There’s probably nothing so dramatic when cruising than seeing a whale, or pod of whales, in their native state. It can be an absolutely awe-inspiring experience, one you’ll never forget. (If you’re downwind, you also won’t forget the fish smell when they breach; it’s terrible!) But where to find them? Here’s some great advice about the 15 best whale-watching destinations in the U.S. from localadventurer.com, with advice about when to go. Read on:
Thar she blows! If you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of these massive and majestic creatures, there’s nothing quite like it. Before you go on your first trip, you need to know that whale watching can be a hit or miss, since there’s no guarantee you will see them in the wild. We’ve been on a handful of whale watching tours and sometimes it feels a bit like fishing because there’s a lot of waiting involved.
If you want to go whale watching, you’ll want to plan ahead to make sure your chances are optimal. We added some tips below to help you make the best of your experience.
1. GLACIER BAY, ALASKA
What You Will See: Humpback, Minke, Orca and Blue Whales
When To Go: June to August
Where to Stay: Annie Mae Lodge (mid-range, 4 mi away)
Visit this beautiful bay to see humpbacks, minkes, orcas, and blue whales. Did you know that the blue whales call can be heard all the way in Japan from here?
2. JUNEAU, ALASKA
What You Will See: Humpback and Orcas
When To Go: April to November
Where to Stay: Silver Bow Inn (mid-range) or the Alaskan Hotel & Bar (budget)
Get a look at humpback whales from the capital of Alaska or hop on a boat to see orcas in the wild.
3. KODIAK ISLAND, ALASKA
What You Will See: Gray Whales | Fin and Humpback Whales
When To Go: April, June to November
Where to Stay: Goldilocks Bed and Breakfast (mid-range)
Every April, Kodiak has a 10-day festival celebrating the return of Eastern Pacific gray whales to the area. In June, you will start to see fin and humpback whales, and you may even catch a glimpse of minke and sei whales.
What You Will See: Blue, Gray, and Humpback Whales
When To Go: Year Round
Where to Stay: Post Ranch Inn (luxury) or head to Monterey for lower prices.
This is one of our favorite places to visit on the west coast, and if you keep your eye out on the ocean, you may just spot a blue, gray, or humpback whale gliding by. Read more:
https://localadventurer.com/best-places-to-whale-watch-in-the-us/
