Whale watching in Monterey Bay
The rare place with whales in every month. The question is which ones.
Season: Year-round · Blue whales: summerWhat you will see, when
| Species | When | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gray whale | About December to March | Heading south on migration |
| Humpback whale | January to November | Passing through the bay |
| Blue whale | Summer, about June to September (some reports April to December) | The largest animal on Earth |
| Orca | Year-round | Along with dolphins |
Our source for Monterey was last updated in April 2024 and gives two different blue whale windows. We show both until we confirm.
Good questions
When is the best time to go whale watching in Monterey?
There is no off month. Go December to March for gray whales, or summer for blue whales and humpbacks together.
Can you see blue whales in Monterey Bay?
Yes, mostly in summer, roughly June to September.
Can you see orcas in Monterey?
They have been spotted year-round, but sightings are never guaranteed.
Where this comes from (checked November 6, 2026). Whales do not read calendars; seasons shift year to year.