The Hornblower cruises are great - and they are probably the leading company for that. Even if you don't see whales (depends on the time of year when they are migrating) you will probably see a pod of dolphins, whatnot. Great stuff.

BTW - checed out the site and it was great.

You can also go out with H&M landing - over at the Pt. Loma Docks, which is even a little closer to the mouth of SD Bay, or over by Mission Bay at Seaforth landing. I used both of them when going out deep sea fishing, as well as Fisherman's Landing, but not sure if the last one has whale watching boats.

Just find the best deal really.

Tom SD thanks again!!! now another idea. We were thinking about going up to temecula for a day and saw the hot air balloon rides which also look amazing. Any thoughts? have you been there? thanks.

They also have hot air baloon rides in Del Mar, only 15+ minutes north of downtown San Diego depending on the wind, etc. Temecula is about an hour north of here. Just google away to see who is doing what when you expect to be here.

Check this out: http://sandiegoballoonrides.com/

thanks again. We booked a company called the Grape Escape Balloon adventure which got great reviews at tripadvisor. decided to stay sunday eve in temecula then stay next 2 nights in encinitas. thanks for your help. dd

is marions fish market on harbor drive the fish market restaurant you were recommending? sorry to be a pest

No problem at all. I am not sure I have heard it called Marions. Here is the webpage for the Fish Market I was mentioning, at 750 North Harbor Drive - and if you want to go upscale, the Top of the Market above it is gourmet, althogh the entries at the Fish Market are very good.

http://www.thefishmarket.com/locations.aspx

Hi again,

we have a tentative schedule and wanted any advise you can offer. 4 nights at the little italy inn,(wed-sun), then one night in temecula for the hot air balloon ride and 2 nights in Encinitas. Was planning to spend sunday in La Jolla before driving to temecula. how does that sound? Has anyone eaten at any of the DDD places? Pizzeria Luigi, Blue water seafood or El Indio?
Also does anyone know whether the gaslamp walking tours are worthwhile? thanks D