Where to see gray whales in the United States

About this list

A common trap when looking for places to see gray whales in the United States is a trip sold as if the sighting were certain. Maptlantis lists only operators that name the gray whale as a target species, 3 of them. Places that only mention a chance sighting are left out. Regions on record: Monterey Bay & Fisherman's Wharf, Orange County & Dana Point and San Diego & Mission Bay Whale Watch. Encounters are split into boat-based watching. Two "gray whale tours" can differ completely in rules and price when one watches from the boat and the other puts you in the water. All 3 operators on this list publish prices on their own channels, so you can compare them directly. Estimated prices are not shown. Most listings give the season as Dec. Boats can still be canceled for sea and weather conditions, so check before you book. No operator can guarantee a wildlife sighting, and rules on approach distance and in-water permits differ by country.

Gray whale season

• Which months to see gray whales, by country7

Gray whales in other countries

• Mexico7

Other marine life in the United States

• Dolphins in the United States7
• Humpback whales in the United States4
• Sea lions in the United States4
• Seals in the United States4
• Blue whales in the United States3

Activities in the United States

• Scuba diving in the United States186
• Island hopping and boat trips in the United States55
• Snorkeling in the United States42
• Family water activities in the United States15
• Freediving in the United States15
• Marine life encounters in the United States12
• Surfing and SUP in the United States10
• Liveaboards in the United States5
• Beaches and water play in the United States3

Frequently asked questions