whale watching tour port angeles

Port Angeles Whale Watching, Olympic Peninsula Tours

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• Whale Watching

Fascinating and educational Olympic Peninsula whale watching excursions are a must-do for visitors of all ages! Book an exciting boat ride on the waters surrounding the peninsula and uncover the amazing world of gray and humpback whales.

Providers these companies can get you there.

Puget Sound Express - whale watching day trips

(360) 385-5288.

• Port Townsend, WA
• ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Let our expert boat captains and tour directors help you spot and photo/video some of the many whale species we'll see on our 1/2 or full-day tours.

• Check Availability
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USA River Cruises | Cruise the Puget Sound

(800) 578-1479.

Enjoy whale watching around Puget Sound sailing on a small cruise ship. With less than 200 guests you’ll enjoy personal service, elegant dining, and spacious rooms.

All-Ways Fishing

• Claim Your Business

Let this local expert guide you through the waters of the Pacific, Strait of Juan De Fuca, Sekiu and Neah and Clallam Bays. Wildlife watching tours, too.

Peninsula Sportsman

Personalized vacations the whole family will enjoy. Hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing tours arranged, as well as lodging in modern log cabins.

Tommycod Charters

Fishing adventures and whale watching. First class equipment, comfortable, heated boats and 40 years of saltwater fishing experience. Book your trip today.

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Regional Whale Watching

San juan islands whale watching.

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Experience the Wild

Tours from Port Angeles

Cruise the strait of juan de fuca.

Hop on the the M.V COHO Ferry With floor to ceiling windows, abundant exterior decks and an enclosed solarium, that provides passengers with stunning views of the waters along the Strait of Juan de Fuca enroute to Victoria, BC. Shortly after arriving in the Inner Harbour, you’ll join us for your 3 hour whale and wildlife watching adventure.

PORT ANGELES TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

M.V . COHO FERRY

SALISH SEA WILDLIFE

RACE ROCKS ECO RESERVE

Vessel Type

Minimum Age

Tour Duration

Departures - Covered

Level of Difficulty

Availability.

Departures - Zodiac

Tour information.

• What To Expect
• Commmon Questions
• Need to Know

Routes vary depending on whale sightings and weather. A typical route takes us along Victoria’s scenic waterfront to Oak Bay and the Chain Islets, where we pause to watch harbour seals and seabirds. From there, we often head east to San Juan Island, or north along the Saanich Peninsula. When whale sighting reports come in, we typically alter course towards whales within range of the boat. Round trip distance is usually 50 to 80 km.

How old do you have to be to go on a tour?

Our covered vessel tours welcome people of all ages, but the zodiacs are restricted to those that are 6 years old and above.

Is there parking near the departure dock?

Wharf Street Departures

Yes, there are pay parking lots at this office as well as street parking.

Coast Hotel & Marina by APA Departures

There is a parking lot at the corner of Quebec Street and Montreal Street about a half block from our office. As well, there is another lot at the corner of Kingston Street and Menzie Street.

What is the boat ride like?

Exciting and sometimes quite adventurous. Depending on the weather and conditions on the water, the experience can be wild and wet, smooth and dry, or any combination of the two. A typical zodiac trip experiences more ocean spray, and passengers can be splashed at some point along the route. Morning tours and those on covered vessels are usually the calmest.

What is the best time of year to see whales?

While it is possible to see whales at any time of the year, there is a peak season from May through October. During this peak season our sighting success rate is at 95-98% for viewing whales near Victoria.

Where do I board the boat?

Depending on which tour you’re on, boarding will take place at one of our two locations. You’ll be notified in advance of the departure location at either:

• Covered Vessel Tours: 146 Kingston Street in Victoria, below the Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA,
• Zodiac Vessels: 950 Wharf Street in Victoria, BC on the same docks as the Harbour Air Seaplane terminal

What should I wear?

During the summer (June through August), light summer tops and pants or shorts are fine, but it’s a good idea to bring layers such as a fleece jacket or sweater. It is surprisingly cool traveling quickly over the ocean. On cool days, evening trips and during the spring (April – May) and fall (September – October), long pants, sweaters, snug fitting hats and warm footwear is recommended.

Can I bring a camera?

