Every winter from mid-December to mid-January, about 20,000 grey whales pass through the Oregon coast on their way to the warm Baja California Sur waters in Mexico. They return north from March to May. This is the first time to see whales in Oregon. However, some species can be found in local waters throughout the year.
The best places for whale watching
Oregon's Depoe Bay is the state's premier whale-watching destination, often referred to as the whale-watching capital of the Oregon Coast. Depoe Bay's whale-watching centre operates year-round to thousands of visitors. During the migration season, boats regularly head west from the harbour. On board, tourists learn many facts and stories about whales. Depoe Bay is home to large numbers of grey whales. The success rate of the cruises is 98% during the peak months. Summer and autumn also offer whale watching off Depoe Bay. Some grey whales do not migrate and are residents of Depoe Bay, feeding on local reef areas. It is also possible to see harbour seals, seabirds and other unique marine life. Newport has grey whales at all times of the year due to the population of about 60 whales that stay off the Oregon coast. The number of visiting whales in Newport is about 200, and about 40 whales can be found between Lincoln City and Newport because they have found food.
Whale watching tours
For a quick 1 or 2 hour whale watching tour, check out Trade Winds Charters out of Depoe Bay. Reserve your spot for $40 or less per adult and expect to see grey whales heading south in winter months or heading north in spring/summer. If you're lucky, you'll be treated to a whale breaching, or swim and clear the surface of the water in a spectacular show.
Marine Discovery Tours, outside Newport, offers cruises for individuals, families and school groups. Their group cruises range from $42 for adults and $28 for children (4-12). Children under 3 are free.
Whale watching season
Most whale species found off the Oregon coast are migratory. Species such as the grey whale move from their feeding grounds in the rich, deep waters of the Bering Sea between Alaska and Russia or the Gulf of Alaska to their calving grounds further south in the warm, shallow and safe waters of the Sea of Cortez in Mexico. Late spring and summer are the best times to see grey whales. Although with a warm coat and some hot chocolate, winter offers an excellent time to see these massive marine animals on their journey south.
Grey whale (summer, winter)
Grey whales (Eschrichtius robustus) are known to have the longest migration route of any mammal on Earth! They cover well over 10,000 km (16,093 miles) each year, travelling from Alaska to Mexico and back again. Such an incredible journey requires tons of food and energy. These noble underwater cetaceans put on the most weight in the lush waters around Alaska's southern coast. These marine mammals are a type of baleen whale, which means they filter food through bristly growths in their mouths. They can grow up to 15 metres long and weigh 40 tonnes!
Tips for whale watching
While on your cruise, plan on windier conditions. If you go out on a sunny day, know that water can reflect UV light, and increase the potential for sunburn. Is this your first time on a boat? If so, be ready for the possibility of motion sickness. There are several over-the-counter medications available for this, so consider having some on hand. Finally, remember that nature and weather are unpredictable. Knowing the weather forecast and what marine life you can expect to see will only get you so far, as every boat trip will be different. So take your chances and hope for a most rewarding show.
What to wear
Dress in warm layers if possible, especially if you are going on a winter tour. Consider wearing a windbreaker as your outer layer. You can always take clothes off if you get too hot. In addition, wear long trousers, a hat, closed-toe shoes and sunscreen to reduce your exposure to UV rays. Many of the tours available to you will have sheltered locations on the boat, but being prepared for anything will help you have a great time on the water.
What to bring
If you are hungry or thirsty you can have concessions such as food and water, but having some snacks and a drink with you is never a bad idea. To get a better view of the wildlife you may encounter out there, bring binoculars. Having these to hand could mean the difference between seeing whiskers on a harbour seal moving in or out of the water, or just seeing a dark patch moving on the horizon. A camera with a zoom lens is another great option for the budding wildlife photographer.
Where to stay
There are many options for accommodation on the Oregon Coast. Whether you are a budget traveller or want to treat yourself, there is a state park campground, bed and breakfast, or hotel for you. Check out our map below to find a place that suits you. For a local listing of options in the Newport area, visit Discover Newport. Depoe Bay has an equally amazing list of accommodation, but to start your search for a place to stay, try Channel House, an oceanfront lodge that offers gorgeous sunset views and the chance to see whales while on land.
Practical info
When can you see whales in Oregon?
Expect to see whales on their biannual migration either in winter months or late spring/early summer.
Is whale watching better in the morning or afternoon?
Typically, mornings are best for whale watching by boat. Expect less winds and calmer waters.
