Best places for whale watching in the US (2024)

FAQs

Is Maine or Massachusetts better for whale watching? ›

In fact, the World Wildlife Fund named Massachusetts one of the best places for whale watching in the world.

The peak season for blue whales in Southern California is from mid-June through mid-September, when they come to the coast to feed on krill. The best time to see them is typically from July through September.

About Dana Point, CA - The Whale Watching Capital of the World®!

The whale-watching season on Cape Cod kicks off around mid-April and extends through October. The prime viewing window spans from June to September, coinciding with the whales' peak migration period. During these months, chances are high that you'll spot multiple whales during a single boat tour.

The whale watching season in Maine starts in May and winds down by October, perfectly coinciding with Under Canvas Acadia's season. Spring brings the first sightings as whales arrive to feast on abundant plankton and small fish.

Monterey Bay, California

Enjoy year-round whale-watching in Monterey Bay. Running alongside California's central coast, the bay sees humpback and blue whales from April to December, and gray whales from December to April. The coast also attracts killer whales, who hunt gray whales during their migration north.

The San Juan Islands off the coast of northwestern Washington are known for being one of the best places to see orcas in the wild. It's about a 90-minute drive from Seattle to Anacortes, then a short ferry ride across the sound to Friday Harbor, where many whale-watching outfitters leave on daily excursions.

Lower Deck Seating: The lower deck is closer to the water level, providing an intimate view when whales approach the boat. It's more sheltered, offering protection from the elements, which can be a respite on particularly sunny or windy days.

They can be found in temperate oceans and tropical waters around the equator, as well as in the freezing Arctic and Antarctic oceans. Some whale species can be found in seas, including the North Sea and the Mediterranean. Others migrate from one area to another to get to their feeding or mating grounds.

Is it worth it to go whale watching? ›

You may see something you may never see anywhere else!

Is whale watching worth it in Southern California? You bet! Dana Point is home to some of the best whale watching in the world. There are more whale and dolphin species right here in our waters than anywhere else!

While we do not guarantee whale sightings on our tours, 20 years of sightings data shows that we do have a 90% chance of seeing whales during the peak months of June – September. As industry leaders, we are key members of a proprietary sightings network known as the Pacific Whale Watch Association.

Early morning, typically around sunrise (between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM), can be an excellent time for whale watching. The ocean is often calm, and there is less boat traffic, providing a tranquil environment. Moreover, marine life tends to be more active during these hours.

In its heyday, New Bedford's whaling industry influenced its shoreside industry, fashion, architecture, and culture. Today, the city's whaling roots are depicted in its art, industry, and demographics. The Charles W. Morgan is the last American whaleship still afloat.

Dominica: Whale Watching Capital of the Caribbean. No vacation in Dominica is complete until you have spent at least one afternoon whale watching. Dive Dominica typically offers whale watching trips 1-3 times per month.

They can be found in temperate oceans and tropical waters around the equator, as well as in the freezing Arctic and Antarctic oceans. Some whale species can be found in seas, including the North Sea and the Mediterranean. Others migrate from one area to another to get to their feeding or mating grounds.

The World's Smallest Harbor

Known as the “whale watching capital of the Oregon Coast”, Depoe Bay seems to draw whales to its horizon like clockwork every March through December.