Our 4 Best Newport Beach Dolphin Watching Tours

1.Newport Beach: Whale and Dolphin-Watching Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 · 415 reviews · 2h 30m · from $30Our pick

Spend 150 minutes off Newport Beach searching for blue, gray, finback, humpback, and minke whales, plus dolphins, sea lions, and seals. Captain and crew explain the marine life in English while you pass Balboa Island, Crystal Cove, Laguna Beach, and The Wedge. The $30 cruise is close to Los Angeles, but sightings are never guaranteed.

“It was so beautiful to be able to see the dolphins and whales. Our guide jill was amazing as well very energetic and positive”

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2.Newport Beach Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 212 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $28Best value

Spend about two hours aboard a two-deck catamaran from Newport Beach, scanning for blue, gray, humpback, finback, and minke whales, plus dolphins, sea lions, and pelicans. The crew, including Captain Hunter on some outings, shares useful wildlife information. Choose from several daily departures, with drinks available to buy.

“Was a fun experience. Crew was entertaining and knowledgeable. Would recommend and would do again if in area”

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3.Private 2hr Supreme Whale/Dolphin Watching Tour, Newport Beach CA

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 161 reviews Top rated

Set out from Newport Beach with a USCG-licensed captain and certified naturalist, often Captain Nick, aboard a fast private boat for up to six people. You’ll cruise Newport Harbor, search for dolphins and whales, and learn about local marine life. Bring warm layers, sunblock, and arrive 30 minutes early.

“Captain Nick was fantastic! Extremely knowledgeable. Laid back and lots of fun. Also determined to find those whales!”

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4.Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Newport Beach

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 65 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)

Join Captain Dustin aboard Surfrider for a private 2.5-hour tour from Newport Beach. Cruise Newport Harbor, then head offshore past Laguna Beach and Dana Point in a fast 40 mph boat while searching for dolphins, whales, sea lions, and other marine life. Your Certified Marine Naturalist adds personal, detailed commentary throughout.

“The Ride was so fun, the sight seeing was gorgeous, the captain was very friendly, saw two whales! We got far from the shore in this really fun boat, my kids loved it. I highly recommend it”

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