Whale Watching in Newport Beach: A Front Row Seat to the Ocean’s Giants
- Christianne Klein
- Sep 22
- 4 min read
There are few experiences more humbling than watching a whale surface just a few yards away, its massive body gliding through the waves. In Newport Beach, California, whale watching is more than a day trip- it’s a chance to witness one of the richest marine ecosystems on the Pacific Coast. With Newport Landing and Davey’s Locker Whale Watching, visitors can step aboard and enter a world where every trip brings new surprises.
As you can see in our feature video, tourists in Newport have spotted everything from blue whales- the largest animals ever to live on Earth- to orcas, humpback whales, pods of dolphins with their calves, and even a great white shark just a week before our visit. This isn’t just luck- it’s the result of Newport’s unique geography and ocean currents that make it a year-round feeding ground for marine giants.
Recent Highlights: Kiwi and Guava, the Sperm Whales
In just the last week, Davey’s Locker guests were treated to the rare sight of two sperm whales affectionately named Kiwi and Guava. Known for their deep dives and massive square heads, sperm whales are rarely spotted so close to shore. As you can see, watching them glide alongside the boat was a jaw-dropping experience and a reminder that Newport’s waters are full of surprises.
Why Newport Beach is a Whale Hotspot
According to Jill Lemon of Davey’s Locker, the secret lies in California’s coastal upwelling and ocean topography. Cold, nutrient-rich water rises from the depths, fueling an ocean buffet that attracts whales, dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds. Because of this natural phenomenon, Newport Beach offers year-round whale watching- something that few destinations in the world can promise.
Winter & Spring: Gray whales migrate along the coast with their calves, completing a 10,000+ mile round-trip journey between Alaska and Mexico.
Summer & Fall: What Jill calls "big feeder season". Blue whales and fin whales dominate, feeding on clouds of krill offshore.
Year-Round: Dolphins, sea lions, and the occasional orca or shark make surprise appearances.
Beyond Whales: What Else You’ll See
The whales may be the stars, but tours often include other unforgettable sightings:
Common and bottlenose dolphins surfing the boat’s wake. We saw three pods come together—a total of 500–700 dolphins including mama dolphins (called cows) and their calves.
California sea lions basking on buoys or darting playfully through the water. Another highlight from our trip.
Seabirds like pelicans and cormorants diving for fish.
And every now and then, the thrill of spotting a shark fin cutting through the waves.
Private Charters & Luxury Whale Watching
In addition to the classic group tours, Newport Beach also has options for private yacht rentals and smaller luxury cruises. These trips are more intimate- fewer people, quieter decks, and more room to spread out while still keeping the thrill of spotting whales just off the bow.
We’re planning to try one of these luxury charters soon to see how it compares to the bigger boat tours. The idea of having a little extra space, perhaps celebrating a special occasion with the Pacific as the backdrop, and watching for dolphins or whales in a more private setting feels like a completely different type of experience.
When we do, we’ll report back on what it’s like- how the atmosphere compares, and whether it changes the way families (especially with kids) can enjoy whale watching.
Tips for Families & First-Timers
If you’re planning a whale watching trip with Davey’s Locker, here are a few travel-tested tips:
Dress in layers. Even in summer, the ocean breeze can be chilly once you’re offshore.
Bring sunscreen and hats. The sun reflects off the water, so protection is key.
Motion sickness prep. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider over-the-counter remedies before boarding.
Binoculars & cameras. While many sightings happen close to the boat, binoculars help spot whales in the distance.
Snacks and drinks. Some tours have refreshments available, but it’s always smart to bring kid-friendly options.
Involve the kids. Encourage them to watch for spouts, flukes, or dorsal fins- it turns the trip into a family scavenger hunt.
Best Times to Go
Morning cruises tend to have calmer seas, making them a great option for families with young kids.
Afternoon tours often bring warmer weather and brighter photography conditions.
Seasonal highlights: Go in winter for gray whales and calves, summer for blue whales, and fall for the widest variety.
The Takeaway
Whale watching in Newport Beach is more than a sightseeing tour- it’s an unforgettable adventure that connects you to the natural world in the most direct way. From the record-breaking size of a blue whale to the rare thrill of sperm whales like Kiwi and Guava, each trip with Davey’s Locker offers the chance to witness the ocean’s greatest stories unfold right before your eyes.
Whether you’re a local or visiting Southern California for the first time, this experience belongs at the top of your travel list. It’s a rare opportunity to share the ocean’s wonders with your family- and create memories that are just as vast and breathtaking as the Pacific itself.
Christianne Klein is an Emmy® and Edward R. Murrow Award-winning TV Host, journalist, travel and lifestyle expert, and founder of FoodFamilyTravel.com.
A huge thank you to Jill Lemon and Jessica Rodriguez with @NewportWhales, and @NewportCoastalAdventure, Cecilia Mangrum, Roxanne Ebert for their amazing sperm whale video and Logan Voss for his fantastic aerials of the California coast.
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