The Best Places for Whale Watching in Northern California

Is whale watching in Northern California on your bucket list? You’re in luck! This popular and unforgettable activity is available to visitors in the winter, spring, summer, and fall. An estimated 22,000 Eastern Pacific gray whales pass through Pacific Coast waters from December to March, and warm summer months are characterized by the migration of blue whales and humpback whales. From the cliffs of Mendocino to the San Francisco Bay, there are plenty of places to enjoy whale watching in Northern California. Here are a few of our favorites.

1. Eureka

Located on the shores of Humboldt Bay, Eureka, CA is the largest coastal city between San Francisco and Portland. Outdoor recreation is abundant, with activities like boating, sport fishing, kayaking, and whale watching all available close by. To see the whales from the water, charter a boat or take a kayak tour out of Trinidad Harbor. There are also countless sites to whale watch from land. The best ones are located high on the cliffs of Shelter Cove, Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Patrick’s Point State Park, and Table Bluff.

Where to Stay: Gingerbread Mansion Inn

Gingerbread Mansion is a romantic bed and breakfast with attentive and caring staff. The Mansion, often described by guests as the perfect fairy tale setting, is located in the preserved historic town of Ferndale, California and surrounded by the wild and majestic nature of California’s Lost Coast. Its long been recognized as an architectural landmark in California thanks to its mixture of Eastlake and Queen Anne styles, with gingerbread trim.

2. Mendocino

The quaint, coastal village of Mendocino is a beloved whale watching destination. There are plenty of great lookout points in the area, including Point Cabrillo Lighthouse, Point Arena Lighthouse, and Mendocino Headlands State Park. You can even whale watch at the annual Whale Festival in March. It’s a wonderful event that features whale exhibits, educational lectures, and delicious fare from local restaurants.

Where to Stay: Sea Rock Inn

Some of the most awe-inspiring views of the Mendocino coast can be enjoyed from the guest rooms at the Sea Rock Inn. Surrounded by flower gardens and ancient cypress trees, the buildings gently descend a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Before setting off to explore, enjoy a generous buffet breakfast and watch the waves crashing below. You might even catch a glimpse of a migrating whale!

3. The Bay Area

The waters bordering San Francisco are a seasonal hotspot for whale migrations. Humpback whales, blue whales, and gray whales have all been spotted here. The Oceanic Society offers full and half-day guided tours to the Farallon Islands, and San Francisco Whale Tours provides whale watching adventures year-round. It’s always a good time to visit!

4. Monterey

The Monterey Submarine Canyon in Monterey, CA, is a deep water canyon system that provides many benefits to year-round whale watching. Killer whales use the canyon as hunting grounds throughout the year, and humpback whales, blue whales, and a variety of dolphins and sea lions feed here in the summer months. Visitors can charter a boat out of the wharf for an up-close look at these incredible species.