ADDRESS
Deception Pass State Park
41020 State Route 20
Oak Harbor, WA 98277
HOURS
Dawn to Dusk
CONTACT
(360) 675-3767
Deception Pass State Park
AMENITIES
Camping, Picnic Facilities, Restrooms, Trails, Wheelchair Accessible
West Beach is located in Deception Pass State Park on the southwest side of the iconic Deception Pass Bridge, with spectacular views in every direction. Swift tidal currents and deep upwellings provide habitat, food and shelter for many species of marine mammals and their prey.
From West Beach looking north, you can see Lighthouse Point, Rosario Head, and Deception Island. Look east towards Deception Pass, Pass Island, and Canoe Pass are visible to the east. Weather permitting, the San Juan Islands and Olympic Mountains are visible to the west. Just south of West Beach is Cranberry Lake, which is separated from the saltwater by unusual northwest sand dunes.
WHERE THE WHALES ARE
Two trails provide great vantage points to see whales and marine mammals. The West Beach Trail is primarily a paved trail with a viewpoint that looks directly out at Rosario Strait. The North Beach Trail From this trail you have an opportunity to see a wide variety of whales and sea mammals throughout the year including harbor porpoises, harbor seals, California and/or Stellar sea lions, humpback whales, minke whales, orcas and gray whales. Both resident and transient orcas are seen in this area. Occasionally transient pods pass under the Deception Pass Bridge and through Deception Pass.
WHICH ANIMALS YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE
SEASONALITY
Harbor porpoises and harbor seals can be seen year round. California sea lions and Stellar sea lions can be seen year round, but are be more common in spring/fall. Dall’s porpoise can be seen year round, but are found in much lower numbers. Orca, humpback, minke, and fray whales are most often seen in the spring/summer/early fall (April-September).
BIRD-WATCHING
Bird-watching is a favorite activity in the Deception Pass area. Watch for the unique oystercatcher or the uncommon Pigeon Guillemot.