The Best Time for Whale Watching in California
- Winter Whale Watching (December, January, February):. As schools across the US let out for holiday breaks and seasonal...
- Spring Whale Watching (March, April, May):. As the weather begins to warm and daylight increases we observe the GRAY...
- Summer Whale Watching (June, July, August):. The Summer months are the best months...
When are the best months to see whales?
When is the best time to see humpback whales in Hawaii?
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
What is the best month for whale watching in Hawaii?
- The Kohala coast is by far the best place to see humpback whales. Sightings here are sometimes two or three times more frequent than at other locations on the island.
- January and February are the best months the see whales at the Kohala coast. ...
- Early in the morning is the best time to see whales. ...
- Average numbers for whale sightings fluctuate a lot. ...
Where is the best place to see whales?
andreaizzotti/Shutterstock.com Where to see gray whales: Baja California, Mexico You know you’ve always wanted to pet a whale, and in Baja California, you can safely do so. Friendly and inquisitive, gray whales will swim right up to your boat and invite ...
When is the best time to see whales in Massachusetts?
When Is the Best Time
- March. The Boston whale watching season starts on March 20. ...
- April. In April, whale watching trips in Boston see the arrival of a few male and juvenile humpback whales to the waters of Stellwagen Bank.
- May. ...
- June. ...
- July. ...
- August. ...
- September. ...
- October. ...
- November. ...
- Humpback Whale. ...
What is best time for whale watching?
This means they are most active during twilight hours which are both before sunrise and after sunset. They can communicate with one another without being detected by predators or prey during these twilight hours because the water will absorb the sound of the whales' communication.
Where is the best place to see whales?
Top Whale-Watching DestinationsSanta Barbara, California. ... Monterey Bay, California. ... Kodiak Island, Alaska. ... San Juan Islands, Washington. ... Vancouver Island, British Columbia. ... Virginia Beach. ... Long Island, New York. ... Cape May, New Jersey.More items...
Is whale watching better in the morning or the afternoon?
Is the morning or the afternoon better? People always want to know if whale watching is better in the morning or the afternoon. To be completely honest there is really no 'better time. ' As a general rule, the ocean is calmer in the mornings.
What is the best time of day to see whales and dolphins?
MorningMorning is the best time of day for whale watching in California. Weather is the key component to ideal whale watching conditions. Typically, there is less wind in the morning making for calmer seas, which is most enjoyable for both marine life and boat tours.
Which town is most famous for whale-watching?
Monterey, California, USA. The central coast of California is not only jaw-droppingly beautiful, but the area, especially around Monterey, is a prime whale-watching destination. In fact, you can see cetaceans here year-round.
Are whale-watching tours worth it?
Whale-watching can be a thrilling experience, an adventure on the water resulting in incredible memories and surprisingly good photos of seabirds, dolphins, and of course the whales. It's an exciting day out: a new perspective, as you watch the coastline recede, and scan the vast horizon for a spout.
Does time of day matter for whale watching?
A lot of people tend to ask, “Are whales more active in the morning or night?” The answer is there is no answer! Whale patterns are unpredictable when it comes to the time of day, but with more light, of course it's easier to spot the whales.
What do you look for in whale watching?
Look close to shore, and look out across the horizon. Watch for anything that breaks the surface of the water. Look for boats, especially if they are stopped. Sometimes the best way to find marine mammals is to find the other people who are watching them.
What do whales do at night?
Sleep. Many whales and dolphins sleep during the night. Whales, unlike humans who are involuntary breathers, must decide to take each breath. Accordingly, whales cannot spend long periods underwater without surfacing.
How long is a whale watching trip?
between 2.5 to 3 hoursTime: Approximately 2.5 – 3 hours. Usually a whale watching tour takes anywhere between 2.5 to 3 hours in order to navigate the ocean in search of different whale species.
Where is the best place to see humpback whales?
The following are the world's best places to watch humpback whales in their natural habitat.Saguenay – St. Lawrence Marine Park, Québec. ... Baja California Sur, Mexico. ... Bahia De Banderas, Mexico. ... Pacific Coast, Colombia. ... Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa. ... Kaikoura, South Island, New Zealand. ... Disko Bay, Greenland. ... Maui, Hawaii.More items...•
Where are whales this time of year?
Monterey Bay, California Monterey Bay in California is one of the best places in the United States to whale watch, no matter what time of year. However, for winter whale watching, humpback and blue whales are seen as late as December. From December to April, the bay is teeming with gray whales.
