Canonical URL: https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/united-states/californian-pelicans-whales/ # Californian Pelicans & Whales [Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/join-a/wildlife-photography-holiday/) 6th - 13th Mar 2029 - £5499 [North America](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/north-america/) - Guided By [David Miles](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/david/) [![One of California's Brown Pelicans standing on coastal rock](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/One-of-Californias-Brown-Pelicans-standing-on-coastal-rock-1024x768.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/One-of-Californias-Brown-Pelicans-standing-on-coastal-rock.jpg) Reserve with a deposit of £1100 No payment is taken at enquiry stage. We confirm availability first, then send booking forms and deposit payment details. Please read our [booking conditions](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/booking-condtions/) and [financial protection information](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/financial-protection/) before paying a deposit. ## Californian Pelicans & Whales - 6th - 13th Mar 2029 - £5499 - Single occupancy [Make A Booking Enquiry](https://natureslens.co.uk/book/californian-pelicans-whales) No payment is taken at enquiry stage. We confirm availability first, then send booking forms and deposit payment details. Please read our [booking conditions](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/booking-condtions/) and [financial protection information](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/about-us/financial-protection/) before paying a deposit. [Make A Booking Enquiry](https://natureslens.co.uk/book/californian-pelicans-whales) The coastline around San Diego offers direct access to the **Californian Pelicans & other wildlife** without distance or disguise. Cliffs drop straight into the Pacific, beaches allow eye-level work with resting seals, & nearshore waters hold some of **the most reliable pelican flight photography** in [North America](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/north-america/). Mornings begin early, with cool air, clean light & predictable movement along the coast. Photography of the **Californian Pelicans** dominate the first hours of the day, launching from cliff edges & banking low over the surf as light strengthens. **Seals & sea lions** haul out onto sand or rocks, allowing close, low-angle portrait work that shifts naturally into behaviour as activity increases. Offshore, winter seas hold migrating **Grey Whales**, regular **humpback encounters**, dolphins & feeding-associated seabirds, offering opportunities for sequence-driven storytelling rather than single frames. This trip is structured around repetition & access. Land-based sessions are timed to specific locations & light conditions, allowing photographers to return to the same subjects under improving conditions. Offshore days are spent aboard **full-day private charters**, giving full control over positioning, timing & photographic priorities. Small group sizes ensure space to work both on deck & on land, with experienced guidance throughout. By the end of the week, photographers leave with a **cohesive coastal portfolio** rather than a collection of one-off encounters. The emphasis is on refining flight technique, working behaviour at eye level, & building confidence photographing large marine mammals from a moving platform. It is a trip designed to sharpen skills through focused repetition & varied conditions. This trip is one of our [wildlife photography holidays in the United States](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/north-america/united-states/) & part of our programme of [North American wildlife photography holidays](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/north-america/). [![A Californian Brown Pelican standing on rocks](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-standing-on-rocks-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-standing-on-rocks.jpg) ## Californian Pelicans & Whales Photography Holiday Itinerary The following is the proposed itinerary for this photography holiday, it should be considered provisional & subject to change. - Day 1 - Assemble at San Diego International AIrport - transfer to La Jolla - overnight La Jolla - Day 2 - Photography sessions covering Pelican flight, seals & sea lions - overnight La Jolla - Day 3 - Full-day offshore whale photography using private boat charters - overnight La Jolla - Day 4 - Photography sessions covering Pelican flight, seals & sea lions - overnight La Jolla - Day 5 - Full-day offshore whale photography using private boat charters - overnight La Jolla - Day 6 - Photography sessions covering Pelican flight, seals & sea lions - overnight La Jolla - Day 7 - Full-day offshore whale photography using private boat charters - overnight La Jolla - Day 8 - transfer to San Diego International AIrport [![A Californian Brown Pelican standing on a coastal rock](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-standing-on-a-coastal-rock--1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-standing-on-a-coastal-rock-.jpg) ## Californian Pelicans & Whales Photography Holiday Highlights We have taken care to refine the itinerary for this wildlife photography holiday; as such, we consider the following to be amongst the highlights of this tour. - Brown Pelican flight photography from coastal cliffs - Eye-level harbour seal portraits on sand - Sea lion behaviour, interaction & vocalisation - Full-day offshore whale photography sessions - Grey Whale migration & humpback encounters - Dolphin pods & pelagic seabirds offshore [![A Californian Brown Pelican preening by the blue sea](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-preening-by-the-blue-sea-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-preening-by-the-blue-sea.jpg) ## What Do You Need To Bring With You? The items listed below are intended as guidance rather than requirements. They outline optional & recommended clothing & camera equipment to help you prepare for the conditions & photographic opportunities you may encounter. Clothing We Recommend Camera Equipment We Recommend Clothing suggestions for the conditions expected. - Clothing suitable for moderate temperatures - Warm layers for early mornings & evenings - Windproof & waterproof outer layers - Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots - Sun hat or cap - Sunglasses Suggested camera equipment for