whale watching tours everett wa

Island Adventure Whale Watching

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Island Adventure Whale Watching - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Whale Watching Tours

Three kids with binoculars (Photo taken by guest from 2011 flickr competition)

Three girls (Photo taken by guest from 2011 flickr competition)

Breaching Humpback (Photo by Bart Roulon — www.bartrulon.com )

Eagle (Photo by Bart Roulon — www.bartrulon.com )

Gray Whale tail (Photo by Naturalist Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

The San Juan Islands (Photo by Captain Shane Aggergaard)

Seal face (Photo by passenger Doug Shurman)

Sunset (Photo taken by guest from 2011 flickr competition)

Naturalist Brooke McKinley talking (Photo taken by guest from 2011 flickr competition)

Bow picture (Photo taken by guest from 2011 flickr competition)

Sunset (Photo by Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

Lighthouse and Mt. Baker (Photo by Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

Osprey (Photo by Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

Eagle with Rockfish (Photo by Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

Juvenile Eagle (Photo by Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

Island Adventures is so serious about finding whales for our guests, we guarantee sightings on every whale watch tour.

Island Adventures Whale Watching Tours are a great value for such a world class experience. We are easy to get to; our Everett location (March to mid-May) is only 30 minutes from Seattle, our Anacortes location (April to October) is an easy 90 minute drive north of Seattle, with no ferry needed from Downtown Seattle or Vancouver B.C.

Our Port Angeles location (mid-May to October) is strategically located for the best whale watching opportunity on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula just minutes from Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge, Edis Hook, and the Washington Coast. Island Adventures Whale Watching Tours has been voted #1 in Western Washington by King5, Evening Magazine (the local NBC affiliate) 5 years in a row!

As defined by the Seattle Aquarium, we are in core-orca whale viewing waters as soon as we leave the marina!

Guaranteed Whale Sightings See up to 4 whale species on any tour!

• March 5 – May 8 3 hour tours departing from Everett Best time for Gray Whales
• April 2 – November 26 4.5–5.5 hour tours departing from Anacortes Best time for Orcas, Minkes and Humpback Whales
• May 14 – October 31 4–5 hour tours departing from Port Angeles Best time for Orcas, Minkes and Humpback Whales
• November 2016 – March 2017 4–5 hour tours departing from Seattle Best time for Orcas, Humpbacks and Gray Whales
• Private Charter Opportunities

The Island Explorer

…Is the Best Wildlife Viewing Vessel in the Area!

The Island Explorer was designed specifically for whale watching, as opposed to a ferry, dinner cruiser, or converted fishing boat like most of the other tour boats in the area. Our boats have lots of amenities to make your trip more comfortable, including two on-board restrooms, a large heated cabin with over-sized windows, a snack bar with food for purchase, and a custom-designed interior with cushioned booth style seating. There are full walk around upper and lower viewing deck and our guests enjoy 100s of outside rail viewing space. The quality of our boat will enhance your entire whale watching experience.

All guests will receive a complimentary 64 page color wildlife viewing guide with species checklist . It is our goal each and every day to check off as many as possible! Our viewing guide also includes a map of the San Juan Islands area, the Salish Sea, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Saratoga Passage and north end of Puget Sound. Because of our vessel speeds and departure locations, we are able to experience more wildlife and island scenery on our way to and from the whales than other tours in the area. Other wildlife typically sighted includes harbor seals, California & steller sea lions, Dall’s & harbor porpoises, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, vultures, and a huge variety of seabirds. Birders love our trips as they often get to add a few species to their life list.

When is the best time to go?

Plan your trip according to the wildlife you’d like to see, using our chart below.

20 years of Creating Magical Memories

There are many companies to choose from while searching for the right whale watching tour. Since 1992, company founders Shane and Jennifer Aggergaard have been committed to offering our passengers much more — striving to exceed our guests’ experience each and every day. Island Adventure’s offers the best boats, best locations, guaranteed whale sightings and lots of extras, but it is our highly qualified staff that really separates us from the rest. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is eager to provide outstanding service from start to finish. On board, we’ll entertain and educate you throughout the tour, in hopes that you take away magical memories — and a renewed respect for nature. Many, many lives have been touched by witnessing whales in the wild. We feel privileged to be able to provide this unique and wonderful opportunity.

We guarantee whale sightings!