Yes! If you are joining us on a zodiac tour, we recommend talking to captain before your tour as he may recommend that you put it in the dry storage beneath your seat depending on the wind, weather, and sea conditions on the day of tour. Onboard covered vessel tours, if we experience inclement weather you can leave it in the heated indoor cabin, protected from the elements.

Are there bathrooms on the boat?

There is a bathroom onboard all covered vessel tours.

Are there snacks and beverages available for purchase on board?

Snacks & drinks are available for purchase on board covered vessel tours.

What is your cancellation policy?

24 hours prior to your departure time.

• Guests must book their ferry trip aboard the M.V. Coho separately  from their whale watching tour. Tour costs do not include ferry fees.
• Guests must check in at least 30 minutes prior to departure time at their specific check in location
• Passenger boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure time
• Tour departures and packages can be subject to time change and are weather dependent.
• The Zodiac is not recommended for those with neck or back injuries, expectant mothers, or children under the age of 6
• You can cancel any Victoria whale watching tour if you contact us at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time
• Disclaimer: Tour departures and packages can be subject to time change and are weather dependent

What's Included

• 3 hour, 100% carbon neutral whale watching tour
• Free hotel shuttle pick-up & drop off
• Choice of open zodiac or covered vessel*
• Full length cruiser suits (XS to XXL) for protection from ocean spray and cool air (Zodiac tours only)
• Certified Marine Naturalist/Biologist on board each tour
• Wildlife identification kits
• Whale Sighting Guarantee
• Complimentary coffee & tea on board covered vessel tours
• Blankets and binoculars
• $4  Wildlife Conservation Fee  that contributes to the restoration of the salmon in the Salish Sea
• A safe and comfortable experience backed by our perfect safety record

*NOTE: Zodiac is not recommended for those with neck or back injuries, expectant mothers, or children under the age of 6

What to bring

Sunglasses, camera, tight fitting hat, sunscreen and a sense of adventure!

WHAT MIGHT YOU SEE

COHO FERRY SCHEDULE (PORT ANGELES)

M.V. Coho Ferry Reservation

I have just returned from Vancouver and the highlight seeing at least 4 pods of Killer Whales, seals and sea lions after sailing out from Victoria Harbour. We had onboard a very knowledgeable naturalist who answered all questions with gushing enthusiasm and nothing was too much trouble. Fabulous.

This experience was definitely on my bucket list and it did not disappoint. We went with Captain Mick on a zodiac boat. He was very educative and funny. We were lucky enough to spot a mom Humpback whale and her calf and 2 orca families. Next to that we saw seals. The zodiac experience made it so much more fun!

Fantastic trip – wasn’t just about the Orcas (although they were brilliant!), we saw humpback whale, sea otter, bald eagle, sea lions, harbour and elephant seals too. Staff onboard were really knowledgeable and the backdrop of the mountains in Washington State was just spectacular. All in all, a great trip and sensitively done.

I’M READY TO BOOK MY TOUR

Responsible whale watching.

• Maintain a distance of 200 meters from killer whales and 100 meters from all other whales in Canadian and US waters
• Operate at no more than 7 knots when within 1 km (0.65 mile) of a whale
• Travel at the same or slower speed as the whale’s speed, and travel parallel to the direction whales are traveling
• Limit time in the vicinity of a particular group of whales to 60 minutes
• Respect marine protected areas by adhering to Go Slow Zones and minimum distance guidelines around rocks, landmasses, historic sites and wildlife
• Turn off sonar, depth sounders, fish finders and other underwater transducers when in the vicinity of whales
• Get closer without disturbing marine life by using a camera with a zoom lens

TOP RATED PACKAGES

Port Renfrew Whale Watching & Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages

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Whale Watching Tours with Puget Sound Express

Exciting whale watching tours and wildlife tours around the olympic peninsula and the san juan islands..

There are few sights as magical as watching a whale breaching out on the stunning waters of Puget Sound. Departing from the two most popular destinations on the Olympic Peninsula, Port Townsend and Port Angeles, Puget Sound Express offers guaranteed whale sightings on half, full and three day tours.

This third generation, family run company is dedicated to sharing the natural wonders of Puget Sound with visitors. An on board naturalist will teach you about the ecology of the area over a loud speaker.

