San Diego is home to one of the nature’s most spectacular sights. Every year about 26,000 migrating gray whales, one of the largest mammals on earth, take the long 10,000 mile journey from the Arctic Sea south to  the warm water lagoons of Baja California. It is considered as the longest migration by mammals. The San Diego coastline becomes home to these spectacular species. The Gray whale population was almost extinct in the early 1900s, but through extensive environmental and educational efforts, the population of gray whales has survived.

If you are on a San Diego family vacation between late December and March, make sure to go for the whale watching tour with your kids. You can spend an entire day with your kids watching the spectacular stunts of gray whales. Watch the whales breach, swimming off the coastline,  spy hop, fluke up or fluke down, spout, footprint and more. Make sure to bring binoculars to catch whales activity clearly. Imagine how splendid it would look when a whale leaps out of water and then falls back with a reverberating splash.

Other than gray whales, also watch out for porpoises, brown pelicans, harbor seals and sea lions. Also look out for various dolphins such as Pacific white-sided dolphins, common dolphins and Risso’s dolphins.

Besides being fun, whale watching is also an educational activity – you get to experience ocean wildlife firsthand. Go on a short cruise where trained naturalists provide guidance on maximizing the overall experience. When you go on a cruise, make sure to carry along a warm jacket. You can go to Cabrillo National Monument on Point Loma and the Birch Aquarium in La Jolla  for a whale watching tour.

To enjoy whale watching most conveniently with your family, it is best to stay in a San Diego accommodation which is located right in the heart of San Diego. Book your rooms in advance at  California Suites Hotel which is situated just 15 minutes away from the San Diego International Airport. California Suites Hotel is a value price leader among budget hotels in San Diego which has just been promoted to receive a Triple A designation. Facilities provided by the hotel include an “extended” complimentary breakfast, laundry facilities, free stay for children of 11 years and under, safe deposit box, free parking, 24 hr security patrol and more.

Whale watching is a complete family affair. Your kids will just love it!