We saw whales on:

• 193 of 198 tours in 2002!
• 221 of 230 tours in 2003!
• 205 of 210 tours in 2004!
• 269 of 274 tours in 2005!
• 479 of 505 tours in 2006!
• 244 of 256 tours in 2007!
• 258 of 264 tours in 2008!
• 239 of 248 tours in 2009!
• 222 of 233 tours in 2010!
• 262 of 266 tours in 2011!
• 212 of 225 tours in 2012!
• 260 of 266 tours in 2013!
• 363 of 375 tours in 2014!
• 429 of 443 tours in 2015!

Our 96% success rate speaks for itself. See how 2024 is shaping up in The Whale Report .

Our route each day is determined by the morning’s whale information from our sighting network, other wildlife in the area, and the weather. It’s not determined by a ferry schedule or pre-determined route. Our goal is to show our guests as much wildlife as possible every day. View larger map.

Experience a Tour

Hear a recording made on our boat or watch a video.

• Everett March – mid-May  » Best time for Gray Whales
• Anacortes April – October  » Best time for Orcas, Minkes,     & Humpbacks
• Port Angeles Mid-May – October  » Best time for Orcas, Minkes,     & & Humpbacks
• Seattle November 2016 – March 2017  » Best time for Orcas,     Humpbacks & Gray Whales
• Private Charters
• Prepare for Your Trip / Common Questions
• Onboard Lunch, Snacks and Gift Items
• Experience a Tour in Our Photo Gallery
• Benefits of our Location
• Our Vessels
• Current Whale Pod Locations from Space
• Our Passengers Come From Far and Wide!
• Whale Watching Etiquette
• Explore Anacortes
• The Truth About Aerial Whale Spotting
• Everett March – mid-May Best time for gray whales
• Anacortes April – October Best time for orcas, minkes, & humpbacks
• Port Angeles mid-May – October Best time for orcas, minkes, & humpbacks
• Seattle November 2016 – March 2017 Best time for orcas, humpbacks & gray whales
• Rates & Schedule
• Online Reservations
• The Whale Report
• Our Guarantee
• Photo Gallery
• Gift Certificates

Main Office: 1801 Commercial Ave, Anacortes WA 98221 [email protected] 1-800-465-4604

• © 2024 Island Adventures, Inc.

Great Deals in 2016!

• » 3 hour tours from Everett    Adults as low as $39 reg. $69
• » 4.5-5.5 hour tours from Anacortes    Adults as low as $79 reg. $109
• » 4-5 hour tours from Port Angeles    Adults as low as $69 reg. $99
• » Children ages 3-12 as low as $29 on all tours

SAve 20% off all tours now through June 15! Use code "spring20" at checkout!

EXPERIENCe THE WILD

126 Reviews

Looking for ADVENTURE?  Join us for the most action – packed whale watching tour the Pacific Northwest has to offer!

Together, aboard our Zodiac-style vessel, we’ll search for whales, porpoises, sea lions, eagles, and more, surrounded by breathtaking views of the San Juan Islands and beyond. Exhilarating boat rides and EPIC wildlife encounters make our tours unforgettable experiences!

ADVENTURE awaits…book your trip today!

Whale and wildlife adventure

Private whale and wildlife adventure.

full day Whale and wildlife adventure

2024 full day tour dates: july 12 august 2 september 12.

Sounder is our fast and fun, open-air, zodiac-style vessel! Boasting speeds of up to 55 miles per hour, trips aboard Sounder are perfect for reaching a wide radius of locations on your Washington whale watching excursion! With a max capacity of only 17 passengers, Sounder offers more personal experiences that you won’t find on larger boats. There is a spacious restroom onboard, in addition to cushioned bench seats and provided cruiser suits to keep you warm and comfortable! If you are seeking an action-packed adventure, Sounder is the boat for you!

EPIC CUSTOMER Reviews

Customer reviews.

From Bellingham

From Everett

From Seattle

Adventure is closer than you think!

Find us on the 'gram, adventure awaits.

Contact info

Phone: (564) 900-6565

Email: [email protected]

Address: 2201 Skyline Way #203

Anacortes, WA 98221

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Home of Guaranteed Whales Tours and Guaranteed Orca Tours with over 98% Success rate over the last 10 years!

Whales Guaranteed

Whale Watching Tours

Experience the best of the San Juan Islands on our whale watching tours departing from Anacortes, Lopez Island, and Orcas Island. Join us on high-speed vessels with experienced captains and knowledgeable naturalist guides. Our tours cater to friends and families, offering a chance to witness diverse wildlife including Sea Otters, Harbor Seals, Bald Eagles, and more, all while cruising through the dynamic scenery of the San Juan Islands.

