Published January 27, 2026

Whale Watching in San Diego: Peak Season Local Roundup

Written by Kate Milke

February in San Diego may not feel like summer, but it’s still a whole lot better than most of the country — and it just happens to be peak whale-watching season.

Each winter, thousands of gray whales migrate along our coastline on their journey between Alaska and Baja, passing right by San Diego. It’s one of those experiences that reminds you how special living here truly is — whether you’re spotting spouts from shore or heading out on the water for a closer look.

If you’re hosting visitors this month (or just looking for a reason to appreciate our coastline), here’s a local roundup of what to know, when to go, and where to book.

When Is Whale Watching Season in San Diego?

Whale-watching season in San Diego typically runs from mid-December through March, with February marking peak migration.

During this time, gray whales travel south to Baja California to give birth, then make the return journey north in early spring.

February is especially popular because:

Migration activity is at its highest
Weather is often clear and crisp
Crowds are lighter than spring and summer
Sightings frequently include dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds

What Whales Can You See in San Diego?

While gray whales are the stars of winter whale watching, sightings may also include:

Gray whales (most common December–March)
Humpback whales (occasional)
Blue whales (typically later in the year)
Large pods of dolphins
Sea lions and marine birds

Most tours include onboard marine naturalists who help spot wildlife and explain migration patterns along the coast.

Best Ways to Go Whale Watching in San Diego

Whale Watching by Boat

Boat tours provide the closest experience and are especially memorable for families and visiting guests.

Options include:

Larger vessels with restrooms and stable seating
Smaller boats for a more adventurous ride
Sailing excursions for a quieter, scenic experience

Most whale-watching tours last 2.5–4 hours and depart from San Diego Bay or Mission Bay.

Whale Watching From Shore (A Local Tip)

You don’t need a boat to enjoy whale season.

Some favorite coastal viewpoints include:

Cabrillo National Monument
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

On calm mornings, you can often spot spouts offshore — binoculars help!

Local Whale Watching Tips & Seasonal Specials

A few insider tips locals tend to know:

Weekday sailings (Tuesday–Thursday) often offer discounts
Morning tours are typically less crowded
February is peak season for locals and seasonal specials
Many operators offer whale-sighting guarantees

If your schedule is flexible, weekday tours usually offer the best value.

Whale Watching Operators in San Diego

Specials and availability change throughout the season, so it’s best to check each operator directly:

San Diego Whale Watch
https://sdwhalewatch.com/specials/
Flagship Cruises & Events
https://www.flagshipsd.com/special-offers
City Cruises San Diego
https://www.cityexperiences.com/san-diego/city-cruises/
Legacy Whale Watch (Seaforth Landing)
https://www.sdwhale.com
Next Level Sailing
https://nextlevelsailing.com
Adventure Whale Watching San Diego
https://adventurewhalewatchingsandiego.com

What to Know Before You Go Whale Watching

A few helpful tips before booking:

Dress in layers — it’s colder on the water
Bring sunscreen, even in winter
Take motion-sickness medication before boarding
Closed-toe shoes are recommended
Shorter tours work best for younger children

Most tours are family-friendly and beginner-friendly.

Why February Is One of the Best Months in San Diego

Winter in San Diego has its own magic — crisp air, fewer crowds, and a coastline that feels alive.

Whale watching in February never feels touristy. It’s simply one of those seasonal experiences that reminds you why living here is so special — and one of the easiest activities to recommend when friends or family come to visit.