On nice days, head out to the wraparound deck to feel the sea breeze and scan the horizon for whales. If the weather gets cold or if you’re tired of standing, head inside to your dedicated indoor table, each of which offers large windows to keep an eye on the water.

When you get hungry, stop by the onboard snack bar for a piece of Sherri’s famous blueberry buckle in addition to packaged snacks and beverages.

Pick the tour that best suites your needs:

Port Townsend Half Day Whale Watching Tour

This tour allows you to experience all the Olympic Peninsula has to offer. Being the fastest guaranteed whale watch on the peninsula, you’ll have more time to explore Olympic National Park, Sequim’s lavender fields and Port Townsend. Your guides will search for orcas (killer whales), minkes, humpbacks, and gray whales.

Trips run March – October, and feature an on-board naturalist. If the whales are “singing,” you’ll be able to hear them with the boat’s hydrophone.

Port Angeles Half Day Whale Watching Tour

Departing Port Angeles mid-day, this tour allows you to experience whale watching after a morning spent exploring Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park. This tour can range to include the San Juan Islands, Victoria, B.C., and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. On board, your guides will look for orcas (killer whales), humpbacks and minke whales.

Trips run May – October, and feature an on-board naturalist.

Port Townsend – San Juan Island Whale Watching Tour

The signature tour of Puget Sound Express is a daylong cruise which combines orca watching with an on-board naturalist, and a tour of the beautiful San Juan Islands. You will visit the popular town of Friday Harbor for shopping, island cuisine, and sightseeing.

This San Juan Islands trip is also the official passenger ferry route between Port Townsend and San Juan Island, and in addition to seeing killer whales, passengers often see minke whales, Stellar and California sea lions and Dall’s porpoises. The full-day tour runs April – September.

3-Day San Juan Islands Wildlife Cruises

Join Puget Sound Express for an exciting three-day cruise through the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington State. Selected by National Geographic as one of the world’s top 3 destinations, the waters around the San Juan Islands are home to orcas, minke whales, gray whales, humpback whales, stellar sea lions, porpoise, otters, and a dizzying array of seabirds.

For more information and to reserve online: 360-385-5288 227 Jackson Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368 www.PugetSoundExpress.com

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• Whale Watching Tours

Three kids with binoculars (Photo taken by guest from 2011 flickr competition)

Three girls (Photo taken by guest from 2011 flickr competition)

Breaching Humpback (Photo by Bart Roulon — www.bartrulon.com )

Eagle (Photo by Bart Roulon — www.bartrulon.com )

Gray Whale tail (Photo by Naturalist Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

The San Juan Islands (Photo by Captain Shane Aggergaard)

Seal face (Photo by passenger Doug Shurman)

Sunset (Photo taken by guest from 2011 flickr competition)

Naturalist Brooke McKinley talking (Photo taken by guest from 2011 flickr competition)

Bow picture (Photo taken by guest from 2011 flickr competition)

Sunset (Photo by Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

Lighthouse and Mt. Baker (Photo by Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

Osprey (Photo by Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

Eagle with Rockfish (Photo by Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

Juvenile Eagle (Photo by Michael Colahan — www.picturepangea.com )

Island Adventures is so serious about finding whales for our guests, we guarantee sightings on every whale watch tour.

Island Adventures Whale Watching Tours are a great value for such a world class experience. We are easy to get to; our Everett location (March to mid-May) is only 30 minutes from Seattle, our Anacortes location (April to October) is an easy 90 minute drive north of Seattle, with no ferry needed from Downtown Seattle or Vancouver B.C.

Our Port Angeles location (mid-May to October) is strategically located for the best whale watching opportunity on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula just minutes from Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge, Edis Hook, and the Washington Coast. Island Adventures Whale Watching Tours has been voted #1 in Western Washington by King5, Evening Magazine (the local NBC affiliate) 5 years in a row!

As defined by the Seattle Aquarium, we are in core-orca whale viewing waters as soon as we leave the marina!

Guaranteed Whale Sightings See up to 4 whale species on any tour!

