In addition to kayaking, surfing, jet ski rentals and SUPs (stand-up paddle boards), there is a plethora of ways to experience San Diego from the water. Rent a Duffy boat, pontoon, mini speed boat or swan pedal boat, take a harbor cruise or an educational tour on a historic sailing ship. The options are endless. Here are some of the best on-the-water adventures with kids. Note that whale watching season in San Diego is generally mid-December through April.
San Diego On-the-Water Adventures
Bahia Belle Cruises
Mission Bay
Relax on a sunset cruise or have a blast on a seasonal themed cruise (such as the summertime Sunday Fun & Games Cruise or the holiday Jingle Belle Family Cruise) aboard a three-story sternwheeler on Mission Bay. Board at the Bahia Resort or Catamaran Resort on Mission Bay.
California Watersports at Carlsbad Lagoon
4215 Harrison St., Carlsbad
Rent kayaks, waverunners and swan pedalboats while spending the day at Carlsbad Lagoon.
City Cruises by Hornblower
Downtown San Diego
Harbor sightseeing tours, brunch cruises, whale & dolphin watching adventures and more.
Coronado Ferry
Broadway Pier, 990 N. Harbor Dr., Downtown SD
Cruise across the bay between Coronado Ferry Landing and Broadway Pier in downtown San Diego.
Chula Vista Commuter Ferry
Yes, you read that right -- there's a commuter ferry from the convention center (Downtown San Diego) to Chula Vista now! A fun way to travel to South Bay and spend time at the Chula Vista Bayfront.
Eco Boat Rentals
Point Loma
Rent a pink Duffy boat, a dog-friendly pedal boat or choose a nighttime "glow ride" experience on San Diego Bay.
Flagship Cruises
Take a San Diego Harbor sightseeing tour or experience a high-speed thrill ride on a Patriot Jet Boat.
The Gondola Company
Coronado
Take a relaxing or romantic gondola cruise through the Coronado Cays.
HydroBikes SD
Mission Bay or San Diego Bay
Ride a single or pontoon bicycle on Mission Bay! Ages 5–8 can ride with adults. Ask about Twofer Tuesdays. Closed on Mondays.
Lake San Marcos
San Marcos
Rent pontoon, Duffy or pedal boats, kayaks and stand up paddle boards at this hidden gem in San Marcos.
Maritime Museum of San Diego
1492 N. Harbor Dr., Downtown San Diego
Explore San Diego Bay on a historic tall ship, a high-speed Navy Swift Boat or the majestic San Salvador.
San Diego SEAL Tours
Seaport Village, 789 West Harbor Dr., Downtown San Diego
Take a narrated tour of San Diego’s downtown area and the San Diego Bay in one amphibious land-and-sea vehicle!
Santee Lakes
Santee
Take a spin around Santee Lake 5 in a ducky, swan, dragon or standard pedal boat.
Sea Monkey Sailing Adventures
Private daytime or sunset sailing tours (up to 12 people) designed specifically for families.
What’s your favorite way to experience San Diego in or on the water? Email
Photo courtesy of @SanDiegoFamilyAdventures
Lisa Gipson is the managing editor of San Diego Family Media.
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