Santa Monica, California

Located in Newport Beach, California, Newport Whales offers over 20 years of experience in providing exceptional whale watching adventures along the Southern California coast. The company operates from a prime location in Orange County, just minutes from Los Angeles, granting easy access to one of the largest marine protected parks near Newport Bay. This unique positioning allows guests to observe a diverse array of marine life, including giant blue whales, finback whales, gray whales, dolphins, seals, and more, often within minutes of departure. The knowledgeable crew provides engaging narration throughout the trip, enhancing the educational and entertaining aspects of the experience. Newport Whales offers daily whale watching cruises year-round, with trips lasting approximately two to two and a half hours. Seasonal highlights include the gray whale migration from December through April and sightings of blue whales, finback whales, and large pods of dolphins from May through November. The cruises cater to a wide range of customers, including families, schools, churches, and corporate groups, with options for both public tours and private charters. The vessel Nautilus features indoor and outdoor seating, a top observation deck for optimal viewing and photography, and an onboard snack bar, ensuring a comfortable and memorable outing for all participants.

Located in Newport Beach, California, Davey’s Locker offers year-round whale watching and deep-sea fishing excursions just 40 minutes from downtown Los Angeles and minutes from Orange County. Operating from a natural harbor, the company is renowned for its extensive experience and access to over 40 miles of coastal reefs and nearshore waters. With a record of spotting more than 2,100 whales in 2024, the business provides unique opportunities to see humpbacks, gray whales, orcas, and other marine life in their pristine natural habitat. Its combination of a beautiful coastline and abundant marine species makes it a premier destination for oceanic adventures in Southern California. Davey’s Locker caters to both novice and experienced fishermen with 5-6 hour evening deep-sea fishing trips, as well as half-day and overnight whale watching cruises that offer varied and engaging experiences. Services include general admission trips, charter fishing boats, and private boat rentals suitable for groups of all sizes. Each excursion promises a distinctive encounter with marine wildlife, emphasizing the unpredictability and excitement of nature. The company’s offerings appeal to families, fishing enthusiasts, and wildlife observers seeking memorable outings along the Southern California coast.

Island Packers operates out of Ventura, California, providing boat transportation and guided tours to the Channel Islands National Park. With over one million tours conducted, the company offers extensive experience navigating the Santa Barbara Channel and its surrounding marine sanctuary. What sets this operator apart is its focus on delivering immersive natural experiences, including access to five distinct islands—Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara Islands—each offering unique landscapes and wildlife. The company emphasizes environmental stewardship and safety, working closely with the National Park Service to protect the islands' fragile ecosystems. The services include landing trips to the islands for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation, as well as non-landing wildlife cruises that showcase marine life such as gray whales during their migration season. Visitors can enjoy activities like whale watching, kayaking through sea caves, and guided hikes with interpretive information about the islands’ flora and fauna. The company caters to a wide range of customers, from casual day-trippers seeking scenic cruises to campers requiring transportation with gear. The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable crews who assist with wildlife spotting and provide educational commentary, ensuring a seamless and memorable visit to this remote and pristine national park.

Harbor Breeze Cruises offers one of the top-rated whale watching experiences in Southern California, departing from Long Beach near the Aquarium of the Pacific. Known for high-speed custom-built vessels and expert-led tours, Harbor Breeze provides year-round whale watching along the Los Angeles coastline, from Santa Monica to Newport Beach. Guests regularly encounter humpback whales, blue whales, dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds, with many cruises featuring educational narration from trained naturalists, including partnerships with the Aquarium of the Pacific. Their comfortable catamarans feature indoor seating, panoramic views, outdoor decks, restrooms, and onboard refreshments for an enjoyable experience in all seasons. With over 20 years of experience and thousands of positive reviews, Harbor Breeze Cruises is a trusted choice for families, visitors, and locals seeking affordable and memorable whale watching tours in Long Beach and LA. They also offer group events, private charters, harbor tours, and special cruises, making them ideal for birthdays, corporate outings, school trips, and special occasions. For anyone searching for whale watching near Los Angeles, Long Beach boat tours, or family-friendly marine wildlife experiences, Harbor Breeze Cruises stands out as a premier option.