• March 5 – May 8 3 hour tours departing from Everett Best time for Gray Whales
• April 2 – November 26 4.5–5.5 hour tours departing from Anacortes Best time for Orcas, Minkes and Humpback Whales
• May 14 – October 31 4–5 hour tours departing from Port Angeles Best time for Orcas, Minkes and Humpback Whales
• November 2016 – March 2017 4–5 hour tours departing from Seattle Best time for Orcas, Humpbacks and Gray Whales
• Private Charter Opportunities

The Island Explorer

…Is the Best Wildlife Viewing Vessel in the Area!

The Island Explorer was designed specifically for whale watching, as opposed to a ferry, dinner cruiser, or converted fishing boat like most of the other tour boats in the area. Our boats have lots of amenities to make your trip more comfortable, including two on-board restrooms, a large heated cabin with over-sized windows, a snack bar with food for purchase, and a custom-designed interior with cushioned booth style seating. There are full walk around upper and lower viewing deck and our guests enjoy 100s of outside rail viewing space. The quality of our boat will enhance your entire whale watching experience.

All guests will receive a complimentary 64 page color wildlife viewing guide with species checklist . It is our goal each and every day to check off as many as possible! Our viewing guide also includes a map of the San Juan Islands area, the Salish Sea, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Saratoga Passage and north end of Puget Sound. Because of our vessel speeds and departure locations, we are able to experience more wildlife and island scenery on our way to and from the whales than other tours in the area. Other wildlife typically sighted includes harbor seals, California & steller sea lions, Dall’s & harbor porpoises, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, vultures, and a huge variety of seabirds. Birders love our trips as they often get to add a few species to their life list.

When is the best time to go?

Plan your trip according to the wildlife you’d like to see, using our chart below.

20 years of Creating Magical Memories

There are many companies to choose from while searching for the right whale watching tour. Since 1992, company founders Shane and Jennifer Aggergaard have been committed to offering our passengers much more — striving to exceed our guests’ experience each and every day. Island Adventure’s offers the best boats, best locations, guaranteed whale sightings and lots of extras, but it is our highly qualified staff that really separates us from the rest. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is eager to provide outstanding service from start to finish. On board, we’ll entertain and educate you throughout the tour, in hopes that you take away magical memories — and a renewed respect for nature. Many, many lives have been touched by witnessing whales in the wild. We feel privileged to be able to provide this unique and wonderful opportunity.

We guarantee whale sightings!

We saw whales on:

• 193 of 198 tours in 2002!
• 221 of 230 tours in 2003!
• 205 of 210 tours in 2004!
• 269 of 274 tours in 2005!
• 479 of 505 tours in 2006!
• 244 of 256 tours in 2007!
• 258 of 264 tours in 2008!
• 239 of 248 tours in 2009!
• 222 of 233 tours in 2010!
• 262 of 266 tours in 2011!
• 212 of 225 tours in 2012!
• 260 of 266 tours in 2013!
• 363 of 375 tours in 2014!
• 429 of 443 tours in 2015!

Our 96% success rate speaks for itself. See how 2024 is shaping up in The Whale Report .

Our route each day is determined by the morning’s whale information from our sighting network, other wildlife in the area, and the weather. It’s not determined by a ferry schedule or pre-determined route. Our goal is to show our guests as much wildlife as possible every day. View larger map.

Experience a Tour

Hear a recording made on our boat or watch a video.

• Everett March – mid-May  » Best time for Gray Whales
• Anacortes April – October  » Best time for Orcas, Minkes,     & Humpbacks
• Port Angeles Mid-May – October  » Best time for Orcas, Minkes,     & & Humpbacks
• Seattle November 2016 – March 2017  » Best time for Orcas,     Humpbacks & Gray Whales
• Private Charters
• Prepare for Your Trip / Common Questions
• Onboard Lunch, Snacks and Gift Items
• Experience a Tour in Our Photo Gallery
• Benefits of our Location
• Our Vessels
• Current Whale Pod Locations from Space
• Our Passengers Come From Far and Wide!
• Whale Watching Etiquette
• Explore Anacortes
• The Truth About Aerial Whale Spotting
• Everett March – mid-May Best time for gray whales
• Anacortes April – October Best time for orcas, minkes, & humpbacks
• Port Angeles mid-May – October Best time for orcas, minkes, & humpbacks
• Seattle November 2016 – March 2017 Best time for orcas, humpbacks & gray whales
• Rates & Schedule
• Online Reservations
• The Whale Report
• Our Guarantee
• Photo Gallery
• Gift Certificates

Main Office: 1801 Commercial Ave, Anacortes WA 98221 [email protected] 1-800-465-4604

• © 2024 Island Adventures, Inc.

