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6 Whale Watching Tours in Seattle (and Places to See them FOR FREE)

Have you ever wanted to experience whale watching before? Seattle is a great place for whale watching – and there are plenty of places where you can see them!

There are plenty of whale watching tours in Seattle for an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re looking for a guided tour or want to explore on your own, Seattle offers plenty of options when it comes to whale watching.

So, in this article, we’ll explore the 6 best whale watching tours and places to see them.

1. FRS Clipper Tour

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FRS Tours is one of the only whale-watching tours that leave directly from downtown at Pier 69. They’re one of the only services in Seattle with a half-day tour that runs from May to October. 

It’s a great choice for travelers interested in seeing transient orca whales, humpback whales, gray whales, and minke. 

Plus, it’s accompanied by an onboard naturalist who’ll educate you about whale conservation and life. Whale sightings are guaranteed – and you’ll get a free trip if you don’t spot a whale. 

2. Pudget Sound Express Tour

See whales in the wild with Pudget Sound Express ! Their three generations of family-run business have been helping visitors like you experience unforgettable moments through their whale watching tours. 

Departing from Edmonds – just minutes north of downtown Seattle, they use the quietest and fastest whale watching boats around the Salish Sea. 

With some of the highest concentrations of whales, dolphins, and sea life anywhere in the world near their location – you’ll truly experience a tour with views that will take your breath away!

Their goal is to ensure every traveler sees at least one orca during their trip, which makes them confident enough to guarantee it – otherwise, they’ll give you another trip absolutely free.

3. Argosy Cruises

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Argosy Cruises offers amazing narrated sightseeing cruises in the Seattle area, taking passengers to explore breathtaking views of the beautiful waters and a skyline full of iconic buildings. 

Their cruise lasts an hour or two, depending on which one you take, and takes passengers around the port, giving them a glimpse into Seattle’s history and local industry. You’ll also see floating homes, houseboats, large fishing vessels, and potentially whales.

There isn’t a guarantee that you’ll see whales on this tour because it isn’t specifically geared towards it, but many Yelp reviewers said that they saw orcas on the tour. It’s worth noting that touring time may not be long enough to ensure total whale watching success on every trip.

4. Island Adventures Whale Watching

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Experience the incredible and majestic beauty of whales in their natural habitat with Island Adventures Whale Watching . Located conveniently in Anacortes, Washington— a 80-mile drive from downtown Seattle, there’s no need to worry about ferry hassles! 

This tour provides visitors with the unique opportunity of seeing whales up close and personal, as well as humpback whales, minke whales, gray whale sightings (and more) within the San Juan Islands region. The San Juan region is the place to go for whale watching.

Vessels from Island Adventures provide an elevated view of whales, ensuring that you’ll have a better chance of spotting them even sooner than other tour groups onboard regular-sized boats! 

5. San Juan Safaris

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San Juan Safaris provides amazing experiences for whale watchers like no other place in the Pacific Northwest. Their Classic Whale Watch & Wildlife Tour departs from Friday Harbor and lasts 3-4 hours, depending on the season. 

On tour, you can expect to see a variety of marine wildlife while taking in stunning views and learning from experienced captains and marine naturalists. 

San Juan Safaris also offers private charters and group sales for special occasions such as family reunions, weddings, corporate events, and birthday parties – all with guaranteed marine wildlife sightings.

6. San Juan Cruises

San Juan Cruises offers some of the most impressive whale watching tours. Providing guaranteed sightings with their fully narrated tour, experienced wildlife guides on board each trip, and a complimentary lunch onboard their deluxe 100’ tour vessel with indoor and outdoor seating. 

This company has been committed to responsible whale watching since 1987, utilizing all state and federal guidelines as a member of the Pacific Whale Watching Association. 

With guaranteed sightings or your next cruise at half off, this cruise has something for everyone, from singles and couples to families. 

Where to Go Whale Watching in Seattle For Free?

Alki Beach is a public beach in West Seattle with views of the Puget Sound. It’s one of the best 

places to spot orcas, along with seals and their pups, during the fall and winter months. 

