Whale watching is a popular activity around the world, and it’s easy to see why. What’s more breathtaking than seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat? As ecotourism booms, more and more people are looking for responsible ways to view wildlife.
Washington State is a prime location for whale watching. Its diverse marine environment is home to a variety of whale species. Plus, the scenic beauty of the Puget Sound and Pacific coastline makes for an unforgettable backdrop.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about whale season in Washington, including which whale species you can see, when the peak seasons are, where to go, and how to view these animals responsibly.
Whale Species of Washington
The waters off the coast of Washington State are home to a variety of whale species, each with its own unique characteristics and behaviors.
Orcas (Killer Whales)
It’s important to know that not all orcas are the same. There are three main types in the Pacific Northwest: Resident, Transient (Bigg’s), and Offshore orcas.
- Resident orcas primarily eat fish, live in stable family groups called pods, and are known for their vocalizations.
- Transient (Bigg’s) orcas prefer marine mammals as their food source, travel in smaller, less stable groups, and tend to be quieter.
- Offshore orcas are the least understood, travel in large groups, and eat sharks and fish.
The Southern Resident Killer Whale population is unfortunately endangered, facing threats like a shortage of prey (salmon), pollution, and the noise from boats. Conservation efforts are underway to try and protect these iconic whales.
You can often tell the difference between Resident and Transient orcas by the shape of their dorsal fins. Transient orcas also have unique hunting strategies, like coordinated attacks on seals.
Gray Whales
Gray whales make an annual migration along the Washington coast, traveling from their breeding grounds in Baja California to their feeding grounds in the Arctic. A group known as the “Sounders” even takes a break to feed in Puget Sound.
These whales are baleen feeders, meaning they filter food from the water. They often feed on the bottom, sifting through sediment to find amphipods and other invertebrates in shallow coastal waters.
Humpback Whales
Humpback whales are increasingly common in Washington waters. They’ve made a remarkable recovery from near extinction due to whaling.
They’re known for their acrobatic displays, like breaching (leaping out of the water), lobtailing (slapping their tail on the surface), and flipper slapping. Humpbacks are also baleen feeders, and they use a unique technique called bubble-net feeding to trap schools of fish.
Other whale species that are occasionally sighted in Washington waters include Minke whales and fin whales.
Peak Whale Watching Seasons
Washington’s whale watching opportunities vary throughout the year, with different species appearing during specific seasons.
Spring (March-May): Gray Whale Migration
Spring is all about the gray whale migration. As these gentle giants make their way north, you can spot them along the coast from places like Westport, La Push, and Neah Bay. There’s even a chance you’ll see some “Sounders” that have ventured into Puget Sound.
This is also the time for whale watching festivals and events, like the Westport Gray Whale Festival.
Summer (June-August): Orca Season in the San Juan Islands
Summer brings the resident orcas to the San Juan Islands. Prime viewing spots include Lime Kiln State Park (also known as Whale Watch Park) and boat tours departing from Friday Harbor. You’ll likely see these orcas foraging, socializing, and generally going about their daily lives.
Keep an eye out for humpback whales, too!
Fall (September-November): Transient Orcas and Late Gray Whales
Fall is when transient orcas, also known as Bigg’s orcas, are more frequently sighted. Watch for them hunting in Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. You might also catch a glimpse of the last gray whales heading south.
Winter (December-February): Limited Whale Watching Opportunities
Whale watching is less common in the winter due to rough weather, but you might see the first gray whales starting their journey north in late February.
Best Locations for Whale Watching in Washington
Washington State offers a wealth of options for whale watching, from the calm waters of the Puget Sound to the wild Pacific Coast. Here are some of the best places to spot these magnificent creatures:
San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands are probably the best-known spot for whale watching in Washington, especially if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of Orcas. Lime Kiln State Park, also known as Whale Watch Park, on San Juan Island is an ideal place to watch from shore. Boat tours leave regularly from Friday Harbor, Roche Harbor, and other locations around the islands.
Besides Orcas, you’re also likely to see seals, sea lions, porpoises, and a variety of seabirds in the area.
Puget Sound
Even around a big city like Seattle, there are opportunities to see Gray Whales and Transient Orcas in the Puget Sound. Check out Edmonds and Mukilteo, just north of Seattle, and the Deception Pass area further north.
It’s important to remember that the Puget Sound is a busy waterway, so be sure to view responsibly and keep a respectful distance from the whales.
Washington Coast
Several coastal towns offer whale watching tours during the Gray Whale migration, including Westport, La Push, Neah Bay, and Ilwaco.
The Washington Coast is known for its rugged beauty and abundant marine wildlife, including sea otters, bald eagles, and diverse seabird colonies.
Other Locations
Don’t forget Port Townsend! This charming Victorian seaport on the Olympic Peninsula is another great place to begin your whale-watching adventures.
How to Watch Whales Responsibly
It’s crucial to remember that we’re visitors in the whales’ home. We need to be respectful and avoid disrupting their natural behaviors.
Here are some guidelines for responsible whale watching:
- Keep Your Distance: NOAA mandates specific distances for vessels. Always maintain a safe distance.
- Avoid Head-On Approaches: Never approach whales directly.
- Limit Observation Time: Don’t spend too long watching a single group of whales. Allow them space and minimize potential stress.
- Reduce Speed: Slow down when entering whale-watching areas.
- Minimize Noise: Whales rely on sound. Reduce engine noise and avoid using loud horns or sonar. Noise pollution can seriously affect them.
- Use Binoculars: Bring binoculars or a spotting scope for a closer view from a safe distance.
By following these guidelines, we can enjoy the amazing experience of whale watching while protecting these incredible creatures and their habitat.
Wrapping Up
Whale watching in Washington State offers a rare opportunity to observe and appreciate these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. From the majestic orcas to the gentle giants like humpbacks and gray whales, the waters off the Washington coast teem with marine life, especially during specific times of the year.
We’ve covered the different whale species you might encounter, highlighted the peak seasons for sightings, and pointed you toward the best locations for whale watching. We’ve also stressed the importance of responsible viewing practices, ensuring the safety and well-being of these animals and their environment.
Now it’s your turn to plan your own whale watching adventure. As you do, please remember to be a responsible steward of the marine environment. Support conservation efforts and organizations dedicated to protecting whales so that future generations can experience the wonder of these incredible animals.