Whale & Orca Tour

Available March to November

99% Success on All Whales

75% Chance of seeing Orcas

Prices starting at $119 per Adult

3-4 hour Tour

We prioritize finding Orcas, but we might also encounter Humpbacks, Grays, or Minke whales

See Whales or Orcas

or come again FREE!

Departure Locations:​

Closest to Seattle! No Ferry Required!

ORCA  ONLY Tour

@TrevorDerie

Available Memorial Day to Labor Day

98% Success seeing Orcas

Prices starting at $199 per Adult

3-5 hour Tour

For people especially passionate for Orcas

Longer trip lets us go the extra  mile(s) to see Orcas wherever they are in the region

See Orcas or come again FREE!

Learn more about our Classic Tour here

Learn more about our Orca Only Tour here

Chances of Seeing Each Kind of Whale:

Orcas can be seen in the San Juan's all yea r, and are the most frequently seen whales on all of our tours.

Humpback and Gray Whales migrate through the Salish Sea on their journey between colder feeding areas in the north in summer and warmer breeding areas in the south in winter.

Minke Whales can be seen here year round.

Kayak Tours

Kayak Tours are fun for everyone from beginners to experts in our stable two-person kayaks  with all the necessary gear and a professional guide.

Our Point Doughty Tour leaves from the North end of Orcas Island. No kayak experience is required for this tour and our guides will assist with gear adjustment and basic instruction. We spend about three hours on the water

visiting rugged Point Doughty State Park where

we commonly see harbor seals, porpoises,

sea stars, and bald eagles.

For more experienced paddlers we offer a full day tour of Sucia Island checking in at 9:00 AM where you will be transported to the island on a high-speed powerboat and enjoy a leisurely paddle of this state park. This remote uninhabited state park island is the gem of the San Juans, full of coves and beaches and known for fossils and abundant wildlife. Pack a picnic lunch and water for your excursion that returns to Orcas Island around 5:00 PM 

Kayak Rentals

Kayak Rentals are available by reservation only and come with all the necessary gear for a self guided excursion.

With single and tandem kayaks available in 4 hour, 8 hour, 24 hour, 3 day, and one week increments Outer Island offers options to meet your needs.

For guests not launching or picking up from our office we offer delivery and pick up twice daily at 8:30 AM and 6:30 PM 

Private Custom ChARTERS

With departures throughout the san juan islands, bellingham, and anacortes areas we can pick up your group and get you on the water today.

Whale Watching, fishing, island hopping, photography, fine dining, and lighthouse tours are just some of the possibilities for your custom charter. You can focus your trip on one activity or do a combination of activities on one trip. Give us a call to design a charter tailored to your group.

Join us on our newest tour!

Bird Watching Tours

Head out with our experienced Captains and Naturalists for a 4 hour Birding Tour in search of all the amazing bird species that the San Juan Islands have to offer. We adventure out to Smith Island in search of Tufted Puffins as well as other locally known birding hot spots.

Tufted Puffin on San Juan Islands Bird Watching Tour

Rhinoceros Auklet on San Juan Islands Bird Watching Tour

Bald Eagle on San Juan Islands Bird Watching Tour

Epic Whale Watching Adventure!!

Stephanie C

No trip to Washington is complete without a whale watch and Outer Islands Excursions is a great choice. Capt Jim, and naturalists Delaney and Sophia were friendly, accommodating and knowledgeable hosts. We saw Orcas, a humpback, seals, sea lions, porpoises and eagles. The boat was a perfect size with both inside and outside viewing opportunities. Such a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the San Juans.

Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best whale watching tours near seattle.

Experience the whales and other wildlife of the Pacific Northwest on these tours.

Best Whale Watching Tours Near Seattle

Getty Images

Whales are one of the best natural sights to see during a Seattle trip.

The water off the northwestern coast of Washington affords ample opportunities to see a wide array of wildlife, including orcas and other whales. The following tours, which U.S. News determined to be the best based on the input of both travel experts and tour-takers, will take you to the ideal viewing locations. Not all of these trips leave from the Seattle area, and some may be best suited for daytrips. Most tour options depart from the San Juan Islands, which sit north of Seattle. To get to the islands, you'll need to drive about 90 miles to Anacortes, Washington, then jump on a ferry. Whale watching in this area generally occurs year-round, with peak viewing opportunities from May to October.

Note: Some whale watching trips have minimum age requirements.

Outer Island Excursions

Price: Adults from $109; kids from $79 Duration: 3.5 hours

Cruise at speeds up to 50 mph (depending on the boat) as you search for whales, porpoises, seals, otters, birds and more. Along with the sights, passengers praise the funny, knowledgeable crew.

