Best Zoos in San Diego, California

Compare 12 top-rated zoos in San Diego, California. Read reviews, check prices, and book directly online.

12 results

Wild Pacific Whale Watch1

Wild Pacific Whale Watch

5.0(344)

2803 Emerson St, San Diego, CA 92106, USA

Wild Pacific Whale Watch is San Diego's premier whale and dolphin watching company offering year-round tours aboard the 82-foot vessel Peregrine. With over 40 years of combined experience, the locally-owned business provides comfortable, expert-guided marine wildlife experiences featuring gray whales, blue whales, dolphins, and other Pacific ocean life.

Whale Watching TourPrivate Charters4th of July Fireworks Cruise
Sterling Sails2

Sterling Sails

5.0(240)

1880 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA

Sterling Sails offers an unforgettable sailing experience in San Diego, one of California's most beautiful coastal destinations. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or stepping onto a boat for the first time, Sterling Sails provides guided sailing tours that showcase the stunning San Diego Bay and surrounding Pacific waters. The company specializes in creating memorable maritime adventures, taking guests past iconic landmarks like the USS Midway Museum, Harbor Island, and the Coronado Bridge while enjoying the region's perfect year-round sailing conditions. Their experienced captains and crew prioritize both safety and enjoyment, ensuring every passenger feels comfortable whether they want to actively participate in sailing or simply relax and take in the coastal scenery. Sterling Sails caters to families, couples, groups, and corporate outings, with flexible tour options designed to accommodate various interests and skill levels. The intimate setting of a sailboat allows for a more personal connection with the San Diego waterfront compared to larger commercial vessels. Perfect for tourists wanting an authentic San Diego experience, special occasions like proposals or anniversaries, or locals looking for a weekend escape, Sterling Sails combines nautical adventure with the natural beauty of Southern California's premiere sailing destination. The company's commitment to customer service and attention to detail makes each voyage a highlight of any San Diego visit.

2-Hour San Diego Sailing Cruise4-Hour VoyageGilligan's 3-Hour Tour
Legacy Whale Watch3

Legacy Whale Watch

4.9(4275)

1717 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109, USA

Legacy Whale Watch offers unforgettable Pacific Ocean experiences from Seaforth Landing in San Diego's Mission Bay area. Their flagship vessel, the Legacy, is a modern 80-foot fiberglass boat featuring two spacious decks with panoramic windows, ample seating for over 100 passengers, and both covered indoor areas and open-air viewing spaces. The company specializes in 3-hour guided whale watching tours where experienced captains and knowledgeable crew members help guests spot California Gray Whales (November through April), humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, and seabirds. Beyond standard tours, Legacy Whale Watch offers Bird Watching excursions, Sunset Cruises, full-day offshore adventures, and Private Charters for groups seeking customized Pacific wildlife experiences. They also provide specialized services including Private Events and Memorials at Sea, making them ideal for both casual tourists and those marking significant life moments. The vessel is well-equipped with a full-service bar offering snacks and beverages, three full-sized bathrooms for passenger comfort, and modern amenities throughout. Whether you're a first-time whale watcher or seasoned marine enthusiast, Legacy Whale Watch combines comfort, expertise, and genuine wildlife encounters in one of Southern California's most productive marine ecosystems. Their online booking system, gift card options, and detailed trip schedules make planning your adventure straightforward.

3-Hour Whale Watch TourBird Watch ToursSunset Cruises
Gone Whale Watching San Diego4

Gone Whale Watching San Diego

4.9(580)

1617 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109, USA

Gone Whale Watching San Diego offers the premier whale watching experience in San Diego Bay, departing from the scenic Mission Bay. Operating 7 days a week, this tour company distinguishes itself through intimate, small-group experiences aboard the U.S. Coast Guard inspected vessel "Hana Hou," which carries significantly fewer passengers than competitors' large tour boats that transport 100+ guests. This low passenger count approach allows for a more personalized experience and enables the boat to access areas that bigger vessels cannot reach, resulting in the highest whale sighting success rates among San Diego whale watching operators. The company has earned recognition from major media outlets including National Geographic, BBC, and Discovery Channel, validating their expertise and commitment to quality. They offer multiple tour options including 5-hour premium whale watching excursions and extended blue whale tours, providing flexibility for different schedule preferences. The atmosphere is designed for genuine wildlife enthusiasts seeking authentic encounters rather than crowded mass-tourism experiences. Ideal for families, nature lovers, and photographers, Gone Whale Watching delivers professional-grade marine exploration at rates competitive with larger, impersonal tour operators. Their knowledgeable captain and crew provide an educational perspective on marine life while maintaining responsible wildlife observation practices. The convenient Mission Bay location and frequent daily departures make booking accessible for both locals and visitors to San Diego.

