The Best Coastal Perches for Whale Watching in Northern California
- No matter how long we live in San Francisco, there are certain touristy activities we'll never give up—rowing boats on Stow Lake, playing video games at the Musée Mécanique, drinking ...
- Point Reyes National Seashore. ...
- Whalefest Monterey. ...
- Salt Point State Park. ...
- Fort Ross. ...
- Bodega Head. ...
- Point Montara Lighthouse Hostel. ...
- Año Nuevo State Park. ...
When is whale watching season in Southern California?
Whale watching season in Southern California is optimal from January through April if you’re interested in seeing gray whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and sea lions. If you’d rather see blue and finback whales, head to the SoCal coast from May to September.
Is it safe to go whale watching?
Yes! Whale watching is a great activity for families. We even have a “Kid’s Corner” on board with books and toys. For safety reasons however, pregnant women and children under 4 years are not permitted as the Monterey Bay can be subject to rough offshore conditions without warning. Is it safe to go on a boat while pregnant?
When is Whale season in California?
This blue whale season in California usually begins in May and can run until November, landing them a spot as one of the favorite whales in California. Additionally, year-round whales in California include humpback whales, fin whales, and minke whales. Occasional visitors range from sperm whales, pilot whales, and false killer whales.
When do whales migrate California?
They pass the coast of Northern California from December to February and head back north March to May. Mendocino Coast is a premier whale-watching spot in California, offering many opportunities to observe these giant mammals every morning during migration season.
Can you see whales in Northern 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.
What time of year do whales migrate by Northern California?
Best Time for Whale Watching Their migration starts in the Arctic Ocean and ends 10,000 to 12,000 miles south off the coast of Mexico. They pass the Northern California coast from December through February, and they're northward-bound from March through May.
When can you see blue whales in Northern California?
Blue whales are most likely to be spotted in Monterey Bay in summer or fall. They feed off the California coast from June through October. During these months, about two thousand blue whales swim in the waters off the central coast including in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Where can I see whales in California?
The Top 8 Places for Whale Watching in CaliforniaMendocino. ... San Francisco. ... Santa Cruz. ... Monterey County. ... Channel Islands. ... Los Angeles. ... Orange County. ... San Diego.
Where can I see whales in the Bay Area?
Guide: Where to watch gray whales this springBodega Head. ... Point Reyes Lighthouse. ... Muir Beach Overlook. ... Point Bonita. ... Fort Funston. ... Lands End Lookout. ... Devil's Slide Trail.
What is the best month for whale watching in San Francisco?
The best time for whale watching in San Francisco is from December – May, as you'll have the best opportunity to see more than one type of whale. That said, you can spot other species during different months, so you shouldn't discount an opportunity just because it doesn't fall within this time frame.
Are there whales in Lake Tahoe?
(Left) before people brought whales to Lake Tahoe, (right) after people brought whales in Lake Tahoe, this is what the aftermath of Lake Tahoe would look like in 5 million years later if people didn't remove the whales.
What time of day are whales most active?
Whales are never diurnal, but they can be crepuscular. This means they are most active during twilight hours which are both before sunrise and after sunset.
What is the best time of day to see whales in California?
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.
What is whale season in California?
January through March is an ideal time to see migrating gray whales along the California coast, with whales traveling both northward and southward. This is also the time during which gray whales arrive in Baja.
When to whale watch in Santa Cruz?
The Humpback Whale is the most common whale found out of Santa Cruz, seen usually from April through November. Then from December through April, over 20,000 Gray Whales pass through our waters off of Monterey Bay.
Can you see whales from the shore in California?
Southern California offers numerous spots where you can go whale watching from shore. You will not get as close as a whale-watching, but you don't need to worry about getting seasick. Bring some binoculars for the best view, although you can view whales with the naked eye.
What is whale season in California?
January through March is an ideal time to see migrating gray whales along the California coast, with whales traveling both northward and southward. This is also the time during which gray whales arrive in Baja.
Are whales migrating now in California?
Gray whales are migrating along California's coast right now. Here's where to see them. A baby gray whale swims with its mother off Dana Point. The gray whales are back, hugging the California coast while they make their 10,000-mile journey from Alaska to breed in the warm-water lagoons of Baja, Mexico, and back.
What is the best month to Whale Watch in Monterey?
BEST time to see humpback whales in Monterey Bay: March through November, with peak sightings generally during July and August (though every season is different).
When can you see whales in Mendocino?