Great Deals in 2016!

• » 3 hour tours from Everett    Adults as low as $39 reg. $69
• » 4.5-5.5 hour tours from Anacortes    Adults as low as $79 reg. $109
• » 4-5 hour tours from Port Angeles    Adults as low as $69 reg. $99
• » Children ages 3-12 as low as $29 on all tours

Our office is currently closed, please email us here!

• Daily Tours
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• Wild 4 Whales Fee
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• Marine Birds of the Salish Sea
• Marine Mammals of the Salish Sea
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12 Erie St - Fisherman's Wharf Victoria, BC

Whale Watching Port Angeles

Yes, victoria can be just a short 1 hour 35 minute ferry ride away.

Travelling by car or on foot, it can be so easy to go killer whale watching from Victoria as opposed to Port Angeles. All you need to do is check the availability of our tours and book your reservation with us, then book  your ferry reservation at Coho Ferry to match up with our departure time. We do require all our passengers to check in a minimum of 45 minutes prior to our scheduled departure so leave sufficient time between when you arrive in Victoria and when we depart.

If you want to make a day trip out of it, please book the early Coho ferry as all our tours are a minimum of 3.5 hours and very often run longer so our passengers can get the best killer whale watching experience possible. We are offering multiple daily departures throughout the year. What’s even better is that once you arrive in downtown Victoria, Eagle Wing Tours is located at Fisherman’s Wharf  just a short walk away from what can be the start of an exceptional humpback whale watching opportunity.

Victoria British Columbia is full of life, so why not stay longer and experience vibrant Victoria. There is plenty of history, arts and culture, shopping, food and drink plus many season events and oh yes, Butchart Gardens. Check our website for a list of great accommodation .

Why Victoria vs. Port Angeles?

• Eagle Wing Tours’ boats are faster = larger range to access whales
• Eagle Wing Tours’ trips are longer = larger range to access whales
• Victoria is in the middle of all the action: we can go east, north, west or south
• Victoria is accessible, easy to walk around, friendly people
• loads of attractions and activities to do besides whale watching

What are you waiting for?

Choose A Tour

Half-Day Whale and Wildlife Watching Tours – Summer

Full-Day Whale and Wildlife Watching Tours – Summer

Whale Watching – Summer Sunset Tours

Custom Charters and Group Tours – All Year

Half Day Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours – Winter/Spring

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Whale Watching

Great tales start here.

Kalaloch is among the best places in the world to watch one of nature's biggest attractions: whales. That's because whale watching in Olympic National Park offers the unique opportunity to see majestic gray whales as they migrate from their breeding grounds in Baja California up the coast to the Bering Strait, and back again.

May is designated Whale Watching Month at Kalaloch Lodge, and it's not uncommon to spot gray whales within full view of the property. While May is certainly the peak of whale watching season at Kalaloch, the National Park Service says April and May, as well as October and November are great times to see these graceful creatures during their journey up and down the Pacific Coast. In fact, the first Whale Trail sign on Washington's outer coast was dedicated at Kalaloch.

As far as marine wildlife is concerned, gray whales are just the tip of the iceberg. You'll also find sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, and even might orcas at several vantage points in Olympic National Park.

So make Kalaloch Lodge the home port for your whale-watching adventure. Several companies offer whale-watching tours, including our friends at Puget Sound Express out of Port Angeles, Washington. We encourage you to visit their page and others for booking information.

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Beach Walks

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Kalaloch Fun

There's a world of activity right outside your door when you stay at Kalaloch Lodge.

Within An Hour

Tide pools, rainforests, museums, and more are waiting.

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Explore the Peninsula

Think you've seen it all? Check out everything from wildlife to Victorian homes.

Watch CBS News

Killer whales sink yacht after 45-minute attack, Polish tour company says

By Emily Mae Czachor

November 6, 2023 / 9:58 AM EST / CBS News

A group of orcas managed to sink a yacht off the coast of Morocco last week, after its 45-minute attack on the vessel caused irreparable damage, a Polish tour company said.

