Avila Beach Boat Charters
Avila Beach Boat Charters
Avila Beach Boat Charters
4.5
9:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Monday
9:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
9:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
9:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
9:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
9:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday
9:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday
9:30 AM - 9:00 PM
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
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4.5
21 reviews
Excellent
19
Very good
0
Average
0
Poor
1
Terrible
1
Robbie K
Santa Ynez, CA45 contributions
Oct 2018
We had such a great time. Went with another couple and enjoyed the boat ride and the nibbles and wine on the sea. Saw whales and a beautiful sunset...breathtaking and the captain was delightful!
Written 14 January 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
asianhottie
Sacramento, CA3 contributions
Jul 2016 • Couples
Asked for the fossil cave tour but got the whale watching tour!! It was amazing seeing whales all around us. Would certainly do the tour again. Capt Lee is very knowledgeable and loves showing us his backyard!
Definitely worth every penny!
Definitely worth every penny!
Written 8 July 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
diditomate
Bakersfield, CA5 contributions
Jul 2016 • Friends
We have been on whale watching tours before but it is so different in the smaller boat Captain Lee had us boarding. At first, I was a little afraid because it was basically a dingy or a large kayak to me which was different than the other boats I've been on. This boat held 6 ppl maximum. Capt Lee said he would try to get us to see humpback whales altho there is never any guarantees. Other marine life included sea otters and fur seals...of course diving pelicans and nesting birds. We also visited some caves which was really interesting. My party of 4 as well as the other couple were not disappointed at all. When he turned off the motor and we sat on the ocean, there was a feeling of silence that was so profound and awe-inspiring. You don't get that feeling on a larger cruiser. Next time, I would definitely wear a vest and gloves as it did get brisk out there. But it was a unique and wonderful experience and the captain was informative and educational. Thank you so much for a great time!
Written 6 July 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alissa L
San Francisco, CA53 contributions
Aug 2015 • Family
We called and signed up for the whale watching tour at 8 on a Wednesday. Just my husband, 10 year old daughter and me on the tour. Met Captain Lee at the pier, such a nice, down-to-earth guy. He let us know that we may not see any whales and if that was the case he would only charge for the basic tour (whale tour is $50pp for 1 1/2 hours, coastline tour is $25 for an hour...both are a bargain!). We headed out (sea lions and dolphins everywhere!) and about 5 minutes in he spotted the whales. We stayed in one area watching the whales lunge feeding (Cpt Lee has so much interesting info to share about all wildlife in the area, and about the history of Avila Bay...even my 10-year-old enjoyed all of the info!), and they started circling toward the boat. There were no other boats in sight, and these amazing whales came right up to us, then swam underneath the boat. At first I was a little nervous, but Captain Lee made us feel safe the entire time. (after the trip we nicknamed him "the whale whisperer") It is a moment we will never forget. We moved on, dolphins swam beside the boat, saw sea otters and checked out a beautiful cave, birds everywhere...the whole trip was perfect. Next time I come to the area I will book two tours on separate days, would love to see everything at different times of the day. Captain Lee is truly a special person, and I cannot imagine a more perfect way to experience the ocean. For first time I do suggest the early morning trip, nice calm water and no other boats nearby!
Written 7 August 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chuck S
Buellton, California23 contributions
Jul 2015 • Couples
My wife and I signed up for the 1 hour coastline exploration to view the advertised Otter Town, Fossil Cave, and Pirates Bay. When we boarded the Zodiac, the captain mentioned that we were going out to see whales. I replied that this was supposed to be a coastal tour. The captain replied “whales” with a longing look in his eyes that stared out to sea. Another passenger said that she wanted to see the advertised cave. The captain answered: “whales”.
This trip was like a plane load of airline passengers being told by the pilot that he was sure they all really would enjoy another destination that was 180 degrees from where they had paid to be delivered.
The captain would probably look at this review as a “No good deed goes unpunished” situation for him, but if we had wanted to see whales that day, we would have signed up for the Whale Watching trip.
Observation: The Zodiac holds 6 adult passengers. The best seats are located in front of the captain. The worst seat is directly behind the captain where you do not see a lot and can not make out much of the captain’s commentary, which is directed forward.
This trip was like a plane load of airline passengers being told by the pilot that he was sure they all really would enjoy another destination that was 180 degrees from where they had paid to be delivered.
The captain would probably look at this review as a “No good deed goes unpunished” situation for him, but if we had wanted to see whales that day, we would have signed up for the Whale Watching trip.
