When is the best time to see whales in the Salish Sea?
Jun 2, 2026, 12:48 PM | Updated: Jun 22, 2026, 3:34 pm
(Photo: Rachell Rodell, Puget Sound Express)
(Photo: Rachell Rodell, Puget Sound Express)
The Salish Sea is one of the world’s premier whale watching destinations, and the good news is there’s no bad time to see whales! Each of the four whale species in our waters follows its own seasonal rhythm, and understanding those patterns is the key to planning your experience.
Bigg’s killer whales: Year-round
The mammal-hunting Bigg’s (transient) killer whales are the stars of the Salish Sea, and they’re here all 12 months of the year. Drawn by the abundant seals, sea lions, and porpoises that thrive in these inland waters, Bigg’s orcas are spotted on the vast majority of whale watching tours regardless of season.
“Summer is the most popular time of year due to the terrific weather we enjoy,” Puget Sound Express General Manager Sarah Copley said. “However, your odds of seeing orcas are excellent any time of year.”
(Photo: Bart Rulon, Puget Sound Express)
Humpback whales: May through October
After spending the winter breeding and calving in warm tropical waters, humpback whales return to the Salish Sea each spring to bulk up on krill and small schooling fish. From May through October, their numbers grow dramatically, with surface behaviors such as breaches, pectoral fin slaps, and tail throws often seen on tours.
“Late summer is often peak season for humpback activity,” Copley said.
Minke whales: May through October
The smaller, more elusive minke whale shares the humpback’s summer schedule. From May through October, these sleek baleen whales patrol the kelp lines and tide rips in the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the San Juan Islands, ambushing schools of herring and sand lance. Quick, quiet, and unpredictable, minke sightings reward sharp eyes and a bit of patience.
Gray whales: February through May
Each spring, a small group of gray whales — known locally as the “Sounders” — peels off the great migration up the Pacific coast to feed on ghost shrimp in the shallow flats around Whidbey Island. From February through May, these gentle giants offer one of the most reliable and intimate whale encounters of the year.
Follow @http://twitter.com/Mynorthwest
