Whale Watching Season is Here – Spring Whale Watch Week 2025

Spring Whale Watch Week on the Oregon Coast is scheduled for March 22–30, 2025, coinciding with the northbound migration of gray whales. We’re excited to help you experience it! Approximately 20,000 gray whales will migrate past the Oregon shoreline this spring and well into June to their feeding grounds in Alaska, making spots like Cape Kiwanda near Pacific City perfect for whale spotting.

Whales are fascinating creatures—there’s something truly special about watching these gentle giants glide gracefully through the waves. If you haven’t experienced whale watching before, it’s an adventure worth planning. There’s few places on the planet that are as enticing as the Oregon Coast for whale watching

Best Places Near Pacific City to Spot Whales

Spotting whales takes patience, but some places definitely improve your chances. Cape Kiwanda is a local favorite because we have resident whales that often swim close to shore. Some of our guests even spot whales while relaxing at the Pelican Pub!

If you want to head out on a drive along the coast, there are some other great vantage points for whale watching in Oregon: 
Depoe Bay
(Approximately 28 miles north of Cape Kiwanda, about a 40-minute drive)

Known as the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast,” Depoe Bay is home to the Whale Watching Center, where visitors can learn about marine life and observe whales from its expansive viewing deck. 

Cape Foulweather
(Roughly 30 miles north of Cape Kiwanda, taking around 45 minutes by car)

Located just south of Depoe Bay, this viewpoint rises 500 feet above the ocean, providing panoramic views ideal for spotting migrating whales.

Cape Perpetua
(Approximately 75 miles south of Cape Kiwanda, about a 1 hour and 45-minute drive)

This state park offers elevated viewpoints and hiking trails that overlook the ocean, enhancing the chances of whale sightings. ​

Boiler Bay
(about 27 miles north of Cape Kiwanda, roughly a 40-minute drive)

Situated near Depoe Bay, Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint provides ample parking and unobstructed ocean views, making it a popular spot for whale watchers. 

Ecola State Park
(Approximately 85 miles north of Cape Kiwanda, taking about 1 hour and 50 minutes to drive)

Rising from the north end of Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park offers perfect vantage points for spotting whales just steps from the main parking lot. ​

Quick Tips for Whale Watching:

• Binoculars: Models with image stabilization, such as those from Canon or Nikon, can be particularly useful. They’ll help you catch those impressive details.
• Camera with Telephoto Lens: For photography enthusiasts, a camera equipped with a telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or 300mm) enables detailed shots of whales from a distance.
• Layers and Waterproof Gear: Oregon weather can be unpredictable.
• Stay Patient: Whales surface regularly—just keep your eyes peeled for spouts or tails!
• Anti-Nausea Remedies: If you plan to watch from a boat, consider bringing anti-nausea aids such as ginger chews or motion sickness bands.

For more tips and info, check out the Oregon State Parks whale watching page.

Make it a Family Adventure

Whale watching is only the start! Make your trip memorable by hiking the dunes at Cape Kiwanda, searching for seashells, or simply flying kites along the shore. And when you’re ready to relax, our cozy oceanfront vacation rentals are waiting for you.

Vacation Rental Highlight: The Westerly #121

• Oceanfront Serenity: Nestled right on the beach in the gated Kiwanda Shores community, The Westerly offers unobstructed ocean views and direct beach access. 
• Cozy Accommodations: This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home comfortably sleeps up to 4 guests, making it ideal for a small family or a couple’s getaway. ​
• Pet-Friendly: Don’t leave your furry friends behind—The Westerly welcomes up to 2 dogs of any size.
• Modern Amenities: Enjoy a well-equipped kitchen, comfortable living spaces, and high-speed internet to stay connected.​

For more details and booking information, visit The Westerly’s listing.

Special Spring Offer:

Stay 3 nights during Spring Whale Watch Week and get 15% off your visit with our Spring Break Special.

Book your stay soon—we’d love to host your Oregon Coast adventure!