Where are whales most commonly found?
Whales inhabit all oceans of the world, from temperate oceans and the tropical waters around the equator to the polar waters of the Arctic and Antarctic oceans. Whales are also found in many seas, such as the North Sea and the Mediterranean.
Where are the most whales in the world?
The world's 12 best locations for whale watchingBaja California, Mexico. Which whales? ... Colombia. Which whales? ... Scotland. Which whales? ... Azores. Which whales? ... Western Cape, South Africa. Which whales? ... Sri Lanka. Which whales? ... South Island, New Zealand. Which whales? ... Tonga. Which whales? Sperm, humpback.More items...•
What Hawaiian island is best for whale watching?
which Hawaiian island is the best for whale watching? In season, Maui is the best place to see humpback whales, but other islands also have many whales to see. The islands of Kauai, Oahu, and Big Island offer great whale-watching tours.
Where can you see whales in the US?
8 of the best locations for whale watching in the USJuneau, Alaska. Flickr/Andrei Taranchenko. ... Monterey, California. Flickr/Henry Litwiler. ... Newport Beach, California. Flickr/Ian D. ... Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Flickr/m01229. ... Maui, Hawaii. Flickr/Hawaii Savvy. ... San Juan Islands, Washington. ... San Diego, California. ... Bar Harbor, Maine.
When to go whale watching in Maine?
Bar Harbor, Maine. Getty Images. When to Go: April–October. Whales You’ll See: Humpbacks, Finbacks, Minkes. Bar Harbor is famous for its East Coast charm, and its numerous whale sightings. The Gulf of Maine is an ideal whale habitat because it’s filled with all the staples of a whale’s diet—squid, krill, and plenty of fish.
When to see whales in Washington?
When to Go: May–September. Whales You’ll See: Orcas, Humpbacks, Minkes, Gray Whales. One of the best places in the world to view orcas (a.k.a. killer whales) are the San Juan Islands, clustered off the coast of Washington. Although orcas are seen in the area year-round, three main pods, called the “Southern Residents,” are more frequently glimpsed ...
What are the whales that live in Newport Beach?
In Newport Beach, whale-watching can be experienced year-round—humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes stay all year, while gray whales are spied mid-winter through spring, and blue whales make regular appearances during the summer months. Take a cruise and you might also see some harbor seals and pelicans.
How much does a blue whale weigh?
Maybe it’s the fact that we feel so small next to them (blue whales can weigh an astounding 300,000 pounds) or that for most of us, whales aren’t animals that we get the chance to see every day. Whether you're spotting one from the deck of a whale-watching cruise or from the shores ...
What kind of whales are there in Los Angeles?
The Whales You’ll See: Gray Whales, Humpbacks, Finbacks, Minkes, Blue Whales. About an hour outside of Los Angeles, you’ll find a different world, one marked by crystal blue waters and a wide variety of whale species.
When do gray whales migrate to Oregon?
They travel by the coastline in waves: the gray whales from December through January as they migrate to warmer temperatures (June through October, resident gray whales feed near the shore), and humpbacks and blue whales are prevalent during the summer months as they feed. Go on an excursion or plan an afternoon at the Whale Watching Center, where staff help visitors locate whales as they frolic in the bay.
When is the best time to see humpback whales in Maui?
The Whales You’ll See: Humpbacks. It wouldn’t be a trip to Maui without catching sight of the majestic humpback whales that linger around the island. February is the best time to see them, with several humpbacks giving birth to their calves during the winter.
When is the best time to watch whales in Puget Sound?
Whale watching in the Strait of Juan de Fuca or the Puget Sound is most successful in the spring and fall, when certain cetaceans pass through this region on their way to or from their calving grounds.
When is the best time to see orca whales in San Juan Islands?
The San Juan Islands are one of the best places to view orca whales between March and October.
What is the name of the whale that you will see on a whale tour?
Bigg's killer whale (all-year) The Bigg's killer whale ( Orcinus orca) also known as the orca whale, is one of the most likely species you will encounter on your tour. They use these rich waters to hunt and feed together.
What is the most well known whale species?
Humpback whale (spring, fall) One of the most well-known whale species found all around the world is the humpback whale ( Megaptera novaeangliae ). As one of the largest mammals on earth, humpback whales were nearly hunted to extinction.
How much does a Puget Sound whale tour cost?
Tours vary from 2-5 hours in length and cost between $85-$135 per adult or $65-$95 for children (2-10). Anyone younger than 2 gets a free ride! A major advantage to taking a tour with the Puget Sound Express is their guarantee to view a whale or they will provide you with a voucher for a free ride next time you go.