Bring a pair of binoculars to get an up-close view, as it’s possible for whales and other marine life to drift by the beach closely during high tide. 

You can also take in panoramic views of Elliot Bay, the downtown Seattle skyline, and Alki Point Lighthouse across Elliott Bay from here!

Golden Gardens Park

Golden Gardens Park is a park on the shores of Puget Sound in Ballard, Seattle. This gorgeous spot provides stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains as you stroll along its loop trails and enjoy the beach areas. 

During fall and winter months, it is also a great place to spot orcas as they drift by in small family pods looking for prey species such as salmon or squid. With the help of binoculars, you can catch sight of them easily. 

Discovery Park

Take a leisurely stroll to the beach at Discovery Park for a good chance of whale watching. 

This park spans over 534 acres and provides plenty of incredible opportunities to witness whales spouting off in Puget Sound! Keep an eye out along the beaches, trails, and bluffs.

Point Defiance

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Point Defiance in Tacoma is another great place to look for whales. You can spot the orcas migrating up and down this area during the fall and winter months from its shoreline. 

A pair of binoculars might come in handy again if you’d like an up-close view. At Owen Beach, there’s also a chance to see seals and sea lions bobbing about near the shore!

Other Whale Sighting Viewpoints

There is plenty of potential whale watching sights in Seattle that have been marked down by Orca Network. Check out some additional locations here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i bring to a whale watching tour.

You may want to bring the following items when on a whale watching tour: 

• Warm layers for both upper and lower body – it can be significantly colder out on the water than on land, especially during fall and winter
• Hat – either a warm hat or sunhat, depending on the season 
• Rain jacket – if there’s a chance of rain, it’s best to be prepared 
• Gloves – ideal for spring and fall tours 
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Binoculars and/or camera 
• Water bottle and any necessary medical items 

It’s also typically best to leave out the following: 

• Any personal alcohol or drugs
• Large items, such as beach chairs or umbrellas, due to space restrictions

What Are The Best Months for Whale Watching?

The best months for whale watching in Seattle are mid-June to early September. During these summer months, viewing opportunities of various whales such as Orcas, humpbacks, greys, and minkes are seen around 90% of the time. 

Although whales may be seen year-round in Seattle, it is not as predictable outside of the summer season.

What Chance Do I Have at Spotting Whales?

When booking a whale-watching tour in Seattle, you can expect to have around a 90 percent chance of spotting whales during the summer months. However, if seeing whales is important to you, you may want to consider booking an extra tour. 

Some companies, like the Pudget Sound Express, offer a complimentary outing should your initial tour prove unsuccessful in terms of sighting whales, so it’s worth checking the policy first before committing yourself financially.

What is the Best Time Of Day to See The Whales?

The best time of day for whale watching is typically in the morning. The wind usually dies down around sunrise, and this helps to create relatively calm ocean conditions compared to other times of the day, making it easier to spot whales and other marine mammals. 

Not only is the early morning time period typically calmer, but there is also less boat traffic on the water during this part of the day which can help facilitate improved sightings as well.

Hi, I'm Ashleigh! Welcome to Seattle Travel, my little piece of beautiful PNW. This is home and I'm here to share all my experiences so visitors and locals alike can find the best experiences this part of the country has to offer. I started Seattle Travel in 2012 as a way to journal my experiences and over the years have been encouraged by family and friends to open up my adventures to everyone. I actively seek out the best food, activities, and day trips and give you a local perspective.  The Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful areas in the world and my goal is to let you explore it to the fullest. 

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Seattle (Edmonds) Whale Watching Tours

Orcas, humpbacks, gray whale and more! Seattle’s most popular & well reviewed whale watching tours, departing from Edmonds, just north of downtown Seattle.

Seattle (Edmonds) Half Day Whale Watching Tour

April 26 – October 27

See orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, minke whales and more! Seattle’s most popular & well reviewed whale watching tour takes place on the Swiftsure – the fastest and quietest whale watching boat in the Northwest, connecting you with whales throughout the Salish Sea.

