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    1. Local experiences/
    2. Monterey, CA/
    3. Water Activities/
    4. Whale Watching/
    5. Morning Whale Watch in Monterey Bay

    The very best experiences curated by local experts

    Best local prices
    Flexible cancellations
    Private & secure
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    Morning Whale Watch in Monterey Bay

    Spot migrating whales and dolphins with expert crew aboard a 3-hour Monterey Bay excursion

    From$79/ person

    Duration

    2.5–3 hrs

    Includes

    Boat ride, Knowledgeable crew

    Highlights

    Join an experienced crew for a 2.5–3-hour whale watching trip across Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Learn how to identify and photograph whales and dolphins as they surface nearby.
    • Scan the horizon for humpbacks, gray whales, and dolphins
    • Receive photo tips and wildlife insights from the crew
    • Enjoy morning light and calmer seas for optimal viewing
    • Relax aboard a Coast Guard–inspected vessel
    • Bring snacks, water, and binoculars for extra comfort

    Things to know

    Participants must complete an electronic Coast Guard waiver before departure. Outside alcohol is not permitted, and pregnant guests are not allowed on this trip. Beer and wine are available for purchase on board for guests aged 21 and over.

    Cancellation policy

    Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund. Trips may be canceled by the operator at any time for safety, weather, or insufficient bookings; you may reschedule or receive a refund. Groups of five or more that rebook are subject to a 15% fee. If no whales are sighted, a non-expiring raincheck is issued.

    Experience provided by Discovery Whale Watch
    Experience provided by Discovery Whale Watch

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #EAGMQK

    Adult

    $79.50

    Ages 13 and older

    0

    Child

    $68.90

    Ages 4 to 12

    0

    Infant

    $26.50

    Ages 3 and younger

    0

    Handpicked for you, so you can book with confidence

    • Best local prices

    • Flexible cancellation

    • Private and secure

    Each booking directly supports small businesses in our community.

    4.9 stars• 1.9K reviews

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    1.9K reviews•Google Maps

    With an impressive track record and enthusiastic reviews, this whale watching operation delivers memorable marine wildlife encounters in Monterey Bay. The crew, including standout guides like Isaiah and Alfredo, consistently earns praise for their marine biology expertise and friendly, attentive service. Tours typically last four hours, and guests regularly report seeing 10+ humpback whales along with orcas, dolphins, sea lions, and otters. The smaller boats create a more intimate, quieter experience where you can really feel the ride, and complimentary coffee and hot chocolate help ward off the chill. One piece of advice comes up repeatedly: take Dramamine before boarding, even if you don't usually get seasick. The four-hour tours venture into open waters with real ocean swells, and several reviewers noted that those who skipped the medication regretted it. Beyond that warning, it's all positive vibes. The captains go the extra mile, lingering past scheduled times when whales breach, and guides often share their own photos for free. Easy parking and check-in, clean boats, and crew who genuinely love what they do make this a standout choice for experiencing Monterey Bay's incredible marine life.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    It was a great experience, going out there with Discovery. They managed to find Orcas, dolphins and Humpbacks, and it was really exciting. Very nice, knowledgeable and cooperative staff. Thank you Alfredo!!! The ride itself was also a lot of fun. There were nice waves and the kids had a lot of fun. They use smaller boats I think, and for us it was better - quieter and you could feel the ride. They also have complementary coffee and hot chocolate onboard, which was great at first when it got cold. Just make dure you dress in layers.

    Photo of Shachar Ben Barak

    Shachar Ben Barak

    October 6, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    It was a great experience, going out there with Discovery. They managed to find Orcas, dolphins and Humpbacks, and it was really exciting. Very nice, knowledgeable and cooperative staff. Thank you Alfredo!!! The ride itself was also a lot of fun. There were nice waves and the kids had a lot of fun. They use smaller boats I think, and for us it was better - quieter and you could feel the ride. They also have complementary coffee and hot chocolate onboard, which was great at first when it got cold. Just make dure you dress in layers.

    Photo of Shachar Ben Barak

    Shachar Ben Barak

    October 6, 2025

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