From November to February each year along the Mendocino coast, migrating California gray whales travel from their feeding grounds in Alaska south to Baja California, Mexico. There, in the warm coastal lagoons, they have calves who are raised to make the return trip between February and April.
Where to whale watch in California?
If you’re keener on making whale watching in California a quick drive-by activity, then this is the spot for you. West Cliff Drive is a picturesque route that parallels the Santa Cruz coast. Park your car, and walk or bike along this short trail to see gray whales and dolphins swimming by without having to get out on the water. This is also a great spot to go tide pooling, watch surfers (or surf yourself), and spend a relaxing day by the beach in Northern California.
What are the whales that live in California?
The gray whales aren’t alone on these travels, either. Whale watching in California also entails sightings of humpbacks, dolphins, blue whales, orcas, and other exciting sea creatures migrating south. So, grab your binoculars and get ready for an incredible road trip; whale-watching season in California is officially right around the corner.
When is whale-watching season in California?
You’ll experience cool sightings of marine life anytime you decide to visit the destinations on this list. But for an almost guaranteed sighting of whales, you should know the optimal times to go.
What to do in Newport Beach?
Whether by land or sea, whale watching in Newport Beach is one of the top activities you can do on your trip. View giant blue whales during the summer and fall and gray whales in the winter and spring. Whenever you visit, make sure you have a camera on hand—you’ll want to snap a lot of pics.
How many whales swim in Monterey Bay?
During peak season, close to 7,000 whales swim by the waters of Monterey Bay, attracting year-round whale-watching cruises. These tours are led by experienced captains who are delighted to introduce visitors to the fascinating and beautiful creatures who call the California waters home.
Where to see whales in Half Moon Bay?
Plan your next getaway to Half Moon Bay on a calm day, so you can get a glimpse of the whales from the waters as clearly as possible. Once you get there, head to Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park for prime viewing seats to the migration. Don’t forget to take your camera with you—you’ll snap some truly awesome pics.
When is the best time to see whales in California?
Long Beach. For warmer-weather whale watching in California, go to Long Beach in October, which is an optimal time to see migrating whales and other marine life. W hale watching in Long Beach exposes you to majestic sights of Pacific gray whales, fin whales, humpback whales, orcas, blue whales, and more.
When do gray whales come to California?
When to See Gray Whales in California. Gray whales start swimming south from Alaska in October, generally passing the coast off San Diego from December through January and again in February and March when they return to their feeding grounds.
When are fin whales sighted?
Fin whales are usually sighted in the winter.
Why do gray whales break the surface?
Because the gray whales are migrating and don't stop to eat on the way, you'll most often see them as they break the surface to grab a breath of air - or their flukes above the surface when they begin a deep dive.
How fast can a fin whale swim?
They can swim up to 14 miles per hour and can hold their breath up to 45 minutes between breaches, making them a very rare whale-watching sight. Fin whales eat mostly small shrimp-like creatures called krill and schooling fish, and they travel in groups (called pods) of 2 to 10 individuals.
How many gray whales were there in 2011?
The 2011 population of California gray whales was thought to number around 28,000, and they all pass the coast as they migrate. When seen off the California coast, they aren't stopping to eat or socialize, they're on their equivalent of a road trip, not even stopping to sleep.
How far do gray whales travel?
To help you visualize, that's a little longer than an average school bus and as heavy as a half dozen fully-grown African elephants. Gray whales migrate 10,000 miles round trip every year, traveling between their winter calving lagoons in Mexico and summer feeding grounds in the Arctic.
How big are gray whales?
Their name is taken from the gray patches and white mottling on their dark skin. An adult Pacific Gray Whale can be 45 feet long and weigh up to 33 tons.
Why Whale Watching in Northern California?
However, Northern California is blessed with a gorgeous and rugged coastline that’s easily accessed by hiking trails and short walking paths, and even directly from roads — prime places to see whales. Plus there are all those beaches, which also offer opportunities to spot cetaceans (although views are better the higher you are above the ocean).
Where to whale watch in San Francisco?
Your best whale-watching option from the coast of San Francisco is at/near the Cliff House.
What is the largest whale in the world?
Appearance: Blue whales (the world’s largest animals) are blue-gray in appearance, with a tiny dorsal fin on the back; flukes usually raised up before diving; columnar blow rises high; length up to 85 feet.
What is the color of fin whales?
Fin Whale ( Balaenoptera physalus) Appearance: Fin whales are dark gray to black on the tops of their bodies, while the bottoms of their bodies are white; chevron pattern behind the head; long, relatively slender body; blow looks like an upside-down cone; length up to 79 feet.