Located in San Pedro, California, 22nd Street Landing Sportfishing offers a premier sportfishing experience along the Southern California coast. With a fleet of ten well-maintained boats and crews recognized as some of the most experienced in the region, the operation ensures successful and enjoyable fishing trips. The company stands out for its knowledgeable captains and crew who actively scout fishing areas to provide guests with the best opportunities to catch species such as yellowtail, bass, halibut, and bluefin tuna. Their commitment to quality service and up-to-date fish reports keeps anglers informed and engaged throughout the year. The fleet offers a variety of fishing excursions ranging from half-day coastal trips to overnight and full-day adventures targeting diverse species including rockfish, seabass, and halibut. Trips accommodate different skill levels and include options for families, with children under 15 fishing free on weekdays. All trips provide essential fishing gear, fish cleaning services, and onboard amenities such as full-service galleys, microwaves, and coffee makers, enhancing the overall experience. The company also hosts seasonal derbies and maintains strict policies on provisions to ensure a comfortable and focused fishing environment for all participants.

Located in Newport Beach, California, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is a long-standing holiday tradition that dates back over a century. This annual event transforms Newport Harbor into a dazzling display of festive lights and decorations, featuring hundreds of elaborately decorated boats ranging from multimillion-dollar yachts to kayaks and canoes. The parade is complemented by the "Ring of Lights" competition, where bayfront estates and businesses along the bay showcase extravagant holiday displays. Drawing over 1.5 million spectators each season, the parade is recognized as one of the largest and most impressive boat parades in the country, offering a unique blend of maritime celebration and community spirit. The event runs from December 16 to December 20, 2026, with nightly cruises provided by Newport Landing that offer an immersive viewing experience aboard decorated ships. These cruises, lasting 60 to 90 minutes, allow guests to enjoy the parade from the water, taking in both the illuminated vessels and the stunning bayfront homes. With three cruise times each evening, the offerings cater to families, holiday parties, and visitors from across Southern California and beyond. Beyond the parade dates, holiday lights cruises are available nightly from December 4, 2026, through January 1, 2027, providing extended opportunities to experience the festive atmosphere of Newport Bay.

Seabridge Marina is a luxury marina situated in Oxnard, California, conveniently located between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. The marina offers a picturesque setting with beautifully landscaped parks, a children's playground, pedestrian bridges, and walkways adjacent to custom homes and a retail center. It provides access to the main channel of Mandalay Bay, allowing boaters to cruise two miles to open water and explore the nearby Channel Islands, which offer opportunities for camping, hiking, sightseeing, and kayaking. The facility is known for its state-of-the-art Bellingham docks, individually metered electricity, ample dock storage, and easy access to fresh water, ensuring a premium experience for boat owners. The marina caters to a range of boating enthusiasts, from casual sailors to experienced mariners, with slip rentals based on vessel size and thorough inspection policies to maintain safety and quality. Security is a top priority, with electronically controlled gate access to protect boats from unauthorized entry. Seabridge Marina also emphasizes environmental responsibility as a certified Clean Marine member, partnering with local organizations to keep waterways pollution-free. Its prime location near Highway 101 and proximity to dining options, fitness centers, and retail stores make it an ideal destination for boaters seeking convenience alongside exceptional marina amenities.

Located in Marina Del Rey, California, The Duchess Yacht offers a luxurious and versatile boating experience with over 40 years of combined captain and crew expertise. This 63-foot motor yacht stands out for its all-inclusive charters, which cover the boat, captain, fuel, crew, and a wide range of amenities such as snorkel equipment, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and fishing gear. Serving the Greater Los Angeles and Southern California area, The Duchess provides unique access to coastal destinations from San Diego to San Francisco, including the Channel Islands. Its reputation for comfort, safety, and personalized service makes it an exceptional choice for both casual outings and special occasions. The Duchess Yacht specializes in a variety of private charters including whale watching tours, sunset and harbor cruises, deep sea and bay fishing trips, as well as overnight destination cruises. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals prepared by a professional chef, tailored to their preferences, enhancing the onboard experience. The yacht is ideal for diverse groups seeking interactive fun on the water, whether for marriage proposals, photo shoots, or leisurely day cruises. With a dedicated two-person crew and a commitment to delivering memorable moments, The Duchess caters to clients looking for a refined and comprehensive maritime adventure.

