December – April
Whale watching is a time-honored tradition along the California coastline and the South Bay offers a magnificent vantage point to witness one of the world’s great seasonal migrations.
The Gray Whale Migration runs from December through April with the whales travelling through our local waters from Alaska to Baja, Mexico and back. There have been an unprecedented number of Gray Whale sightings the past few seasons. In addition, several other species have been spotted including Fin, Minke, Humpback and Sperm whales, along with numerous Orcas (technically, not a whale!).
You can see the whales – most days, you don’t even need binoculars – from almost anywhere along the coast but if you want to get up close and personal, there’s a better option.
Redondo Beach Whale Watch, located in Redondo Marina, offers daily whale watching cruises throughout the season. Guest will board the excursion vessel Indian to experience the spectacular adventure of Gray whale watching off the Palos Verdes Peninsula and the Catalina Channel, just minutes from the harbor entrance.
Each whale watching adventure is narrated by a trained Naturalist from the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium/American Cetacean Society who shares their local knowledge of marine wildlife, coastline scenery and history. In addition to whales, guests will see other wildlife thriving off the Southern California coast including sharks, various species of seabirds, dolphins, seals, sea lions and flying fish.
The whale watching cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to sight, photograph and learn about whales and other creatures of the sea. It’s a lovely day on the water – sit back, relax and enjoy the show!
Tickets are $35.
Guests are encouraged to wear rubber soled shoes and bring a warm jacket; even on sunny days, it can feel cool on the water.
IMPORTANT: Guests must check in at the Redondo Beach Sportfishing Office located at 233 North Harbor Drive upon arrival.
For additional information and to make reservations, call (310) 944-1219 or visit the website at http://www.rbwhales.com/
The boat is docked just north of the Redondo Beach Pier, the address is 140 International Boardwalk.