Observation: The Zodiac holds 6 adult passengers. The best seats are located in front of the captain. The worst seat is directly behind the captain where you do not see a lot and can not make out much of the captain’s commentary, which is directed forward.
Written 5 July 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I recently logged in to see that a response was made to this review, This was written by a former staff member and I sincerely apologize for what was said, I value each and every tour and every individuals experience means everything to me, My reservationist was told by this passenger that they only wanted to see the caves, and that was not relayed to me unfortunately, I would love to take you to see the caves and I would do this at absolutely no cost to you.
Written 2 October 2017
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ofegan22
Atascadero, CA1 contribution
Jun 2015 • Family
Lee was so interesting he knew all of the history I definitely recommend going I loved it! We saw whales and dolphins lee even let the kids drive he was so impressive!
Written 2 July 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lisa K
Los Angeles, CA7 contributions
Aug 2014
Had wonderful tour with Lee, he customized the trip for our young children. We saw Sea Otters and seals. Lee is so knowledgeable, he explained everything and it felt like getting a tour from a family member.
Written 24 June 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
todarcie
Folsom, CA78 contributions
Aug 2014 • Couples
My husband and I had a great time on the boat. It's a great way to get out and enjoy the ocean. The tour is only an hour but it's only $25 per person you can not beat it. We only saw one whale but got really close. We saw many otters and other sea life. Great time!
It was a little hard to find. I missed the small sign by the stair case about halfway down the dock. We were late because we were looking for boat. Keep you eye out for small sign halfway down dock by staircase on right hand side, this is were you will see boat.
It was a little hard to find. I missed the small sign by the stair case about halfway down the dock. We were late because we were looking for boat. Keep you eye out for small sign halfway down dock by staircase on right hand side, this is were you will see boat.
Written 17 August 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Izoom3
Tracy, CA135 contributions
Saw sign on wharf and it said to call for reservations. No brochures in slot for any info. Checked here saw all good ratings so called. Got voice mail. Left message for reservation. Late that evening they called and said they could possibly work us in but seas were bad and it would be better to wait and go the next week.
Fast forward to the next Monday and we called again. Got voice mail stating they were extremely booked and had no room until a week later. Perhaps they need to expand? No tour for us.
Fast forward to the next Monday and we called again. Got voice mail stating they were extremely booked and had no room until a week later. Perhaps they need to expand? No tour for us.
Written 29 July 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I regret keeping you waiting and taking up your vacation time, my boat plug was missing and without it the boat would fill with water, I was told by the boatyard that they had one, Then relayed that info by phone to my passengers waiting, The plug was not the right size. with no other option i took a wine cork and shaved it down then wrapped it with teflon tape, It fit but I did not feel it was safe enough to use. Ultimately i should have just cancelled, For me its not about the money its about a strong desire to get people out. I have learned two things from this one..always have extra boat plugs and to not keep people waiting.
Written 2 October 2017
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
garyminkin
Porter Ranch, California, United States13 contributions
May 2013 • Family
Avila Beach CA - An Amazing Vacation Destination - by Gary and Sue Minkin
This is becoming an immensely popular tourist vacation mecca and whale watching and water-sport hotspot with Avila Beach Boat Charters. Avila has five decent hotels and the San Luis Bay Inn, with 144 suites. The Inn is an ocean-front timeshare resort spread across a magnificent 16 acre bluff. Its views cascade directly down from above the breath taking ocean surf and bay on the front side, with magnificent golf and estuary views on the other. Motor homes and Campers are allowed at the beach a mile farther at Port San Luis. Avila Beach is a newly rebuilt town. It has a full-time resident population of less than 500. Facing east at the tip of a tiny cape, San Luis Bay Inn is one of a few Pacific coast resorts that awakens to a view of the sun rising over the ocean. Yes it faces east over water! Most of the tourist attractions at Avila Beach face the surf across an immaculate new boardwalk with shops, restaurants, a playground, an ocean-arium, clean public restrooms, a yacht club and a calm beach with scuba and surf gear rentals. And it’s all right there on the beach, with whale watching from the shore or from Avila Beach Boat Charters. Mornings seem to be best for seeing whales.You must have reservations. For an idea of