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Now! Marine Whildlife Encounters!

Marine Wildlife Encounters


San Francisco Day Trips

The Perfect Day Trip from San Francisco!

Leave your weekday troubles behind with a scenic day trip from San Francisco to Santa Cruz! We're just 90 minutes south of San Francisco!

Map From San Francisco to Santa Cruz Whale Watching by Stagnaros

Visiting the San Francisco Bay Area? Or maybe you live in San Francisco and have out-of-town guests visiting? Come take a day trip from San Francisco to Santa Cruz and see the beautiful scenery that Monterey Bay has to offer. Santa Cruz whale watching is one of the funnest things to do in the San Francisco area, and is only 90 minutes drive away from the city.

Whale watching on Monterey Bay makes a great day trip for kids! You will never forget the looks on their faces as they see their first Humpback Whale, Gray Whale or Blue Whale breach the surface on their first California whale watching trip out of Santa Cruz Harbor by Stagnaro Charters! Our expert crew is the very best in the biz at spotting whales in Monterey Bay and will get you out to the animals quickly and safely. So forget the troubles of the daily grind and escape from the city on one of the best day trips in California!

Past customers have seen a variety of wildlife on our boat trips, from pods of Blue and California Gray Whales to sea lions, sea otters, and dolphins! Humpback Whales frequent Monterey Bay from May through November and our summer guests often see Humpbacks feeding. Monterey Bay sees whales all year round! In the winter until the spring Gray Whale season prevails. The chance of sighting California Gray Whales during this period is around 90% as they migrate from cold arctic waters to the warm Baja Peninsula. Learn more about the whales of Monterey Bay and come aboard one of our trips to see them for yourself!

The Santa Cruz harbor and waterfront is known for its beautiful scenery, sightseeing, the famous California sea lions, dining, gift shops, and more. A plethora of fresh seafood restaurants await you as you sit outside and sip on a refreshing drink while you gaze at the gorgeous California coastline and listen to the sounds of the nearby sea lions and other marine life. The atmosphere at the harbor is fun and exciting, with numerous events taking place throughout the year, from a festival of artists to a fireworks show on the 4th of July.

So whether it’s a family outing with the kids or a romantic escape for two, there's nothing like a relaxing day trip outside the city to clear the mind and refresh the soul. Or make it a weekend trip from San Francisco and really connect with nature! And don’t forget, if you’re planning a private party, cruise or scattering, think of the professional and friendly crew at Stagnaros, less than two hours away in beautiful Santa Cruz!

To truly experience the natural beauty of the San Francisco Region why not spend time in the city of San Francisco and then take a day trip or weekend getaway to this fantastic wonderment of the California Central Coast. Your drive will be scenic and relaxing, and your experience on Monterey Bay unforgettable. Join the hundreds of others who have come out on our whale watching cruises.

No matter what the occasion, hop in your car and come down to Santa Cruz to make some unforgettable memories of your own!

Book your trip today! Book online now or call (831) 427-0230