Beyond the Whales: What Else Can You Spot on a Dana Wharf Whale Watching Tour?

When most people think of a whale watching trip, they picture giant blue whales or breaching humpbacks — and while those sightings are unforgettable, Dana Wharf tours offer so much more than just whales. The waters off Dana Point are alive with an incredible range of marine wildlife, especially during the summer months. From playful dolphins to bizarre-looking sunfish, here’s a closer look at what else you might spot during your adventure.

Dolphins: The Ocean’s Most Energetic Entertainers

Common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and even Pacific white-sided dolphins frequently make appearances on our tours. These agile swimmers often approach boats to ride the bow wake and leap out of the water in large pods, creating unforgettable moments. Summer is especially active for dolphins, and massive groups — sometimes numbering in the hundreds or even thousands — aren’t uncommon.

Sea Lions and Seals: Harbor Hounds of the Pacific

California sea lions are often spotted lounging on buoys or barking from rocky outcroppings. They’re easy to spot thanks to their distinct dark coats and playful nature. Harbor seals are a bit more elusive but can sometimes be seen bobbing quietly near the shoreline.

Mola Mola (Ocean Sunfish): Summer’s Weirdest Surprise

The Mola mola — or ocean sunfish — is one of the ocean’s most unusual-looking creatures, and it’s a frequent warm-season visitor. With their giant, flattened bodies and lazy drifting movements, they sometimes look like floating dinner plates. Spotting one is always a treat for guests and guides alike.

Bird Life: The Sky Is Part of the Show

Bring your binoculars, because the skies over Dana Point are filled with bird activity. You might see brown pelicans diving, cormorants drying their wings, and gulls circling above feeding whales or bait balls. Occasionally, rarer sightings like shearwaters or even ospreys occur, especially on longer tours.

Sharks, Rays, and Other Rare Sightings

While less common, guests sometimes glimpse species like thresher sharks, smooth hammerheads, or bat rays. These sightings are unpredictable, but they add to the thrill and uniqueness of being on the open water.

Every Trip is a Surprise

One of the best parts about going out with Dana Wharf is that no two tours are the same. Even if whales aren’t active on a particular day, you’re still in for an amazing show from the rest of the ocean’s cast. The local marine ecosystem is incredibly diverse and full of life — and spotting something unexpected is part of the fun.

So while whales may be the headliners, the supporting cast of ocean wildlife makes every Dana Wharf whale watching trip worth the ride. Book a tour and see for yourself just how alive the ocean really is.