Oceans are one of the greatest and most amusing natural features on earth. Whether you live near the ocean or you are out on a beach vacation, investing in the best binoculars for ocean viewing is a wise thing to do. Oceans are full of spectacular things and views which you can miss if you use your naked eyes only. Binoculars will bring the distant sea creatures, both birds and animals closer and give you the best views of the waves as well.
If you are in the hunt for the best binoculars for ocean viewing, you are in the right place. We have a list of seven binoculars that will give you a remarkable ocean viewing experience. These binoculars are very snug to carry as they strike the perfect balance between optical power and compactness. They are further easy to use and very comfortable on the eyes. With that in mind and without further ado, let’s get started.
Best Binoculars for Ocean Viewing
#1) Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Porro Prism Binocular
Bushnell is one of the leading brands in the field of optics. It makes high-quality optical equipment and the Waterproof/Fogproof Porro Prism Binocular is no exception. This binocular is best for ocean viewing as it is specifically made for use in wet conditions. It is sealed with O-rings to stand being dropped in water and nitrogen purged to prevent build up of fog.
This pair of binoculars is fully-featured yet simple to use. It is feather light and very comfortable on the hands. Also, it comes with a large center focus knob for smooth image focusing and twist-up eyecups that facilitate fast viewing for all users even those who wear eyeglasses or sunglasses.
These binoculars deliver bright and clear image views even in low light settings. They feature fully multi-coated optics that maximize light transmission and BaK-4 prisms which deliver sharp and high-quality features. Above all, this product comes with a non-slip rubber armor which absorbs shock and a soft textured grip that provides a comfortable and firm grip even when your hands are wet or sweaty.
Features
- 8x magnification
- 42mm objective lens
- Long 17mm eye relief
- Non-slip rubber armor
- Quick adjusting twist-up eyecups
- Large center focus knob
- Fully multi-coated optics
- IPX7 water resistant and fog proof
- Soft textured grip
#2) Steiner 7×50 Marine Binoculars
If you are in the hunt for the best binoculars for ocean viewing for family use, the Steiner 7×50 Marine Binoculars are your ideal option. This is a quality and reliable pair of binoculars ideal for both adults and kids.
Featuring 7x magnification, these binoculars will bring you closer to all ocean creatures. The 50mm objective lens is efficient at collecting light from dawn to dusk and it also provides a wide viewing angle that gives you the best views when watching whales, dolphins and flying birds.
These binoculars are renowned for their unbeatable toughness. They feature a sturdy Makrolon housing and a polycarbonate chassis that maximizes durability while remaining light. Besides, they come with a NBR long life rubber armoring that absorbs shock and provides a non-slip grip. Better yet, all Steiner 7×50 Marine Binoculars are waterproof and fog-resistant so they will hold up to any extreme weather condition.
For added convenience, these binoculars are lightweight and compact in size for easy portability. They also come with a neck strap for easy carrying and an objective lens cover that shield the external lens from dirt, sand and scratches. Lastly, the binoculars feature fully multi-coated optics that provide clear views and a long eye relief that reduces eye fatigue during lengthy glassing sessions.
Features
- 7x magnification
- Lightweight and compact in size
- Long eye relief
- Waterproof and fog-resistant
- Wide viewing angle
- NBR long life rubber armoring
- Objective lens cover and neck strap included
- Sturdy Makrolon housing
- Floating prism system
- Sports auto focus
#3) Barska Deep Sea 7×50 Waterproof Marine Binoculars
The Deep Sea 7×50 Waterproof Marine Binoculars from Barska are made for the boating and nautical fanatics. They provide steady sight pictures even under the most agitated ocean conditions. They also provide bright and vivid image views of all ocean creatures from sunrise to sunset.
These binoculars are made with beginners in mind. They are very simple to use. Additionally, they have a compact design so they will fit very comfortably on your hands. The 50mm objective lens provides a wide viewing angle for simple target identification and with the high-quality optics, you will be able to broaden your horizon and make your ocean viewing expedition more enjoyable.
When it comes to construction, this set of binoculars is built tough to provide unbeatable durability. It is sealed with O-rings for total waterproof protection and nitrogen purged to prevent internal lens fog build up. It also comes with a slip-resistant rubber armor that cushions it from shock and impacts. To top it all, these marine binoculars come with a built-in rangefinder and compass that aid in navigation.