What to do if you don't see a whale?
Pack some snacks, a chair, as well as binoculars and spend some time scanning the waters for these majestic marine mammals. Even if you fail to get a glimpse of a whale—spending a relaxing day at the beach will be your consolation prize, so get out there!
When do orca whales come to Seattle?
Each year, mid-May and mid-October, thousands of orca whales pass near San Juan Island. At this time of the year, the waters are loaded with salmon, which attracts orca whales the most. San Juan Island is also reachable by a boat cruise. Other Seattle tours depart either from West Seattle or Elliot Bay.
When is whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta?
Oficially in Puerto vallarta the whale watching season starts on the 8th of December through 23rd of March. February and March... we get to see more calves, they need a lot of resting to grow stronger. This months has more courtship behaviors, even whale mom´s are harrassed by adult males! Time of the day does not make a difference in whales ...
Do whales like to go out during the day?
Time of the day does not make a difference in whales activity but we prefer going out during the morning tours because usually are the calmest seas of the day, it can be cool but will warm up.
When to go whale watching in San Diego?
When To Go: Mid-December to Mid-March, Mid-June to September. Where to Stay: Fairmont Grand Del Mar (luxury) or Blue Sea Beach Hotel (mid-range) You have plenty of choices to see the whales in San Diego. You can take a whale-watching tour like we did, or just head to the western overlook of Cabrillo National Monument.
What whales are in the area in April?
April to December brings humpback and blue whales, while December to April brings the gray whales. You may even catch some killer whales in the area, too.
How far away from a whale can you go?
Boats are required by federal law to stay at least 100 yards away from humpback whales in Hawaii and Alaska waters, 200 yards from killer whales in Washington State inland waters, and 500 yards away from North Atlantic right whales anywhere in the U.S. waters. If you stop the boat, and the whale comes to you that’s fine, but you can’t pursue the whale any closer.
How many gray whales are there in Oregon?
Nearly 18,000 gray whales pass by the Oregon coast on their bi-yearly migration. You can visit the Oregon Parks and Recreation Whale Watching Center on Depoe Bay to get a great view or join one of the whale-watching tours in the area.
When can you see humpback whales in Virginia Beach?
Humpback whales and an occasional fin whale can be spotted at Virginia Beach anytime between December through March. Once it starts to get warmer, you’ll be able to catch bottlenose dolphins playfully swimming by as well.
When do whales return to Kodiak?
Every April, Kodiak has a 10-day festival celebrating the return of Eastern Pacific gray whales to the area. In June, you will start to see fin and humpback whales, and you may even catch a glimpse of minke and sei whales.
Where to stay in Massachusetts for whale watching?
Where to Stay: Wequasset Resort (luxury), SeaCoast Inn ( mid-range), Town and Beach Motel (budget) The World Wildlife Fund has named Massachusetts one of the top 10 whale-watching spots in the world. Many of the local companies claim a 99% whale-spotting success with seeing minke, fin, and humpback whales.
When is whale watching season in Boston?
The Boston whale watching season runs from late March to mid-November. The best time for whale watching is between May and October. During these months, sightings are practically guaranteed. Each summer, the whales migrate to Massachusetts and back to warmer water when the weather gets colder again in October/November.
When is the best time to see humpback whales in Boston?
June. During June, conditions around Boston are excellent for humpback whale watching, with a high density of this species in the region. Minke whales and harbor porpoises can often be spotted, with occasional sightings of fin whales.
How big are minke whales in Boston?
They are sighted on around 75% of boat trips and are likely to be the most abundant whales around Boston. Appearance: 7 – 8 meters is a typical length for a minke whale, making it one of the smallest baleen whales. They are black or grey in color, with pale undersides and white bands on each flipper.
What whales are seen in August?
August on the Boston coast is an excellent whale-watching month. It is generally the first month in which pilot whales begin to appear around Stellwagen Bank’s waters. Humpbacks are still frequently sighted, along with harbor porpoises and the occasional fin whale.
What kind of whales are in Boston?
Aside from the more common species, several other whales can be found on the Boston coast. Blue whales, sei whales, and sperm whales are all possible sightings, although each of them is a rare encounter. If you’re lucky, you may also see beluga whales, common dolphins or bottlenose dolphins, which all venture into Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary on occasion.
How fast can a minke whale swim?