what this secluded little town represents, try to picture Laguna Beach back in the 1940s or 50s. But vacancies can be illusive at the five Avila Beach resorts as it has become a very popular beach, golf and wine country destination. To help you find and enjoy Avila Beach, here’s a quick though unofficially abbreviated primer. Hopefully, this will help you navigate your way to this spectacular coastal community of Avila Beach. We have owned deeded timeshares for many years at the Inn, and we love the unique “MICRO-CLIMATE” of this small land spur that reaches out into the surf. So here are my Semi-Certified Directions ‘101’. First whip out your trusty stash of maps. Then find California. (It’ll be out west) Look for the ocean. Be sure it’s the Pacific Ocean. Now, go there! Then, get over to the California Central Coast. Next, find US 101 - It usually runs North and South! Then go there! Depending on your journey’s starting orientation, next head North or South to Port San Luis & Avila Beach. You will usually find it about 7 miles south of San Luis Obispo and 6 miles north of Pismo. Take Avila Beach Drive west, through a rural oak forest. Signs are also posted “Port San Luis”. Go west, young man, nearly 3 miles. The road is soon compressed between the golf course and the surf. Turn left for the village or go over the bridge and turn right for the inn. Normal drive time from, L.A. 3 ½ hours Frisco 4 ¼ hours Santa Barbara 1 ½ hours. Other ways to reach Avila Beach - By sea (Port San Luis Yacht Harbor), bus, plane or train. Airport, Amtrak, Greyhound, all within 9 miles. At the Inn, check with concierge for attractions and things to do. Great maps and valuable vacation guides are also available from any Triple A or Sears Auto Club office. Have fun, take a boat ride with Avila Beach Boat Charters, and keep on surfing
This is becoming an immensely popular tourist vacation mecca and whale watching and water-sport hotspot with Avila Beach Boat Charters. Avila has five decent hotels and the San Luis Bay Inn, with 144 suites. The Inn is an ocean-front timeshare resort spread across a magnificent 16 acre bluff. Its views cascade directly down from above the breath taking ocean surf and bay on the front side, with magnificent golf and estuary views on the other. Motor homes and Campers are allowed at the beach a mile farther at Port San Luis. Avila Beach is a newly rebuilt town. It has a full-time resident population of less than 500. Facing east at the tip of a tiny cape, San Luis Bay Inn is one of a few Pacific coast resorts that awakens to a view of the sun rising over the ocean. Yes it faces east over water! Most of the tourist attractions at Avila Beach face the surf across an immaculate new boardwalk with shops, restaurants, a playground, an ocean-arium, clean public restrooms, a yacht club and a calm beach with scuba and surf gear rentals. And it’s all right there on the beach, with whale watching from the shore or from Avila Beach Boat Charters. Mornings seem to be best for seeing whales.You must have reservations. For an idea of what this secluded little town represents, try to picture Laguna Beach back in the 1940s or 50s. But vacancies can be illusive at the five Avila Beach resorts as it has become a very popular beach, golf and wine country destination. To help you find and enjoy Avila Beach, here’s a quick though unofficially abbreviated primer. Hopefully, this will help you navigate your way to this spectacular coastal community of Avila Beach. We have owned deeded timeshares for many years at the Inn, and we love the unique “MICRO-CLIMATE” of this small land spur that reaches out into the surf. So here are my Semi-Certified Directions ‘101’. First whip out your trusty stash of maps. Then find California. (It’ll be out west) Look for the ocean. Be sure it’s the Pacific Ocean. Now, go there! Then, get over to the California Central Coast. Next, find US 101 - It usually runs North and South! Then go there! Depending on your journey’s starting orientation, next head North or South to Port San Luis & Avila Beach. You will usually find it about 7 miles south of San Luis Obispo and 6 miles north of Pismo. Take Avila Beach Drive west, through a rural oak forest. Signs are also posted “Port San Luis”. Go west, young man, nearly 3 miles. The road is soon compressed between the golf course and the surf. Turn left for the village or go over the bridge and turn right for the inn. Normal drive time from, L.A. 3 ½ hours Frisco 4 ¼ hours Santa Barbara 1 ½ hours. Other ways to reach Avila Beach - By sea (Port San Luis Yacht Harbor), bus, plane or train. Airport, Amtrak, Greyhound, all within 9 miles. At the Inn, check with concierge for attractions and things to do. Great maps and valuable vacation guides are also available from any Triple A or Sears Auto Club office. Have fun, take a boat ride with Avila Beach Boat Charters, and keep on surfing
Written 28 November 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
You mentioned a 6 person max. What is the min.because it would just be my wife and i. Wouldnt mind others to join. Would like the otter trip and is this an ok time to do it within the next month. Thank you
Can my wife and i go on otter trip. Dont mind if others go. Is this an ok time to go within a month