Seattle (Edmonds) Gray Whale Watching Tour

February 14 – April 25

See gray whales on their annual migration from the Baja Peninsula to the Bering Sea. During their 10,000 mile journey, they make a detour into Puget Sound to feed on the ample ghost shrimp found here. This 2.5 hour tour is an amazing opportunity to learn about these gentle giants.

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The Hanke Family

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Three generations of our family have helped visitors have life-changing experiences with some of the most majestic creatures on the planet. We’re blessed to live in what’s been called “the American Serengeti,” with some of the highest concentration of whales and dolphins and sea life anywhere in the world — including our totem species, the orca. Few people know these waters like we do. Our experience and dedication makes it possible for us to guarantee that you’ll see whales on your trip — or we’ll give you another trip absolutely free.

Whale-wise Whale Watching

Puget Sound Express is a proud member of the Pacific Whale Watch Association (PWWA) , dedicated to responsible, sustainable marine wildlife viewing and conservation in the Pacific Northwest. We’re also dedicated to reducing our footprint out there. The Saratoga and Swiftsure are sound-proofed, hydrofoil jet boats with no propellers, making them the quietest vessels in the whale watch fleet.

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First Humpback Sighting of 2024!

Our Port Townsend-based whale watching tour on April 19, 2024, had the good fortune of spending time with our first humpback of 2024! We started the day visiting the T99 and T18 families of Bigg's orcas on Salmon Bank. We then ventured to Gordon Head on Vancouver...

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Wildlife and Whale Watching

Tours direct from downtown Seattle

Seattle Wildlife & Whale Watching Tours

FRS Clipper offers the only Wildlife & Whale Watching Tours that leave directly from downtown at Pier 69. The Salish Sea is one of the world’s largest and biologically rich areas teeming with an array of spectacular wildlife. It is one of the best places to see transient orca killer whales as well as humpback, gray and minke whales breach, splash, feed and play in their natural habitat, and observe other wildlife which can include seals, sea lions, porpoises, bald eagles, blue herons, and more.

FRS Clipper Wildlife & Whale Watching Tours feature an onboard naturalist who guides and educates passengers about local wildlife and whale conservation throughout the trip. Whale sightings are guaranteed or you’ll be offered a free trip for a later date! Learn more about how FRS Clipper contributes to whale and wildlife conservation and safety .

Seattle Widlife & Gray Whale Watching Tour

Mar - apr, 2024.

Share the Sound with some 35 ton visitors on a Seattle gray whale watching tour aboard the San Juan Clipper departing direct from downtown Seattle’s Pier 69! Save 20% on select dates in April when book with promo code WILDLIFE2024 .

Seattle Wildlife & Gray Whale Watching Tour

Share the Sound with some 35 ton visitors on a Seattle gray whale watching tour aboard the San Juan Clipper departing direct from downtown Seattle’s Pier 69! With the guidance of FRS Clipper’s expert onboard naturalist, you will be on the lookout for these huge special whales as they migrate north. A unique, limited time opportunity!

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Save 20% on Wildlife and Whale Watching Tours sailing between May 10th and October 13th, 2024 when you book with promo code  WILDLIFE2024 .

"What a great time! Saw orcas, a humpback and minke whales and loved every minute of it. Very professional staff."

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"This was wonderful. Our naturalist kept us informed during the total excursion… We have taken many tours in many countries, and this was the most enjoyable one yet."

- Deborah K., North Dakota TripAdvisor

"Our trip was amazing. We had whale sightings 30 minutes into our trip. We saw 3 different species of whale, porpoises, American bald eagles, and seals the entire day."

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• San Juan Islands
• Puget Sound Orca Whale
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• Minke Whale
• Sperm Whale
• Dall’s Porpoise
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• Whale Conservation

Day-long  whale watching tours  from Seattle, around Whidbey Island, to the iconic San Juan Islands. Sail through breathtaking Deception Pass, and travel through the protected waters of the Salish Sea, while trained naturalists educate passengers about the remarkable ecosystem and its wildlife with a focus on whale and sealife conservation. Mammal-eating orcas are sometimes spotted hunting the harbor seals and porpoises that make up their preferred prey. Minke and humpback whales may be seen, and both California and Steller's sea lions join the salmon hunt in late spring and early autumn.