Tours depart daily from Orcas Island (in the San Juan Islands) at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. beginning Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and at 1 p.m. in spring (mid-April through May) and fall (September to mid-November). Tickets cost $109 for adults, $99 for seniors 65 and older, $79 for youths 3 to 17 and $10 for infants (ages 2 and younger). Custom and private excursions are available year-round with multiple departure points from mainland locations and other islands. Outer Island Excursions also conducts charter fishing trips and kayak outings.

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2

San Juan Safaris – Classic Whale Watch and Wildlife Tour

Price: Adults from $125; kids from $89 Duration: 3 to 4 hours

This tour concentrates on the resident orcas that spend half the year around the San Juan Islands (though other animals are likely to be seen as well). The onboard naturalists win praise from reviewers for their knowledge and amiability.

Boats depart daily from Friday Harbor near the ferry landing on San Juan Island at 12:30 p.m. from early March through October. In addition, sunset tours that depart at 5:30 p.m. are available from late May into mid-August. Tours last from three to four hours. Tickets start at $125 for adults and $89 for children 2 to 17. (Infants ride for free.)

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Courtesy of Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours

Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours – Western Explorer II

Price: Adults from $149; kids from $139 Duration: 3 hours

The San Juan Islands afford ample opportunities to see a variety of whale species, including orcas, humpbacks and minkes, as well as porpoises, sea lions, seals and various birds. The 3-hour tour on the Western Explorer II takes 25 travelers on an aluminum boat that can travel up to 40 mph. A unique trait of this tour boat is that it's powered by low-sound water jets, reducing the vessel's underwater sound footprint. A captain and naturalist guide each trip. Previous passengers found the experience informative and fun.

The tour is offered April through October at 12:30 p.m. During the summer months (May through September), tours take place at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets are $149 for adults and $139 for kids ages 7 to 12. Insulated two-piece suits for each guest are included in the price. This tour is not recommended for kids younger than 6, guests in late-term pregnancy or those with back or neck injuries. If no whales are spotted, Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours will provide a voucher for a future outing. The company also offers private and sea kayaking tours.

View & Book Tickets: Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours

Sea Quest Expeditions

Price: From $99 Duration: 3 to 6 hours

Enjoy a close-range view of the marine life that surrounds the San Juan Islands on a full- or half-day kayak outing. In addition to orca, gray and humpback whales, porpoises and sea lions can also be observed in this area. Reviewers consistently call the tour guides exceptionally knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna. However, others expressed disappointment that they did not see more whales.

Trips take place from March through December. Full-day trips last about six hours; half-day trips generally run three hours (including travel time to the launch point and instructions on kayak use). The shorter outings start at 8 a.m. and range from $99 to $129, while the full-day trips commence at 11 a.m. and range from $119 to $149. Sea Quest Expeditions also offers nighttime kayaking tours and multiday kayaking/camping combination trips in Washington, as well as tours operating out of Alaska and Mexico.

View & Book Tickets: Sea Quest Expeditions

Bart Rulon | Courtesy of Puget Sound Express

Puget Sound Express – Guaranteed Whale Watching Tours

Price: Adults from $145; kids from $105 Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Departing from Edmonds (about 20 miles north of Seattle), these four- to five-hour boat rides take passengers to the San Juan Islands to see the whales and other sea creatures that inhabit the Salish Sea. Puget Sound Express' boats feature indoor seating and outdoor viewing decks, as well as a cafe that sells snacks, which tour-takers tend to appreciate. Passengers describe the crew as knowledgeable and personable.

Tours are offered from the end of April through December. You can expect to depart at 9:30 or 11:30 a.m. or 2:30 p.m., but note that these times vary with the seasons. These trips are suitable for all ages; tickets start at $145 for adults and $105 for children ages 2 to 10. (Infants cruise free of charge.) Specialty tours focusing on gray whales are also offered in March and April.

View & Book Tickets: Puget Sound Express

Maya's Legacy Whale Watching

Price: From $149 Duration: 3 to 8 hours

Maya's Legacy Whale Watching is ideal for nature lovers, as the company takes a "whole ecosystem approach" to its outings – meaning you'll learn about more than just whales on this excursion. Tours, which are available year-round, explore the Salish Sea in the vicinity of Seattle and Vancouver Island , British Columbia. Travelers typically enjoy ample wildlife sightings and appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable crew.

