The waters of Monterey Bay are among the richest marine habitats in the world, making this region one of the best places anywhere to see whales and dolphins in the wild.
Thanks to the deep Monterey Submarine Canyon, nutrient-rich waters rise close to shore, attracting a wide variety of marine life year-round. Visitors often spot whales just a short distance from the coastline.
If you’re planning a trip to the Monterey Peninsula, here’s what you might see throughout the year.
Winter: Gray Whale Migration
From December through April, gray whales migrate along the California coast as they travel between Alaska and the warm lagoons of Baja California.
These gentle giants can often be seen spouting offshore or from whale watching boats departing from Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
Spring and Summer: Humpback Whales
As spring arrives, humpback whales begin feeding in Monterey Bay. Known for their spectacular breaches and tail slaps, humpbacks are a favorite sight for visitors.
Their dramatic behavior and massive size make them one of the most exciting whales to observe.
Summer and Fall: Blue Whales
The largest animal ever to live on Earth, the blue whale, sometimes visits Monterey Bay during summer and early fall.
Seeing a blue whale surface beside a whale watching boat is an unforgettable experience and one of the highlights of marine wildlife viewing on the California coast.
Dolphins, Sea Lions, and Sea Otters
Whale watching trips often include sightings of other marine animals as well. Pods of dolphins frequently ride alongside boats, while California sea lion and playful Sea otter are common along the shoreline.
These encounters make every whale watching excursion unique.
Innkeeper Tip
Morning tours often provide calmer ocean conditions, making wildlife sightings easier and the boat ride smoother. Bringing a warm jacket and binoculars will help you enjoy the experience even more.
Staying Near Pacific Grove
Monterey Peninsula Inn is conveniently located near Pacific Grove and just minutes from the whale watching boats that depart from Monterey’s harbor. Our location makes it easy to explore the coastline and enjoy the incredible marine wildlife of Monterey Bay.
Return to the inn and relax in the outdoor hot tub. Then retire to your room with all the amenities that make for a great stay!