what whales can you see in monterey

Are there blue whales in Monterey Bay?

In Monterey Bay Our coastline sees the largest concentration of blue whales in the world. Scientists estimate the present population worldwide to be 15,000 whales — with 2,000 of these living seasonally in California coastal waters, including Monterey Bay!

Do whales come into Monterey Bay?

From April through November the Humpback Whale is the most common whale found out of Monterey Bay. The “local” population of several hundred Humpbacks are known to spend the winter months off of the Mexican Coast and then migrate to the central California coast for the feeding season.

When can you see orcas in Monterey?

April, May and June are the most common months to find Orcas in the bay, while they feed on northbound migrating Gray Whales. As Orcas prefer open water, the most likely way to see killer whales in Monterey Bay is from a boat. There are many whale watching tours available from Monterey or Moss Landing.

Are there humpback whales in Monterey Bay?

In Monterey Bay Humpbacks that visit the Monterey Bay spend their winters in the warm waters off Mexico. Humpbacks, including mothers with newborn calves, travel thousands of miles to feast on krill and schooling fish in our open waters. These mega mammals are in the Monterey Bay from late April through early December.

Do killer whales live in Monterey Bay?

Although April and May are the peak sighting months for Killer Whales in Monterey Bay, they may be encountered at any time of the year. We typically sight Killer Whales about 2-7 times per week during this Spring period, as sightings vary annually.

Is whale watching in Monterey worth it?

A Monterey whale watching tour is worth it as the bay has a high concentration of stunning whales. You can spot gray whales, blue whales, or humpback whales. Additionally, you can see dolphins and sea lions. Adults and kids love this experience.

Can you see whales from shore in Monterey?

You can watch whales from the land along the Monterey coast, but the best places for that aren't on the shores of the bay. Instead, they are south of Carmel along the coast. Try Point Lobos State Reserve where they pass close to Pinnacle Point, which you can reach by taking the Cypress Grove Trail.

Can you see sharks in Monterey?

MONTEREY - A new study shows a population boom for young great white sharks in the Monterey Bay. Researchers from the Monterey Bay Aquarium and California State University Long Beach say the shark population began during an El Niño weather event in 2014 and the population has increased every year since.

What is the best time to visit Monterey CA?

The best time to visit Monterey is between April and May. Spring offers warmer temperatures, fewer crowds and food festivals dishing out delectable eats, including Pebble Beach Food & Wine and the Artichoke Festival in Castroville.

Are there alot of sharks in Monterey Bay?

Great white sharks are thriving in Monterey Bay thanks to warming waters, study shows. A white shark swimming through a school of mackerel in the Pacific Ocean. If you're heading out to Monterey Bay this summer, you're going to need a bigger boat.

Where in California is best for whale watching?

Top Places for Whale Watching in CaliforniaMendocino. ... San Francisco. ... Santa Cruz. ... Monterey County. ... Channel Islands. ... Los Angeles. ... Orange County. ... San Diego.

Can you see dolphins in Monterey Bay?

In Monterey Bay Somewhere between 11,000 and 16,000 Risso's dolphins live along California and the Pacific Northwest coast. In recent decades, Risso's dolphins have been spotted more regularly in Monterey Bay and can be seen with Pacific white-sided dolphins and northern right whale dolphins.

Are there alot of sharks in Monterey Bay?

Great white sharks are thriving in Monterey Bay thanks to warming waters, study shows. A white shark swimming through a school of mackerel in the Pacific Ocean. If you're heading out to Monterey Bay this summer, you're going to need a bigger boat.

Do sharks come in Monterey Bay?

MONTEREY - A new study shows a population boom for young great white sharks in the Monterey Bay. Researchers from the Monterey Bay Aquarium and California State University Long Beach say the shark population began during an El Niño weather event in 2014 and the population has increased every year since.

What is the best month to go whale watching in California?

In Northern California, your best time to spot gray whales and orcas is December to May. For humpbacks, visit May through November, and for blue whales, the largest animal on Earth, plan your stay sometime between July and October.

Can you see whales in Carmel by the sea?

About Whale Watching in Carmel Bay Whales love Carmel Bay because it's a food-rich environment as they migrate up and down the West Coast. Different whales can be spotted during different seasons—for instance, you'll see humpback whales between May and November, while grey whales are more common July through October.