Minke whales are fast swimmers, able to travel at upwards of 24 mph. Behavior: A migratory species, the minke whale, travels to Boston’s waters during the spring, arriving from more southerly climes in order to feed. A range of different prey are consumed, although krill and herring tend to be eaten most often.
What is the best way to see whales in Boston?
Boston Harbour Cruises offer whale watching trips via high-speed catamaran, one of the best ways to get up close and personal with Boston’s ocean giants. Unlike traditional sailing catamarans, these boats are specifically designed for whale watching and are some of the fastest boats in the country, making it easier to get close to whales once they have been located. The catamarans feature warm, pleasant interior cabins, as well as three outside viewing decks, ensuring you are kept comfortable while also getting the best possible views.
When is the Best Time to See Whales in Maine?
Maine's whale watching season kicks off in mid-April, as ravenous whales arrive to feed just about 20 miles off the Maine coast. Their feeding area is an underground plateau known as Jeffreys Ledge, which lies just about 150 to 200 feet beneath the surface of the water. The ledge provides a rich food source for whales, which feast primarily on herring. Whales can reliably be spotted through late October, when they begin to head south to warmer waters.
What to expect on a whale watching trip in Maine?
Once you're aboard your chosen whale watching boat, expect to spend an hour or more cruising out to where the whales frolic and feed. Passengers typically sit out on decks in the sun or duck into an enclosed cabin to enjoy a snack and take a break from the wind.
How to tell if a whale is spotted?
Once there's a shout like "Starboard! Three o'clock!" or "Port! Nine o'clock!" you'll know a whale has been spotted. Everyone aboard rushes to that side of the boat, binoculars raised and cameras pointed. Wear rubber-soled, sturdy shoes. You might glimpse a humpback whale breaching 100 feet away. Or see a pair of minke whales slicing through the water, repeatedly breaking the surface. Typically, you'll get to watch whales putting on a show for an hour or so, sending you rushing from one side of the boat to the other as your captain or an onboard naturalist shares knowledge of whales including some of the specific individual creatures you'll see. Whenever one of the giant mammals lobtails (breaches enough to show his tail), a collective gasp escapes from the whale watchers. It is a magnificent sight you won't ever forget.
How long is a round trip to Boothbay Harbor?
Round trips are just three hours, and they depart from Boothbay Harbor once or twice daily from May into October. Odyssey Whale Watch: "Odyssey," a 65-foot fiberglass boat with upper and lower decks, does four-hour whale watches out of Portland Harbor.
How many right whales are there in Maine?
Before the whaling days of the early 1900s, there were 10,000 right whales. Only just over 400 are believed to exist today, and scientists fear they're headed toward extinction.
What are the markings on a humpback whale's tail?
Humpback whales' unique markings on the underside of their tails make them one of the easiest to identify. A distinctive pattern of black and white, different on every animal, can range from all-white to all-black, and everything in between.
What to do if you don't spot whales?
If you don't spot whales, you'll receive a voucher to use on a future trip. First Chance Whale Watch: Cruise out of Kennebunkport on one of Maine's newest whale watching boats. "Nick's Chance," a modern, 87-foot vessel launched in 2006, has two decks and a spacious bow area that provide excellent viewing opportunities.
Best Places For Whale Watching
- Even though many will choose a tour by boat to look for cetaceans, vast swaths of public coastline make for a cheap and easy place to whale-watch. Pack some snacks, a chair, as well as binoculars and spend some time scanning the waters for these majestic marine mammals. Even if you fail to get a glimpse of a whale—spending a relaxing day at the beach will be your consolat…
Whale-Watching Tours
- San Juan Island
San Juan Safaris offers traditional boat tours, but for someone who would like a bit more from their adventure, this company incorporates a two-way plane-ride, offering magnificent aerial views of the San Juan Islands as well as the Salish Sea, with a boat cruise to spot orca whales after. T… - Everett
Everett is located just 30 minutes from Seattle and is known for its gray whales. For a limited period, mid-February to mid-June, gray whales choose this location for feeding on their way to Alaska. Island Adventures Whale Watching Companyoffers 3-hour boat cruises from Everett bet…
Whale-Watching Season
- Whale watching in the Strait of Juan de Fuca or the Puget Sound is most successful in the spring and fall, when certain cetaceans pass through this region on their way to or from their calving grounds. Find these massive creatures on their biannual journey past the Pacific Northwest either between April and May or October and November.
Whale-Watching Tips
- If you've never been on a whale cruise before, there are a few things you should know. Having a few simple items on hand will ensure that your experience is nothing short of magical.