Whale Watching Santa Cruz

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Whale Watching with the Stagnaro Family

Dining

Crow’s Nest Restaurant
Aldo’s Harbor Restaurant
Hula Island Grill
Laili
Johnny’s Harborside Restaurant
Harbor Cafe

Lodging

Dream Inn
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Casablanca
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Best Western Plus Capitola
Fairfield Inn & Suites Capitola

Dining

Crow’s Nest Restaurant
Aldo’s Harbor Restaurant
Hula Island Grill
Laili
Johnny’s Harborside Restaurant
Harbor Cafe

Lodging

Dream Inn
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Casablanca
Chaminade Resort & Spa
Best Western Plus Capitola
Fairfield Inn & Suites Capitola

Authors Comments:

Santa Cruz whale watching with the Stagnaro Charters always has great reviews. The Stagnaro family has been in Santa Cruz for over 100 years. Whales are attracted to the Monterey Bay because of their deep canyons, uplifting currents, and abundant food. The uplifting provides food such as anchovies, sardines, and krill.

December through April finds gray whales, while May through December has more humpback and blue whales. You also have the chance of seeing great white sharks, dolphin, seals, sea lions, and occasionally killer whales.

FYI, you must first check in at their office, 1718 Brommer Street before you head to the boat at the Santa Cruz Boat Harbor. Arrive at check in 45 minutes early. Santa Cruz whale watching also offer fishing, shark viewing, and scenic tours. Reservations required. For more information on the Monterey Bay ecosystem visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, also located in Santa Cruz.