You may be wondering- when is whale watching season in San Diego? Every season is whale watching season, but June is especially great for a variety of reasons. Check out these tips while planning your next summer vacation. There is nothing more thrilling than seeing a whale up close.
Is June the Best Month for Whale Watching?
Whale watching is great year-round in southern California, but June can be unique. This month is the height of blue whale migration season, the largest mammals on earth. In the summer, you may also see humpback and fin whales.
Logistically, June is also a convenient month to start your summer vacation. For most, school is out by now, and everyone is looking for an enriching destination to take their family. San Diego can off the beach, and whales!
Tips for Whale Watching in June
If you can, get yourself on a boat. You can find a private boat charter San Diego for an extra special trip or find a group tour to join. Having an experienced captain guide you to the best spots and point out signs can be helpful if you’re new to the scene.
Some signs to watch out for are:
- Tails- whale tails are the most obvious feature of a whale that you’re likely to see above water. They have distinctive flukes, a term that refers to the two sides of the symmetrical tail.
- Blow holes- whales come up to the surface to breathe air, so look for a small spout of water repeating 3-5 times. You may also hear the noise of the blowing.
- Footprint- when a whale comes to the surface and resubmerges, it leaves behind a smooth, oval section of water.
- Breaches- this is slightly rarer, but sometimes whales will leap out of the water and create a big splash. They will often do this a few times in a row.
You can also spot whales from the shore using these whale signs. Bring a pair of binoculars to the beach or any area with a view of the ocean. Scan the horizon from left to right slowly and carefully. Keep your eye on any stopped boats because they may have already spotted a whale.
Where to Go Whale Watching in June
Whale watching in San Diego is especially active due to its prime location on the coast of southern California. It is directly in line with the migration patterns of multiple species of whales and dolphins year-round. In June, this includes the migration of three separate species: blue, humpback and fin whales.
The waters off the coast of San Diego are also very appealing to whales for other reasons. Krill are abundant and temperatures are perfect in this region. As close as four miles out, the depth drops to 4,000 ft, giving large whales plenty of room.
Now that you know your stuff don’t hesitate to start planning your next whale watching san diego trip. Start your summer with a bang, or a splash, in the presence of these gargantuan mammals. Go big or go home, as they say!
