Where Can I See Whales in California? The waters along the California coast are home to an abundant amount of marine life. From beautiful Northern California
Northern California
Northern California is the northern portion of the U.S. state of California. Spanning the state's northernmost 48 counties, its main population centers include the San Francisco Bay Area, the Greater Sacramento area, and the Metropolitan Fresno area. Northern California also contains re…
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.
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 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.
When can you see humpback whales in California?
The central California population of Humpback Whales migrates from their winter calving and mating areas off Mexico to their summer and fall feeding areas off coastal California. Humpback Whales occur in Monterey Bay area from late April to early December.
Where are whales found in California?
You can see the gray whales anywhere along the California coast. Whale watching cruises operate from San Diego, Dana Point, Long Beach, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Monterey, Half Moon Bay and San Francisco.
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.
How close do whales get to shore?
They sometimes come within 50 feet of the shore. People have been seeing humpbacks also near the pier close to shore. It is a healthy, normal activity.”
When can you see orcas in California?
Although killer whales have a decent population, this species in particular can be a bit more challenging to pinpoint, because they are more diversely spread out geographically. With that being said, the best time to see killer whales in California is typically during the spring, between the months of February and May.
When can you see whales in Santa Barbara?
Late spring through early fall, the Santa Barbara Channel offers regular sightings of humpback whales and the largest mammal on earth, the colossal blue whale. You might also spot the shy minke whale, fin whale, Pacific white-sided dolphin, coastal bottlenose dolphin and rissos dolphin.
When can you see whales in Los Angeles?
Here in Los Angeles, Blue Whale season is typically May through November. During this time, you can expect to see the beautiful creatures in their natural habitat as they breach the surface.
Can I see whales in Los Angeles?
Almost 20,000 individual Gray Whales travel through Los Angeles waters during winter and spring. Los Angeles visitors also have the opportunity of seeing Finback Whales, Humpback Whales and Minke Whales with an assortment of dolphin species during the winter and spring months.
Why do whales go to Monterey Bay?
Humpback whales migrate from their warm, winter breeding grounds off the coast of Central America to feed in the nutrient-rich waters of the MontereyMontereyMonterey (/ˌmɒntəˈreɪ/ ( listen) MON-tə-RAY; Spanish: Monterrey; Ohlone: Aacistak) is a city located in Monterey County on the southern edge of Monterey Bay on the U.S. state of California's Central Coast.https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Monterey,_CaliforniaMonterey, California - Wikipedia Bay throughout the spring, summer and fall. Depending on food distribution, some humpbacks remain in the bay and feed during the winter as well.
Why are there so many whales in Monterey Bay?
Humpback Whale The central California population of Humpback Whales migrates from their winter calving and mating areas off Mexico to their summer and fall feeding areas off coastal California. Humpback Whales occur in MontereyMontereyMonterey (/ˌmɒntəˈreɪ/ ( listen) MON-tə-RAY; Spanish: Monterrey; Ohlone: Aacistak) is a city located in Monterey County on the southern edge of Monterey Bay on the U.S. state of California's Central Coast.https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Monterey,_CaliforniaMonterey, California - Wikipedia Bay from late April to early December.
Can you see whales from shore in Northern California?
Some of the best places to watch whales from the Northern California shore include (in geographic order from south to north): Point Reyes: The Point Reyes Peninsula extends into 10 miles into the ocean, and the whales' migration route passes close to land, making it a great spot to view gray whales.
What months are best for whale watching in Southern California?
Summer Whale Watching (June, July, August): The Summer months are the best months to witness the world's largest animal…the BLUE WHALE! Southern California is the best place in the world to look for a Blue Whale as they seek the nutritious krill that allows them to grow to their epic size.
When can you see whales in Los Angeles?
Here in Los Angeles, Blue Whale season is typically May through November. During this time, you can expect to see the beautiful creatures in their natural habitat as they breach the surface.
When can you see whales in Bodega Bay?
Giants Migrate Along the Sonoma Coast at Bodega Bay. The epic migration of whales peaks from January through May, but is visible during much of the year. Each year gray and blue whales travel south from the Chukchi Sea near Alaska and down to Baja California for winter, then back north for the summer feeding season.
When are whales in California?
June through October: Blue whales and humpback whales can be seen along the Big Sur coast, and around the Channel Islands. April to early November: Humpback whales along the central California coast. July through October: Minke whales, mostly in southern California.
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.
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 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 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 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.
How many Risso dolphins are there in California?
Risso's dolphins are snub-nosed, gray animals with white scars. Their population off the California coast is estimated to be between 13,000 and 30,000.
Where to whale watch in California?
But if close to these areas, you may consider cruising a bit further south to visit the Whale Watching Capital of the World® in Dana Point, California.
What kind of whales are 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. Killer whales in California aren’t foreign to our local waters either, deeming our pacific coastline a prime place to set your eyes on some of the planet’s most magnificent mammals.
