Whale watching should be on everyone’s Oregon bucket list, and fortunately, in a state like ours, the opportunity to see these majestic creatures isn’t limited to a specific season. They are making their great migration all year round. It’s just a matter of knowing where (and when) to look.
Depoe Bay: The Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast
Depoe Bay, self-proclaimed whale watching capital of the Oregon Coast, is laundry-fresh, glistening and waiting to be explored. This little town has installed several whale watching viewpoints throughout, offering breathtaking sights of the gray whales that frequent the area. If the scenery piques your interest, check out the Whale Watching Center, packed with useful information and where warm-hearted volunteers tenure, will happily guide you through the best spots.
Here’s something locals know: for a real immersive experience, charter a boat from a reputable local company like Tradewinds Charters. Bundle up, though, because even in the summer, the sea breeze in Depoe Bay can be slightly brisk.
Cape Kiwanda: A Sloping Sand Dune with a Whale of a View
Perched on Oregon’s northern edge, awe-inspiring Cape Kiwanda is another spot where you can bet on whale sightings aplenty. It’s the mixture of vast open ocean and a unique sloping sand dune that makes the views from Cape Kiwanda absolute whale magnets.
Oregonians love to take advantage of the site’s easy accessibility. A simple scramble up the dune brings you to a viewpoint overlooking miles of marine life-filled waters. But remember, respect the dune and always exercise caution; falling sand and unstable slopes are something to consider when hiking up there.
Whale Watching Spoken Here Program: Oregon’s Own Community Program
Participation in the ‘Whale Watching Spoken Here’ program, a celebrated local event that takes place during peak migration seasons, is the ‘in’ thing to do for Oregon whale enthusiasts. An army of local volunteers fans out across 24 prime whale watching spots along the coast to help identify these graceful animals. Cape Meares, Cape Ferrelo, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, and Boiler Bay are just a few of these locations that promise excellent sightings. Just steer clear of the crowds around midday.
Newport’s Yaquina Head Lighthouse: Luxury Viewing in Oregon’s Tallest Lighthouse
Newport’s Yaquina Head Lighthouse offers a touch of grandeur to your whale watching experience, and remember, it’s always warmer inside should the coastal weather throw an unpredictable twist. Migrating gray whales likely to be spotted from here between December and January, and then again from March through May. That’s not the end though; summer months bring in resident gray whales, making it a beloved spot year-round.
Oh, and while you’re there, you might enjoy a jaunt around the lighthouse. It stands as Oregon’s tallest and is a splendid sight to behold.
The Astoria Tower: A Bit of a Climb, but Worth It
Looking to blend a bit of history with some whale spotting? Try climbing the Astoria Column on Coxcomb Hill in Astoria. It’s not exactly a stroll – the column has 164 steps, but brave that climb and the view from the top is both a historical panorama of the surrounding area and a vantage point for spotting spouts on the horizon.
Whales Galore in Shore Acres State Park
Finally, for a glimpse of the humback and the occasional rare fin whale, Shore Acres State Park near Coos Bay might be your spot. A bit off the beaten path compared to other locations, but worth the trek if you have the time. The park perched atop rugged cliffs, produces dramatic outlooks where between late fall and early spring, you’re likely to spot a whale or two breaching amongst the waves.
Just a heads up, though: depending on the time of year, this spot can get a bit windy and damp, so dress accordingly.
There’s never a bad time to experience whale watching in Oregon – it’s just a matter of choosing your view. Whether you’re a seasoned local or a first-time visitor, these spots will give you a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest spectacles. It’s important to maintain respect for these gentle giants and their habitat. So, grab those binoculars, keep a keen eye on the horizon, and don’t forget to enjoy the beauty that Oregon effortlessly shares with each of us every day. Every visit is special, filled with awe and wonder. That’s the Oregon local’s promise.