Discover the Top 15 Best Places to Go Whale Watching in the U.S.

Whale watching is an awe-inspiring experience that allows us to connect with some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. The United States is blessed with an array of coastal regions on both the Atlantic and the Pacific sides where you can witness these giants of the sea in their natural habitat. Read on to explore the top 15 best places for whale watching in the U.S., each offering a unique opportunity to marvel at a variety of majestic marine mammals.

1. Monterey Bay, California

Monterey Bay on California’s central coast is renowned as one of the premier whale watching destinations on the planet. This marine sanctuary is home to a diverse marine ecosystem, including humpback whales, gray whales, blue whales, and killer whales. What’s more, the bay’s rich abundance of krill and fish makes it a popular feeding ground for these cetaceans (group of marine animals that include whales, dolphins and porpoises), ensuring incredible whale sightings year-round. You can embark on whale-watching tours from Monterey or Moss Landing, where expert naturalists can provide insights into the behavior and biology of these magnificent creatures. Additionally, the region’s coastal beauty and proximity to the iconic 17-Mile Drive make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

2. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod‘s coastline along the Atlantic Ocean provides ample opportunities for whale enthusiasts. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, located just off Cape Cod, is a prime spot for spotting humpback whales, finback whales, and the rare North Atlantic right whale. The nutrient-rich waters attract these majestic marine mammals during their seasonal migrations. In addition, whale-watching tours departing from Cape Cod offer a close-up view of the whales’ behaviors, including breaching and tail-slapping. The area’s maritime history and picturesque coastal towns, such as Provincetown and Chatham, provide a rich cultural backdrop to this whale-watching adventure.

3. Glacier Bay, Alaska

Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park offers a unique whale-watching experience amidst stunning glacial landscapes. This remote wilderness is home to humpback whales, orcas, minke whales, and gray whales. Visitors can witness these incredible creatures against the backdrop of towering fjords and tidewater glaciers. Glacier Bay’s nutrient-rich waters provide plenty of food for whales, making it an essential stop on their migration routes. Park rangers offer educational programs, and guided boat tours provide an opportunity to explore the park’s breathtaking scenery while keeping an eye out for breaching whales.

4. San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Islands in Washington State are a hotspot for orca whale sightings. These islands are home to resident orca pods, including the Southern Resident and Northern Resident communities, along with other marine mammals like gray whales and minke whales. The calm, sheltered waters of the Salish Sea provide an ideal environment for orcas to thrive. Moreover, whale-watching excursions departing from San Juan Island, Friday Harbor, and Orcas Island offer opportunities to observe these intelligent and social creatures in their natural habitat. Cherry on top, the islands’ serene beauty, lush forests, and charming coastal towns enhance the overall experience.

5. Channel Islands, California

The Channel Islands off the coast of Southern California offer a rich marine environment for whale enthusiasts. These islands are part of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, and they are home to blue whales, humpback whales, gray whales, and dolphins. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands provide excellent visibility for spotting these imposing mammals. More so, whale-watching tours from Santa Barbara, Ventura, or the islands themselves allow you to explore sea caves, kelp forests, and diverse marine life while searching for whales.

6. Maui, Hawaii

Maui, one of Hawaii’s beautiful islands, provides a unique opportunity to witness humpback whales during their annual migration. These gentle giants arrive in Hawaiian waters from December to April to breed and give birth. A top spot to watch their daily activity is the Auau Channel between Maui, Molokai, and Lanai — it is a popular gathering spot for humpback whales, and you can witness their mesmerizing breaches, tail slaps, and singing. All in all, Maui’s warm waters and vibrant marine life make it a top choice for a whale-watching vacation.

7. Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast, with its rugged beauty and thriving marine life, is a fantastic place for whale watching. Stay long enough, and you can see gray whales, orcas, and humpback whales as they migrate along the coast. Some top spots on the coast to whale-watch are Cape Perpetua, Depoe Bay, and Cannon Beach. Depoe Bay, often referred to as the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast,” offers year-round whale watching opportunities. What’s more, the town’s Whale Watching Center provides valuable insights and an elevated vantage point for better sightings.

8. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach, ideally situated along the Atlantic coast, provides a unique opportunity to witness the migration of humpback whales. These whales travel through the area during their annual migration, offering thrilling sightings for whale watchers. If interested, various tour operators in the region offer guided trips to get you closer to these giants of the sea. Virginia Beach’s expansive coastline and diverse marine life make it an ideal destination for a marine adventure.

9. Gulf of Maine, New Hampshire

The Gulf of Maine, situated between New Hampshire and Massachusetts, is a prime location for whale watching. Humpback whales and finback whales are commonly spotted here. Besides, the Gulf’s nutrient-rich waters attract a diverse array of marine life, creating a vibrant ecosystem for whale enthusiasts to explore. If you want to get a closer look, whale-watching tours departing from coastal New Hampshire towns like Rye and Portsmouth offer a chance to witness these magnificent creatures up close.

10. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston’s coastline along the Atlantic Ocean is a lesser-known, yet excellent, whale-watching destination. From late November to April, you can witness humpback whales and other species migrating along the coast. A serene setting for a peaceful day of whale watching, Charleston Harbor and its surrounding waters provide ample opportunities for whale-watching excursions. Double the benefits, as you can learn about these majestic creatures while enjoying the coastal charm of the city.

11. San Francisco Bay, California

San Francisco Bay, nestled along the northern California coastline, offers a unique urban whale-watching experience. You can spot gray whales, humpback whales, and blue whales on their travels along the Pacific Coast. What’s more, the Golden Gate Bridge provides a stunning backdrop as you embark on your whale-watching adventure from San Francisco. If you choose to go on a tour, knowledgeable guides will share insights about these marine giants while highlighting the bay’s rich history and iconic landmarks.

12. Newport Beach, California

Newport Beach, located in Southern California, offers a unique twist on whale watching with year-round opportunities to witness giant blue whales. These colossal creatures, known as the largest animals on Earth, grace the waters off Newport Beach from May to November. Several tour operators in the area provide unforgettable encounters with these gentle giants. In addition, Newport Beach’s pleasant climate and vibrant coastal atmosphere make it a delightful destination for both whale enthusiasts and vacationers.

13. Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor, situated near Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island, is an ideal location to observe humpback whales and minke whales. The Gulf of Maine’s cold, nutrient-rich waters provide abundant feeding opportunities for these types of whales. More so, the rugged coastal scenery adds to the overall experience. Finally, Bar Harbor offers whale-watching tours that combine marine adventure with the natural beauty of Acadia National Park: nature enthusiasts, rejoice.

14. Long Beach, California

Long Beach, just south of Los Angeles, offers a variety of whale-watching experiences, with the chance to spot blue whales, humpback whales, and orcas. The city’s convenient location near the Santa Catalina Channel ensures frequent sightings throughout the year. What’s more, you can embark on thrilling tours to explore further the rich marine life of the region. Finally, Long Beach’s vibrant waterfront and diverse dining options provide an excellent backdrop for post-whale-watching relaxation and exploration.

15. Provincetown, Massachusetts

Provincetown, located at the tip of Cape Cod, is a prime destination for whale watching in New England. The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, situated offshore, is a hotspot for humpback whales, finback whales, and minke whales. Furthermore, whale-watching tours from Provincetown offer a front-row seat to these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. To top it all, the charming and artistic atmosphere of Provincetown, along with its rich maritime history, add to the allure of this coastal town.

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