The 18 Best Places to Whale Watch on the U.S. East Coast

Seeing whales in their natural habitat can be an awe-inspiring experience. These majestic creatures are among the largest animals on Earth, and the coastal regions of the United States offer plenty of opportunities for whale watching. 

On the East Coast, several species of whales spend the summer months in the northern waters feeding on fish before traveling south during the winter months. With careful timing and some luck, whale watchers can spot whales as they feed, migrate, and even nurse their young. If your travels are focused on the Atlantic states, here are the best places for East Coast whale watching.

1. Cape Cod, MA

A popular destination for East Coast whale watching is the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, located three miles north of Cape Cod. This protected area spans nearly 900 square miles and offers tourists the chance to see humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, and more. The waters at Stellwagen Bank have high levels of biodiversity that support whales during their seasonal migration. 

Whale watchers in Cape Cod have several options for cruise or boat operators. When you’re looking for whales, keep an eye out for birds hovering above the water for a clue that whales are nearby.

2. Jacksonville, FL

Whale watchers can travel to Jacksonville on Florida’s Atlantic coast for a rare chance to see the northern right whale. These whales are critically endangered, and fewer than 500 right whales are left in the Northern Atlantic region.

Northern right whales migrate south in December from the Cape Cod area to Florida’s waters, where females subsequently give birth and nurse their young before heading back north around March. For the best chance of spotting a right whale, pack binoculars and keep an eye out for water sprays in distinctive “V” shapes.

3. Long Island, NY

The summer and fall months offer plenty of opportunities to spot whales in the waters off Long Island. Tourists are likely to spot humpback whales, fin whales, and bottlenose dolphins. Tours depart from multiple locations, offering visitors flexibility with trip planning.

Cruises with the Coastal Research and Education Society of Long Island include a marine biologist onboard to answer questions and provide information about the animals and habitat. 

4. Hilton Head Island, SC

This popular tourist destination is along the migration path for northern right whales, which travel south during winter to calve. These whales can reach lengths of up to 59 feet and weigh nearly 60 tons, with females that often outgrow their male counterparts.

Tourists can explore several options for dolphin and nature tours, and there are recorded sightings of right whales with calves off of Hilton Head Island. 

5. Virginia Beach, VA

Humpback sightings are possible in Virginia Beach, which lies along their seasonal migration path. The waters in this area offer a multitude of fish for whales to feed on during their annual southern migration.

Whale tours are typically scheduled during the coldest months, so be sure to pack a jacket. Luckily, whales are often spotted not too far from the shore. Whale watchers can catch glimpses of humpbacks, as well as fin and minke whales. 

6. Gulf of Maine, ME

This area is well-known for humpback and finback whale sightings. The Gulf of Maine spans the state’s coast and contains plentiful crabs, fish, and plankton. Strong ocean tides carry in cold water to mix with the dozens of rivers that drain into the gulf, creating an ideal habitat for thousands of species of marine animals. 

The whale watching season in Maine spans from mid-May to October. Tours depart from several locations, including Portland and Kennebunk.

7. Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach is a popular vacation spot for its beaches, resorts, and restaurants. Although it is a less common destination for East Coast whale watching, whales have been spotted off the coast of Myrtle Beach. Grab your binoculars and head to your hotel balcony or another high spot for a chance to observe whales slapping their flippers or kickfeeding. 

8. Cape May, NJ

In Cape May, you can embark on a three-hour cruise for a chance to see minke, fin, humpback, and right whales. A marine biologist and naturalist will join your trip to provide information about the animals you see. Along with whales, keep your eyes open for sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays.  

9. Bar Harbor, ME

Head to the Acadia National Park near Bar Harbor for a whale-watching cruise that explores along the coast of the park and Mount Desert Island. Minke, humpback, and finback whales are frequent sights in these rich marine waters. You might also see giant tuna, bald eagles, and Atlantic puffins.

10. Provincetown, MA

Provincetown is a top choice for whale watchers since it is located on Cape Cod Bay, which is a popular breeding location for North Atlantic right whales. The spring and fall months are the best times to watch for whales in this area. Humpback and Finback whales are especially active from April to October.

11. Lewes, DE

The Great Dune at Cape Henlopen, located in Cape Henlopen State Park, is a popular spot for swimming and also provides an excellent vantage point to scan the waves for signs of whales. You will follow a 1.6-mile trail to reach the dune, followed by an 80-foot climb to reach the top. The view is worth the effort since you’ll be high enough to spot whales if they spout or breach the water.

12. Ocean City, MD

Assateague Island National Seashore, located less than 10 miles from Ocean City, offers 37 miles of bike paths, beaches, and undeveloped natural beauty. Humpback whales are occasionally spotted here as they pass by during their seasonal migration. There are limited options in this area for whale-watching cruises, but you can find a spot on the beach to scan the horizon.

13. Highlands, NJ

You can catch a whale-watching cruise in the Highlands to see humpback whales in their natural habitat. Cruises are generally available from May through September and explore the area where waters from several rivers converge, creating an ideal habitat for fish. You can listen as a wildlife expert provides background information about the animals you observe. 

14. Amelia Island, FL

Private boat tours can take you to Amelia Island, which is located in the Sea Island Chain at its southernmost end. The area has abundant biodiversity due to its shorelines, tidal marshes, and estuaries. In the deeper waters, whale watchers may spot right whales during their migration, along with manatees and dolphins.

15. Belmar, NJ

Whale watchers have several options in Belmar when booking cruises. Humpback whales are a frequent sight in this area, along with dolphins and sharks. Be sure to bring your camera to catch pictures of the New York City skyline, which will be visible as you cruise.

16. Tybee Island, GA

Georgia’s coastal waters are an ideal nursery for North Atlantic right whales and their calves. The warm, shallow waters in the area provide the whales with protection from predators and plenty of food during the winter months. There have even been sightings of right whales with month-old calves near Tybee Island!

17. Outer Banks, NC

Visitors to the Outer Banks have reported seeing humpback, right, and fin whales in the area. Humpback whales are a common sight along the North Carolina coast, especially when they migrate during the spring and fall. Head to Cape Lookout on the Outer Banks for a chance to spot a whale.

18. Fernandina Beach, FL

The waters off of northeast Florida are home to several species of whales. The best time to spot them is from December to April while the whales are enjoying the warm southern waters before migrating back north. 

Fernandina Beach takes its city’s connection to the right whale seriously. The city’s annual Right Whale Festival is dedicated to raising awareness about right whales and current preservation efforts. 

Summary of the 18 Best Places to Whale Watch on the U.S. East Coast

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