What is the best time of year to whale watch in Northern California?


What is the best time of year to whale watch in Northern California? In Northern California, your best time to spot gray whales and orcas is December to May. For humpbacks, visit May through November, and for blue whales, the largest animal on Earth, plan your stay sometime between July and October.


Which whale watching tour is best?

16 incredible whale watching trips in the USA
  • Bar Harbor, Maine. ...
  • Depoe Bay, Oregon. ...
  • Eastsound, Orcas Island, Washington. ...
  • Virginia Beach, Virginia. ...
  • Cape May, New Jersey. ...
  • Provincetown, Cape Cod, Massachusetts. ...
  • Oak Harbor, Deception Pass State Park, Washington. ...
  • Kailua-Kona, Big Island, Hawaii. Kona Snorkel Tours.


What is the best month for whale watching in Monterey?

BEST time to see humpback whales in Monterey Bay: March through November, with peak sightings generally during July and August (though every season is different).


Is whale watching in Monterey worth it?

We were able to see over 20 humpback whales, dall's porpoises, and a small mola mola, not to mention a ton of sea lions feeding among the whales. The boat was nice and not crowded, and the company did a great job making sure everyone followed proper safety protocol for covid-19. I would definitely recommend!


What are the odds of seeing a whale on a whale watching tour?

While most outfits guarantee a 90 percent chance of a spotting a whale, you might consider booking an extra trip if it's at the top of your bucket list. Some companies offer a complimentary outing if your trip ends sans sighting—check out the policy before booking.


Is it whale watching season in Monterey?

We have two seasons for whale watching in addition to pelagic seabird trips on selected dates: Winter and early spring (January to March) Whale Watch for Gray Whale, Killer Whales and Dolphins. Late spring, summer and fall (April to December) Whale Watch for Humpback Whales, Blue Whales and Dolphins.


Is it better to whale watch in the morning or Evening?

Whales are generally most active in the morning and late afternoon, making these the best times to spot them. During the morning, whales tend to be more active as they start their day and may feed. As the day progresses and the sun sets, whales become more active as they prepare to rest for the night.


Can you see whales from shore in Northern California?

Whales can be spotted off the shores of Point Reyes almost year-round! Many of the whales are here for only part of the year, so different seasons provide different whale watching opportunities.


What is the best month for whale watching in San Francisco?

There isn't one specific season for whale watching in San Francisco because whales are known to frequent this area throughout the year. However, December to May mark the time of the year when you are bound to see the most types of whales.


What is the best time of day to see whales in California?

If you're planning a whale-watching trip in California, you may wonder what time of day whales are most active. Whales are generally most active in the morning and late afternoon, making these the best times to spot them. During the morning, whales tend to be more active as they start their day and may feed.


Is whale watching better in San Francisco or Monterey?

It's easier for whale-watching tours to see them in Monterey Bay because the canyon is so close to the beach, while the Farallon Islands require a miles-long boat ride from San Francisco, and the water still may not be deep enough there, Black said.