whale tour oregon coast

Sea Life Cruise

Our welcoming staff and crew offer a true Oregon adventure for visitors from far and near. Join our seasoned captains and a team of friendly naturalist guides, as we provide a fun and exciting 2-hour sea life cruise that focuses on Oregon wildlife aboard the deluxe 65ft DISCOVERY.

Depending on the time of year, we look for gray whales, harbor porpoise, seals, sea lions, pelicans, bald eagles, and an abundance of marine birds. Enjoy the incredible scenery of our bay, river, and coastline featuring the largest fishing fleet on the Oregon Coast, our historic bridge, two lighthouses, and fun activities for all ages!

Fun activities for all ages

Incredible sea life encounters, friendly & knowledgeable guides.

Group Tours

Marine Discovery Tours, proud members of the National Tour Association, the leading organization of professional tours in North America, offers group tours with many advantages for the tour operator. Contact us for scheduling information.

Tour groups love our "stretch limo" vessel with a heated cabin, seating for all, and complimentary coffee and tea! We're happy to offer exclusive charters for Special Events from reunions to Celebrations of Life/Ashes at Sea - take over the Discovery as your own!

Easy, flexible scheduling

Tour operator discounts, customized tour opportunities, bus parking & curbside drop-off, wheelchair access ramp.

School Groups

The DISCOVERY, staffed by enthusiastic marine educators, delivers powerful, hands-on student tours and experiences. Share aquatic habitats with your students from the best possible vantage – a 65′ floating classroom! The boat comfortably handles group sizes up to 49 with easy access loading and inside seating for all. Experience the estuary or ocean using the latest in navigation and research technology; including interactive labs, video microscopy, and on-board computer, rain or shine.

We welcome pre-K – 12th grade student sailors.

Accommodates different grade levels

Meets oregon common curriculum goals, can be adapted for students with special needs.

Marine Discovery Tours

(541) 265-6200.

 345 SW Bay Boulevard Newport, OR 97365 Email: [email protected]

Also at Anchor Pier on Newport's Bayfront...

Gray Whale Watching on the Oregon Coast

Twice a year, 20,000 whales pass by oregon’s coast on their migratory route in december and march. read on for elevated vantage points perfect for oregon coast whale watching., best oregon coast places for whale watching.

Cape Lookout State Park – Whale Watching Spot

Cape Lookout State Park, Whiskey Creek Road, Tillamook, OR, USA

Part of the Three Capes Scenic Loop, Cape Lookout is home to a trail that follows the headland for more than two miles with plenty of viewpoints along the way.

Ecola State Park – Whale Watching Spot

Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach, OR, USA

A popular spot for its scenic coastal views with and without whales. Ecola’s entrance road from Cannon Beach winds through a lush Sitka spruce forest before leading to a parking area with access to a picnic area on a grassy bluff and trails to the beach and cliffside viewpoints.

Neahkahnie Mountain – Whale Watching Spot

Neahkahnie Mountain, Oregon, USA

Stop at the historical marker along Highway 101 towards Manzanita. The multiple highway turnouts are lined with low rockwork walls. Hikers can climb the nearby Neahkahnie Mountain trails for even higher views.

Meet Whale Watching Experts – Whale Watching Spot

“Whale Watching Spoken Here” is put on by Oregon State Parks every migratory season. During the peak week of migration, volunteers are here helping visitors sight whales off the headlands. See all the volunteer-staffed locations!

FAQs: Whale Watching Oregon Coast

As the weather cools every winter, more than 20,000 Gray whales migrate south to the warmer waters off of Baja Mexico. In the spring, they will migrate back up north to Alaska, passing along the Oregon coastline again to the delight of whale watchers. If timed right and the skies are clear, getting a glance at whales passing by can be a breathtaking experience. Approximately 30 whales migrate along the Oregon coast every hour during peak southbound migrations, and about six pass by each hour during the northbound migration. Although Gray whales are generally about five miles off of the shore, they can be identified from afar by their spouts as they rise to the surface. Since these spouts shoot up around 12-feet high, they are easy to identify on a clear day and can be viewed even closer with the use of binoculars. If you’re lucky, you may even see a Gray whale launch out of the water to perform a breach!

Read on for elevated vantage points perfect for Oregon coast whale watching.

You should be able to see whales all along the North Coast during migrations, but there are three key destinations to be aware of that are staffed by volunteers during Whale Watch Weeks in late December and late March. This includes Fort Stevens State Park, Ecola State Park, and the Neahkahnie Mountain Historic Marker off of Highway 101. Especially from Neahkahnie Mountain (one of the highest points on the Oregon coast), visitors have expansive views of the ocean which makes it an excellent vantage point for spotting Gray whales as they migrate. But even from grassy dunes by the beach or from beachfront balconies, you should be able to find whales if you are looking for them during their travels. Even during non-migration seasons in the summer and fall, approximately 200 whales reside in the waters off of the Oregon coast to feed.

Is there whale watching on the Oregon coast?

Yes! The Oregon coast is a premiere destination for whale watching, with an abundance of Gray whales traveling up and down the coastline every year.

When is whale watching season on the Oregon coast?

Whale watching is best during key migration times for Gray whales. You can catch them heading south along the Oregon coast from mid-December to mid-January. The same whales can be seen returning along the Oregon coast in late March until June as they make their way north.