The incident happened Tuesday, Oct. 31, as a crew with the boat touring group sailed through the Strait of Gibraltar. The narrow waterway bridges the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, which separates the southern tip of Europe from northern Africa. 

A pod of orcas, colloquially called killer whales, approached the yacht and "hit the steering fin for 45 minutes, causing major damage and leakage," the tour agency Morskie Mile, which is based in Warsaw and operated the yacht, wrote on  Facebook in a translated post.

Although its captain and crew were assisted by a search-and-rescue team as well as the Moroccan Navy, the yacht could not be salvaged. It sank near the entrance to the port of Tanger-Med, a major complex of ports some 30 miles northeast of Tangier along the Strait of Gibraltar. None of the crew members were harmed, said the Polish tour agency, adding that those on board the sunken yacht were already safe and in Spain by the time their Facebook post went live. 

"This yacht was the most wonderful thing in maritime sailing for all of us. Longtime friendships formed on board," wrote Morskie Mile. The company said it was involved in other upcoming cruises in the Canary Islands and would work to make sure those boat trips went ahead as planned.

Last week's incident in the Strait of Gibraltar was not the first of its kind. Reported attacks by killer whales that seem to be trying deliberately to capsize boats off the coast of Spain and Portugal have more than tripled over the last two years, according to data  released in the spring by the research group GTOA, which studies orcas around Gibraltar.

"Nobody knows why this is happening," Andrew W. Trites, professor and director of Marine Mammal Research at the University of British Columbia, told CBS News in May. "My idea, or what anyone would give you, is informed speculation. It is a total mystery, unprecedented." 

GTOA recorded 52 maritime interactions with orcas between the Strait of Gibraltar and Galicia, a coastal province in northwestern Spain, between July and November 2020. The incidents picked up in the years that followed, with 197 interactions recorded in 2021 and 207 recorded in 2022, GTOA said, noting that the interactions mainly affected sailboats. 

Then, in June of this year, one of two sailing teams involved in an international race around the world reported a frightening confrontation involving multiple orcas as they traveled through the Atlantic Ocean to the west of Gibraltar. The teams, which were competing in The Ocean Race, said the orcas did not damage their boats or harm crews, but recalled the sea creatures pushing up against and, in one instance, ramming into one of the boats. The orcas also nudged and bit the rudders, one crew member said.

Caitlin O'Kane and Kerry Breen contributed to this report.

Emily Mae Czachor is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. She covers breaking news, often focusing on crime and extreme weather. Emily Mae has previously written for outlets including the Los Angeles Times, BuzzFeed and Newsweek.

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Wildlife and Sea Life in Port Angeles

With nearly 1 million acres of wilderness to roam, the Olympic National Park is home to a variety of animal, bird and plant species. Some of the more common animal residents include elk, black tail deer, black bears, coyotes, marmots and mountain goats. It’s not uncommon to run into these animals in their natural habitat while you’re hiking. Remember, these are wild animals and you should always keep your distance. Approved bear canisters are required in specific wilderness areas of the park for all food storage and certain scented items. Even the chipmunks can be curious around unattended backpacks.

The Olympic Game Park  allows you to get up close to mountain lions, tigers, bears and buffalo. There’s an extensive list of animals you’ll see riding in your car through the drive-through park. You can feed some of the animals by hand, or hop on a camel or pony for a ride.

Watch Roosevelt Elk Calves Crossing the Hoh River along the Hoh River Trail

Bird Watching

Birding enthusiasts flock to the Olympic Loop to see over 225 of the 346 bird species found in Washington. The Olympic Loop is part of the  Great Washington State Birding Trail  and is recognized by the Audubon Society. Make a plan to come for the Olympic Peninsula BirdFest every April , which coincides with the timing of wintering birds and the beginning of spring migration on the Olympic Peninsula. Serious birders can partake in presentations and workshops. Then take field trips to many area hot spots for birdwatching – Port Angeles Harbor, Ediz Hook, Dungeness Spit, Sequim Bay, the Elwha River, Salt Creek and Neah Bay, and Hurricane Ridge.