Signature Public Whale Watching Tour - Hana Hou$60Signature Public Whale Watching Tour - 6-Passenger Trips$110Private Charter Tours$650
La Jolla Caves Snorkel & Watersports5

La Jolla Caves Snorkel & Watersports

4.9(285)

1160 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA

La Jolla Caves Snorkel & Watersports is your gateway to experiencing one of San Diego's most iconic coastal destinations. Located in the picturesque La Jolla area, this tour operator specializes in guided snorkeling adventures to the famous sea caves and surrounding marine ecosystems. The business caters to both experienced snorkelers and beginners looking to explore the vibrant underwater world off the Southern California coast. Their knowledgeable guides lead small group expeditions to discover the unique rock formations, sea caves, and abundant marine life including colorful fish, sea lions, and other coastal creatures. The company focuses on providing safe, educational, and memorable water experiences while emphasizing respect for the natural environment. Perfect for tourists visiting San Diego, families seeking adventure, and anyone eager to explore La Jolla's stunning coastline, the tours combine physical activity with the thrill of discovering hidden caves accessible only by water. The atmosphere is casual yet professional, with staff committed to ensuring every participant has proper instruction and safety equipment. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time, the guides adapt the experience to match your comfort level. The tours showcase why La Jolla is considered one of California's premier coastal destinations, offering unforgettable memories of sea caves, marine wildlife encounters, and spectacular ocean views.

Snorkeling Tour$65Cave Exploration Tour$75Equipment Rental$20
South Park Yoga and Wellness6

South Park Yoga and Wellness

4.9(75)

2985 Beech St, San Diego, CA 92102, USA

South Park Yoga is an established yoga studio in San Diego, operating since 2002 in a historic early-1900s building. They offer classes both in-studio and on Zoom, 7 days a week, with a focus on creating a warm, welcoming community for practitioners of all ages and experience levels.

Yoga Classes$492 Week Trial$49Massage Therapy
Snorkel San Diego Scuba7

Snorkel San Diego Scuba

4.9(62)

3939 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109, USA

Snorkel San Diego Scuba offers guided snorkeling tours at La Jolla Cove, one of Southern California's most stunning marine destinations. With over 15 years of experience and consistently top-rated reviews, this operator specializes in small-group shore-entry experiences that bring swimmers up close with San Diego's vibrant underwater world. Located within the La Jolla Ecological Reserve, tours accommodate a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Guests swim among playful sea lions and seals in their natural habitat, explore dramatic sea caves and rocky reefs, and spot colorful reef fish, rays, lobsters, and octopus. The tour occasionally rewards visitors with sightings of dolphins and migrating whales offshore. All necessary snorkeling gear is included, and no boat is required—simply enter from the shore at La Jolla Cove. This tour is perfect for comfortable swimmers of varying experience levels who want to explore marine life without the commitment of scuba certification. The combination of accessible shore entry, expert guidance, abundant wildlife, and the stunning beauty of La Jolla makes this an unforgettable San Diego experience. Whether you're a local looking to rediscover your coast or a visitor seeking adventure, Snorkel San Diego Scuba delivers an authentic marine encounter backed by years of professional expertise.

La Jolla Cove Guided Snorkeling Tour$90
San Diego Whale Watch8

San Diego Whale Watch

4.8(4523)

1617 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109, USA

San Diego Whale Watch is Southern California's premier whale watching operator, offering year-round tours departing daily from Mission Bay. With over 15 years of expertise, they've earned the title of San Diego's #1 whale watch tours and maintain a 4.8-star rating from over 4,300 verified reviews. Their signature experience takes guests offshore with expert naturalists to spot gray whales, blue whales, humpbacks, and dolphins in their natural Pacific habitat. Tours typically last 2-3 hours and are suitable for all ages, making them perfect for families, couples, and wildlife enthusiasts. Beyond standard whale watching, they offer specialized sunset dolphin and whale watching experiences where guests can enjoy golden hour views while watching marine life play in the bow wake. The company also accommodates field trips for educational groups and provides private charter options for special occasions. What sets San Diego Whale Watch apart is their Sightings Guarantee—if you don't see whales or dolphins, you can return for free. Their commitment to sustainability and conservation reflects a genuine passion for ocean preservation. Whether you're a first-time visitor to San Diego or a local looking to reconnect with nature, San Diego Whale Watch delivers an unforgettable maritime adventure with the confidence of established expertise and consistent results.