What to wear whale watching at the Oregon coast?

If you are whale watching on the North Coast during the winter months, bring plenty of warm clothes and rain gear to keep you comfortable as you view whales passing by from the shores. Weather in the spring is generally more pleasant but unpredictable, so bring layers to account for sun, wind, and rain.

Where to go whale watching on the Oregon coast?

While the entire Oregon coast has many whale watching destinations to choose from, there are a few key spots on the North Coast. This includes Fort Stevens State Park in Astoria, Ecola State Park between Seaside and Cannon Beach, and the Neahkahnie Mountain Historic Marker off of Highway 101. Cape Lookout State Park also offers impressive viewpoints that can be great for catching a glimpse of the whales.

Privacy Overview

Whale Watching Tour & Coastal Sightseeing Tour

Tomorrow’s tour is only available by calling. Phone: 503-475-0226 Toll free: 888 TOURS-33 (888-868-7733)

Whale Watching Tour & Coastal Sightseeing Tour

Whale Watching Tour combines a scenic coast tour with the excitement of seeing 40-ton gray whales up close on the Pacific Ocean! Learn about the whales of the world, and the natural and local history of Oregon. Many beautiful coastal photo/sightseeing stops throughout the day.

Full day $159 per person. Group discounts available for 30+ guests.

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One of the best kept secrets in Oregon is that there are traveling and resident California Gray Whales along the Central Oregon Coast from late March through November! The “Thar’ She Blows!” Whale watching tour is normally scheduled from 8 AM to 5:30 PM. Because we travel in small groups, options may be available to adjust our itinerary according to your wishes as the day progresses. The following is a sample itinerary.

8:00 AM: Pickup at your hotel or residence. Travel southwest from Portland through the picturesque farmland of the Willamette Valley, where many types of fruits, hazelnuts and flowers are grown. Pass through Oregon’s premier vineyard region, famous for its award-winning Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris wines. Link: Tour to The Coast

9:30 AM: Leaving the Willamette Valley, we’ll head into the Coast Mountain Range. During the drive to the coast, you will learn about the whales of the world, particularly about the California Gray Whales which we will be viewing up close from charter boats on the Pacific. We will stop for refreshments at the half-way point to the coast.

10:30 AM: Once at the coast, we’ll stop at a beautiful overlook to view the ocean from Siletz Bay. EcoTours carries 45-power spotting scopes on all tours in order to view wildlife such as the harbor seals and sea birds which sun and nest on the beach, offshore rocks and wildlife refuges of this area.

Links:  Siletz Bay  and   Boiler Bay Park

11:00 AM: We’ll board a 45-foot charter boat and head out into the beautiful blue-green waters of the Pacific Ocean. Gray whales feed in rich offshore waters only 50-100 feet deep, so most of our viewing is done within two miles from shore.

EcoTours’ guests have seen whales 95%+ of the times we’ve been out on the ocean, so our chances of spotting whales are excellent! Seeing, hearing, and even smelling the huge spouts of these enormous mammals is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will never forget! When Gray Whales dive down deep for feeding on the ocean bottom, their tail flukes extend into the air in an incredible and photographic show of acrobatics. Link: Coast Views with whales

12:15 PM: After our exciting ocean-charter boat ride, you will be shown the restaurants in the area and will have time for lunch on your own.

1:20 PM: After lunch, we’ll take in the local sights. Stops will be made for pictures at beautiful state parks between Newport and Lincoln City. The sights include spectacular beaches, rocky coastal cliffs and fir-clad mountains. Our last stop will allow guests to take a short walk on a beautiful beach.

Link:  Rocky Creek Park 

3:30 PM: Leaving the Coast, we’ll begin our trip back.  Socializing with our newly-formed friends makes the ride home enjoyable. The relaxing ride is scenic on the return also.

Link:  Cape Foulweather

5:30 PM: Arrive back at your hotel or residence.

If notified in advance, tour options include:

A stop at the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport, as well as the Whale-Watching boat ride. Due to length of time needed at the Aquarium, the sightseeing stops will be limited.

Note: This Whale Watching tour is seasonal.

The best season is June through October. We can also see whales in migration in late December-early January and from April-May. Because small craft advisories can occur unexpectedly and EcoTours of Oregon places the highest priority on safety, on rare occasions we are only able do the sightseeing parts of the tour. On these occasions, the charter boat portion of your tour will be refunded in order to compensate for staying ashore. This is done in the interest of safety. If weather reports project bad weather the night before the tour, EcoTours will try to notify guests by phone in advance to give the option of not going on the tour.

The cost of the Whale Watching & Costal Sightseeing Tour is $159 per person. This includes door-to-door transportation, the charter boat ride, and the interpretive naturalist services of your ecotour guide. Group discounts available for 30+ guests.

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No matter which tour you choose, EcoTours of Oregon guarantees an exceptional adventure, filled with breathtaking views and unparalleled experiences. Book your tour today and discover why EcoTours is the ultimate choice for nature and wine enthusiasts alike.

5 Best Places to do Whale Watching on The Oregon Coast

There are many places where you can do whale watching on the Oregon Coast but to anyone who is new to the experience, in my opinion the best way to do it is via a boat tour and in this post I’ll show you 5 established places that do it and I will also be including none boat tour spots to see them from as well.

