When can you see orcas in California?

Asked by: Katy Johnston

Although killer whales have a decent population, this species in particular can be a bit more challenging to pinpoint, because they are more diversely spread out geographically. With that being said, the best time to see killer whales in California is typically during the spring, between the months of February and May.

What is the best month for whale watching in 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.

Are there killer whales near California?

Most killer whales observed in Monterey Bay are “transient” whales. “Transient” whales typically prey on marine mammals such as harbor seals or sea lions. It is estimated that close to 200 “transient” orcas reside off the California coast.

What time of year is good for whale watching in California?

The best time is during the annual migration of grey whales, from December to April, though whales visit these waters year round. Between May and October you might see blue whales, which can grow to be more than 30 metres long.

What time of year are orcas in Monterey Bay?

Although April and May are the peak sighting months for Killer Whales in Monterey Bay, they may be encountered at any time of the year. We typically sight Killer Whales about 2-7 times per week during this Spring period, as sightings vary annually.

Where is the best place to see blue whales in California?

The only place to see them is in the wild. And Dana Point, California, is one of the best places in the world to see blue whales. During the summer months there are more blue whales off our coast than anywhere else in the world. Blue whale watching in Southern California is typically May through October.

When can you see whales in Monterey Bay?

While often spotted alone or in pairs, if food is abundant feeding groups of 40-50 can be encountered. 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).

Do orcas go to San Diego?

However, San Diego is one of the few cities along the coast that does have a more dense population of killer whales compared to other parts of the world. There is a higher chance at spotting orca whales in San Diego during feeding times when their prey has a large population as well.

Can you see orcas in Los Angeles?

Orca (Killer) Whale – Whale watching near Los Angeles, Orcas are encountered on occasion in the waters off greater Los Angeles but when they are encountered they have an outstanding reputation with the public and are quickly identified.

Are there orcas in Laguna Beach?

The killer whales were first spotted offshore at Laguna Beach. At around sunset, they had made their way to Newport Beach. At first, those aboard the 95-foot Dana Pride thought they were dolphins. Then they realized what they were seeing.

Are there orcas in Southern California?

While orcas are rare to see in Southern California, they do make a few appearances each year to the amazement of many lucky whale watchers that happen to be on boats during that time.

Where can I see orcas in the West Coast?

San Juan Island is considered the BEST place to view orca whales. Salmon, which are their prime source of food (about 95% of what they eat), travel up and down the west coast of San Juan Island and outlying areas.

Are there orcas on the West Coast?

Along the coast of the Pacific Northwest, West Coast Bigg’s killer whales number around 400 individuals. They have a vast home range which extends from Alaska to Northern California, and with a tendency to be continuously on the move, it’s difficult to track every single whale in the population year-to-year.

Can you see orcas in San Francisco?

The great thing about whale watching in San Francisco is you have the chance to admire the marine wildlife almost all year long.



Whale Watching San Francisco by Season.

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

The best time for whale watching in San Francisco is from December – May, as you’ll have the best opportunity to see more than one type of whale. That said, you can spot other species during different months, so you shouldn’t discount an opportunity just because it doesn’t fall within this time frame.

Are there sharks in San Francisco Bay?

Sharks of San Franscisco Bay Area



Around 11 species of Sharks are found in the Bay itself – including Leopard Shark, Pacific Angel Shark, Brown Smoothhound, Broadnose Sevengill, Soupfin Shark. The Leopard Shark is the most common in the Bay. Small Spiny Dogfish are found swimming on the bottom of the Bay.

Can you see whales from the Golden Gate Bridge?

If you want to view whales without getting on a boat, then the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco may be the way to go. Several humpback whales were spotting enjoying the water under the bridge in one of California’s most iconic bays.

Where can I see whales in San Francisco?

If you want to see whales, head to the tip of Point Reyes National Seashore from December through February. According to whale experts, an astounding 94 percent of migrating Pacific gray whales pass within one mile of this protected peninsula some 27 miles north of San Francisco.

What time of year is best for whale watching?

When is the best time to view the whales? The best time of year to view Orca whales is in May through September. If you’re looking for humpback whales then we suggest September through January.

What months do whales migrate?

All along the coast, gray whales can be seen from November to April as they make their way southward, with peak migration usually occurring around January. They head north again in spring, but are generally too far out to sea to spot from land, making winter the best time to catch a glimpse from shore.