Whale watching is an amazing adventure that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. The thrill of seeing the world’s largest creatures up close and personal is truly unforgettable. If you’re in Anaheim, California, you’re in luck because there are several whale watching tours available in the area. In this article, we will explore the best whale watching near Anaheim and what you can expect from each tour.
1. Introduction to Whale Watching in Anaheim
Before we dive into the specifics of whale watching tours near Anaheim, let’s talk a bit about what whale watching is and why it’s such a popular activity. Whale watching involves taking a boat tour out into the ocean to observe whales in their natural habitat. It’s a great way to learn about these amazing creatures and their behaviors while enjoying the beautiful ocean scenery.
2. The Best Time to Go Whale Watching Near Anaheim
If you want to have the best chance of seeing whales on your tour, it’s important to go at the right time of year. The peak whale watching season in Anaheim runs from December to April, as this is when the gray whales are migrating. However, you can still see other species of whales and dolphins year-round.
3. Dana Wharf Whale Watching Tours
Dana Wharf Whale Watching is one of the most popular tours in the Anaheim area. They offer several different tours, including a two-hour whale watching excursion and a four-hour whale and dolphin safari. Their boats are equipped with all the latest technology, including underwater microphones and high-powered binoculars, to ensure that you have the best possible viewing experience.
4. Newport Coastal Adventure
Newport Coastal Adventure is another great option for whale watching near Anaheim. They offer private tours for small groups, which means you get a more personalized experience. Their boats are fast and nimble, which allows them to get close to the whales without disturbing them.
5. Davey’s Locker Whale Watching
Davey’s Locker Whale Watching is located in Newport Beach, just a short drive from Anaheim. They offer both morning and afternoon tours, and they guarantee that you will see whales on your trip. They also have a knowledgeable crew that will teach you all about the whales and their behaviors.
6. Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari is a unique tour that offers a whale watching experience like no other. Their boats are equipped with underwater viewing pods that allow you to see the whales up close and personal, without disturbing them. They also have a “floating classroom” on board, where you can learn more about these amazing creatures from their team of marine naturalists.
7. Harbor Breeze Cruises
Harbor Breeze Cruises is located in Long Beach, just a short drive from Anaheim. They offer several different whale watching tours, including a two-hour trip and a four-hour trip that includes a visit to Catalina Island. They have experienced captains and a knowledgeable crew that will ensure you have a great whale watching experience.
8. What to Bring on a Whale Watching Tour
Before you head out on your whale watching tour, there are a few things you should bring with you. First and foremost, make sure you dress in layers, as the ocean can be quite chilly. You should also bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Finally, don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture all the amazing sights you’ll see on your tour.
10. FAQs
- What types of whales can I expect to see on a whale watching tour near Anaheim?
Answer: While the gray whale is the most common species seen during the peak season (December to April), you can also see humpback whales, blue whales, fin whales, minke whales, and several species of dolphins and porpoises.
- Are whale watching tours safe?
Answer: Yes, whale watching tours are safe as long as you follow the rules and guidelines set by the tour operator. These guidelines include staying a safe distance from the whales and following all safety instructions given by the crew.
- What if I don’t see any whales on my tour?
Answer: While the tour operators do their best to ensure that you see whales on your tour, there is no guarantee. However, most tour operators offer a guarantee that you will see whales or you can go on another tour for free.
- Can I bring my kids on a whale watching tour?
Answer: Yes, most tour operators welcome kids on their tours. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator beforehand to make sure that the tour is appropriate for your child’s age.
- Is there a best time of day to go whale watching?
Answer: While there is no specific time of day that is better than others, morning tours tend to be less crowded and the ocean is usually calmer. However, afternoon tours offer better lighting for photography.