The big reason why I recommend a whale watching tour vs looking for them yourself is because these tours are run by people who know the best times and seasons to go out to have better chances of seeing them and because these tours are also (often) on a large boat, it’s also going to be a much safer experience. 

Here are the 5 best boat tours that do whale watching on the Oregon Coast:

• South Coast Tours.
• Marine Discovery Tours.
• Tradewinds Charters.
• Dockside Charters.
• Whale research ecoexcursions.

3 of the choices above are actually located close to one another so you’ll have more choices in that particular area.

1) South Coast tours:

Port Orford (Oregon Coast).

$75 for each person (1-2 hour tour).

Description:

South Coast Tours is in my opinion the best option for whale watching on the Oregon coast because not only do they actually do that, but also because you also get to explore the coast by kayak and in the process see some of the many Oregon coast sea caves . Personally I like these types of interactive activities much more than being on a large boat and if you like this sort of stuff too, then I would strongly recommend South Coast Tours (they also have other options like snorkling).

Stuff to see nearby:

• Port Orford State Park (one of the best state parks in Oregon).
• The town of Port Orford is also pretty nice.
• Humbug Mountain State Park (good trails for hiking and mountain biking).

2) Marine Discovery Tours:

Between South Beach and Newport (Oregon Coast).

$35+ (they do group tours).

This is also a very highly rated whale watching tour on the Oregon coast you can try. It’s more classic in terms of you going out on a large boat to see the whales, but at the same time there’s also a variety of other sea life you can see including sea lions, crabs and much more. I included a link to Marine Discover Tours so you can see their pricing and options.

• The Yaquina Lighthouse ( see more lighthouses on the Oregon Coast ).
• Agate Beach.
• The South Beach State Park.
• The 2 towns themselves (South Beach and Newport).

3) Tradewinds Charters:

$30 and up (the pricing rises depending on how many hours you do the tour for). 

Depoe Bay is actually very famous for being the spot to do whale watching tours from and it’s probably one of the most crowded for it and while there’s multiple companies that do whale watching tours here, Tradwinds Charters is one of the most highly rated and like the other companies on this list, do more than just whale watching. There is also crab and salmon fishing among other services offered (those are more expensive). 

• There’s a whale watching center in the area (good museum and info area).
• Depoe Bay has a lot of restaurants and hotels in general to check out.
• There are also some nice parks like Rocky Creek and Boiler Bay in the area.

4) Dockside Charters:

In Depoe Bay as well (next door to Tradewinds Charters).

Also $30 and up (depending on the services).

This company is also equally as good as Tradewinds Charters and I added it to this list because not only is it close to the previous whale watching boat tour place, but it’s also a good plan A or B if the other one is filled up. The same kinds of services the previous one offered are pretty much the same ones Dockside Charters (whale watching boat tours and more). 

• The same exact places I recommended to check out near Tradewinds Charters also apply here.

5) Whale research ecoexcursions:

This is also available in Depoe Bay.

$45 and up for every person.

This whale watching boat tour is also available in Depoe Bay but is more mixed in terms of a few things:

• You do the whale watching tour on a smaller boat (smaller group size).
• You can also do kayaking and other variety options/tours.
• You can check out the Whale ecoexcursions site here for details.
• Again, same stuff as in the previous 2 options (Tradewinds Charters and Dockside Charters).

Best places to do whale watching on the Oregon coast (without boat tours):

If you don’t want to do a boat tour, there are options across the Oregon Coast where you can potentially see whales swimming closer to shore and they are honestly in the same places where most of the above companies host their tours:

• Depoe Bay (specifically the Whale Watching Center is good).
• Whale Cove (5 minutes south of Depoe Bay).
• Boiler Bay.
• Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corrider.
• Cape Sebastian Scenic Corrider (they also have a good hike like the Cape Sebastian trail , where you may see whales from depending on the season).

I would recommend the boat tours because generally speaking most of the whale sightings happen off shore and the people running these tours know where to go to get you there. Plus it’s better to be with other people/tours when you do these things because again it’s just a safer experience.

More questions about whale watching on the Oregon Coast:

When can you see whales on the oregon coast.

Nearly every single month is good for whale watching in Oregon but they do tend to swim closer to the coast around the summer-fall season which is when it’s usually better to see them.

What beach is best to see whales in Oregon?

Whale Cove and Depoe Bay Beach are some of the best places in Oregon to see whales from.

How much does whale watching cost in Oregon?

It usually costs $30 or more per person to do whale watching tours in Oregon. 

Related: More recommended things to do around the Oregon Coast!

1) Exploring more of the Oregon Coast ! Whale watching is certainly awesome but this area has more to see and do!

2) Checking out some of the many hiking trails on the Oregon Coast too.

3) Staying at some of the top camping spots on the Oregon Coast .

All of these recommendations including which places to check out for whale watching are going to help you have an amazing experience in Oregon and if you have any questions about this topic or anything else related, let me know!

Hi I'm Vitaliy, I love nature travel and this blog encapsulates all of my adventures and top recommendations of what to see (and what to avoid).

Learn More Here

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Whale Watching in Newport Oregon: The Best Place to Whale Watch

Whale watching in Newport is a one-of-a-kind experience. From standing at the top of the lighthouse looking out to see to dining while whale watching. There are so many amazing places to whale watch in this great city!