Boats leave from two San Juan Island locations: downtown Friday Harbor near the Washington State Ferry landing and Snug Harbor Resort on the island's west side. Tours vary in length and are priced accordingly, starting at $149 for three-hour tours, $199 for four-hour tours and $299 for full-day trips (six to eight hours). Multiple start times are available and options vary by season. Maya's Legacy Whale Watching specializes in small-group outings; the number of participants may range from six to 16, depending on the particular excursion and the customized vessel used. Private charters are also offered.

View & Book Tickets: Maya's Legacy Whale Watching

San Juan Excursions – Whale Watching Tours

Price: Adults from $125; kids from $115 Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Cruise on a converted U.S. Navy search and rescue boat on this three- to four-hour journey amid the San Juan Islands. Tourgoers praise the crews for being exceptionally accommodating and dedicated to finding whales.

The 65-foot boat, which features indoor and outdoor viewing areas, leaves from near Friday Harbor's ferry terminal at 9 a.m., noon and 1:30 p.m. daily from early April through mid-October. Tickets cost about $125 for adults, $115 for children ages 3 to 12 and $95 for infants. If no orcas are spotted on a given trip, patrons receive free passes for a second chance at seeing the whales on a different tour. Private charters and kayak tours are also available.

View & Book Tickets: San Juan Excursions

Crystal Seas Kayaking

Price: From $125 Duration: 3 to 7 hours

Rather than using motorized vessels, this tour has whale watchers paddle themselves in kayaks. Past patrons describe the observable wildlife as abundant and the guides as personable and entertaining. What's more, no prior kayaking experience is necessary.

Tours are available daily from April through October. Tickets start at $125 for three-hour and sunset tours and $219 for full-day tours lasting seven hours. The price includes use of all kayaking gear, as well as round-trip transportation from Crystal Seas Kayaking's office in Friday Harbor to the starting point at Snug Harbor. Trips depart several times a day beginning at 9 a.m. and continuing hourly until about 6:30 p.m. from March through September. From September to mid-October, short tours are offered between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., while full-day tours depart at 11 a.m. The company also has multiday and family tours.

View & Book Tickets: Crystal Seas Kayaking

San Juan Outfitters

Acquaint yourself with orca, humpback and minke whales, among many land and sea creatures, on this tour around the San Juan Islands. The 35-foot boat used on this family-friendly outing can accommodate up to 24 passengers and features a 360-degree viewing deck. Tour-takers consistently call the naturalists and guides informative, professional and amusing.

Three- to four-hour trips depart from both San Juan Island's Roche Harbor and Friday Harbor. The Roche Harbor tour leaves at 2 p.m. Thursday through Sunday between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The tour from Friday Harbor departs at 12:30 p.m. between March and October, and an additional tour runs at 5:30 p.m. between Memorial Day and mid-August. Tickets cost $125 for adults and $89 for children ages 2 to 17; infant tickets are free. San Juan Outfitters also conducts kayaking tours.

View & Book Tickets: San Juan Outfitters

Frequently Asked Questions

Whale enthusiasts can see orcas and gray and humpback whales year-round. Orcas usually travel through the San Juan Islands from May through October.

For whale watching in Seattle, you should dress in layers. While some tours may provide a raincoat or jacket for guests, it is wise to bring your own coat or jacket in case. Gloves, scarves and waterproof, closed-toed shoes are also ideal.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Seattle Tours
• The Best Seattle Boat Tours
• The Best Hotels in Seattle
• The Best Things to Do in Seattle

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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! 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!

Seattle Wildlife & Gray Whale Watching Tour

Save big on wildlife and whale watching, may - oct, 2024.

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."

- Marty B., Olympia, WA TripAdvisor

"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."

- Van Nita S. Facebook

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• Includes one-way or round trip travel via the Clipper ferry.
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Home » Guide to Whale Watching in Washington

Guide to Whale Watching in Washington

From the Olympic Coast to the Salish Sea, here are some of the best places to spot whales.

Whale watching in Washington is some of the best in the world, offering the opportunity to spot various species like humpbacks, orcas, minke whales, and gray whales. You’ll never forget the first time you spot a fin, hear a whale spout water vapor 12 feet into the air, or see one breaching before it crashes back into the sea.

While summer and early fall are your best bets for whale watching in Washington, there’s never a 100% guarantee of a sighting. While some species migrate, transient orcas and minke whales can usually be spotted year-round. To improve your chances, consider using an app like Whale Alert , which tracks whale sightings in real time (and helps reduce collisions between boats and whales). Additionally, the Orca Network viewpoint map shows reported whale sightings while the Whale Trail provides an interactive map of recommended viewing sites that includes whale-specific information and tips.

