Los Angeles is famous for movie stars, but its real celebrities live in the Pacific. Climb aboard a custom-built, high-speed vessel in Long Beach and you could be face to face with a giant blue whale within minutes of leaving the dock — or cheering as hundreds of dolphins ride the bow wave beside you.
This is the top whale watching destination in Long Beach and Los Angeles, and it is easy to see why: the state-of-the-art fleet ranges north to Santa Monica and south to Newport Beach, giving you the widest possible search area and the highest marine-life sighting success. Highly trained captains lead every excursion under strict safety codes, so all you have to do is scan the horizon and keep your camera ready. Depending on the season you might spot gray, blue or humpback whales, plus playful dolphins and curious sea lions along the way.
Prices start at just $38 per person — the price you see is the price you pay, with no hidden fees — and with nearly 600 reviewers rating it a strong 4.6 out of 5, this is one of the most joyful half-days you can spend on the Southern California coast.
Ready to spot a whale? Book this tour on Viator
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Photo: Viator
