Whale watching is an experience that doesn’t always guarantee a sighting, but it is undoubtedly one of the most impressive sights you’ll witness in your lifetime. Although these magnificent creatures typically inhabit the deep and remote parts of the ocean, their migrations for food and reproduction often bring them near shorelines, allowing us to observe them. While there are specific locations known for whale watching, you can also find opportunities closer to home! Here are five great places to go whale watching in the U.S.
Glacier Bay, Alaska
Glacier Bay, Alaska, is one of the most notable locations in the United States for whale watching between June and August. This area is most popular for humpback, minke, blue whales, and orcas.
Big Sur, California
This location is perfect for year-round whale sightings. Blue, gray, and humpback whales populate this fantastic west coast location.
Jacksonville, Florida
This location in the southern part of the country is a popular place for whale watching in the US. Spotters can often observe North Atlantic right whales, a type of whale actively fighting its way back from near extinction. The best time to visit Jacksonville to see these majestic creatures is between November and April.
Long Island, New York
This island is packed with whales between July and early September each year. A wide variety of species inhabits this area. A lot of sightseers have spotted sei, blue, North Atlantic right, sperm, fin, humpback, and minke whales during their observations. In addition to whale watching, viewers can take part in feeding the whales that visit these shores, making it a favorite place for whale watching in the US.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
This popular beach is ideal for whale watching from December through March. Humpback whales are one of the most popular species spotted in this area. In addition to larger cetaceans, you may even catch a bottlenose dolphin show as the weather begins to warm.