Hoping to spot some of these majestic mammals yourself? Here’s where to see whales in Washington, from land and sea.

Responsible Whale Watching in Washington

Washington’s Southern Resident orcas are extremely endangered, with only 73 remaining as of July 2022. Stress from noise, pollution, and vessel traffic can negatively impact whale breeding, feeding, and socializing. Whether whale watching from land or boat, be quiet, cautious, and give whales plenty of space. The Whale Museum in Friday Harbor has handy guidelines specifically for kayakers, and you can also view regulations and tips from Be Whale Wise.

When choosing a tour company, consider members of the Pacific Whale Watching Association (PWWA), a consortium of ecotourism companies committed to education, conservation, and wildlife viewing. All tour companies mentioned in the listings below are PWWA members.

Where to See Whales in Washington

San juan islands.

An iconic archipelago in the heart of the Salish Sea, the San Juan Islands are renowned for whale watching. Its waters are home to two types of orcas, plus humpbacks, minkes, and gray whales. Peak season is considered mid-June through early September, whales can often be spotted from April through October. On the west side of San Juan, Lime Kiln Point State Park , also known as Whale Watch Park, is one of the best places in the world to spot whales (especially orcas) from shore. A Discover Pass is required within the park.

Alternatively, San Juan Kayak Expeditions guides half- and full-day kayak tours in the Lime Kiln vicinity for unbeatable front-row seats. Spot whales from a 42-foot sailboat with All Aboard Sailing or opt for San Juan Safaris , which runs more traditional whale-watching boat tours – in both large vessels with heated cabins and zodiac-style boats alfresco.

In Friday Harbor, The Whale Museum has two stories of exhibits that delve into the natural history of marine mammals with a special focus on the Southern Resident orcas of J, K, and L Pods living in the local waters.

East of San Juan Island is U-shaped Orcas Island, which also enjoys plenty of whale sightings. Deer Harbor Charters offers boat tours with naturalists that leave right from Rosario Resort and Deer Harbor Marina. 

While Seattle is an easy jumping-off point for whale watching in Washington’s San Juan Islands, there are some stand-out opportunities right in the city. Alki Beach just south of downtown is considered an orca hotspot. Southern Resident orcas swim by in summer and fall. Transient orcas can be seen year-round. Located on the beach, Kayak Alki rents kayaks for self-guided adventures and sometimes offers whale-watching kayak tours during Orca Action Month in June.

FRS Clipper is the only whale-watching boat tour that leaves right from downtown Seattle. They have a naturalist on staff, and if guests don’t see a whale, they can go on another tour for free.

Also See: 20+ Ways to Explore Seattle and Beyond

Anacortes, which connects visitors to the San Juan Islands via ferry, is a Washington whale-watching destination in its own right. Situated on the northern tip of Fidalgo Island, Anacortes is surrounded on three sides by water, making it a fabulous place to whale watch. For landbound whale watching, Washington Park is the place to be. Visitors can hike its Loop Road and scan the sea for humpback, minke, gray, and orca whales in Burrows Pass. Rosario Strait, and Guemes Channel. You can often spot Southern Resident orcas right from the ferry terminal. Take a boat tour to catch a close-up glimpse. Blue Kingdom Tours is owned by a local couple and offers tours in their Zodiac-style boats custom-crafted for the Salish Sea.

Deception Pass, Whidbey Island

Deception Pass, a small gap between Whidbey and Fidalgo islands, is bridged by the iconic Deception Pass Bridge. Every year between April and September, orca, humpback, minke, and gray whales cruise its waters, feasting on the abundant salmon runs and thriving on the deep upwellings from swift tidal currents.

Besides being spectacularly beautiful and the most visited state park in Washington, Deception Pass State Park is a choice spot for viewing whales from land. West Beach, North Beach, and West Point (where those beaches meet) have excellent vantage points, plus gorgeous hiking trails. The 0.8-mile, paved Sand Dunes Interpretive Trail along West Beach overlooks Rosario Straight and is ADA-compliant. Alternatively, the 1.8-mile North Beach Trail is a forested trail hike with side paths to the beach. A Discover Pass is required when visiting the park. To whale watch from the water, hop on a high-speed, catamaran-style jet boat with Deception Pass Tours ; their dock is right in the state park.

While in the area, the Langley Whale Center on Whidbey Island is worth a visit to learn more about marine mammals and get the skinny on the latest sightings. In April, Langley and the Orca Network host the Whales Festival and Parade which welcomes and celebrates the gray whales migrating north.

