What Is The Best Time To See Whales In Los Angeles?

You can see whales off Los Angeles almost all year, but the best times are tied to their migrations:

December–April: Gray whale season
In winter and early spring, thousands of gray whales pass close to the coast on their way between Alaska and Baja. This is the classic, very reliable whale-watching season, with many daily tours from Long Beach, San Pedro, and nearby harbors.

May–November: Blue whale & summer whales
Late spring through fall is prime time for blue whales (the huge ones!), plus humpbacks and fin whales as they come to feed on krill just offshore. Summer trips often have excellent sightings and warm, calm weather.

Time of day
Morning cruises usually have smoother seas and less glare, which is kinder for photos and sea-sickness, though afternoon trips can also be great.

Quick cheat sheet:

• Want gray whales → go Jan–March

• Want blue whales → go June–Sept

• Just want “some whales” → anytime Dec–Sept with a reputable tour gives you good odds.