Captain Newport is a premier boat and yacht rental and charter company based in Newport Beach, California. With a reputation bolstered by over 450 five-star reviews, the company offers extensive experience in providing luxury maritime experiences along the coastal waters and to Catalina Island. Their fleet features a diverse range of vessels, including sleek VanDutch models, Sundancers, catamarans, and large Azimut yachts, accommodating groups of up to 120 guests. This variety, combined with professional service and well-maintained equipment, distinguishes them as a top choice for both casual outings and special occasions. The company provides a wide array of rental options, including 3, 4, 6, and 8-hour charters, as well as weekend getaways tailored to different group sizes and preferences. Their offerings cater to private parties, corporate events, and leisure travelers seeking unique coastal experiences. Guests can choose from intimate boats like the 18-foot Duffy for smaller groups or expansive party yachts in Long Beach and San Diego that host up to 120 people. Each charter promises a personalized and memorable journey, supported by experienced crews and premium vessels designed for comfort and style on the water.

Hooks Sportfishing is a fourth-generation family-operated business based in Oxnard, California, specializing in saltwater sport fishing excursions around the Channel Islands. With decades of experience, the company offers a unique blend of open party and private charter trips, catering to anglers of all skill levels. Their fleet includes vessels such as the Coroloma, Estella, and New Hustler, each providing access to prime fishing grounds. What sets this operation apart is its commitment to delivering memorable fishing experiences through carefully curated trips ranging from half-day to overnight adventures. The business provides a variety of fishing options including 3/4 day, half-day, and full-day trips, with special offerings like the New Hustler sand dab special and the Coroloma sand dab special. These trips are designed for both local fishermen and visitors seeking quality sportfishing opportunities. Customers can expect well-maintained boats operated by independent crews, ensuring personalized service and expert guidance. Additional local amenities such as free parking and nearby restaurants complement the experience, making Hooks Sportfishing a comprehensive choice for those looking to explore Southern California’s rich marine environment.

Marine Emporium Landing is a premier waterfront destination located in Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard, California. It serves as a gateway to a wide range of maritime adventures and dining experiences, set against the scenic backdrop of Ventura County’s coastal waters. The landing is distinguished by its access to the Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary, often referred to as North America’s Galapagos, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore diverse marine life. With years of experience in providing high-quality charters, tours, and rentals, the location combines natural beauty with expert services to create memorable outings on the water. The offerings at Marine Emporium Landing include half-day cruises featuring dolphin, porpoise, and sea lion sightings, year-round whale watching, and romantic sunset weddings aboard the Scarlett Belle paddle wheeler. Visitors can also engage in sport fishing charters, kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling to fully experience the marine sanctuary. Onshore, a variety of waterfront dining options provide fresh seafood and other cuisines, enhancing the overall experience. The landing caters to adventurers, families, and couples seeking both relaxation and active exploration in a well-equipped, accessible harbor setting.

Located in Oxnard, California, Channel Islands Marine Safari Adventures specializes in guided harbor tours around Channel Islands Harbor and its surrounding areas. With a certified captain at the helm, the company offers a unique and personalized experience tailored to each group’s interests. What sets these tours apart is the focus on marine wildlife observation, including sea lions, dolphins, and sea birds in their natural habitats, combined with educational insights into the local ecosystem and cultural history. The tours depart from the Seabridge Marina area, providing scenic views and a comfortable, festive atmosphere aboard a well-equipped boat. The business offers a variety of tour options, including 90-minute day tours and sunset harbor cruises available Thursday through Sunday, accommodating up to six passengers per trip. Guests are encouraged to bring their own snacks and beverages, enhancing the relaxed and intimate setting. Private events such as birthdays, anniversaries, and parties can also be arranged, with customizable itineraries to suit special occasions. Throughout the journey, Captain Dave and his crew share local knowledge, wildlife facts, and recommendations for dining and events, ensuring an engaging and memorable experience for families, groups, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.