With its sheltered and easy access to the open ocean, Newport is one of the best places on the coast for spotting whales. 

You can easily make a day or weekend trip out of it. 

And with so much to see and do in Newport, you will not be disappointed. 

Best Time of Year to go Whale Watching in Newport

Oregon’s Newport is one of the best place to whale watch on the Oregon Coast.

The town is in Lincoln County and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Whale watching is a popular activity here, as whales can often migrate close to the shore. 

Several tour companies offer whale watching trips and deep-sea fishing adventures. There are also several spots along the coast to view whales from land.

The best time of the year to whale watch in Newport is between June and September.

In early summer the Oregon Coast's resident gray whale population starts to come back and can be seen all summer long.

However, whales can often be seen throughout the year.

If you are lucky enough to spot these whales you might see a whale spout in the water. This is the most common spotting. However, if you are extremely lucky you may see them breach. Breaching is when they jump out of the water.

The Best Place To Go Whale Watching in Newport on Land

There are several great spots to whale watch in Newport, Oregon. 

Some of the best places to see whales while on land include:

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area : 

Also known to locals as just Yaquina Head is a headland on the Oregon Coast home to diverse plant and animal life and various geological features.

It is located on the north end of Newport and offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. 

The area includes a variety of habitats, such as tide pools, sandy beaches, rocky shores, and grassy meadows. 

These habitats are home to many different plants and animals, including seabirds, seals, and sea lions. 

It is a great place to see whales throughout the year. 

Gray whales are the most common type of whale seen in the area, and they can often be spotted from the shore during their annual migration.

Humpback whales are also occasionally seen, and orcas have been known to hunt in the waters off Yaquina Head.

Visitors can often see whales from the cliffs or boats, and there are several whale-watching tour operators in the area.

Whales are an essential part of the marine ecosystem, and they play a vital role in the health of the ocean.

The Yaquina Head is one of the best places in Oregon to see these fantastic creatures in their natural habitat. 

Restaurants:  

Many restaurants have windows facing the ocean in Newport. 

In these restaurants, you can look out the windows and find some pretty impressive waves, birds, and, if you are lucky, whales. 

There is something special about dining while watching the ocean waves. 

It is a feeling of being away from it all. 

That is why many restaurants choose to have their windows facing the ocean so that diners can enjoy the view. 

I was recently at The Hill Buffet and Grill with my husband during dinner time. 

We happened to both look out at the ocean simultaneously and saw a pod of whales in the water spouting. 

We both were captivated as the whales breached and spouted. 

It was a special moment for both of us. 

You may not see this all of the time; however, if you look closely, you will see some beautiful waves and, if you are lucky, some spouting water which could be a whale. 

Parks 

Don and ann davis park.

If you look closely, you might also be able to see whales at the State Parks and Beaches located off Highway 101. 

One of my favorite places to watch the ocean and look for whales is across the street from The Newport Performing Arts Center at the  Don and Ann Davis Park . 

Here you can find a simple park with a fantastic parking area where you can sit right in your car and watch the ocean for as long as you would like.

I love sitting in my car on a rainy day and watching the ocean waves as they flow back and forth.

I have been lucky enough to see a whale spout twice here. 

The Don and Ann Davis Park have a gazebo and a memorial area. The monument area is worth walking into and offers shelter from the rain if you do not want to sit in your car and watch the waves. 

Beverly Beach State Park

Beverly Beach State Park is a beautiful oceanfront park located in Newport, Oregon. Situated on a scenic stretch of coastline, the park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy various activities at the park, including swimming, fishing, camping, picnicking, and hiking.

The park also features a large day-use area with a playground, picnic tables, and barbeque pits.

Beverly Beach State Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

In addition to its natural beauty, Beverly Beach State Park is also an excellent place to see whales. 

Whales can be seen from the shoreline, or boats depart from the nearby marina.

Whether you are looking for a place to relax or an opportunity to see some of nature’s most majestic creatures, Beverly Beach State Park is sure to please.  

The Best Place to Whale Watch in the Water

Newport tradewinds deep sea fishing.

Newport Tradewinds, Deep Sea Fishing, offers an exciting opportunity to go whale watching. 

The company provides a comfortable and safe way to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

Newport Tradewinds offers a variety of whale watching packages, so there is sure to be an option perfect for you.

During your whale watching tour, you will have the chance to see various whales, including blue whales, humpback whales, and orcas. 

You will also have the opportunity to learn about these amazing creatures from the knowledgeable guides on board. 

The whale-watching trip goes 1.5 hours, and ages five and under are free. 

Whale watching is an unforgettable experience that you will never forget. 

This is not an affiliate link. I have just found that sometimes it can be hard to pull up information on them, and I wanted to make it as easy as possible for you. 

Marine Discovery Tours

Marine Discovery Tours has put a lot of effort into ensuring every passenger has an enjoyable time on these 2-hour cruises. 

On the cruise, you have a chance to see gray whales, harbor porpoises, seals, sea lions, pelicans, bald eagles, and many marine birds. 

Suppose you are traveling with a large group of people, then you can group one of their group tours. It is a longer boat with a heated cabin, seats for everyone, and complimentary coffee and tea. 