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 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 whales in California?
With just a pair of binoculars, you can catch sight of whales from the high bluffs at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and the Birch Aquarium, both in La Jolla , about 20 minutes north of downtown San Diego, and at Cabrillo National Monument, ...
Where to go whale watching in Santa Barbara?
The city of Oxnard, which is less than 10 miles from Channel Islands National Park, is a perfect home base for a whale-watching excursion. Island Packers offers both winter and summer three- to three-and-a-half-hour whale-watching cruises along the Santa Barbara Channel, with the option of extending your trip to a full day to land on Anacapa or Santa Cruz Island . Channel Islands Sportfishing has tours that run from late December through April. Of the 78 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises in the world, 29 have been spotted near the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Even if a whale doesn’t make an appearance, tourgoers can usually spy a pod of dolphins, as well as rafts of sea lions. ( more)
How many species of whales are there in the world?
Of the 78 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises in the world, 29 have been spotted near the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Even if a whale doesn’t make an appearance, tourgoers can usually spy a pod of dolphins, as well as rafts of sea lions. ( more)
How many gray whales migrate to Mexico?
Each year, about 20,000 gray whales make an epic 6,000-mile journey between Alaska and Mexico—and then back again. These massive, itinerant mammals travel from feeding grounds in the Bering Sea to mating and breeding lagoons along Baja California in Mexico, making for one of the most amazing wildlife migrations on the planet.
Where do gray whales migrate?
Each year, from November through April, California gray whales make their annual migration from feeding grounds in Alaska south to mate and have babies in the warm coastal lagoons of Baja, Mexico. Along the way, the whales do a swim-by off the Mendocino Coast, offering an unforgettable chance to see the leviathans spouting, breaching, and diving as they make their epic journey south. High vantage points along the coast are good spots to spot whales, particularly on calm mornings. Favorite spots near town include coastal trails in Mendocino Headlands State Park, and at Point Arena Lighthouse. For a closer look, book a spot on a Mendocino whale-watching charter, or, if you’re feeling adventurous and waters are calm, rent kayaks. ( more)
Where to go whale watching in Mendocino?
Favorite spots near town include coastal trails in Mendocino Headlands State Park, and at Point Arena Lighthouse. For a closer look, book a spot on a Mendocino whale-watching charter, or, if you’re feeling adventurous and waters are calm, rent kayaks. ( more)
What animals are in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz. Migratory whales, including grays, blues, and humpbacks, can all be spied off the Santa Cruz coast at different times of year, and dolphins, sea otters, and seals are observed year-round. See for yourself on exciting whale-watching cruises, chartered sailing excursions, or—for staggeringly intimate encounters—on guided kayak paddles.
Where to watch whales in California?
With just a pair of binoculars, you can spot whales from the high bluffs at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography , both in La Jolla about 20 minutes north of downtown San Diego. And near the historic lighthouse at Cabrillo National Monument, Whale Watch Lookout Point sits 420 feet above the waves with a wide field of vision—perfect for spotting whales.
Where to go whale watching in San Diego?
H&M Landing offers local gray-whale tours from December through March; in summer, join an H&M landing journey to the Coronado Islands, a protected marine sanctuary just southwest of San Diego in Mexican waters, to spot blue whales, elephant seals, and orcas too. And Hornblower Cruises has what is perhaps the best option if you are unaccustomed to being on a boat—its yachts are some of the biggest and most stable in the business, and they offer cruises as short as one hour. All whale-watching cruises depart from San Diego Harbor, just a few blocks from the USS Midway Museum .
Why do whales live in Monterey?
Because of the cold, food-rich 1-mile-/1.6-km-deep Monterey submarine canyon just offshore, whales and marine mammals thrive here , making it an outstanding place to see whales year-round. You might also sporadically spot smaller cetaceans such as fin and minke whales, as well as orcas, dolphins, and porpoises throughout the year.
What is the best place to watch whales in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz, the town’s location on the northern end of Monterey Bay puts it on the edge of some of whales’ favorite undersea dining rooms. “The whales are here feeding on sardines, anchovies, and plankton, which have been attracted by blooms of microscopic plants such as diatoms,” explains Dr. Griggs. What’s more, Monterey Bay’s unique geology produces an area of relatively calm bay waters, where, according to Dr. Griggs, “plankton, small fish, seabirds, whales, and dolphins congregate to share in the food.” It makes for a fascinating, lively mix, and a great opportunity to learn more about California’s fascinating and delicate ocean ecosystems.
Where do whales migrate?
