Whale Watching Season on the Central Coast: What to Know

If you’ve ever stood along the bluffs in winter and spotted a spout offshore — you know the feeling.

Whale watching season on the Central Coast is something special.

When Is Whale Watching Season?

Gray whales migrate along California’s coastline from roughly December through April as they travel between Alaska and Baja California.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), thousands of gray whales pass the Central Coast during migration season each year.

You can also spot:

• Humpback whales (spring through fall)

• Blue whales (typically summer months)

• Dolphins and sea lions year-round

Best Whale Watching Spots in SLO County

1. Piedras Blancas – San Simeon
Known for elephant seals, this stretch of coastline also offers excellent whale sightings during migration.

2. Montana de Oro Bluff Trails – Los Osos
High vantage points make it easier to scan the horizon for spouts.

3. Avila Beach & Port San Luis Pier
Calmer waters and accessible viewpoints.

4. Morro Bay Harbor Tours
Local operators offer boat tours for a closer look (season and weather dependent).

Tips for Spotting Whales

• Bring binoculars

• Look for “blows” (water spouts) offshore

• Scan slowly — they surface briefly

• Go in the morning when waters are calmer

Whale watching here isn’t commercialized or overly crowded. It feels natural. Real.

And it’s one of those moments that reminds you how lucky we are to live on this stretch of coastline.