Bald eagles and ospreys hunt fish from the sky, and shorebirds like great blue herons and black oystercatchers wade along the beaches. A multitude of alcids, gulls, terns and other marine birds are present throughout the summer.

As worldwide leaders in whale protection, research, conservation and education, we encourage you to visit the following organizations and consider support of local whale and sealife conservation efforts.

Pacific Whale Watching Association Center for Whale Research The Whale Museum SR3 Long Live the Kings OrcaSound

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Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront

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Seattle Harbor Cruise

Seattle Locks Cruise

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Argosy Cruises

See and know seattle like a local.

For over 70 years Argosy Cruises has been proud to be Seattle’s “friend with a boat,” showing locals and visitors a side of Seattle they rarely get to see. Come discover and celebrate the beauty, tradition, and history of the Pacific Northwest by boat for fully-narrated, family-friendly tours. Your tickets to spectacular views and majestic backdrops await!

Harbor Cruise – 1 hour tour The quintessential Seattle cruise experience. Learn Seattle history, be dazzled by the ever-evolving Emerald City skyline, explore the workings of our shipping port and get a close-up view of Seattle’s historic waterfront. All this while surrounded by the beauty of Elliott Bay and the Olympic and Cascade Mountain ranges.

Locks Cruise – 2 hour tour Travel from salt to fresh water – through the beating workboat heart of Seattle – and become the attraction to those on shore as your vessel raises up or lowers with the ever-changing tides of Puget Sound. Between Elliott Bay and Lake Union you’ll be surrounded by floating homes and houseboats, large fishing vessels, seaplanes, majestic city parks, and more. Get double the narration and sightseeing as you explore three Seattle neighborhoods in one go.

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Exploring Seattle’s Cultural Tapestry: Embracing Diversity and Equity through Museum Visits

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Exploring Seattle’s Marvels with Conservation and Sustainability in Mind

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Staying in Seattle

SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO IN SEATTLE

Staying In Seattle

No visit to Washington state is complete without two things: A whale-watching tour with San Juan Safaris and a visit to Seattle. The city of Seattle and its surroundings are filled with arts, culture, history, shopping, outdoor recreational opportunities and more. The following list highlights some of the best of Seattle for all ages and interests.

Argosy Cruises  For 60 years, Argosy Cruises has been celebrating the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest, departing from the historic downtown Seattle waterfront, South Lake Union and Kirkland City Dock. Argosy operates nine vessels: private and public cruises such as the Lakes, Locks and Harbor cruises and hosts countless private events and community activities, including the Christmas Ship™ Festival, Jazz Brunch Cruise Series, Murder Mystery Series and other themed and holiday events.

Seattle Aquarium  See magical moon jellies, playful otters, incredible octopus, flashy fish and other amazing sea creatures in award-winning exhibits. Explore the aquatic world of the Pacific Northwest – walk through the underwater dome surrounded by 400,000 gallons of water and sea life.

The Burke Museum  Dinosaurs, fossils, indigenous masks, Asian cultural costumes, bugs and birds! Get the inside story on Washington state natural history and Northwest Native American culture. Check out state-of-the-art exhibits on subjects ranging from fossils to wildlife photography.

Chihuly Glass and Gardens  Chihuly Garden and Glass provides a look at the inspiration and influences that inform the career of artist Dale Chihuly. The Exhibition Hall contains eight galleries and three Drawing Walls, offering visitors a comprehensive look at Chihuly's significant series of work; the Glasshouse presents a suspended 1,400-piece, 100-foot-long sculpture; and the Garden is a backdrop for four monumental sculptures and other installations. Located next to the Seattle Needle in the Seattle Center.

The Children's Museum  Bringing to life the joy of discovery for children and their families through fun, creative, hands-on explorations of the world around them. Located in the heart of the city on the 11-acre campus of the Seattle Center.

