At least once in your life, you have to experience the annual whale migration on the Oregon Coast! Locals and visitors head to coastal communities like Depoe Bay armed with binoculars to watch as the friendly mammals make their way from icy Alaskan waters to the warmer waters of the south. During peak season, you can spot a whale from almost any seaside point along the 360-mile coastline. Keep reading for tips for Oregon Coast whale watching in the winter.
Time Your Visit to the Oregon Coast
The Oregon Coast is known for its unique year-round whale spotting opportunities. Visit during December and January and see one of the largest and longest mammal migrations in the world. Over 20,000 whales skirt the coastline to make the over 1300-mile trip to Mexico.
Be Prepared for Whale Watching in the Winter
Be sure to dress in warm waterproof clothing so you can stay comfortable while waiting for the whales to appear. Waterproof is best to protect you from any seaside sprays from whales and waves crashing against the rocky coastline. Locals and whale enthusiasts all agree that binoculars are among the top supplies needed for the best whale spotting experience. If you don’t have a pair, you can use a camera or phone with a zoom feature to get a closer view.
Best Conditions for Whale Spotting
Weather and ocean conditions are one of the most important aspects to determining if you’ll be successful in spotting whales. Just like humans, whales don’t like traveling through winter storms and violent waves. Under clear skies and calm waters, you can see dozens of whales pass by within an hour. Head out in the early morning when the seas are calmer to see more whale activity.
How to Spot Whales on the Oregon Coast
You don’t have to travel far from your seaside stay to see these enormous creatures. You can spot the whales from your favorite overlook or even from the comfort of your hotel room. Look for the distinct spouts shooting sprays of seawater from whales coming up for air. Then quickly grab your binocular or camera with zoom to see the shiny grey skin or a protruding tail of the whales as they move through the water.
Best Places for Whale Watching in the Winter
During winter viewing season, head to higher elevated areas. You’ll want unobstructed panoramic ocean views for the best experience. Residents of the coastal communities of Depoe Bay, Lincoln City, and Newport can often see whales while enjoying a meal or from their seaside accommodations.
Stay in Depoe Bay
Stay in one of the most popular places to see whales on the coast, Depoe Bay. Home to the Whale Watch Center and about 60 resident whales, there’s plenty of opportunities to see the whales in person.
When you book a suite at Channel House, you don’t have to go far for whale watching the winter. Guests can often spot the migrating mammals from their rooms. Complete your whale watching adventures and book your stay at Channel House! You can’t beat our location in Depoe Bay. With ocean-front views, a private deck, and large windows, our accommodations are the best places to spot a gray whale or two!