Start your day in Port Angeles with a hands-on sea-life experience at the Feiro Marine Life Center  where you can get an up close encounter with sea creatures collected within 20 miles of Port Angeles from the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Then head over to Freshwater Bay for the best kid-friendly tidepooling near town. Low tide reveals a walkable sandy beach dotted with anemone-covered rocks and pools teeming with crabs and tiny fish. Move into the big leagues of tidepooling with visits to these top tide pool spots around the Peninsula: Salt Creek Recreation Area, Ruby Beach, La Push Beaches, and Kalaloch Beach 4.

Whale Trail & Marine Mammals

The rich ocean waters and currents of the Olympic Peninsula coast create an ideal ecosystem and habitat for a vast number of marine mammals, seabirds, sea life and fish. The Olympic Peninsula is surrounded by over 400 miles of coastline, which includes the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary that is over two times the size of the Olympic National Park.

Watch the whales go by on foot or by boat. The Whale Trail is a dedicated aquatic trail that starts in California and runs along the coast of Oregon, Washington and then continues through the Strait of Juan de Fuca into British Columbia. In order to be listed as an official site along the whale trail, there needs to be a good chance of seeing orcas or other cetaceans at some time during the year in public areas. Depending on the time of year and your location, you can spot orcas, minke, gray and humpback whales from the shore. Look for signs at lookout points throughout the Olympic Peninsula. For guaranteed whale sightings, you’ll definitely want to book a  whale watching tour — there’s nothing more magical then seeing a breaching whale by boat.

Roam with The ROAMies As They Explore Port Angeles on a Winter Vacation

The ROAMies, Alexa & Rory, Explore Port Angeles, Washington for a Winter Escape. Listen to their Travel Podcast for Port Angeles Travel Tips for a Winter Vacation Beyond the Twilight Highlights. Guest [...]

Whale Watching in Port Angeles, Washington

331 Things to Do - #101 Gaze at Humpback Whales Along the Whale Trail at Crescent Bay or Take a Whale Watching Tour in Port Angeles, Washington Keep An Eye Out for Killer [...]

Sunrise Kayak Tour in the Harbor

331 Things to Do - #35 Rise & Shine with Seals Wake up with a two-hour Sunrise Sea Kayak Tour Paddle the calm waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca in the Port Angeles harbor [...]

Wild Life Attractions & Tours

Waters west.

Waters West is a full service fly shop and outfitter in downtown Port Angeles. It's your one-stop-shop for gear, clothing, equipment, fly tying classes, and guided fishing excursions on both fresh and saltwater. They're the closest fly shop to the legendary waters of the Olympic Peninsula.

Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary

The waters off the Olympic National Park coastline contain a large living sanctuary of marine life and thriving ecosystems. This nationally recognized ocean habitat hosts a range of sea life -- from microscopic plankton to whales. The Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary is 2.5 times larger than the Olympic National Park. Stop…

Puget Sound Express

Port Angeles Half Day Whale Watching Tour - Visiting Olympic National Park via Port Angeles? This whale watching tour allows you to see humpbacks and orcas during your visit! Whale watching tours leave the Port Angele Wharf daily. Find out more information here.

Olympic Coast Discovery Center

Olympic national park.

One of only three National Parks located in Washington state, the Olympic National Park is by far the largest (nearly 1 million acres) and is home to numerous species of animals, marine mammals, birds, and plants. The park's rugged mountains transition to lush old-growth rain forest and onto rocky seashores, with…

Port Angeles Whale Watch Company

The Port Angeles Whale Watch Company guarantees whale sightings from May 14 to November when you hop aboard one of their whale watching tours. Daily tours depart from the Port Angeles Boat Haven and usually last 4-5 hours long. Gray, Minke, Humpback, and both resident and non-resident Orcas migrate through the Strait…

John Wayne Marina

This full-service marina is actually named after the John Wayne. John Wayne's family donated the land this marina was constructed on because he frequented the area on his family yacht. He always envisioned a marina in this scenic bay. Today, you'll find plenty of pretty picnic spots with a public beach, permanent…

Kaiyote Tours

Kaiyote Tours provides a variety of education and eco-friendly guided tours for beginners to experts. They specialize in birding, hiking, backpacking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing tours throughout the entire Olympic Peninsula.