What to do in Wavecrest Open Space Reserve?
Hiking trails in Wavecrest Open Space Reserve allow full views of the ocean and a great chance to spot whales.
When do whales swim?
Whales swim south in fall and north in spring, so if you see a spout in the fall, look just a little bit south of the spout for further evidence of the whale. The opposite applies in spring. Remember, if you want solitude, walk a hiking trail out to a good perch.
When do whales migrate?
Note that migrating whales move south in fall and north in spring.
When is the best time to see whales in California?
Did you know that the best time to spot whales in Northern California is from November through February? Not to mention, it’s fun and pretty magical to escape to the coast during the winter months. These are some of the best places to go whale watching in the coming months. Definitely budget time to explore this seaside destinations ...
When is the whale festival in Mendocino County?
Mendocino County even has its own Whale Festivals that take place every year in March.
Can you see a whale close up?
Not all visitors get as lucky as this gal, but there's always a chance you'll get to see a whale close up.
Is it possible to see whales in Northern California?
Whales in Northern California are definitely tricky to spot, but the good news is that these wonderful places to view them are so fun to visit they would be worth a trip regardless! Have you seen a whale in Northern California? Where was it?
Where to see whales in California?
If traveling in the Northern California area, locations such as Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz are wonderful areas to see whales. Local whale watching tour operators provide opportunities to see them aboard boats, but various lookout locations on land along the Northern California coastline can give one the chance to see a distant spout or whale fluke.
What whales are in Dana Point?
Gray whales are not the only whales in California though. During the Dana Point whale watching season of summer, the blue whales touchdown and feed in our local waters. These nearly 400,000-pound whales not only make for the largest whales in California but the largest mammal on the planet. This blue whale season in California usually begins in May and can run until November, landing them a spot as one of the favorite whales in California.
What is the best boat for whale watching?
Other options include high-speed zodiac whale watching boats that get you in arms reach of the animals, a luxury motor yacht, and an upscale luxurious catamaran that gives you exceptional views while remaining safe, comfortable, and at ease.
Where do gray whales migrate?
For example, during the fall, winter, and spring whale season in California, one can have the opportunity to greet pacific gray whales during their annual gray whale migration. These whales migrate from their feeding grounds in the cold Arctic to the warm waters of Baja, Mexico, to mate and give birth to their calves. Whether aboard a whale watching trip or resting easy from land, this particular whale season in California is both popular and highly anticipated each year.
Can you watch whales from a distance?
Not only can these whales be enjoyed from a distance, but each member of our one-of-a-kind whale watching fleet gives land-living folk the once in a lifetime opportunity to view these amazing animals at remarkable, up-close, and respectful distances.
Where is the romantic harbor in California?
This picturesque beach town, located midway between Los Angeles and San Diego, California, is world-renowned and famous for its incredible whale watching and nutrient-dense waters that bring a slew of whale species to the area. It is well known romantic harbor provides easy, quick, and efficient access to the vast array of marine wildlife right outside its jetty.
Where is the marine life found in California?
The waters along the California coast are home to an abundant amount of marine life. From beautiful Northern California areas such as Point Reyes to Santa Barbara, and gorgeous Southern California areas like Long Beach, Dana Point in Orange County, and down to San Diego, the sightings are spectacular.
Where to whale watch in Northern California?
From the cliffs of Mendocino to the San Francisco Bay, there are plenty of places to enjoy whale watching in Northern California. Here are a few of our favorites. 1. Eureka. Located on the shores of Humboldt Bay, Eureka, CA is the largest coastal city between San Francisco and Portland. Outdoor recreation is abundant, with activities like boating, ...
What is the best place to watch whales in Monterey?
Monterey. The Monterey Submarine Canyon in Monterey, CA, is a deep water canyon system that provides many benefits to year-round whale watching. Killer whales use the canyon as hunting grounds throughout the year, and humpback whales, blue whales, and a variety of dolphins and sea lions feed here in the summer months.
When do gray whales migrate?
This popular and unforgettable activity is available to visitors in the winter, spring, summer, and fall. An estimated 22,000 Eastern Pacific gray whales pass through Pacific Coast waters from December to March, and warm summer months are characterized by the migration of blue whales and humpback whales. From the cliffs of Mendocino ...
Where to whale watch in Mendocino?
Mendocino. The quaint, coastal village of Mendocino is a beloved whale watching destination. There are plenty of great lookout points in the area, including Point Cabrillo Lighthouse, Point Arena Lighthouse, and Mendocino Headlands State Park. You can even whale watch at the annual Whale Festival in March.