This cruise is a bit more expensive than Newport Tradewinds Deep Sea Fishing and starts at $30.00.

However, this is still an unforgettable adventure that the family is sure to love.

Tips for Seeing Whales in Newport

When you go whale watching, you can expect to see some fantastic whales in their natural habitat. 

Some of the whales you may see include gray whales, humpback whales, and orcas.  

However, gray whales are more common than the other two varieties. 

When you visit Newport, make sure to dress warmly. 

The weather on the Oregon Coast can be unpredictable, and it can be cold and windy out on the water.

Make sure to bring a jacket, hat, and gloves. 

 When you take a whale watching tour, you can expect to see some fantastic whales in their natural habitat.

If you are going whale watching with a tour company, arrive early. 

The tour companies will usually allow you to board their boat about 30 minutes before the trip beings.

This will allow you to settle in and find an excellent spot to watch the whales. 

Whenever you look at the ocean, keep an eye out for a spout, you never know when one will appear. 

Using binoculars can also help you spot whales more easily. If you see a whale breaching the surface, you can use binoculars to get a closer look. 

Whales can often be seen migrating close to shore, so staying alert and keeping your eyes open is essential.

Scanning the horizon can help you spot whales more easily.

Look for swirls or splashes in the water, as these are often signs of a whale nearby.

Checkout Newport, Oregon for your Next Whale Watching Adventure 

If you are looking for a great place to whale watch on the Oregon Coast, Newport is worth checking out.

Several tour companies offer whale watching trips, and there are also several spots along the coast where you can view whales from land.

The best time of year to whale watch in Newport is between June and September. The Oregon Coasts resident gray whales are usually near enough to see from the coast.

So if you are lucky, you may even see a humpback whale or two.

Check out my blog post to learn all about whales .

Comment down below and tell us about your whale watching adventures.  

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Seaside Stories

• Tips for Whale Watching In and Around Seaside

February 24, 2021 | by Shellie Bailey-Shah

• Share this story

** Story updated for 2022 **

While it’s possible to see whales all year along the Oregon Coast, visitors tend to flock to Seaside and other coastal communities during whale-watching season, which runs during the spring migration from mid-March to June. 

Why Is Spring a Good Time to See Whales?

To improve your chances of seeing whales, we got some tips from an expert. Luke Parsons is an interpretive ranger with the Oregon State Parks’ Beverly Beach management unit, which oversees the Depoe Bay Whale Watching Center (currently closed due to limited staffing during COVID-19). He says that onlookers can expect to see 20,000 northbound whales migrating to their feeding grounds in Alaska starting in the middle of March.

How Are Things Different During COVID?

Due to the pandemic, the agency canceled its spring Whale Watch Week, traditionally set during spring break. This means trained volunteers and staff will not be available at whale-watching sites during spring break. However, visitors can post up along most of the 363 miles of Oregon coastline to spot whales on their own. Most Oregon State Parks viewing sites are open — just check the parks’ status map before you go, and know that some services may be limited. Find your favorite whale-watching site at the state’s official whale-watching webpage , and remember to follow all physical-distancing recommendations and have a blast wherever you go. 

What Kinds of Whales Will You See?

“In March and April, we’ll see the males and the females that didn’t give birth to a calf,” explains Parsons. “In May and June, we’ll see the mother gray whales with their new calves swim by.” 

But you’ll want to have your eyes peeled for more than just gray whales. According to Parsons, at least 10 species of whales swim off the Oregon Coast, including humpbacks and orcas.

How Can You Spot a Whale From the Shore?

“When I’m looking for whales, I first watch for spouts,” says Parsons. “This is when the whale comes up to breathe. Typically, a gray whale will spout about three or four times every five minutes, so I just slowly scan the water with my eyes. When I see something that looks like it was a spout, then I’ll use binoculars or a camera that can zoom in to try and get a better look.”

What Should You Bring for Whale Watching?

“I highly recommend binoculars for whale watching, as they can get you much closer to these whales, and you’ll be able to see much more of the animal,” advises Parsons.

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What’s the Best Weather for Whale Watching?

“The weather and ocean conditions are the most important thing to pay attention to when whale watching,” explains Parsons. “If the weather report calls for rain and wind, the chances of you seeing whales is much lower. If the weather at the Coast is clear skies and calm seas, you possibly could see dozens of whales in just an hour!”

What’s the Best Time of Day for Whale Watching?

Parsons recommends whale watching in the morning. The ocean tends to be calmer with less wind and sun glare on the water.

Where Are the Best Whale-Watching Spots Near Seaside?

You’ll find designated whale-watching stations at Ecola State Park between Seaside and Cannon Beach and the Neahkahnie Mountain Historic Marker along Highway 101, part of Oswald West State Park . If you head north, you can visit the station at Fort Stevens State Park . Check the parks’ websites before you go to see if there are any closures from storm damage. 

How Can I Watch Whales From Home?

You don’t even have to leave home these days to appreciate the beauty of a whale migration. The NOAA’s Ocean Today digital project features educational videos of gray whale migrations, with lots of close-up footage. NOAA Fisheries has compiled a lot of gray whale facts, which can be nice to review before or after a wildlife adventure on the Coast. Did you know an adult gray whale weighs about 90,000 pounds?

