FAQ

  • Is my infant child allowed on the boat and does he/she need a ticket?

    We allow children of any age aboard. We welcome your entire family however we do require everyone to have a paid ticket, because we are strictly limited by the U.S. Coast Guard, as to how many people we have aboard.

  • Will the boat wait for me, if I’m late?

    I’m afraid not. We run on a tight schedule and need to adhere to the schedule, so we depart on time. During summer months parking is limited. Please come at least 30 minutes before departure to make sure you find parking and walk down the pier.

  • Where do we go to meet the boat?

    We pick up passengers on Port San Luis Pier Floating Dock. Look for Boat Tours and Whale Watching signs. Upon arriving at the Pier, please park in the parking lot, on Avila Beach Drive or up at the public parking lot at Flying Flags Campgrounds. Do not drive on the pier.

  • How many passengers can go on the tour?

    6 Passengers Maximum.

  • Can I bring my dog on the boat?

    Dogs are ok, but only on Private Charters.

  • How long are your tours?

    Our 10:00 Pismo Beach Whale Express Tours is 2 Hours. The Zodiac Harbor Adventure is 1 Hour.

  • What happens if the trip is cancelled due to weather?

    In the event that your tour is cancelled by us (SLO TOURS) due to weather, or for any reason, you will be offered the option to either rebook your tour, or receive a refund. Your choice.

  • Can we bring food and beverages aboard?

    Yes, feel free to bring a small cooler and whatever beverages and snacks you would like.

Company Overview

SLO TOURS stands out as a strong choice for boat tours and whale watching in San Luis Obispo County because of its focus on ocean adventure, close-up wildlife encounters, experienced boat operators, and small-vessel experiences along the Central Coast.

For SLO TOURS, the biggest selling points are the opportunity to experience whales and other marine wildlife up close, explore the coastline around Avila Beach and Port San Luis, and enjoy an adventure that feels more personal than a typical large-boat tour.

Why choose SLO TOURS?

1. Incredible whale-watching encounters

See humpback whales, dolphins, sea lions, and other marine wildlife in the waters off the Central Coast. Encounters vary with wildlife activity and ocean conditions, making every trip different.

2. Adventure beyond a traditional boat tour

SLO TOURS offers Zodiac-style adventure trips for guests looking for an exciting, close-to-the-water experience while exploring the coastline and marine environment.

3. A unique Central Coast setting

Explore the scenic waters around Avila Beach, San Luis Obispo Bay, and Port San Luis, with opportunities to see coastal landmarks, sea caves, sea lions, and local marine life.

4. Experiences for families and adventure seekers

Whether it's a family outing, a wildlife photography trip, or an ocean adventure, SLO TOURS aims to make time on the water exciting and memorable for a range of guests.

5. Experience and a focus on safety

SLO TOURS emphasizes professional boat operation, suitable vessels, and responsible wildlife viewing. Ocean conditions and wildlife behavior always determine what each trip can safely offer.

What makes SLO TOURS stand out in the reviews?

SLO TOURS is listed with a 5.0 out of 5 rating and 497 Google reviews. TripAdvisor reviews specifically praise Captain Micheal Brink's humor, knowledge, and ability to make trips enjoyable, along with memorable whale encounters and comfortable boat experiences. tripadvisor.com

SLO TOURS also has an established history, with its official website stating it has operated since 2009.