San Diego is a prime location for whale watching, and November is an excellent time to experience the magic of the ocean, especially if you like humpback whales. If you’re planning a trip to Southern California, here’s everything you need to know about whale watching in November.
Is November A Good Time To Visit San Diego?
Absolutely! November is an excellent time to visit San Diego. The city is less crowded than in the summer, making it ideal for exploring. Plus, you can enjoy the beautiful weather and the beginning of the whale watching season.
Whales You Can Expect to See in Southern California in November
For several years, many people thought there were no whales in November. We didn’t start whale watching in November until about eight years ago. At first, we only went out on the weekends, but we were happy to see humpback whales on every trip. Once we realized the whales were out feeding, we started offering whale watching trips every day in November. Of course, it depends on the food supply. November has become a favorite because of the returning humpback whales. We are happy to see some of the same humpback whales year after year, such as Twitch. Known for breaching out of the water, this whale grew 10,000 pounds one season and has been returning to San Diego ever since.
Other Marine Life You Can See in San Diego
Whale watching isn’t just about whales. San Diego’s coastal waters are teeming with diverse marine life. During your excursion, you might encounter:
- Dolphins: Common dolphins are frequent companions to whale watching boats. Their playful antics and speed are a delight to watch.
- Sea Lions: These charismatic animals often lounge on buoys or rocks and are easily spotted.
- Other Marine Creatures: Occasionally, you might spot orcas, blue whales, or even a rare sighting of a basking shark.
November Weather in San Diego & What to Pack
San Diego’s weather in November is typically mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s (°F) on shore. It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities, including whale watching.
When packing for your trip, consider bringing:
- Layers: Mornings and evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket or sweater is advisable. If you plan to be out in the ocean, pack warmer layers, as it is 10-15 degrees colder on the water with the wind chill.
- Comfortable shoes: Ideal for exploring the city and the boat deck.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun’s rays, which can be strong even in November.
- Camera or smartphone: You’ll want to capture the breathtaking sights of whales and other marine life.
Take a Whale Watching Trip With Next Level Sailing
For an unforgettable whale watching experience, book a trip with Next Level Sailing. Our tours are designed to provide the best possible views of marine life in San Diego’s waters. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable boats, and a passion for the ocean, we ensure your whale watching adventure is educational and thrilling.
Next Level Sailing offers:
- Experienced Crew: Our crew members are experts in marine life and can share fascinating insights about the animals you see.
- Exceptional Vessel: Enjoy your trip aboard the sunning and historic yacht America, designed for stability and speed.
- Guaranteed Sightings: We are so confident in our ability to find whales that we offer a sighting guarantee. If you don’t see a whale, you can join another trip for free.
Whale watching in November in San Diego is a unique and captivating experience. With Next Level Sailing, you can expect to see incredible marine life and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness the beauty of the ocean and its inhabitants. Book your trip today and get ready for an adventure like no other!
Directions and Parking
Check-in is located at 2050 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego CA 92106. If you noticed that there is no building at this address, you are correct! Drive west on Shelter Island Drive. As soon as you pass Silver Gate Yacht Club, turn LEFT into the parking lot. Look for the bright blue flag on the corner that says “Whale Watching” then you know you’re in the right place. Please park anywhere in this fabulous FREE all-day parking lot. Find the “Check-In” flag on the grass to get your boarding pass. If you are using public transportation, Lyft, or Uber, please check-in at this location as well.
Boarding
Once everyone has their boarding passes, a crew member will escort you to the Yacht America. You will be walking on a wooden dock, so please make sure to wear comfortable close-toed shoes. High-heels and stilettos will get stuck between the wooden planks.
Quench You Thirst
Spending the day sailing can really bring on an appetite! Stop by Blue Wave Bar & Grill at the Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina to grab a quick bite on your way out. Boasting a versatile menu filled with fresh ingredients and tantalizing California coastal cuisine, you can’t go wrong dining on Blue Wave’s gorgeous outdoor patio overlooking the marina!
Cancellation Policy
Customers will receive a full refund for cancellations made outside of 48 hours prior to the trip. For groups of 8 or more, cancellations must be made more than 7 days in advance. Customers will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Forecasted rain does not always mean we will be cancelling due to weather. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation outside of 48 hours to the start of the trip. No-shows will be charged the full price.
If you have any questions the morning of the trip, please feel free to call 619-922-6215.
Looking forward to welcoming you aboard!