What About Other Types of Marine Wildlife?

Most whale-watching hot spots are also great for spotting other marine mammals and seabirds. In particular, t he offshore rocks visible from Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint are home to one of the largest colonies of common murres, and a favorite nesting spot for bald eagles and peregrine falcons. Other phenomenal birding sites in and around town include the Seaside Cove , Necanicum Estuary Natural History Park (where the Necanicum River meets the Pacific Ocean), the south end of Clatsop Beach (which includes Sunset Beach State Recreation Site ) and Fort Stevens State Park nearAstoria. 

For the smallest marine wildlife like sea stars, purple urchins, gooseneck barnacles, hermit crabs, limpets, sea snails and more, visit the tide pools at Ecola State Park , Oswald West State Park and others . Whenever you visit a sensitive marine ecosystem, make sure to tread lightly and take only pictures — leave the wildlife for others to enjoy. 

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Oregon Whale Watch

Winter 2023 and spring 2024 whale watch dates.

Winter 2023: Wednesday, December 27th through Sunday, December 31st.

Spring 2024: Saturday, March 23rd through Sunday, March 31st.

In 1978 Don Giles of the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport headed out to Yaquina Head Lighthouse with his binoculars and a great idea. Colleagues Bruce Mate and Denise Herzing were counting gray whales migrating past Yaquina Head. They confirmed what Don and others intuitively knew: Gray whale migrations along the Oregon coast peak during two special times of the year. The southbound migration happens during the winter holiday season, and the northbound has one of its two peaks near the end of March.

This knowledge motivated Don to create the Whale Watching Spoken Here® program. Since 1978, it has grown to become one of the most organized onshore whale watching programs in the United States.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department began organizing this program in the early 1980’s and has been the caretaker for the last 40 or so years. The original program name has been changed  to “Oregon Whale Watch” but the mission stays the same. We help tens of thousands of people visiting the Oregon Coast learn about gray whales and other cetaceans visible from the shore and most importantly, help people see them! 

Reasons for Success:

Location : Thanks to the 1967 Beach Bill, public access is protected along virtually the entire Oregon coastline. In addition, most of the whale watching locations are located in or near state parks.

Abundant whales : Researchers estimate that 18,000-plus gray whales now live in the eastern north Pacific area. About 30 whales per hour migrate past the Oregon coast during the peak southbound migration. By comparison, six per hour pass by on the northbound trip, but that return trip is spread over four months. Some 200-plus of these whales drop off the migration route and feed along the Oregon coast all summer.

Timing : The migrations peaks coincide nicely with times when many visitors are able to visit the coast. Since the main emphasis is on volunteers meeting and greeting visitors interested in whale watching, Don Giles and another colleague, Bev Lund, coined the phrase, “Whale Watching Spoken Here.”

Volunteers : We have had the joy to work with thousands of volunteers since the programs inception. Today we are thankful to have over 300 active volunteers that make this effort possible.

Daily Whale Total for Spring 2024 Oregon Whale Watch Event

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Spring Whale Watch Week Returns to the Oregon Coast

The arrival of March means it’ll soon be time for the annual spring migration of gray whales. Leaving the comfort of their warm lagoons in Baja, Mexico, the whales will make their way back north to Alaska, passing by Oregon on the way. One of the longest annual migrations of any mammal, the round-trip journey is more than 10,000 miles.

Late March is the best time for seeing the Oregon whale migration in spring. We’ve rounded up a list of where to go whale watching at the Oregon Coast, along with information and tips to help you plan a fun spring whale-watching trip.

This page may contain affiliate links where we earn a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Our suggestions are based on our own experience and thorough research.  Full disclosure .

Gray Whale Migration

In winter, the grey whales leave their homes in Alaska and migrate south to their breeding grounds in Mexico. It takes about 2 months for the average gray whale to get from Alaska to Baja, Mexico, covering about 100 miles a day.

Along the way, they face various dangers including boat collisions and entanglement in fishing lines and equipment. Once they reach Mexico safely, they’ll give birth to calves in the shallow, warm lagoons and bays of Baja.

In spring, the whales begin their migration back north to Alaska, accompanied by their new calves. 

When Is the Best Time for Whale Watching on the Oregon Coast?

Spring Whale Watch Week will take place March 23-31, 2024 , at various points along the Oregon Coast and whales will continue heading north through May.

During summer and fall, resident whales also regularly feed offshore in the shallow areas off Oregon’s coastline. Late May through October is the best time to see whales in Oregon that live and feed along the central coast.

The winter whale migration begins the last week of December and continues through January.

During Whale Watch Week in spring and winter, Oregon State Parks volunteers will be available at 15 locations along the coast to help visitors see whales from the shore and answer questions.

Things to Know Before You Go Whale Watching

Be sure to bundle up if you plan on whale watching outside for an extended time. The Oregon coastline and beaches are often windy and rain gear is essential to stay dry.

We recommend waterproof rather than water-resistant rain protection for the Oregon Coast for most of the year. See our guide to waterproof jackets and waterproof footwear for help on how to choose the right rain gear.

Spring Whale-Watching Essentials

Be prepared for spring whale watching at the Oregon Coast with these useful essentials to stay warm and dry.