the opportunities expected. - DSLR or mirrorless camera body - Spare camera body - Spare batteries, charger & memory cards - Super-telephoto lens (e.g. 400mm, 500mm, 600mm, 800mm) - Teleconverter (optional) - Camera rain cover or waterproof protection - Lens cleaning kit - Camera backpack or suitable carry-on bag - Laptop or storage device for image backup - Tripod, monopod or bean bag [![A pair of Californian Pelicans resting on coastal rocks](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-pair-of-Californian-Brown-Pelicans-resting-on-coastal-rocks-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-pair-of-Californian-Brown-Pelicans-resting-on-coastal-rocks.jpg) ## What's Included & What's Not Included On The Californian Pelicans & Whales Photography Holiday Before booking the Californian Pelicans & Whales Photography Holiday, we recommend reviewing what is included in the trip price, along with any items that are not. This helps ensure you have a clear understanding of what is covered, allowing you to focus fully on the photographic experience. Included In The Trip Price Not Included In The Trip Price Most services & experiences are included in the trip price. - Guidance from our experienced team members - Accommodation on a Single occupancy basis - Internal transfers - Boat trips - Meals on a half board basis Some items & services are not included in the trip price. - International flights - Internal flights - Camera equipment - Travel insurance - Visas - Gratuities - Personal expenses - All drinks [![A Californian Brown Pelican standing on coastal rocks](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-standing-on-coastal-rocks-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-standing-on-coastal-rocks.jpg) ## Travel Insurance Travel Insurance – it is a requirement when booking on any wildlife photography holiday scheduled by NaturesLens that you have adequate travel insurance, we suggest a policy from [TrailFinders](https://www.trailfinders.com/insurance) or [Campbell Irvine](https://www.campbellirvinedirect.com). [![A Californian Brown Pelican preens it's feathers on a rocky shore](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-preens-its-feathers-on-a-rocky-shore-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-preens-its-feathers-on-a-rocky-shore.jpg) ## Who is This Trip for? This trip suits wildlife photographers looking to refine technique through repetition, particularly flight photography, marine mammal behaviour & offshore shooting from boats. A basic level of fitness & comfort at sea is required. All photographic skill levels are welcome, provided participants are happy working early starts & variable conditions. [![A Californian Brown Pelican perched on a rock](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-perched-on-a-rock-1536x1152.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-Californian-Brown-Pelican-perched-on-a-rock.jpg) Additional Information Similar Photography Tours NaturesLens photography holidays **do not include flights** unless it is explicitly stated on the event page. When it is time to book your flights, we will send you the details in plenty of time to allow for bookings at the best available price. The photography holiday itinerary is subject to change & is to be considered provisional. NaturesLens photography holidays require **a minimum number of participants in order to be viable**. If this minimum number is not met, the photography holiday may not go ahead. In the event that the minimum number for a photography holiday to go ahead is not reached, NaturesLens reserves the right to cancel any given photography holiday. In that event 100% of monies received will be returned. However, NaturesLens is not responsible for expenses incurred by its customers. **Not all mentioned wildlife can be observed & photographed at all times of the year**, thus some activities may be considered seasonal & not available. Please note **the cuisine on many of the NaturesLens photography holidays is authentic & typical of the region** in which you are travelling. International or western cuisine is often NOT available. If you have any concerns over the food arrangements or have any special dietary requirements, please contact us prior to making a booking. All personal luggage are the responsibility of the owner & we request that photography holiday participants limit their luggage to the equivalent of one suitcase, one flight bag, one camera bag & tripod. We do not wish to appear dictatorial in this matter & the request is made to ensure space & comfort for everyone in our vehicles. NaturesLens & its agents act only as agents for the passenger in all matters relating to travel arrangements, & as such, do not assume responsibility for injury, accident, damage, loss, delay or irregularity which may occur via defect of transportation or any other cause. NaturesLens reserves the right to substitute hotels, & other previously outlined arrangements as necessary, to either improve or equal the travel experience. NaturesLens reserves the right to pass on to photography holiday participants any additional & unplanned expenditure incurred during a photography holiday, via events beyond the control of NaturesLens. NaturesLens reserves the right to accept or decline any person as a member of any photography holiday. Payment of a deposit by photography holiday participants or their representative constitutes their acceptance of all conditions contained herein. All bookings are made subject to our terms & conditions. - Californian Pelicans & Whales - 6th - 13th Mar 2029 - £5499 Photograph Brown Pelicans in flight from coastal cliffs & capture eye-level harbour seal portraits alongside offshore whale encounters around San Diego with David during March 2029 [View More Information](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/united-states/californian-pelicans-whales/) Difficulty Easy Group size 4-6 guests Photography style Boat Based & On Foot Activity period Daytime Itinerary type Photography Holiday We explore wildlife photography in the United States in greater depth in [Why Photographers Are Drawn to the United States](https://natureslens.co.uk/why-photographers-are-drawn-to/why-photographers-are-drawn-to-the-united-states/). ## Combine This Trip This photography holiday pairs perfectly with the trips shown below. Running immediately before or after this tour, they allow you to extend your time in the region, photograph additional species & habitats & make the most of your international travel arrangements. - [Winter