Features
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Non-slip and shock-absorbing rubber armor
- Waterproof and fog free
- Compact and lightweight
- User-friendly design
- 7x magnification
- Wide field of view
- Integrated compass and rangefinder
- Center focus
- 50mm objective lens
#4) Wingspan Optics WideViews HD 8×42 Binoculars
Ocean viewing gets better and more fascinating with a quality pair of binoculars like the WideViews HD 8×42 Binoculars from Wingspan Optics. These binoculars are renowned for their extra-wide field of view. At 1000 yards, they provide a massive 430ft viewing angle so you will be able to identify the ocean creatures with ease. They also boast 8x magnification that brings distant targets closer.
These binoculars are built to provide reliable performance even in tough weather conditions. They are nitrogen filled to prevent build up of fog in rainy and wet conditions and sealed to provide reliable waterproof performance. Furthermore, they have feather light design for easy carrying and comfortable viewing.
If you wear eyeglass, this set of binoculars is perfect for you. It has twist-up eyecups that maximize glassing comfort even with your glasses or sunglasses on. And that’s not all. These binoculars feature fully multi-coated optics that minimize light loss and glare to provide clear as crystal images with high-end sharpness and contrast.
Features
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Extra-wide field of view
- 8x magnification and 42mm objective lens
- Waterproof and fog proof
- 2m close focus
- Phase correction coated prisms
- Twist-up eyecups
- Generous eye relief
- Sharp HD optical quality
#5) Nikon 7440 OceanPro 7×50 Waterproof Binoculars
Another best binoculars for ocean viewing on our list is the OceanPro 7×50 Waterproof Binoculars from Nikon. These binoculars are specially designed for use in marine environments. They are O-ring sealed to prevent entry of moisture, sand and dirt, and filled with nitrogen for total fog proof performance.
Featuring 7x magnification and 50mm objective lens, these binoculars will give you the most comfortable ocean viewing experience. They help bring the distant objects closer so you can see every single detail of the ocean creatures you are viewing. Also, these binoculars have a large central focus knob which makes image focusing a breeze to achieve and maintain.
The Nikon OceanPro comes with an illuminated compass for simple navigation in poor light settings. It utilizes rubber eyecups that keep your eyes safe from bumps in rough ocean conditions. The eyecups are adjustable as well to provide a large and eyeglass-friendly eye relief.
In terms of construction, this pair of binoculars is built to handle anything thrown at it. It features a durable polycarbonate housing that is rugged enough for everyday use in wet and rough environments common to marine environments. It also comes with a rubber armored exterior that slip-resistant and shockproof.
Features
- Large 50mm objective lens
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Generous 7.1mm exit pupil
- Rubber armored exterior
- Fold down rubber eyecups
- Illuminated compass
- Large central focus knob
- Durable and lightweight polycarbonate housing
- Anti-reflective lens coatings
- Long eye relief
- Wide field of view
#6) USCAMEL 10×50 Marine Binoculars
If you are looking for the best binoculars for ocean viewing for the money, look no further than the USCAMEL 10×50 Marine Binoculars. These low-cost binoculars will help make your ocean viewing memorable. They provide brilliant and clear ocean views from sunrise to sunset.
These binoculars are perfect for long-range ocean viewing. They boast a high 10x magnification suitable for viewing ocean birds and other marine animals from a distance. Moreover, they provide a large viewing angle that helps you spot your targets with ease. For added convenience, you can mount them on a tripod for snug, hands-free viewing.
Another impressive feature about this set of binoculars is the excellent optical performance. The lenses feature green FMC coating that maximizes light transmission to provide bright and sharp sight pictures. They are also perfect for night vision. They produce bright and clear images even in poor light conditions. In addition to everything else, USCAMEL 10×50 Marine Binoculars are waterproof and fog proof for use in any weather condition and they are designed to float on water so you don’t have to panic if they accidentally fall in water.
Features
- High quality BaK4 prism
- High 10x magnification
- High-quality green FMC lens coating
- Night vision
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Rubber eyecups
- Tripod adaptable
- Floats on water
- Built-in compass
- Folding eyepieces
#7) Athlon Optics Midas Roof Prism Binoculars
The Athlon Optics Midas Roof Prism Binoculars are mid-range and wide-angle binoculars ideal for numerous outdoor applications among them ocean viewing. They provide true color fidelity which is what you need to have a comfortable ocean viewing experience. Additionally, the binoculars provide amazingly bright, clear and sharp image views even in poor light settings.
