Can you see whales from San Juan Islands?
Orca whales range through the San Juan Islands the most between March and October and you can expect to see them on the vast majority of our tours during that time, although we do have sightings throughout the year. We also regularly encounter beautiful Humpback Whales (through November) and Minke whales in the area.
How much does it cost to go whale watching San Juan Islands?
Classic Whale Watch & Wildlife Tour
| Features | Price |
|---|---|
| Great for families and groups 360° viewing deck & upper viewing deck Large windowed and heated cabin with galley and booth seating Two convenient restrooms | $125/Adult $89/Child 2-12 Free children under 2 |
What time of year can you see whales in Washington state?
The Best Time of Year to Spot Whales Whales are a migratory species that follow the pacific coast during the spring and fall. While sightings have occurred anywhere from October through July, your best bet is to plan a trip in spring, specifically the month May.
Where is the best place to see whales in San Juan Islands?
Lime Kiln Point State Park
Lime Kiln Point State Park is officially nicknamed “Whale Watch Park.” This title is no exaggeration—Lime Kiln State Park really is one of the best places on earth to view migrating whales. And if you’re hoping to see whales with your feet planted firmly on the ground, Lime Kiln is definitely your best bet on San Juan!
Where are orcas in the San Juan Islands?
Just off South Beach, part of American Camp on the south end of San Juan Island, lies Salmon Bank – a prey-rich hotspot for orcas, humpbacks, and other marine mammals. This is also where the whales enter and exit the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Pacific Ocean.
Where are the orca whales in the San Juan Islands?
Shore-based Whale Watching: Spend an afternoon at Lime Kiln Point State Park, a 36 acre day use park on the west side of San Juan Island considered one of the best places in the world to view orca whales from shore.
Where is the best place to see orcas in the San Juan Islands?
American Camp & Cattle Point. Just off South Beach, part of American Camp on the south end of San Juan Island, lies Salmon Bank – a prey-rich hotspot for orcas, humpbacks, and other marine mammals. This is also where the whales enter and exit the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Pacific Ocean.
Can you see orcas from Orca Island?
Magnificent orca (or killer) whales live in the San Juan Islands year-round, and this is the best place in the world to see them in the wild. You can also spot humpbacks, minkes, gray whales, steller sea lions, and many other species of wildlife.
Where are orcas in Washington state?
San Juan Island
San Juan Island is considered THE BEST place to view orca whales. Salmon, which are their prime source of food (about 95% of what they eat), travel up and down the west coast of San Juan Island and outlying areas.
Can I see orcas from Orcas Island?
Seeing whales from shore is a possibility at Lime Kiln Point State Park, also known as Whale Watch Park, on San Juan Island’s west side. Besides orcas, there’s the potential for spotting humpbacks and minke whales from the park. Keep an eye out for porpoises, seals, sea lions and bald eagles there as well.
What time of day are orcas most active?
The best overhead light is from 11 am – 3 pm, for beautiful blue waters. The calmest sea conditions tend to be before noon and towards sunset. The whales are active throughout the day and their behavior changes as groups of whales encounter each other.
How many islands are in San Juan?
San Juan Islands Map. The San Juan Islands Group consists of 172 named islands of the more than 700 islands, islets and reefs identified at low tide and more than 400 at high tide.
When is whale watching season in Washington State?
Time your adventure carefully during the whale-watching season to maximize your chances of seeing plenty of orcas. Generally, the best time to see these whales in the Washington area is in the spring, summer and early fall, from April to early October.
When is the best time to see whales in Seattle?
Best time for whale watching: Whale watching season near Seattle falls between March and October, with the species of whale you’re likely to see varying by month within that range. The first gray whales appear in the region in March and April.
Is whale watching on Washington coast?
The best times to experience whale watching along the Washington Coast are during the months of March, April and May while the whales migrate to the warm waters of Mexico. The gray whale makes the longest journey traveling 10-14 thousand miles round trip from feeding grounds to breeding lagoons.