Ride the Ducks of Seattle  You haven't seen Seattle until you've seen it from a Duck! Travelers and local Seattleites of all ages love to Ride the Ducks! Hilarious Coast Guard-certified maritime captains will take you on a musical tour of the Emerald City. Amphibious World War II vehicles will show you Seattle from both land and water featuring downtown Seattle, Pike Place Market, historic Pioneer Square, then, SPLASH into the lake for a party on wheels that floats!

Emerald Downs : The premier thoroughbred racing venue in the Pacific Northwest. A 167-acre facility located midway between Seattle and Tacoma in the Auburn Valley. Emerald Downs features a state-of-the-art, six-level stadium with a commanding view of the entire one-mile racing oval.

Experience Music Project  EMP is a one-of-a-kind music museum combining interactive and interpretive exhibits to tell the story of the creative, innovative and rebellious expression that defines American popular music. Featuring a world-class collection of artifacts, unique architecture by Frank O. Gehry, state-of-the-art technology, and exciting interactive presentations, EMP will encourage visitors of all ages and backgrounds to experience the power and joy of music in its many forms.

Museum of Flight  In the steel and glass Great Gallery, the history of aviation soars past, with dozens of full-size aircraft flying in formation six stories above. Sit in the cockpit of a real SR-71 Blackbird or F/A-18 Hornet. Board America's first presidential jet – Air Force One. From hands-on kid's workshops, to fly-ins, to interaction with the people who made aviation history, The Museum of Flight has something to offer every member of your family or group.

The Museum of History & Industry  MOHAI features award-winning exhibits and programs that bring over 150 years of Pacific Northwest history to life. Set in a park on the shores of Lake Washington in Seattle's Montlake neighborhood, MOHAI is minutes from downtown and Eastside suburbs on State Route 520. Ample free parking on site, plus access to the Washington Park Arboretum.

Pacific Northwest Ballet  September to June: Pacific Northwest Ballet, one of the largest and most highly regarded ballet companies in the United States, was founded in 1972. The Company of 51 dancers presents more than 100 performances each year of full-length and mixed repertory ballets at Marion Oliver McCaw Hall and on tour. The Company has toured to Europe, Australia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Canada and throughout the United States.

Pike Place Market  The Pike Place Market is the oldest continually operating farmers market in the United States, it is a place where farmers, craftspeople and artists display their goods. It is a free-form funhouse of sights, smells, sounds and characters. You'll see street performers, craftsmen, local artists, florists and farmers. Salmon fly through the air, and vegetable and flower displays are turned into works of art.

T -Mobile Park : Home of Mariners Baseball. Tour one of the premier ballparks in America. Tours include areas of the ballpark that are not normally open to the public: press box, luxury suites, field, visitors clubhouse and much more.

Seattle Art Museum  See art from every corner of the world at the Seattle Art Museum, the region's premier art museum. With an impressive collection of more than 21,000 objects, from Old Master paintings to African masks to contemporary Northwest Art, SAM offers exciting artistic experiences for visitors of all ages.

SeattleAttractions.com  Whether you are planning a Washington state vacation or a Seattle day trip, this city guide will help you find attractions to delight and entertain the entire family. From historic tours to outdoor recreation, sports, arts and culture, sensational places to stay and captivating streets to walk, this site offers something for everyone. San Juan Safaris is a member of the Seattle Attractions Council.

Seattle Brewery Tours  To fully experience what each brewery has to offer, let us guide you on a tour of Seattle breweries. Road Dog's Seattle Brewery Tour will guide you to the best breweries in Seattle. The tour will get you inside access to the great breweries in the Pacific Northwest. Washington state boasts more than 80 breweries, many of them are located within a few miles of downtown Seattle.

Seattle Center  The Seattle Center grounds are home to several large seasonal events like the Folk Life Festival, Bumbershoot and The Bite of Seattle. Also on the grounds, are the Pacific Science Center, Pacific Northwest Ballet, the Boeing IMAX Theatre, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Intiman Theatre, Children's Museum, Seattle Children's Theatre and more!

Seattle Premium Outlets  Find impressive savings at Adidas, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, BCBG Max Azria, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Coach, DKNY, Guess, J.Crew, Joe's Jeans, Kenneth Cole, Lacoste, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Restoration Hardware, Tommy Hilfiger and more. North of Seattle.