Whale Watching San Diego$58Sunset Dolphin & Whale Watch$58School & Field Trips$38
Seaforth Sportfishing9

Seaforth Sportfishing

4.7(4424)

1717 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109, USA

Seaforth Sportfishing is San Diego's premier sportfishing landing, offering exciting deep-sea fishing adventures from their convenient Quivira Road location in Mission Bay. With a diverse fleet and year-round operations, they specialize in half-day and full-day fishing trips, as well as extended one-and-a-half-day excursions targeting everything from bluefin tuna to seasonal gamefish. Their experienced crew provides genuine San Diego sportfishing experiences with real fish counts and detailed reports available online to help anglers plan their trips. Beyond traditional fishing, Seaforth operates Legacy whale watching tours available throughout the year, making them a versatile choice for both serious anglers and wildlife enthusiasts. The landing attracts everyone from seasoned fishermen seeking trophy catches to families looking for accessible ocean adventures. Their modern fleet and commitment to customer service—including free parking and online booking—make planning your San Diego fishing trip straightforward and hassle-free. Whether you're chasing the thrill of landing a 140+ pound bluefin tuna or simply want a memorable day on the water watching migrating whales, Seaforth Sportfishing delivers authentic Southern California maritime experiences with local expertise and reliable service.

Half Day Fishing CharterFull Day Fishing CharterOne and One Half Day Fishing Charter
Bike and Kayak Tours — La Jolla10

Bike and Kayak Tours — La Jolla

4.6(4066)

2158 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA

Bike and Kayak Tours offers an unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty of La Jolla, San Diego. Specializing in guided kayak tours through the iconic La Jolla Caves, this outfit provides visitors with intimate access to sea caves, hidden coves, and pristine coastal waters. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, they offer multiple ways to experience the area: join a guided snorkel tour to discover vibrant marine life, rent a kayak for independent exploration, or rent a bike to discover La Jolla's coastal trails and neighborhoods at your own pace. Their guides are knowledgeable about the local ecosystem and marine environment, making tours both thrilling and educational. The company caters to families, couples, and solo travelers of all experience levels, from complete beginners to experienced paddlers. With the flexibility to choose between guided tours and self-guided rentals, visitors can tailor their experience to match their preferences and skill level. Operating in one of Southern California's most picturesque coastal communities, Bike and Kayak Tours provides an excellent alternative to crowded beach days—think calm morning paddles through sea caves, afternoon snorkeling with San Diego's marine wildlife, and scenic bike rides along the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak TourKayak and Snorkel TourLa Jolla Snorkeling Tour - Leopard Shark Encounter
Fisherman's Landing11

Fisherman's Landing

4.5(786)

2838 Garrison St, San Diego, CA 92106, USA

Fisherman's Landing is San Diego's premier fishing charter company, offering authentic sportfishing experiences for anglers of all skill levels. Operating a fleet of 18 well-maintained vessels—including the Bight 28, Constitution, Dolphin, Excel, Fortune, Freeman 34, Islander, Liberty, Lucky B, Pacific Dawn, Pacific Queen, Pegasus, Poseidon, Royal Polaris, Royal Star, Searcher, Shogun, and Tomahawk—they provide diverse fishing opportunities tailored to every preference. Whether you're looking for a quick half-day adventure, a full-day excursion, or an extended multi-day long-range fishing trip, Fisherman's Landing delivers exceptional access to San Diego's rich marine ecosystem. Their open party trips are perfect for solo anglers and small groups, while private charters cater to families, friends, and corporate outings seeking a more exclusive experience. Beyond traditional sportfishing, they offer nature and ecology-focused trips for those interested in marine wildlife observation. The company maintains detailed fish counts and dock totals, demonstrating transparency and a commitment to sustainable fishing practices. With convenient online booking through their green reservation buttons and pricing that includes all service charges, planning your fishing adventure is straightforward. The knowledgeable crew and well-maintained fleet ensure a safe, enjoyable experience whether you're a seasoned fisherman or a first-time angler. Parking instructions are provided for easy access to their dock location.

Half Day Local Fishing Trip$83Full Day Freelance Fishing Trip$906Overnight Fishing Trip$362
Snorkel San Diego12

Snorkel San Diego

4.4(26)

8008 Girard Ave #120, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA

Snorkel San Diego offers an unforgettable 2-hour guided adventure tour to the world-famous La Jolla Cove Underwater Park, one of Southern California's premier snorkeling destinations. Perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers, this tour showcases the vibrant marine ecosystem teeming with colorful fish, sea lions, and other coastal wildlife in crystal-clear waters. The company specializes in snorkeling experiences but also offers guided dives, scuba adventures, and certification courses for those looking to expand their underwater skills. Their experienced guides lead small groups through the underwater park, ensuring safety while maximizing the experience of exploring one of San Diego's most iconic natural attractions. Whether you're a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor wanting to experience La Jolla's marine beauty, Snorkel San Diego provides all the expertise and guidance needed. The tours depart at 1:00 PM and include instruction on proper snorkeling techniques, safety briefings, and insider knowledge about the local marine life and geology. The company maintains an active presence on social media and provides comprehensive information about pricing, reservations, and directions to make booking convenient.

La Jolla Cove Snorkeling Tour$85Guided Scuba Diving ToursScuba Certification Courses

Frequently Asked Questions

How many zoos are in San Diego?+

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