Don't miss whale-watching in Monterey

Monterey Bay is renowned as California's best whale-watching spot, and a trip to Monterey wouldn't be complete without it! I stayed up late to put together this whale-watching guide for Monterey town—don't miss out. 📝【Whale-Watching Essentials】 👉 Season: Whales can be seen year-round. Gray whales and orcas appear in winter, while blue whales arrive in summer. 🧥 Clothing: It’s windy and quite cool at sea. Even if you’re whale-watching in summer, bring a thick jacket. 🎫 Booking Tickets: Some whale-watching companies are popular, so it’s a good idea to check and book in advance! ⏰【Choosing a Time Slot】 Monterey whale-watching trips are typically offered in the morning, afternoon, and sunset, with durations ranging from 3 to 8 hours. 1️⃣ Morning: Calmer seas, more friendly for those prone to seasickness. 2️⃣ Afternoon: Winds and waves tend to pick up. I tried an afternoon trip once, and the rocking was unreal! 3️⃣ Sunset: Timing varies with sunset hours—you can chase whales while enjoying the sunset. ⚠️ It’s said that the earlier you depart, the higher the chance of spotting whales. ⛴️【Boat Type Options】 There are generally three types: large, medium, and small. ✅ Large boats are more stable but can’t get too close to the whales. ✅ Small boats get closer to the whales but are more prone to rocking. 🔎【Departing from Monterey or Moss Landing?】 🚗 Monterey is a 25-minute drive from Moss Landing. 🖋️ In theory, Moss Landing is closer to the ocean trench, so whales might be spotted faster (though conditions vary daily). 🔖 Regardless of the departure point or company, all trips end up in the same whale-watching area. 🚩【Company Recommendations】 1️⃣ Discovery Whale Watch: A well-known company in Monterey, offering medium to large boats, with marine scientists and biologists on board. 2️⃣ Princess Monterey Whale Watching: Has Monterey’s largest viewing boat, focusing on luxury, stability, and comfort. 3️⃣ Monterey Bay Whale Watch: With over 30 years of orca research experience, their boats can hold around 20–60 people. 4️⃣ Sea Goddess Whale Watching: Departs from Moss Landing. 📷【Things to Do in Town】 📍 Lovers Point Beach: The town’s most popular small beach, perfect for strolling and sea-gazing. In spring, blooming flowers add extra romance. 📍 Monterey Bay Aquarium: A must-visit ocean aquarium in town, incredibly relaxing, with on-site guides. 📍 Old Fisherman’s Wharf: A waterfront pier with charming cottages, ideal for tasting seafood. 📍 17-Mile Drive: A scenic bay a 10-minute drive from town—worth a detour! #CaliforniaTravel #MontereyCalifornia #MontereyTown #MontereyWhaleWatching #Monterey #WhaleWatching