Whales on the Move

Witnessing Majestic Giants Off Ocean Shores, WA

There’s something magical about seeing a whale breach the ocean’s surface, and if you’re in Ocean Shores, WA, you’re in the perfect place to witness these majestic creatures on their migratory journey. Every year, thousands of whales pass by this coastal haven, making it a prime location for whale watching. But when and why do they travel here? How can you track them? Let’s dive in!

When Do Whales Travel Past Ocean Shores?

The best time to see whales off the coast of Ocean Shores depends on their migration patterns:

• Gray Whales – These gentle giants migrate between December and June. They head south from the Arctic to their breeding grounds in Baja California, Mexico, from December to February. Then, from March to June, they return north with their calves in tow.
• Humpback Whales – Best spotted from May through October, humpbacks come to feed in the nutrient-rich waters off the Washington coast.
• Orcas (Killer Whales) – Though not as predictable, orcas can be seen year-round, especially transient pods hunting seals and other marine life.

Other whales 

• Minke whales
• Blue whales
• North Pacific Right whales
• Fin whales
• Sperm whales

Why Do Whales Migrate?

Whales migrate primarily for food and reproduction. During the summer, they feed in the cold, nutrient-dense waters of the Arctic, building up fat reserves. In winter, they travel to warmer regions to mate and give birth, ensuring their calves are born in safer, more temperate waters. Gray whales, in particular, have one of the longest migrations of any mammal—traveling up to 12,000 miles round trip!

Where Can You See Whales in Ocean Shores?

Ocean Shores offers several excellent vantage points for whale watching:

• Damon Point – A favorite for locals and visitors alike, this peninsula extends into the sea, offering panoramic ocean views. Read about Damon Point Access here.
• North Jetty – A prime spot for spotting whales as they navigate around the point.
• Ocean Shores Community Club – The bay offers a serene and picturesque retreat with calm waters and stunning views of waterfront access.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Spouts, or blows: These plumes of water are formed when a whale exhales at the surface. They can look like puffs of smoke on the horizon.

The shape and size of the blow is distinctive to each species, based on the size and shape of their blowhole. Gray whales, for example, have a double blow-hole, and their spouts are heart-shaped. Humpback whales have a tall, column-shaped blow. And orcas typically have a bushy-shaped blow.

If you see something that looks like a blow, keep watching! And don’t forget, some whales can dive for 10 minutes, or longer, so keep looking in the general area where you first saw the blow.

Dorsal Fins: All cetaceans have dorsal fins or ridges, but the size, shape, and location on their backs differ. Gray whales have small dorsal ridges, while orcas have pronounced triangular fins that can grow to over 6 feet high on males.

Tail Flukes. Cetaceans have powerful tail flukes that propel them through the water. The shape and size of the tail flukes is different for every species. In some species, like humpbacks, the markings on the tail flukes are different for every whale, and are an important way to identify individual whales.

If you see a whale’s tail, it is likely going down for a dive, and it will be a few minutes before you see it again.

Behaviors: Cetaceans display a wide range of surface behaviors. A big splash may indicate that a whale has just breached. A large field of splashes and ripples may be the clue that Pacific white-sided dolphins are passing by.

How Can You Track Whales?

To increase your chances of seeing whales, consider these tracking methods:

• Online Sightings Reports – Websites like Orca Network and Whale Alert provide real-time updates on whale locations.
• Social Media Groups – Local whale-watching groups often share sightings and photos, giving you a heads-up on recent activity.
• Marine Apps – Apps like Whale Alert help you track whales and contribute to conservation efforts.
• Binoculars & Patience – Sometimes, all you need is a good vantage point and a bit of time!

A Must-See Ocean Shores Experience

Whether you catch a glimpse of a gray whale’s barnacle-covered back or witness the dramatic splash of a breaching humpback, seeing whales in the wild is unforgettable. Plan your visit during peak migration seasons, keep an eye on tracking reports, and head to the best viewing spots for a chance to witness these magnificent marine travelers.

Sadly, a Gray Whale washed up in Ocean Shores on March 8, 2021.

Have you seen whales off Ocean Shores? Share your experience in the comments!