Avila Beach Whale Watching
Six-passenger whale watching trips from Port San Luis, run by a longtime local captain.
- Departs
- Harford Landing, 3950 Avila Beach Dr
- Boat
- 28-foot power catamaran, six passengers max
- Price
- $129 per person (Best Whale Watching trip)
- Season
- Daily April to November; peak mid-July to October
- Phone
- (805) 540-4667 for private tours
Avila Beach Whale Watching is a small, family-run tour company at Port San Luis. Owner Captain Mark Kocina has more than 45 years as a boat captain, naturalist and guide. Trips leave from Harford Landing on a 28-foot power catamaran that takes no more than six passengers.
The trips
- Summer whale watching: 2.25 hours, mostly for humpbacks feeding in the bay.
- Winter whale and wildlife viewing: 2.5 hours, during the gray whale migration.
- Coastal explorer: 1 hour, year round.
From April through November the company runs seven days a week, with trips at 8 and 10:45 a.m. and more when the weather allows. The Best Whale Watching trip is $129 per person.
Your odds
The company says it finds whales on about 80% of trips from February through May, and over 90% from June through November. Peak season is mid-July through October. Sightings aren't guaranteed, and there's no refund if the whales don't show. Trips canceled for rain, dense fog or rough wind are refunded in full.
Before you book
Passengers must be 300 pounds or less, or book two seats. Kids under 13 wear a life jacket the whole trip. There's no toilet on board. For private trips, photography tours or ash scattering, call Captain Mark at (805) 540-4667.
Park at Harford Landing (see parking). For seasons and watching from shore, see Whale Watching.
Local tips
- Wind tends to pick up in the afternoon, so the 8 a.m. trip is a good bet.
- There's no toilet on board, so plan ahead.
- Bring layers and binoculars, and a dry bag for your camera.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for whale watching in Avila Beach?
The company calls mid-July through October its peak, and says it finds whales on over 90% of trips from June through November.
How long are the trips?
The summer whale watch is 2.25 hours, the winter whale and wildlife trip is 2.5 hours, and the year-round coastal tour is 1 hour.
What if we don't see whales?
Sightings aren't guaranteed, and there are no refunds when no whales are found. Trips canceled for rain, fog or rough wind are fully refunded.