• Waterproof windbreaker with a hood
• Warm  hoodie , sweater or  fleece
• Insulated gloves or hand warmers
• Merino wool socks
• Waterproof boots
• Ear warmers or beanie
• Waterproof binoculars
• Water-resistant backpack
• Insulated coffee mug with lid

See our complete packing checklist for spring

✔   Find the perfect fit with  Prime Try Before You Buy .

Where are the Best Places for Seeing Whales on the Oregon Coast?

Whale Watching in Depoe Bay, Oregon

Depoe Bay is the whale watching capital of the Oregon Coast and one of the best places to see whales in Oregon year-round. The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay is operated by Oregon State Parks and provides information, binoculars and unobstructed views of the ocean from the edge of the seawall.

In addition to Depoe Bay, Oregon State Parks recommends several other sites along the entire length of the coast in Oregon and SW Washington with a good chance of seeing whales. Each link provides more information about the area and a map follows for directions to each whale watching site.

Northern Oregon Coast Whale Watching

• Cape Disappointment, Long Beach , WA
• Fort Stevens State Park, Astoria
• Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach
• Neahkahnie Mountain, Manzanita
• Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, Oceanside
• Cape Lookout State Park
• Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area, Pacific City

Central Oregon Coast Whale Watching

• Inn at Spanish Head, Lincoln City
• Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint
• Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint
• Cape Foulweather – Otter Crest State Scenic Viewpoint
• Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
• Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, Newport
• Cape Perpetua, Yachats
• Cook’s Chasm, Yachats

Southern Oregon Coast Whale Watching

• Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, Reedsport
• Shore Acres State Park, Coos Bay
• Face Rock State Park, Bandon
• Battle Rock Wayside, Port Orford
• Cape Ferrelo, Brookings

Oregon Coast Whale Watching Map

Just click the map below to get directions to each whale watching location. You can also download a map (pdf) from Oregon State Parks.

How to Spot Whales on the Oregon Coast – What to Look For

Gray whales measure nearly 50 feet long and weigh up to 90,000 pounds. Their tails alone are nearly 10 feet wide. Two small eyes are located near the corners of the mouth on either side of the head and their mottled gray skin is often covered in white barnacles, cyanids (whale lice) and scars.

Comfortable in shallow water, gray whales migrate close to shore. They are primarily bottom feeders, but they need to come to the surface frequently to get fresh air.

To spot whales from the shore, scan the surface of the water for puffs of mist that rise up to 12 feet high and then slowly dissipate. Keep watching near the mist cloud and you may see a whale’s head or tail pop up, and if you’re lucky you may see a full breach. 

Whale Watching Tours in Depoe Bay

Whale watching tours in Depoe Bay are also available if you’re interested in seeing whales up close. There are several reputable charter boat companies operating out of Depoe Bay harbor, including Dockside Charters , Whale’s Tail Charters , Whale Research EcoExcursions and Tradewinds Charters . If you’re prone to seasickness, keep in mind the Oregon seas do get rough and trips may be dependent on current weather conditions.

Plan an Oregon Coast Whale Watching Trip

Oregon Coast Hotels for Whale Watching

🐳 Best Hotel Balcony for Whale-Watching: Watch for whales from your cliffside balcony at the Inn at Otter Crest located about 10 minutes south of Depoe Bay, Oregon. Guests love the secluded location and incredible views.

👍 10/10 Excellent “What a view! We had the unit highest up the hill, so it was a long walk from the parking lot. However, the view of the ocean was magnificent! We saw a whale spouting as soon as we stepped out on the balcony! The room was spacious and very clean.”

The Inn at Spanish Head in Lincoln City has been a fixture on the Oregon Coast for more than 50 years. All rooms are oceanfront with large windows and unobstructed views of the ocean.

🚶‍♂️ Close to Whale Watching Center: SCP Depoe Bay is an eco-friendly lodge offering modern rooms with a view and it’s located right across the harbor from the Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay. Guests love the positive atmosphere and lovely view of the harbor.

👍 10/10 Exceptional “This was super cute! Love that it was dog-friendly and had a great view of the harbor. We loved the granola and coffee they provided in the morning.”

Vacation Rentals Near Depoe Bay

Vacation rentals are also a good option for lodging in Depoe Bay, including this oceanfront corner condo  where you can spot whales from your living room or patio.

Enter your travel dates to see the latest deals on hotels and vacation rentals near Depoe Bay and book now for spring Whale Watch Week. Oceanfront hotels do tend to fill up during peak whale-watching seasons in Oregon, especially on weekends.

❗ Remember to be safe while you’re out on the Oregon Coast. Storms and high tides can bring huge and dangerous waves.

Essential Beach Safety for the Oregon Coast

The ocean waves in Oregon are very powerful and unpredictable. Please enjoy the beaches safely and follow these guidelines.

• Check the tide tables before visiting the beach so you don’t get trapped by incoming tides. Visit about 1 hour before low tide, as the water is still receding.
• Wear sturdy footwear . Rocks are often slippery at the beach.
• Watch out for sneaker waves on the Oregon Coast. These waves appear out of nowhere and are dangerously fast and powerful. Don’t turn your back to the ocean. 
• Rip currents are strong undertows that can sweep you off your feet. Admire the ocean from a safe distance or stay in shallow, calm areas.