Each year, about 20,000 grey whales make an epic 6,000-mile/9,656-km journey between Alaska and Mexico—and then back again. These whales travel from feeding grounds in the Bering Sea to mating and breeding lagoons along Baja California in Mexico. It’s one of the most amazing wildlife migrations on the planet, and also relatively easy for humans to witness, especially if you join a guided whale-watching cruise with knowledgeable crew on board. (In some locations, you can see whales spouting, breaching, and fluking from ocean bluffs, especially if you have binoculars.) While grey whales get the spotlight along the California coast, other cetaceans—including orcas, humpbacks, porpoises, dolphins, and gigantic blue whales—ply the waters at different times of year, bumping up your chances of seeing something amazing out there in the sea.#N#More Resources#N#Whale Watching in California#N#American Cetacean Society#N#See More
When is the best time to see whales in Long Beach?
When’s the best time? Just offshore, you have a good chance to spot blue whales June through October and migrating gray whales December to mid-May. With luck, you’ll spy humpbacks and orcas too.
What are the whales that live in Santa Cruz?
Migratory whales, including greys, blues, and humpbacks, can all be spied off the coast here at different times of year, and dolphins, sea otters, and seals are observed year round. See for yourself on exciting whale-watching cruises, chartered sailing excursions, or—for staggeringly intimate encounters—on guided kayak paddles when waters are calm.
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.
Where do whales go in California?
Northern California. Very rarely will a whale venture into the San Francisco Bay. Instead of waiting for the whales to swim under the Golden Gate Bridge, travel to the Gulf of the Farallones, a 3,295-square-mile marine sanctuary 25 miles off the coast.
When to go whale watching in California?
If you’re interested in gray whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and sea lions, Turner suggests coming down to Southern California any time between January and April. For blue whales and finback whales, try May through September. And for minke whales, come October through December.
What are the animals that make the trip north and south?
And the gray whales aren’t alone in their seasonal travels: Humpbacks, dolphins, blue whales, and orcas all make the coastal trip north and south each year. And thankfully for sightseers, catching a glimpse of their journey off the California coast is easier than ever.
What are the endangered species in SF Bay?
The area provides breeding and feeding grounds for more than 25 endangered or threatened species including blue, gray, and humpback whales, a variety of seals, Pacific white-sided dolphins, and sea lions. It’s also home to one of the most significant white shark populations on the planet, so you’ll likely spot something amazing when you visit. SF Bay Whale Watching will take visitors as close to the action as possible as part of its six-hour tour every Saturday and Sunday.
Where do gray whales go in spring?
Come spring, when the water warms, the whales travel back north again. (And you thought your commute was bad.) The gray whales make the trek to Alaska to the feeding grounds of the Bering Sea to feast on millions of tiny crustaceans — a delicacy in the gray whale world — before traveling south to the warmer temperatures for mating season.
What to do if you don't spot a whale?
Beyond the right clothing, it’s also key to bring the right attitude. While most vessels' trips offer refunds if you don’t spot any whales, it’s still important to know that these are wild animals.
Where is the whale watching kayaking club located?
And for the more adventurous folks, the Outdoor Adventure Club offers guided whale watching kayak tours out of Davenport Landing, located about 90 minutes south of San Francisco.
Where to whale watch in California?
California Whale Watching Cruises. Whale watching cruises range from a two-hour jaunt out of a local harbor to multi-day cruises to Baja, Mexico. In winter, you can find them leaving from harbors and marinas along the entire California coast. The quality of whale watching trips varies.
How to tell if a whale is swimming in California?
If they're swimming just below the surface and you're high enough to see the water's surface, they may leave a "trail" of circular calm spots on the face as they pass, making them easier to track. Good spots to look for whales from the California shore are summarized in ...
How to see a whale in the ocean?
Your best bet for seeing a whale is to scan the ocean's surface. Look for a spout (a spray of water). After you see that, keep watching in all directions, looking for it to happen again. That will tell you the direction it's moving. In general, the migrating whales are going south in winter and north in spring.
How to get rid of a headache from whale watching?
Wear sunglasses. The glare from the water can give you a headache. Wear a hat or visor, but be sure it's secure with a clip or chin strap. If the wind takes it, it's gone forever. Young children can get bored on a whale-watching trip. Bring along something to entertain them.
Is whale watching a tourist attraction?
In California, whale watching is a popular thing for tourists to do, and it's no wonder why. With some of the world's largest mammals migrating past coastal points, feeding near the coast and swimming in inlets, you'll find plenty of ocean creatures to see.
Where is the best place to watch whales?
Why Monterey and Santa Cruz Are the World's Best Place to Watch Whales
Is whale watching popular in California?
In California, whale watching is a popular thing for tourists to do , and it's no wonder why.
Where to see gray whales in California?
Gray whales are often viewed off the coast of Northern California. (Courtesy NOAA)
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).
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.
Where do humpback whales migrate?
Migration pattern: Migrates from southern British Columbia down to the coasts of Mexico and Central America. Best time to see humpback whales in Northern California: summer and fall.
Where do fin whales swim?
Fin Whales swim near the coast of Northern California year-round. (Courtesy Wikimedia Commons)
When do whales migrate?
Note that migrating whales move south in fall and north in spring.
When is the best time to see blue whales in California?
Best time to see blue whales in Northern California: From May through September.