Shutter Tours™  Shutter Tours has created a unique and fun Seattle sightseeing tour. Educating you about Seattle along with photography "mini lessons" to help you become a better travel photographer. Skilled guides teach lessons in composition designed to help you "see" better and take better photos, without all the technical jargon. A Seattle city tour that also includes some out-of-the-way surprises that you might ordinarily miss on your visit to the Emerald City.

The Space Needle  Your adventure begins with a 41-second journey skyward in one of three glass elevators. At the 520-foot Observation Deck, you will discover indoor and outdoor viewing and scenery that is absolutely breathtaking. Hungry from all the sightseeing? Visit SkyCafe, situated on the Observation Deck.

Underground Tour  - Pioneer Square Seattle. History with humor. Walk below Pioneer Square sidewalks, past abandoned 1890's storefronts, with exceptional tour guides telling tales of Seattle's frontier past. Learn how our Founding Fathers' squabbling led to Seattle's complicated street system, and how the solutions to our plumbing problems affected the town's elevation.

VisitSeattle.org  Your one stop for things to do, food and drink, and lodging in Seattle. Current event listings keep you in the know for what’s hot and happening in Seattle right now.

Woodland Park Zoo  Woodland Park Zoo is hailed as one of the finest zoos in the world for its award-winning naturalistic exhibits. More than 300 animal species from around the world and 1,000 plant species are displayed in the 92-acre botanical garden.

A Moore Hotel - Seattle's premiere hostel!

Alderbrook Resort and Spa - Outside of Seattle but, WONDERFUL

Alexis Hotel

American Hotel Seattle

Bed & Breakfast Association of Seattle Seattle

Best Western Edmonds Harbor Inn Edmonds

Best Western Evergreen Inn & Suites Federal Way

Best Western Executive Inn Seattle

Best Western Loyal Inn Seattle

Best Western Navigator Inn & Suites - North of Seattle, on your way to Anacortes, where you catch the ferry to San Juan Island Everett

Best Western Pioneer Square Hotel Seattle

Best Western River's Edge Seattle

Capitol Steps Seattle

Cave B Inn & Spa - At SageCliffe Outside of Seattle, but WONDERFUL

City Hostel Seattle - Cheap Sleep

The Gateway Hotel - SeaTac, WA

Comfort Inn & Suites Seattle

Courtyard by Marriott - Downtown Seattle Lake Union Across from Kenmore Air where the Whale Plane Package departs I did not have good experiences here.

Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Kirkland

Courtyard Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square

Crowne Plaza Hotel Seattle

Days Inn Sea-Tac Airport

Doubletree Guest Suites Seattle

Doubletree Hotel

Embassy Suites Hotel

Embassy Suites Seattle

Executive Hotel Pacific

Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Seattle - Prepare yourself to be wowed.

Fairfield Inn by Marriott

Four Seasons Hotel Seattle

Four Seasons Resort Whistler

Georgetown Inn

Green Tortoise by the Market Hostel

Guest House Bed & Breakfast

Hampton Inn & Suites

Hilton Bellevue

Hilton Seattle Airport & Conference Center

Holiday Inn Seattle

Holiday Inn Seattle Sea-Tac Int'l Airport

Homewood Suites by Hilton

Hotel Andra - Comtemporary, beautiful rooms, some with suites. Convenient to Jazz Alley and Pacific Norwest Ballet. Lola, the Greek inspired restaurant is on the street level. Wonderful food both dinner and breakfast. Reviewed by Colleen Johansen June 2010

Hotel Bellevue

Hotel Deca - Contemporary, great furnishings and appointments. In the University District. Starbucks on the lobby level. Great, warm front desk staff. Very helpful.