Where is Washington Square in San Francisco?
The Washington Square Inn is ideally situated in San Francisco’s legendary North Beach neighborhood. It’s just a short cable car ride from Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, Coit Tower, China Town, Union Square, and Telegraph Hill. No matter where you end up, the inn’s friendly staff is dedicated to making your vacation as comfortable and relaxing as possible.
Where to stay in Mendocino?
Where to Stay: Sea Rock Inn. Some of the most awe-inspiring views of the Mendocino coast can be enjoyed from the guest rooms at the Sea Rock Inn. Surrounded by flower gardens and ancient cypress trees, the buildings gently descend a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Where is Mill Rose in Half Moon Bay?
Less than an hour from San Francisco in Half Moon Bay, CA, Mill Rose Inn offers nothing less than the finest accommodations. Scattered throughout the inn are valuable works of art and magnificent decor, which create an ambiance of soothing refinement. Within minutes of the inn are several secluded beaches, one-of-a-kind shops, hiking and biking trails, wine tasting venues, and amazing art galleries.
Where to go whale watching in California?
Bodega Bay is an interesting place to go whale watching in California because you can really do it from either land or sea!
What kind of whales are there in California?
All kinds! Gray whales, blue whales, and orcas are some of the most common whales you’ll see off the coast of California when whale watching. But humpback whales, minke whales, and finback whales are all also frequent visitors to these waters!
Why is Monterey Bay so special for whale watching?
So, why is Monterey Bay so special for whale watching in California? It’s the submarine canyon right by the shore, which makes the sea especially calm here and marine life (including krill, which whales love to snack on) is particularly abundant in these waters.
When is the best time to see orcas in California?
In general, March and April will have the best combination of plenty of gray whales and orcas as well as better weather (less rain and storms), which make for a more pleasant whale watching experience in California.
How many lighthouses are there in California?
18 Incredible California Lighthouses (+ 6 You Can Stay the Night In!)
How many different species of dolphins live in California?
Yes! 11 different kinds of species call California waters home. The most famous species is probably the bottlenose dolphin which you’ll see all along the coast between San Francisco and San Diego.
When do gray whales migrate?
Gray whales migrate from December through May, with Northern California seeing the first gray whales in December and last in May and the season starting in Southern California around January and ending around April.
Where to see gray whales in California?
As far as whales, Monterey Bay is one of the best places to see gray whales in Northern California. There are two seasons for whale watching in Monterey Bay.
When is the best time to go whale watching in California?
When to Go: Whales are migrating year-round, but February-April is the best time to take a California road trip! Where to Go: Head to Monterey, Morro Bay, Dana Point, or San Diego. What You’ll See: Gray whales are most common, but you might also see Orcas, humpback whales, blue whales, finback whales, and minke whales.
How many gray whales swim in a year?
Each year, about 20,000 gray whales make an epic 12,000-mile round trip journey from the Bering Sea all the way down the Pacific coast to Baja Peninsula, Mexico. This annual swim makes the entire California coast a perfect place to witness one of the most amazing wildlife migrations on the planet.
How to identify a minke whale?
If you do see one, they are can be identified by their large dorsal fin and dark body.
How big is the blue whale?
The incredible Blue Whale is the largest animal ever to live on earth – EVER – reaching lengths of 80 to 100′ with a blow of up to 30′. Sadly, Blue Whales are endangered with only about 10,000 existing in the world – 2,200 of which can be seen in California.
What is the largest migration of whales?
Here are some of the giant sea puppies you might see paddling their way past you on your whale watching excursion: Gray Whales. The largest migration and most commonly spotted whale in California, Gray Whale s can reach lengths of 45′ and are gray with white mottling.
When do gray whales come back to California?
What that means is that you’ll get the best opportunity for seeing migrating gray whales, orcas, and humpback whales in California between December and April.
When is the best time to see humpback whales?
For those who like to plan ahead, March through early April is a great time to spot humpback whales as they begin moving closer to shore. You can view whales from a distance along the many bluff accesses up and down the Coastside from Montara to south of Half Moon Bay for many miles.
Where do gray whales swim?
Beginning in January and running through the end of March, approximately 15,000 gray whales swim south from the icy waters of the Arctic to mate and nurse their young in the warm, shallow lagoons along Magdalena Bay in Baja, California.
How long is the whale migration?
The Whale Migration. The full round-trip migration from the Bering Sea to the Baja calving lagoons is approximately 10,000 miles, the longest known migration for any mammal.
