10 Things To Bring With You on Your Winter Whale Watching Trip

Winter whale watching in SoCal never disappoints, but if you don’t have a plan, you may not get as much enjoyment out of your adventure as you would like. Unless you stay onshore to spot whales from afar, you may find yourself underprepared for the conditions when you take a Next Level Sailing whale watching tour on open waters. These tips can help you know what to expect and what to take on your whale-watching excursion this winter.

Whale Watching During Wintertime

Why do people love whale watching los angeles in winter? The Pacific Ocean off the coast of Southern California is a major thoroughfare for migrating marine mammals. Between December and April, gray whales work their way down the coast from Alaska to Baja California to give birth to their calves.

Whale watching in La Jolla and San Diego allows you to see these majestic animals alongside humpbacks, fins, minkes, and dolphins. Be on the lookout for seals, sea lions, and even turtles because they also frolic along the coastline.

How To Prepare

San Diego may have beautiful weather all year long, but once you go farther away from the shore, you may experience windy, rainy, foggy, or cold conditions. Be sure to check the forecast to see what’s in store. You may also want to ask your whale watching tour company what animals they have seen recently.

A checklist can also help you pack wisely for your whale-watching trip. Consider including these ten items to keep you comfortable while out at sea:

  1. Windbreaker or jacket – Layers up with a jacket if rain clouds or gusty winds pop up during your adventure.
  2. Hat or visor – Keep the sun out of your eyes and protect your head from intense sun or rain with a hat.
  3. Sunglasses – Reduce glare and protect your eyes from UV rays while you are on the water.
  4. Sunscreen – The last thing you want as a souvenir from any whale-watching trip is a sunburn.
  5. Motion sickness pills or wrist bands – If you have something to take, you can continue to look for whales, even in choppy waters.
  6. Rubber-soled shoes – Wear appropriate footwear to prevent falls while on the boat. Heels and flip-flops may not keep you upright on a wet floor.
  7. Camera – You don’t want to miss a viral moment, especially if you are lucky enough to see lots of activity in the water.
  8. Binoculars – Whales are doing their own thing, and they may not come as close to the boat as you expect. With binoculars, you can see any whale action happening at a distance.
  9. Water bottle – Staying hydrated is always a good idea; after all, your trip should last a few hours, and if you feel a little seasick, you’ll be glad to have something to drink.
  10. Snacks – Munching on crackers or fruit can give you the energy to pay attention and scan the horizon.

Putting together these essentials can make your whale-watching trip a success. Ask your tour company about whale watching things to do with kids ideas for other tips to prepare for your wintertime excursion.