Sperm Whale Spotted off Dana Point

Every trip into the Pacific brings the promise of the unknown—but every once in a while, that promise turns into something truly once-in-a-lifetime. Recently, Dana Wharf Whale Watching guests and crew were treated to one of the rarest encounters we’ve ever documented: a sperm whale sighting just miles from the Dana Point coast.

Often referred to as “ghosts of the deep,” sperm whales are rare visitors to Southern California. These elusive, deep-diving giants typically remain far offshore, in waters so deep they can dive thousands of feet in search of squid. Their presence near the coast is almost unheard of. In this case, not one, but possibly two individuals were sighted, surfacing with slow, deliberate movements that had our captains and photographers stunned.

Even among veteran crews, sightings like this stand out. Drone footage and onboard views gave guests an up-close look at one of the ocean’s most legendary and mysterious creatures. It was the kind of moment that reminds us: you never know what you’re going to see when you step onto a whale watching boat.

From common dolphins and sea lions to the occasional blue whale or rare visitor like this sperm whale, Dana Point continues to live up to its name as the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World®.