What to do and see in Dana Point, California (CA): The Best Dolphin & Whale Watching

Whale watch with Capt. Dave's Dolphin and Whale Watching Safari in Dana Point on our high-tech sailing catamaran year round, with two Eye-to-Eye Underwater Viewing Pods. For 20 years Captain Dave's has provided daily trips to see dolphins, up to 10,000 strong, leap and play right off our bow, plus Gray Whales (December through April), Blue Whales (May through November), and year round Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, Minke Whales, and so much more. Go underwater with whales and dolphins without getting wet during your whale watch in our Eye-to-Eye Underwater Viewing Pods aboard Manute'a. Listen to dolphins during your whale watching safari with our underwater Hydrophone. Celebrity and certified naturalists make this exciting Dana Point whale watching excursion educational and entertaining too. Mrs. Capt. Dave's famous triple-fudge brownies make this a one-of-a-kind dolphin and whale watching adventure unforgettable. We are a real Eco-tourism company providing only sustainable wildlife viewing. Ask about Fast Cat, our upscale Rigid Hull Inflatable Catamaran and the newest boat in our whale watching fleet.

We rent 21' power boats and offer private charters on our CABO Yachts 35' Flybridge sportfisher. Our deluxe 21 ft. Maritime Skiff center console boats accomodate up to 4 people comfortably. They offer a soft dry ride and are powered with quiet and efficient Yamaha 4 stroke outboard motors. Outfitted with the serious fisherman in mind, they are also great for coastal cruising and whale watching. The boats are clean, safe, professionally maintained and well equipped. Our CABO Yachts 35 Flybridge Sportfisher is tournament rigged and ready to fish up to 6 people in style. It is a stable platform that offers a dry soft ride and a 110 square foot cockpit that offers plenty of room to fish. Equipped with Pompanette outriggers, Garmin electronics, a custom Bluewater bait system, Aftco aluminum gaffs & bait nets, Precision Marine rod holders, and loaded with top of the line Shimano gear. We take pride in our boat and captains & keep our ship tight.

Dubbed "the most romantic coastline in California" by one of Dana Point's founders, this area is now known as the "Orange Coast Riviera". This is THE PLACE to see everything above & below the water. Top Tier Luxury Excursions is THE EXPERIENCE that delivers a memorable & intimate outing. Sunset cruises or dolphin & marine life cruises, all with a personal touch.

Private Charters and Guide Services for ocean fishing, whale watching, and general relaxation. Owner and captain Chris Bogseth has over 25 years of experience fishing out of Dana Point Harbor and a Marine Fisheries Biology degree giving him a diverse knowledge base to draw from to put clients on fish. We charter out our 30' LOA Parker with a 300hp engine on back giving us reliability and speed.

Tell us what you want to do on the water, and we’ll make it happen. We’ll set you up on the best boat rentals, charters, captains and guides in the area to create the experience you want and with value in mind. Whether you are looking for a boat for watersports or cruising oa fishing boat to explore local fishing grounds, AllWater creates safe and unique on-the-water memories.

Dana Point Charters offers a REAL sailing experience. Jump aboard Out of the Blue and enjoy your day on the ocean just outside Dana Point. Whether you’re interested in finding whales and dolphins or wish to take the helm of this 33-foot sailboat, the adventure is up to you. Due to the south facing beaches of Dana Point, the seas normally calm, so these adventures are great for anyone. All of our sailing adventures are led by Captain Jeff, a U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain. This one-of-a-kind experience is something you will treasure the rest of your life. Bring the family and enjoy your day and don’t miss the breath taking sunsets we enjoy in Dana Point.

I'm a licensed maritime captain with 30-plus years of experience on the water. My motto is to have no regrets and create unforgettable memories every chance you get. I love sharing unique experiences with those who have similar passions. I specialize in tailor made adventures to suit my clientele's wishes and experience level. I am often flexible on time and will customize activities for my guests!

Sekas Sportfishing operates out of Dana Point Harbor where Catalina island to the Mexican border are within our reach every day. Fishing in Southern California can be a life changing experience as people from all walks of life continue to come back to pursue the thrill of the chase, and the moments when it all comes together with every fishing rod in the water bent over!

Whale Watching Adventures, Charters , Fishing and more from Dana Point

The Ocean Institute is open to visitors daily; weekdays, 10 am - 4 pm, and weekends, 10 am - 3 pm. As school children are engaging in ocean science and maritime history programs on weekdays, a smaller portion of the Institute is open weekdays and most of the facility on weekends. Enjoy hundreds of marine animals in aquaria, ocean-themed exhibits and take a tour of a tall ship. For an extra charge, take a tall ship sail or whale watching cruise.