Captain Dave's Dana Point Dolphin
& Whale Watching Safari

Dana Point's highest-rated whale watching experience

Quick details

Departure Times

View the calendar for available times

Tour Duration

2 - 2.5 Hours

Event Dates

March 6, 7 & 8, 2026

Specials

For a limited time, SAVE 22% in 2026 instantly when you book our 2.5 hour Signature Safari or 2 hour Zodiac Safari

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Signature Whale Watching Safari

Zodiac Whale Watching Safari

Adults
$100 $78
$100 $78
Children
$70 $56

Ages 1-12

$70 $56
Infants
$7

Up to 12 mo.

$7
Adults
$100 $78
$100 $78
Children
$100 $78

Age 6+

$100 $78
Book Your Whale Watching Trip
Home of the World’s Only Underwater Viewing Pods
 

Connect with nature on a one-of-a-kind catamaran with the world’s only underwater viewing pods, or Dana Point’s only high-speed zodiacs. Experience a 5-star, uncrowded, up-close and personal view of majestic gray whales, fin whales, humpback whales, and more. You’ll be wowed by up to five different species of amazing dolphins, including mega-pods that can number in the thousands! Other wildlife includes sea lions, birds, sharks, and more.

Dana Point is the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World® and the first Whale Heritage Site in the Americas. All of our remarkable experiences have live narration from expert naturalists or biologists, and Mrs. Capt. Dave’s legendary triple fudge brownies are served as a special treat.

Our safaris are eco-friendly and we are a Responsible Whale Watching operator certified by the World Cetacean Alliance.

Book Your Whale Watching Trip

Signature Dolphin & Whale Safari on MANUTE’A

Most Popular Experience
Features:

  • Two Eye-to-Eye Underwater Viewing Pods. Go underwater and, without getting wet, feel what it’s like to swim with dolphins and whales.

  • Originators of the Eye-Spy viewing platform! Three Eye-Spy Dolphin & Whale Tram Nets put wildlife inches below your feet.

  • Uncrowded, up to 49 passengers with plenty of elbow room and comfortable seating for all.

  • Micro-museum with whale and dolphin artifacts.

  • Catamaran sailboat. Very stable!

Zodiac Dolphin & Whale Safari – Fastest Experience
Features:

  • Extremely low to the water. Wildlife at your fingertips!

  • Our fastest whale-watching boat! More speed can equal more time with wildlife.

  • Up to 20 passengers.

  • Zodiac-style = Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB). Super stable!

  • Comfortable with a large sunshade and heavily padded seats.

Reservations, schedule, and information: 949-488-2828 or visit DolphinSafari.com

Connect with Us on Social Media

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter for amazing videos, photos, and the latest sightings of whales, dolphins, and more.

 

Book Your Whale Watching Trip!

Kelpzone/Tripadvisor

“We’ve gone to other companies at both Dana Point and Newport Beach, but Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari are the gold standard for consistent experiences.” – 5-star review from 

Valerie P./Tripadvisor

“I’m a marine biologist and I’ve been on whale watching trips all over the globe. Captain Dave’s is one of the best operations I’ve experienced. Their staff is outstanding, the boat is exceptional (underwater viewing pods are UNREAL) and their knowledge and concern for wildlife and conservation issues is obvious in everything they do. I cannot recommend them highly enough.” 

Angela L./Tripadvisor

“Better than Sea World, The Zoo and LegoLand so that says a lot!” – 5-stars