Whale Watching in Pacific Northwest
Discover the best whale watching spots in Pacific Northwest
Overview
The Pacific Northwest, particularly the San Juan Islands, is world-renowned for its resident orca populations. The Southern Resident killer whales, though endangered, have called these waters home for generations, along with transient orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales.
📅 Best Time to Visit
May to October for orcas and humpbacks. Gray whales pass through March to May during their northern migration. Summer offers the longest days and calmest waters.
🐋 Whale Species
⭐ Highlights
The San Juan Islands offer some of the best orca watching in the world. Lime Kiln Point State Park on San Juan Island is one of the few places where you can watch orcas from shore as they pass within yards of the rocky coastline.
💡 Tips
The Southern Resident orcas are critically endangered with fewer than 75 individuals—support conservation efforts. Kayak tours offer intimate encounters but require calm conditions. Ferry rides from Seattle to the San Juan Islands often feature whale sightings.
Top Whale Watching Spots in Pacific Northwest
Seattle
San Juan Islands
Puget Sound
Learn More About Whales
Before your whale watching adventure, explore our comprehensive guides to learn about different whale species and their behaviors.