Travel

Top Whale-Watching Destinations

Traveling enthusiasts will have the most memorable time watching whales. Chasing after the giants of our planet when they surface from the water is quite incredible. 

North America features many perfect destinations that can be visited to watch whales in their natural environment. 

Cruising or spectroscopically, these places are some of the most opportune ways to come across these awe-struck animals.

Cabrillo National Monument, San Diego

Another place that is perfect for viewing the gray whales is San Diego. Between December and April, you can observe the 44-foot-long gray whales off the Pacific Coast, and a great place for viewing is the Cabrillo National Monument. 

The optimum period to view the animals is from mid-December to March. Occasionally, visitors can also see gray whales lounging in the area, as well as dolphins and sea lions from the western viewpoint of the park.

San Juan Islands, Washington

It is worth noting that the San Juan Islands in Washington hold the record when it comes to orca sightings. From May till September, three principal groups of killer whales called the “Southern Residents”, may be met near the islands. 

Besides orcas, mammals such as humpback, mink, and gray whales may also be seen in the area. Depending on the cruise you take or the view from the shoreline of the San Juan Islands, the best chances of viewing these wonderful creatures are in this region.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor is a town in the Gulf of Maine, and the best time to watch whales is between April and October. 

They feed on sailors, krill and other kinds of squids and, therefore, attract humpback, fin back and minke whales. 

Whale watching in Bar Harbor can either be done through a hike in Acadia National Park or a boat tour, which guarantees fun.

Maui, Hawaii

Maui in Hawaii is a perfect place for a quite different approach to whale-watching. From November to May, humpback whales move to warmer waters that surround the island, with February being the best sightseeing month. 

In this period, you can also see humpback calves being born. Many options are available for tourists to go close and watch the whales, including boats, paddleboards, snorkeling, and many more.

Juneau, Alaska

This is the right time to go whale watching in Juneau, Alaska, because the whales are out in the waters at this time of year. The most sighted species are humpback and orca, and watching is possible during the summer months. 

Many tours are available in Juneau to observe these magnificent creatures from the shore and by boat. The best places to view whales from land are described at Amalga Harbor and the Rainforest Trail.

Newport Beach, California

Whale watching is possible all year round in Newport Beach, which is situated near Los Angeles. Also, humpbacked, grey, fin, blue, or whatever type of whales you want to see, Newport Beach is the perfect place for that. 

In winter, you might see gray whales passing through, whilst blue whales are often sighted in the summer. Newport Beach whale watching trips offer an occasional look at sea lions as well as other sea animals.