The Port Angeles City Pier is located in the heart of downtown. The pier not only offers scenic vistas, fishing and ferry watching, but it's also the sight of many annual events like Concerts on the Pier and The Dungeness Crab Festival.

Sound Bikes & Kayaks

Sound Bikes & Kayaks is much more than just an outdoor gear store selling some of the best brands for climbing, skiing, mountaineering, biking, kayaking and water play. They also offer plenty of advice for exploring the Olympic Peninsula. Check out ISO Adventures (their professional guiding service portion of the…

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The Best Whale Watching in San Diego

Take advantage of this lauded activity on one of these trips.

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Whale watching is a popular activity year-round in San Diego.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may have limited operations due to COVID-19. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

Though it's home to an assortment of sea lions, dolphins and birds, San Diego 's most popular animals are whales. It's hardly surprising, then, that the city boasts unrivaled opportunities for observing these gentle giants. After consulting both traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News identified the following five tours as the best available for whale watching. These outings feature professional crews that offer insights about the fauna encountered during these watery expeditions.

Adventure R.I.B. Rides – Whale Watching San Diego

This ride on a military-style rigid inflatable boat (RIB) features sightings of whales (and dolphins), plus views of the city's skyline, a submarine base and Point Loma Lighthouse. The excursions occur year-round, though the roster of whale species changes with the seasons. Humpback and fin whales as well as common and bottlenose dolphins are in the area all year. Meanwhile, blue and minke whales appear from May through December, and gray whales tend to show up from December through April. Trip-takers find the captains to be friendly and adept guides. Tours typically last 2 ½ to three hours and take place three times daily, with departures at 8:30 and 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets start at $98 per person. Groups are limited to 10 people, all of whom must be at least 4 years old. Private tours are also available.

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Flagship Cruises & Events – Whale Watching Tour

This tour aims to be equal parts educational and fun, and reviewers consistently report that it succeeds in both respects, with the crew winning praise for being knowledgeable and personable. Flagship Cruises & Events offers this three-hour tour from mid-December to mid-April – peak season for observing gray, fin and humpback whales as they migrate along the coast – with departures at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. daily. Tickets start at $45 for adults on weekdays and $50 on weekends, with half-priced tickets for children 4 to 12. (Accompanied children younger than 4 can ride for free.) If you don't see whales on your tour, Flagship guarantees you free passage on a subsequent outing. In addition to its whale-focused tour, the company offers a variety of other cruises, including a ferry ride to Coronado .

Next Level Sailing – Whale Watching

The Yacht America, a 139-foot yacht used for this excursion, sails daily throughout the year, offering chances to see humpback, blue and gray whales, among others, depending on the season. Patrons consistently describe the captain and crew as capable, attentive and engaging. (The vessel itself is generally regarded as particularly attractive.) Tour-takers can opt for a morning or afternoon departure and expect the outing to last 3 ½ to four hours. Tickets start at $85 for adults and $42.50 for children (prices are slightly higher on weekends); fees include water and snacks. You're also welcome to bring your own food on board. Next Level offers several charter options as well.

San Diego Whale Watch - Whale Watching

This 2 ½-hour tour features a certified marine biologist as a guide, ensuring that sea life enthusiasts will get the maximum amount of insight about the whales, dolphins and other creatures they'll see. Patrons tend to appreciate the friendly crew members' informed commentary. Tours occur all year long, with both 9 a.m. and noon departure times available. Tickets cost approximately $48 per adult, with discounts for military service members, senior citizens and anyone younger than 18. As an added bonus, if tourgoers do not spot any whales, they can take their next ride for no charge. San Diego Whale Watch also offers a sunset cruise and private charters.

Sail San Diego - Whale Watching Sail

If you seek a small-group tour with personalized attention well suited for couples or families, Sail San Diego might have just the outing for you. Whale watching sails have just six people per outing and travel into the bay or open water. Reviewers frequently describe the captains – who also serve as guides – as hospitable, helpful, entertaining and accommodating. The 3 ½-hour cruises happen twice daily at 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets start at $89 per person; fees include parking at the marina, light snacks and beverages. Sail San Diego also operates a sunset sail and private tours.

Tags: Travel , Vacations , San Diego , Tours

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