Featuring 8x magnification and a wide of view of 426 feet at 1000 yards, you will be able to get the most from your ocean viewing adventure as target finding will be a walk in the park. Moreover, these binoculars have a long eye relief that makes them suitable for those wearing glasses. The twist-up eyecups also help ensure comfortable glassing especially during lengthy viewing sessions.
Another good feature about this pair of binoculars is the durable construction. It features a sturdy magnesium chassis that is both durable and feather light. It also comes with a slip-resistant rubber armor that has shockproof capabilities. Lastly, these binoculars are waterproof and fog resistant so you can use them in any weather condition.
Features
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- XPL coating
- Advanced fully multi-coated lens
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Wide field of view
- Lightweight and durable magnesium chassis
- Slip-resistant rubber armor coating
- Generous eye relief
- Twist-up eyecups
- 2m close focus
See Also
Criteria for Choosing the Best Binoculars for Ocean Viewing
When shopping for the best binoculars for ocean viewing, it’s important to get the best model the first time. Here are some of the important factors that you should consider that will help you make the right buying decision.
Waterproof
Whether you are viewing the ocean from dry land or on a boat or ship, make sure that you get waterproof binoculars. Sometimes the ocean can be damp and the weather conditions can change abruptly. Therefore, it is important to have a pair of binoculars that is waterproof and fog-resistant so it won’t be affected by water. For added safety, some binoculars are designed to float when they are accidentally dropped in water.
Magnification
When you are out on the ocean, there are so many things to see. You can view boats and ships, look for ocean birds, whale and dolphins or simply enjoy the waves views. High chances are that you will be viewing these things from a distance, so it is important that you choose a binocular with mid to high magnification. Binoculars with 7x to 10x magnification are the best for ocean viewing.
Field of View
Another important factor you should consider when shopping for the best binoculars for ocean viewing is the field of view. At the ocean, you will want your binoculars to provide a wide viewing angle so you will be able to see a lot in one time. Always buy a pair of binoculars that has a field of view of not less than 350ft at 1000 yards.
Objective Lens Diameter
The diameter of the objective lens determines how much light the binoculars can gather. This affects their performance in dismal environments such as dawn or dusk. If you will be using the binoculars early in the morning or late in the evening, then mid to full-sized binoculars with a 42mm or more objective lens are going to be most ideal.
Durability
The durability of binoculars for ocean viewing determines how reliable they are. Try to look for binoculars that are built well with high-quality materials preferably aluminum or magnesium alloy. Such binoculars are both durable and lightweight. Also make sure that the binoculars have a rubber armor. A rubber armor gives you an ergonomic, non-slip grip and protects the binoculars from salt corrosion which is very high in oceans.
Optics Quality
The overall performance of any set of binoculars depends on the quality of the optics. To get the most out of your ocean viewing expedition, go for binoculars made with ED or HD glass. This type of glass provides high-quality sight pictures with excellent contrast.
Moreover, make sure that the lenses are fully coated or multi-coated with some sort of anti-reflective coatings. The coating maximizes light transmission to provide bright and clear images even in poor light settings. Lastly, choose binoculars that have BaK-4 prisms, and not the inferior BaK-7 prism.
Why Binoculars for Ocean Viewing
- Binoculars are lightweight and easy to carry from place to place. You can easily hang them around the neck and carry them everywhere you go.
- Better ocean views. Binoculars will bring you closer to all ocean creatures and give you better up-close views.
- Extremely effective for viewing objects at a distance.
- Versatility. Most binoculars for ocean viewing are ideal for multiple outdoor activities not just ocean viewing.
FAQs about Best Binoculars for Ocean Viewing
- What is better 7×50 or 10×50 binoculars?
It depends. 7×50 binoculars provide a 7mm exit pupil, which is the largest you will want to see. On the other hand, 10×50 binoculars have an exit pupil of 5mm which is even better as it provides brighter images. However, you will have to look closer to the eyepiece which can be harder for some people especially those who wear eyeglasses.
- Are binoculars good for ocean viewing?
Yes. Binoculars bring distant ocean-based objects closer to your eyes. This helps make your ocean viewing expedition more fun. You can use the binoculars to watch whales, dolphins and birds at any time of the day.
Conclusion
We do hope that this post has given you some insight into the best binoculars for ocean viewing. Whether you are in the hunt for binoculars for looking at the surfing conditions, looking for birds, whales and dolphins or watching boats and people in water, all the binoculars listed above will meet all your needs.