Stay back from cliff edges as erosion can cause the ground to become unstable. Beware of falling rocks, heed warning signs, stay behind safety fences and stay off jetties.

Enjoy a safe, and hopefully sunny 🤞, Oregon Coast whale watching experience and we hope you spot lots of whales. 

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• / Whale Trail Sites

View from Cape Perpetua

A whale spouting off cape perpetua.

Learn more about the history and background of The Whale Trail in OR.

The Whale Trail is a collaborative effort. Find out who our OR partners are.

TRAVEL TIPS

Check out these handy tips before you explore The Whale Trail in OR.

VIEWING GUIDE

View our guide on when, where, and how to watch marine animals from shore.

With 22 sites and counting in Oregon State, the Whale Trail provides access and best tips to viewing marine mammals. Explore the sites using the interactive map below or click the button to find a filterable listing of sites, amenities, and commonly seen marine mammals.

Be sure to visit Oregon State Parks to learn more about Whale Watching Spoken Here® including volunteer trainings and activities. Help count whales on the coast, and be part of one of the longest-running and most successful citizen science programs in the world.

• All Regions
• OR Central Coast
• OR North Coast
• OR South Coast

Battle Rock Wayside Park, Port Orford

Boiler bay state scenic viewpoint, cape arago viewpoint.

Cape Falcon Viewpoint

Cape ferrelo viewpoint, cape kiwanda state natural area, cape lookout state park, cape meares state scenic viewpoint, cape perpetua, cook’s chasm turnout, devil’s punchbowl state natural area, don davis park, ecola state park, cannon beach, face rock wayside scenic viewpoint, harris beach state park, otter crest state scenic viewpoint, rocky creek state scenic viewpoint.

Sea Lion Caves

Shore acres state park, umpqua lighthouse state park, whale watching center state park.

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

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Rarely Documented on Oregon Coast: Baby Gray Whale Killed by Orcas Revives Tribal Tradition

Published 5/10/24 at 3:55 p.m. By Andre' Hagestedt , Oregon Coast Beach Connection

(Bandon, Oregon) – Experts have assumed it's been going on for decades: a certain set of transient orcas (ones that don't regularly live off these waters) have been coming through in the spring and hunting baby gray whales. However, it was rarely seen and cases of them washing up dead after such attacks weren't really documented.

Now, for the second time it's been thoroughly documented, as a baby gray whale washed up at Bandon this week with all the signs of being hunted down by orcas.

The incident created a happy ending for some local tribal members, however.

The whale came ashore at night around May 26, with plenty of bite marks.

Jim Rice, head of the Marine Mammal Stranding Network, drove from Newport down to Bandon to examine it. He confirmed to Oregon Coast beach Connection:

“Yes - it’s a gray whale calf that recently died due to killer whale predation,” Rice said.

Last year had a similar incident, where what is apparently the first time such a calf kill was documented (at least publicly), when a baby gray came ashore around Otter Rock near Depoe Bay.

That incident marked a startling first: numerous witnesses saw and filmed a pod of this special branch of transient orcas attacking a mother gray and that calf. The calf was eventually killed after hours of epic fighting on the mother's part. Dozens Watch and Document Orcas Attack, Kill Baby Whale on Oregon Coast: More Videos.

What was also revealed to the general public – which disturbed many – was that orcas don't always eat what they kill.

“Orcas often only consume a small amount of each carcass they’ve killed,” Rice said.

Many times, they're doing practice runs or teaching their young how to hunt.

The baby calf did go to good use, however, as the southern Oregon coast Coquille tribe was able to utilize it for a thousands-of-years-long tradition. Coquille Tribal culture holds that this is a blessing from the creator, and in a ceremony the tribe has not performed in some time, they ensured the blubber and bones would not go to waste.

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Gray whale washes ashore in Oregon after orca attack

BANDON Ore. (KPTV) - A juvenile gray whale washed ashore at Tish-A-Tang Beach in southern Oregon this week after being attacked by orcas.

According to a statement by the Coquille Tribe, the tribe will handle the removal of the whale.

Jim Rice, the Marine Mammal Stranding Coordinator with Oregon State University, came to the scene to help find out what led the 18-foot whale to wash-up near Face Rock on Monday, May 6.

The next afternoon, the Oregon Parks and Recreation department reached out to the Coquille Tribe and several tribal staff members took over responsibility of the mammal’s remains during a ceremony on the beach.

Gray whale deaths have cultural significance to the Coquille people.

“We are going to do what our people have done for thousands of years,” said MJ Parrish, one of the tribal members who helped in the retrieval of the whale. “We are going to celebrate this blessing we have received. We are going to respect this great gift and utilize everything we can.”

“We will make certain not to waste its sacrifice,” Chair Meade said, adding that in Coquille Tribal culture an act of this sort is seen as a gift from the creator. “To our knowledge, this is also the first time in generations that our tribe has been able to experience this kind of ceremony. So, this is a truly wonderful gift. And not only for the whale blubber and the bones that we will be able to use. As we prepare to celebrate 35 years since being officially restored as a federally recognized tribe, it is so important that we are able to take this opportunity for the cultural education of tribal members and especially for our youth.”

This area of the southern Oregon coast is of ancestral importance to the tribe.

Copyright 2024 KPTV-KPDX. All rights reserved.

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