Whale Watching: Where to Go and What You Should Know
Whale watching is an experience that I find impossible to compare to anything else. Everything is still when you’re out on the water and everyone is looking around excitedly. Then suddenly BAM, a whale explodes from the water and it’s impossible to tear your eyes away. It's crazy to see these massive creatures in real life, especially knowing that they're mammals just like us!
If you’re thinking of making a trip out of it, the good news is that there are many places around the world where you can see these giants in their natural habitats. Check out this list to find the whale watching destination that’s right for you, and don’t skip my handy tips that everyone should know before they go.
Baja California, Mexico
From January to April, the gray whales come to the shallow lagoons of Baja California to mate and give birth. What makes this place special isn’t just how close you can get to the whales, it’s how curious the whales can be. In places like San Ignacio Lagoon, they sometimes feel playful and approach the boats themselves. Tours here are tightly regulated, which is a good thing. The experience should feel respectful towards the whales, not intrusive. If you're planning a trip, book early and be ready for rustic accommodations. Oh, and bring layers for the boat. It might be hot in the desert sun all day, but it still gets pretty chilly out on the open water.
Hervey Bay, Australia
If you’re looking for a whale watching spot down under, you’re in luck! From July to November, Hervey Bay becomes a kind of rest stop for humpback whales on their migration south. What’s beautiful about this spot is that the whales aren’t in a rush. Mothers and calves linger, play, and sometimes approach the boats on their own. The water’s calm, the boats aren’t packed, and there’s a gentleness to the whole experience that doesn’t disturb the whales. Plan to stay a few days in case of weather delays. And pack sun protection! Even in the winter, the Australian sun is no joke.
St. Andrews by-the-Sea, Canada
Tucked away in New Brunswick, just across the border from Maine, St. Andrews by-the-Sea is a charming little town where whale watching feels personal and unhurried. From June to October, you’ll find minke, fin, and humpback whales cruising the Bay of Fundy, and sometimes the rare North Atlantic right whale will even make an appearance. The tides here are the highest in the world, and they bring nutrients that draw whales in close to the shore. Tours are small, guides are local, and everything moves at a more relaxed pace. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a laid-back, family-friendly intro to whale watching. Bring a thermos of something warm, you’ll want it when you’re out on the chilly Atlantic ocean.
Husavík, Iceland
If you’re looking for a more adventurous whale watch, go to Husavík in the summer. You’ll see humpbacks, minkes, and sometimes even blue whales against a stunning backdrop of fjords and cliffs. The town of Husavik itself is tiny, which adds to the charm. Boats are often smaller and quieter than those you’ll find elsewhere, which makes for a more peaceful outing. The air is crisp, the light is golden at night, and yes, it gets cold! So bundle up, even in July. Bonus tip: book the early morning whale watching tour if you want fewer crowds and calmer seas.
Vancouver Island, Canada
From May to October, the waters around Vancouver Island are full of orcas, humpbacks, and even gray whales. The town of Victoria or nearby Telegraph Cove makes a great base. The orcas are what most people come for, especially the resident pods in Johnstone Strait, but you’ll be surprised by how much else you’ll see from sea lions to bald eagles and even seals. Book with a company that has hired a marine naturalist onboard and you’ll learn so much more about all the marine life you get to see. Also, bring binoculars. You’ll use them more than you think.
Kaikōura, New Zealand
Kaikōura is special because it is one of the only places where you can see sperm whales all year-round. Thanks to a deep underwater canyon just offshore, the whales come in close to hunt squid. The whale watching tours here are well-run, with a strong emphasis on education and conservation. You also have a pretty good chance of spotting some dusky dolphins, orcas, or even albatrosses while you’re out on the boat. If you're prone to seasickness, be warned that waters can be rough. But if you're up for it, you're in for something wild and unforgettable. Just remember your motion sickness pills before boarding. Trust me.
Mirissa, Sri Lanka
This isn’t a destination you’ll find on most lists, but between November and April blue whales pass close to the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Mirissa is the hub for these whale watching tours, and when conditions are good, you might see the biggest mammal on Earth in just a few hours. That said, you really need to do your homework. Not all tour companies operate responsibly so look for ones that follow speed limits and keep their distance from the whales. Bring sunblock, water, and your patience. These tours start early and can run long, but when a blue whale finally surfaces, it’s worth every second of waiting.
Some Extra Advice Before You Go
The Season Matters: Whales migrate across thousands of miles, so they aren’t always going to be spotted in the same places. Do some research before you go and make sure that you’re booking a tour when whales are actually in the area. Most places will only run tours during whale season, but it’s always good to double check.
Dress For The Ocean: Just because it’s warm and sunny on land, doesn’t mean it’s going to be warm and sunny when you’re out on the boat. Whale watching boats catch wind, and the ocean has its own chill. Dress in layers and wear waterproof clothing or clothing that you don't mind getting a little wet, especially if you’re going out on a little boat like a zodiac.
Be Ready For Sea Sickness: Some people get motion sick in boats, and that’s totally okay! But if you’ve never been out on the water before, you might not know how you’re going to do. My advice is to prep like you’re going to get sick just in case. Bring some ginger candies to chew and grab a seat outside, never below deck, so that you can watch the horizon. That way you won’t spend your once-in-a-lifetime trip with your head in a bag.
Support The Right Kind of Tour: As you may have guessed, not all whale watching tours are created equal. Some play music too loud or don’t keep a safe enough distance from the whales. Look for companies that follow local regulations, keep safe distances, and hire naturalists or marine biologists as guides. These tours might be a bit more expensive, but you’ll learn more and they’re better for the whales.
More Than Just A Boat Ride
At the end of the day, whale watching isn’t just an item on your bucket list. It’s a chance to catch a glimpse of something older, quieter, and far more mysterious than anything you see in your day-to-day lives. You might see a tail flick or a full breach. Or maybe just a distant spout. But either way, you’ll walk away having had an amazing day on the water. So go where the whales are, go at the right time, and go with an open heart.