Photo Courtesy: Nate Van Mol
Remarkable Migrations
Where to see whales along the Oregon Coast
As spring begins, the Oregon Coast becomes a front-row seat for one of nature’s most amazing journeys: Thousands of gray whales travel north from the warm waters of Baja, Mexico, to their summer feeding grounds in Alaska. This year, from March 21 through 29, Whale Watch Week invites visitors to witness this spectacular passage. Depoe Bay is a popular place to watch these behemoths because of how close the whales come to shore, but up and down the coast, volunteers and rangers will be stationed at beaches and overlooks to help watchers spot spouts and breaches. With binoculars in hand and eyes on the horizon, join this celebration of wild marine life. See orwhalewatch.org.
Depoe Bay
Whale Watching Center:
Volunteers with binoculars point out whales from a large viewing deck featuring educational displays.
Whale Cove Vista Point:
The scenic overlook close to Depoe Bay provides excellent vantage points.
Lincoln City
Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint:
The bay offers frequent whale sightings, plus acts as a gathering spot for ocean birds such as albatrosses, murrelets and jaegers.
Yachats
Cape Perpetua Scenic Area:
Elevated headlands make it easier to spot migrating whales (sometimes even orcas later in spring) and falcons flying above.
Newport
Yaquina Head Lighthouse:
This viewpoint is a prime whale-watching spot, and an access point to tidepools.
Otter Rock
Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area:
A classic stop for whale watchers, the natural headland has panoramic views.
Bandon
Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint:
A classic stop for whale watchers, the natural headland has panoramic views.
Florence
Sea Lion Caves:
The largest sea cave in the United States offers views of whales in the distance, and is also a year-round home to sea lions and a popular nesting spot for many seabirds.
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