Also See: 3 Island Day Trips from Seattle by Ferry

Fort Worden Historical State Park, Port Townsend

Fort Worden Historical State Park overlooks Admiralty Inlet – the entrance to the Puget Sound and a passageway for whales chasing chum salmon and other delights. From Point Wilson Lighthouse at the very tip of the isthmus, peer north across the Strait of Juan de Fuca, an important whale thoroughfare.

Another good option in the park is half a mile south at the Port Townsend Marine Science Center (PTMSC), a whale aficionado’s dream. From the PTMSC pier, you can spot Southern Resident or Transient orcas and gray whales or, if it’s a lucky day, humpbacks and minkes. Beyond spotting whales, visitors can listen to them. A hydrophone is stationed on the pier as a part of the Salish Sea Hydrophone Network . Speakers on the pier play live whalesong in real time. Within the PTMSC museum, find a hanging whale skeleton and displays about the Salish Sea; their aquarium showcases local fish and invertebrate species. A Discover Pass is required within the park.

For offshore exploration, Puget Sound Express offers boat tours from Port Townsend from spring through fall, the primary whale season.

Port Angeles

On the Olympic Peninsula, the Salt Creek Recreation Area just west of Port Angeles has prime vantage points on top of the bluffs, with possible sightings of humpback, gray, orca, and minke whales from May through October. Much of the water and tidal zones of the park are protected as a marine sanctuary, therefore rich in food for whales. The bluff’s edge near the stairs leading to Tongue Point is a fabulous spot to scan Juan de la Fuca, an important passageway that connects the Pacific Ocean to the inland waters of the Salish Sea. Crescent Bay is a favorite haunt of the gray whale, and Salt Creek’s western shoreline is a great place to search for their hallmark heart-shaped tails. 

Right on the waterfront in the center of town, learn about marine mammals, seabirds, tidepools, and deep-sea canyons at the Olympic Coast Discovery Center . From there you can walk, bike, or drive about four miles onto Ediz Hook – a 3-mile sand spit – for more stellar viewing opportunities. For a guided boat tour,   Puget Sound Express has trips that leave from the Port Angeles wharf.

Seabrook and Westport

The charming community of Seabrook rests atop rugged bluffs overlooking the Pacific, making it a fantastic location for gray whale watching in Washington from spring through fall, with a peak in May. The Northwest Glen neighborhood perches over the Northwest Glen Conservation Area, offering a solid vantage point. North of town, Pacific Beach State Park is a great option during spring, when whales feed on the smelt and anchovies that spawn near land, giving visitors the chance to see whales up close. A Discover Pass is required when visiting.

A little over an hour drive south is Westport, which sits on a finger of land jutting into Grays Harbor where it opens to the Pacific Ocean. On the west side of town, Westport Light State Park is part of the Whale Trail where you can best glimpse gray whales from March through May. A Discover Pass is required within the park. In the Westport Marina , find a viewing tower with multiple platforms and telescopes perfect for scanning the sea. Top off a visit by stopping by Westport Maritime Museum , which showcases a full whale skeleton.

During April and May, migrating gray whales pass through La Push, feasting on the cornucopia from the estuary of the Quillayute River and the bay’s nutrient-rich sediments around First Beach. At the northern end of First Beach, there’s a popular Whale Trail site where gray whales and orcas frequent, especially in April and May. And visitors might have the pleasure of seeing the Quileute Tribal School’s public Welcoming the Whales Ceremony on First Beach in spring.  A few miles offshore, the continental shelf drops steeply, creating an upwelling that attracts whales. Humpback, fin, and blue whales are increasingly sighted.

Just north of the river mouth from La Push is Rialto Beach , a gray whale-watching hotspot within Olympic National Park. As a bonus, the beach’s rugged beauty isn’t hard on the eyes: huge sea-tumbled logs, sea stacks dotting the horizon, and rocky beaches. Due to popularity, aim to visit during the week. The Olympic National Park entrance pass is required.

Cape Disappointment

At the southwestern tip of Washington State, Cape Disappointment is a finger of land that stretches into the terminus of the estuary where the Columbia River joins the pounding waves of the Pacific Ocean. At 4 miles wide and almost 50 miles long, the estuary brims with food and nutrients that draw migrating gray whales, among other marine life.

Cape Disappointment State Park covers most of the narrow isthmus and is hauntingly beautiful with its sheer basalt cliffs, explosive waves, and wind-swept forests. The views from the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and North Head Lighthouse are the best for whale spotting, especially with binoculars. Gray whales are the main attraction here, with the best viewing opportunities from March through May when the weather is clearer and the whales swim closer to land and more slowly with calves tagging along. Harbor porpoises can be seen reliably all year long.

