, ginger ale and saltine crackers.

For those prone to seasickness you may want to consult with your physician for stronger medication option.

  • What Is Not Included? Food and beverages are not included on this cruise. Please feel free to bring your own food and beverages with you! Keep in mind that beer and wine are allowed on board, but hard alcohol is not.

  • Meeting Location Pier 39, just off The Embarcadero (San Francisco, CA) (Exact meeting location details will be provided immediately upon purchase of tickets.)

Adventure Tips

Dress in Layers

Coastal weather can be unpredictable and chilly even in winter; bring layers to stay warm during your 3–4 hour trip.

Bring Binoculars

Enhance your whale-spotting and birdwatching experience by bringing a pair of good binoculars.

Use Sunscreen

Even on overcast days, UV rays reflect off the water; protect your skin during your time on deck.

Keep Your Camera Ready

Whale sightings can happen suddenly—have a camera or smartphone ready to capture the moment.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Humpback whales
  • Harbor seals

History

The San Francisco Bay has long been a critical habitat for migrating whales and was designated a National Marine Sanctuary in 1981.

Conservation

Golden Gate Whale Watch and Beyond promotes responsible wildlife viewing practices to minimize disturbance to marine animals and encourages ocean conservation awareness.

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Adventure Hotspots in San Francisco

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm Jacket

Essential

Keeps you comfortable against cold ocean breezes on the boat deck.

winter specific

Binoculars

Improves marine wildlife viewing beyond what the naked eye can catch.

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin from UV rays reflected off the water during the tour.

Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated during the multi-hour excursion is important.