VIEWING GUIDE
View our guide on when, where, and how to watch marine animals from shore.
WHEN AND WHERE
You can see gray whales year-round on the Oregon Coast. December though January, watch for the migrating mammals on their southbound journey to Mexico. March through June, look for them on their return trip to Alaska. Mother and calves usually travel closer to shore. A small resident population of gray whales stays in the area summer and fall.
No matter when you visit the coast, watch for blows!
VISITING A WHALE TRAIL SITE
Visiting a Whale Trail site is an exciting experience! We recommend bringing the following items to make your visit more enjoyable and to be prepared for the wait and elements. Also, be sure to check out the Oregon specific links below to get the most out of your adventure.
- A pair of waterproof binoculars
- Rain jacket
- Plenty of water
- Food, ideally a picnic!
- Something to read
- A camera
- A map of the area due to the lack of cell coverage
TRAVEL INFORMATION
TRAVEL OR
Visit the Travel Oregon site for information and resources on what to do, where to stay, and things to see.
OR PARKS
Whale Watching Spoken Here™ Click here to learn more about whale watching in and around OR parks.
OR DOT
Visit the Oregon Department of Transportation for routes, schedules, rates, and more information.
OR TIDES
Reviewing tide charts and tables is important before visiting a Whale Trail site. Click below for more information.
WHALE TRAIL VIEWING GUIDE
We’ve put together a nifty viewing guide to help you get the most of your Whale Trail experience. Click below to learn when and where to see marine mammals, how to view from the shore, and how shore based watching is the most responsible way to see marine mammals.
BE WHALE WISE
Brush up on your whale wise skills by clicking on the link below. You can dig into the federal laws protecting marine mammals, find helpful shore based watching tips, and report violators or suspicious activities. Be Whale Wise is a handy site to know and remember.