Around the bend at Fort Columbia State Park on the Columbia River, humpback whale sightings coincide with the smelt runs in the spring and summer. They swim up into the Lower Columbia to feast. Due to the size constraints of the river, onlookers can get close-up views of tail flapping and breaching.  A Discover Pass is required within both state parks.

Also See: Columbia River Gorge to Coast Road Trip

Point No Point Lighthouse

Point no Point Lighthouse , the oldest lighthouse in Puget Sound, sits on a spit of land on the Kitsap Peninsula. Strong currents flowing around the point attract baitfish, salmon, and the whales that feed on them. Anywhere near the lighthouse at the east end of the point is a great place to see whales navigating Admiralty Inlet. Southern Resident orcas can be seen in fall and winter, and they’re known for swimming very close to the shore. Humpback, minke, and gray whales are occasionally seen as well. For hikers, the 2-mile Point No Point Trail explores the shoreline and passes a viewing platform.

Whale Watching FAQ

What are the best months for whale watching in washington.

“Generally, April through October is best for whale watching in Washington,” says Tracie Merrill, education curator at The Whale Museum in Friday Harbor. “Though if you’re lucky, you can see killer [orca] whales and minke whales year-round.”

March through May is the best time to see northbound gray whales, whereas Southern Resident whales follow the bounty of salmon runs and can be best seen April through September.  Humpbacks are frequently seen May through June, though they can be spotted throughout the spring and summer. Transient orcas and minke whales can be seen year-round. The Whale Trail details migration patterns for different species as well as the best times to visit specific Whale Trail locations.

But take “peak whale seasons” with a grain of salt. “Whale behavior and travel patterns have changed considerably in the last two decades,” says Erin Gless, the executive director of the Pacific Whale Watching Association who references their 2022 Sightings & Sentinel Actions Report .  “It’s possible to see any type of whale at any time of year nowadays.”

Transient orcas and minke whales are often spotted year-round. Because migration patterns aren’t exact and pods can be spread out, December through February can be a time to see whales migrating through places like Alki Beach in Seattle and Cape Disappointment – though choppy winter seas can make viewing more difficult.

What Kind of Whales Can You See?

Orcas (southern residents and transients).

Southern Resident orcas are 26-32 feet long and are distinguished by very large dorsal fins – 6 feet on males and 2-3 feet on females. They feed on fish, preferably Chinook salmon, and are seen from May through September, aligning with the salmon runs. These endangered whales organize themselves in matrilineal pods known as J, K, and L – so if you see one, you might be looking at four generations of orcas.

Transient (or Bigg’s) orcas are genetically distinct and hunt marine mammals. Bigger than the Southern Residents, they can be spotted year-round and are distinguished by pointed dorsal fins compared to the Southern Resident’s rounded ones.

Gray Whales

In the winter, gray whales, which can grow between 43-46 feet long, breed and birth in Baja California before migrating 14,000 miles back to Alaska in spring – the longest migration of any animal. March through May is the best time to see them; they tend to be closer to land and slower when traveling with new calves. A group of about 300 resident gray whales summer in the Northwest instead of returning to the Bering Sea. Keep an eye out for their distinctive heart-shaped tails.

Humpback Whales

Despite their large size, which can reach 45-50 feet long, humpbacks are the most acrobatic, often engaging in aerial displays, tail lobbing, flipper slapping, and peduncle throws. Spring and summer are the best seasons to view them as they migrate up to British Columbia. Look for large columnar spout blows, small, knobby dorsal fins, and large pectoral fins (one-third as long as their entire length). Recently, there has been a “humpback comeback” in the Pacific Northwest, making sightings more frequent.

Minke Whales

Minkes don’t have full migration patterns and can be spotted year-round, though they are most commonly seen in summer. Note that they can be tricky to spot because they don’t hang around the surface much and their spouting is low and bushy. At 25-27 feet long, they are smaller but also fast, reaching speeds up to 16-21 miles per hour.

Can you see whales from shore in Seattle?

While whales have been spotted from the pier in downtown Seattle, Alki Beach in West Seattle is known as the best place in the city to see whales from shore, especially in fall and winter.

About the Author

Ellee Thalheimer is a freelance writer and guidebook author based in the Pacific Northwest who has contributed to publications like Lonely Planet Guidebooks,  Alaska Airlines Magazine , and  Adventure Cyclist Magazine . When she can’t get outside, she writes fiction, drinks local IPAs, and perfects her handstands.

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