Newport Landing
Whale Watching San Clemente was created for visitors and locals considering taking a whale watching cruise. Multiple whale watching excursions depart daily from Newport Landing every day of the year from scenic Newport Beach, which is a short trip north from San Clemente. Our 2.5 hour long cruises depart from Newport Harbor, located beside one of the biggest protected marine areas in Southern California and which stretches over fourteen miles down to Dana Point. A deep underwater canyon accompanies the protected coastline and brings many different types of marine life close to the shore. This results in a thriving whale watching industry able to function year-round.
Common summer and fall sightings consist of Blue whales, Finback whales, and Minke whales while winter and spring correspond with the famous Gray Whale migration that brings a multitude of travelers to participate in whale watching near San Clemente. Humpback whales and Killer whales are viewed every so often throughout the year. Enormous pods of Bottlenose and Common Dolphin are encountered on a regular basis during the year and are actually unique to Southern California waters, along with the large quantity of whales. The distinctive Risso’s Dolphin, in combination with further species of dolphin and Sea Lions, are regularly viewed on Newport Landing’s inexpensive whale watching tours.
The leading whale watch ship in Newport Landing’s fleet was constructed for the primary purpose of providing comfortable whale watching cruises. The boat is complete with a raised observation platform, ample seating, and a spacious indoor salon complete with beverages and treats. Booth-style seating supplements large viewing windows while hanging out inside the boat, providing complete comfort while whale watching. Our highly skilled Captains and crews have provided many years of locating and providing in-depth information about whales and dolphins. Newport Landing boasts a ninety-six percent success rate when it comes to locating and observing cetaceans. We hope you will join us on an ocean voyage you’re likely never to forget!