Wildlife of Yellowstone - 23rd Feb – 4th Mar 2029](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/united-states/wildlife-of-yellowstone/) Ends 2 days before this trip begins Carefully scheduled to combine seamlessly with this itinerary Guided by David throughout Located in the same country, eliminating the need for additional international travel ## Related Trips If this photography holiday appeals to you, you may also be interested in the trips below. They feature similar species, photographic opportunities or wildlife experiences, offering alternative destinations & complementary subjects for your future adventures. - [Japanese Wildlife in Winter - Japan - Feb 2027 - 14 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/japan/japanese-wildlife-in-winter/) More time with marine & coastal wildlife, birds, with David guiding again. - [Wetlands of Costa Rica - Costa Rica - Jun 2027 - 11 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/costa-rica/wetlands-of-costa-rica/) More time with marine & coastal wildlife, birds, with David guiding again. - [Puffins of Iceland’s Grímsey Island - Iceland - Jun 2027 - 7 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/iceland/puffins-of-iceland/) More time with marine & coastal wildlife, birds. - [Sea Otters & Bald Eagles of Alaska - United States - Mar 2028 - 8 nights](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/united-states/eagles-of-alaska/) More time with marine & coastal wildlife, birds, with David guiding again. ## Frequently Asked Questions We’ve compiled answers to the questions we are most commonly asked about this photography tour, covering everything from accommodation, transport & group size through to photography opportunities, fitness requirements & what to expect in the field. If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re always happy to discuss any aspect of the trip before you book. ## Location Benefits ### Why is San Diego particularly good for pelican photography? San Diego's coastline offers direct access to Brown Pelicans without distance or disguise, with cliffs dropping straight into the Pacific. The area provides some of the most reliable pelican flight photography in North America, with predictable movement patterns along the coast during morning hours when light conditions are optimal. ## Brown Pelican Behaviour ### What pelican behaviours can I photograph? You'll photograph Brown Pelicans launching from cliff edges & banking low over the surf, plus plunge-diving into the Pacific from dramatic low angles. The trip focuses on flight photography as pelicans move predictably along the coastline, with opportunities to capture feeding behaviour & interactions as light strengthens throughout the morning. ## Wildlife Photography ### What wildlife can I expect to photograph? Species regularly photographed include Brown Pelican, Grey Whale, Humpback Whale, California Sea Lion, Harbour Seal, Bottlenose Dolphin, Common Dolphin, Western Gull & Pelagic Cormorant. Additional marine species may also be encountered during offshore sessions. As with all wildlife photography, sightings can never be guaranteed. ## Time Allocation ### How much time do we spend on pelican photography versus whale watching? The trip alternates between land-based pelican & seal sessions & full-day offshore whale photography charters. You'll have 3 days of coastal photography focusing on pelicans & seals, plus 3 full days aboard private whale-watching boats, allowing balanced coverage of both subjects. ## Boat Photography ### How do the private whale-watching charter sessions work? Full-day offshore sessions use private boat charters, giving complete control over positioning, timing & photographic priorities. The private charter approach allows photographers to work from a stable platform with space on deck, focusing on whale encounters, dolphin pods & pelagic seabirds without the constraints of commercial whale-watching schedules. ## Group Size Benefits ### What are the benefits of a 6-photographer group? The 6-photographer limit ensures everyone has sufficient space both on deck during boat sessions & on land at coastal locations. This allows for personalised guidance from David Miles & provides a more relaxed photographic experience whether working cliff-edge positions or marine mammal encounters. ## Accommodation ### What is the accommodation like? You'll stay in La Jolla for 7 nights on a half board basis with single occupancy accommodation included as standard. La Jolla's coastal location provides convenient access to pelican photography sites & departure points for offshore whale-watching charters. ## Marine Mammal Photography ### What whale & dolphin photography opportunities can I expect? Winter seas hold migrating Grey Whales & regular Humpback Whale encounters, along with Bottlenose & Common Dolphin pods. The offshore sessions focus on sequence-driven storytelling rather than single frames, with opportunities to photograph whales breaching against the California coastline & dolphins bow-riding alongside the vessel. ## Seal & Sea Lion Photography ### How close can I get to seals & sea lions? California Sea Lions & Harbour Seals haul out onto sand & rocks, allowing close, low-angle portrait work at eye level. The coastal access enables photographers to work comfortably while capturing behaviour as activity increases, with seals resting on kelp-draped rocks providing intimate photographic opportunities. ## Equipment Requirements ### What camera equipment should I bring? Bring a camera suitable for marine wildlife photography, telephoto lenses for whale & pelican work, plus a second body with wider lenses for environmental shots. Include spare batteries, memory cards & consider weather protection for coastal conditions. Detailed equipment recommendations will be provided before departure. ## Skill Level ### Do I need advanced photography skills? No advanced skills are required. David Miles & the local guides provide experienced guidance suitable for photographers of all levels during both coastal sessions & offshore boat work. The trip emphasises refining technique through repetition & varied conditions rather than requiring prior expertise. ## Trip Focus ### Who is this trip designed for? This trip suits wildlife photographers looking to refine technique through repetition, particularly flight photography, marine mammal behaviour & offshore shooting from boats. A basic level of fitness & comfort at sea is required, with early starts & variable coastal conditions expected throughout the week.