Hotel Monaco Seattle

Hyatt Place Seattle/Downtown

Inn At The Market

MarQueen Hotel

Marriott TownePlace Suites

Pan Pacific Hotel Seattle

Radisson Hotel Gateway Seattle

Red Lion Hotel

Redmond Marriott

Renaissance Seattle Hotel

Residence Inn by Marriott

Seattle Airport Marriott

Seattle Marriott

Seattle Pacific Hotel

Sheraton Seattle Hotel

Silver Cloud Hotel

Silver Cloud Inn Seattle

Silver Cloud Inns & Hotels

Staybridge Suites Seattle

Travelodge Seattle

Warwick Seattle Hotel

Westin Seattle

The Woodmark Hotel on Lake Washington

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Seattle Harbor Cruise

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11 Incredible Places for Whale Watching in California

Take a trip to these top whale-watching destinations to spot everything from orcas and blue whales to humpbacks and gray whales.

January 19, 2024

Each year, thousands of gray whales embark on a grand 6,000-mile journey from Alaska to Mexico—and you can have front-row seats to a part of it, either on their way to Mexico or back. The gray whales aren’t alone on these travels, either. Whale watching in California also entails sightings of humpbacks, dolphins, blue whales, orcas, and other exciting sea creatures migrating south. So, grab your binoculars and get ready for an incredible road trip ; whale-watching season in California is officially right around the corner.

When is whale-watching season in California?

You’ll experience cool sightings of marine life anytime you decide to visit the destinations on this list. But for an almost guaranteed sighting of whales, you should know the optimal times to go.

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.

Whale-watching season in Northern California also differs for different species. If you want to see gray whales and orcas, plan your trip between December and May. Humpbacks are more commonly seen from May through November. Your best chances of seeing blue whales are between July and October.

Another cool way to spot these magnificent creatures is to participate in California whale-watching festivals that take place every year. The Monterey Whalefest and the Dana Point Festival of Whales are a few of the state's most popular annual whale-watching events.

Where to go whale watching in Northern California

1. point lobos state national reserve.

Everyone knows that whale watching in Monterey is as good as it gets—and Point Lobos State National Reserve is further proof as to why. Often visited for whale watching in California , this can’t-miss state park boasts breathtaking beauty, fascinating wildlife, great hiking trails, and a team of friendly and knowledgeable volunteers who help you have the best experience possible. 

The water surrounding Point Lobos is home to sea lions, harbor seals, elephant seals; it is also a year-round stopping point for orcas. You don’t even have to go on a boat to spot whales at this state park in Carmel-by-the-Sea—they are clearly visible from the shore. While you’re here, make sure to drop by the Whalers Cabin, a historic building that has been restored to look like a true 1800s replica of the cabins inhabited by Japanese and Chinese fishermen hunting for whales.

2. Moss Landing

Also in Monterey County, Moss Landing is another top spot for whale watching in California. During peak season, close to 7,000 whales swim by the waters of Monterey Bay, attracting year-round whale-watching cruises. These tours are led by experienced captains who are delighted to introduce visitors to the fascinating and beautiful creatures who call the California waters home.

Moss Landing whale-watching tours also entail sightings of harbor seals, sea lions, dolphins, elephant seals, and other cool sea creatures. Sea Goddess Whale Watch and Blue Ocean Whale Watch are two awesome companies organizing tours that’ll definitely make your whale-watching trip a memorable experience.

3. Half Moon Bay

Whale watching in Half Moon Bay is another great experience if you don’t want to leave the shore. This NorCal destination is packed with beautiful trails, panoramic views, and great recreational activities for those looking for a quick escape from the city. Plan your next getaway to Half Moon Bay on a calm day, so you can get a glimpse of the whales from the waters as clearly as possible. Once you get there, head to Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park for prime viewing seats to the migration. Don’t forget to take your camera with you—you’ll snap some truly awesome pics.

If you’d like to get up closer to the whales, Oceanic Society provides awesome half-day tours from January through April that’ll do just that. You’ll also be supporting ocean conservation by taking part in this trip, as Oceanic Society is a nonprofit that aims to build a healthier environment for these magnificent sea creatures.

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4. Salt Point State Park

Salt Point State Park overlooks the Salt Point State Marine Conservation Area —a superb spot for whale watching in California. With a network of hiking trails running parallel to the Pacific Ocean and panoramic views around every turn, it’s harder not to spot whales while traveling here during the right season. A great trail to check out for whale watching is the three-mile Salt Point Trail, an easy hike with rewarding vistas.

Looking to take your whale watching trip up a notch? Turn your half-day adventure in Sonoma into a weekend getaway, and reserve a campsite in advance to stay overnight at one of the park’s campgrounds. No need to thank us later.

5. Bodega Bay

While gray whales are most easily seen in late winter and spring on their way north, they can be seen year-round along the Sonoma Coast. Plan a   getaway to Bodega Bay and take your hiking shoes with you —this is going to be an active adventure. The 1.7-mile Bodega Head Trail, which borders the edge of the peninsula, offers top-notch views of Sonoma Coast’s rugged beauty. 

After getting your desired dose of whale watching in Northern California, you can take advantage of the 360-degree views and sit down for a picnic near the water, taking in the beautiful NorCal sunset while listening to the relaxing sounds of the crashing waves.

6. West Cliff Drive

If you’re keener on making whale watching in California a quick drive-by activity, then this is the spot for you. West Cliff Drive is a picturesque route that parallels the Santa Cruz coast. Park your car, and walk or bike along this short trail to see gray whales and dolphins swimming by without having to get out on the water. This is also a great spot to go tide pooling, watch surfers (or surf yourself), and spend a relaxing day by the beach in Northern California.

If you have a bit of extra time to spare, you won’t regret stopping by the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum , in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse nearby. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of surfing and how it came to California from Hawaii.

Top spots for whale watching in Southern California

7. channel islands.

Experience whale watching in Southern California at its finest by heading to the scenic Channel Islands . Sign up for a whale-watching cruise that takes you from Ventura to the string of islands, and it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll have an eventful ride. Out of the 7 8 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises in the world, 29 have been spotted in the waters near the Channel Islands, and you too can be witness to them when you visit from December through April.

Channel Islands Whale Watching and Island Packers are two companies that organize great whale-watching trips in and around the Channel Islands area. After wrapping up whale watching in Ventura, take advantage of the land of sea, sand, and surf by exploring the offshore areas of this sunny SoCal destination.

8. Cabrillo National Monument

We are in the midst of the perfect time to go gray whale watching in San Diego. Head to the western overlooks of Cabrillo National Monument, and you’ll witness incredible panoramas from the park’s Whale Overlook and Old Point Loma Lighthouse —some of the best viewing spots along the San Diego coastline. If you’ve forgotten your handy binoculars at home, the visitor center has a limited number that you can borrow during whale-watching season.

After your spectacular whale-watching trip, head to downtown San Diego for a much-deserved shopping and eating break, then end your day at the breathtaking Balboa Park .

9. Dana Point

W hale watching in Dana Point is more than spectacular—it’s world-class. The coastal town is home to one of the greatest concentrations of dolphins and blue whales in the world. By booking a whale-watching cruise from Dana Point Harbor, you’ll be able to see gray whales and other amazing sea creatures in their natural habitat just minutes away from shore. 

Embark on your journey with Ocean Institute or Captain Dave’s , and be prepared to ooh and ahh your way throughout the day as you get an up-close look at the traveling whales.

10. Long Beach

For warmer-weather whale watching in California, go to Long Beach in October, which is an optimal time to see migrating whales and other marine life. W hale watching in Long Beach exposes you to majestic sights of Pacific gray whales, fin whales, humpback whales, orcas, blue whales, and more. 

Book your trip with Harbor Breeze Cruises , a company that’s been organizing whale-watching tours for decades, and you’ll have a grand time. The three-hour tours run daily from Rainbow Harbor and include tour guides on board, so you can have a fun, educational, and memorable whale-watching experience in SoCal.

11. Newport Beach

Are you visiting SoCal and looking for an oceanic adventure of a lifetime? Whether by land or sea, whale watching in Newport Beach is one of the top activities you can do on your trip. View giant blue whales during the summer and fall and gray whales in the winter and spring. Whenever you visit, make sure you have a camera on hand—you’ll want to snap a lot of pics.

There are numerous companies organizing whale-watching trips in Southern California from Newport Beach. Newport Landing Whale Watching and Davey’s Locker are both very well rated and organize guided daily trips almost year-round.

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