It’s been a whale of a week. I’ve been teaching all about those biggish mammals, and it got me to thinking about where I could go see them. The closest I’ve been to whales was when I saw some tricky orcas at an animal park. But I’d love to see these guys out in their Pacific home. There are a lot of options for whale-watching tours all along the Pacific. I don’t do well on boats, but I’m willing to brave it. Just in case I lose my courage, I found that there are plenty of places you can see these migrating mammals from land. You’ll need a bit of patience, some good binoculars, and a picture-perfect location to do your viewing from.
This is a photo of Point Cabrillo Lighthouse, just north of Mendocino, California. You can see gray whales on their migratory route from Alaska to Mexico and back again. We visited the lighthouse during the summer, when the whales were long gone. But we did some hiking on their beautiful trails, and visited their small museum. The museum has a few exhibits, a gift shop, and a salt water aquarium in a small building just outside of it. My son still talks about this memorable visit.
You are more likely to see the whales in spring when the mother and calves make their way back up north, hugging the coast for protection.There is Whale Festival at the lighthouse on the first and third weekend in March, with docent talks and kids’ activities.
Now I have another reason to return to this peaceful place in spring.
The lighthouse and I are participating in Delicious Baby’s Photo Friday. Go on over there…o.k. I know I’m fascinating, but you can always come back here for more.
Thank you for posting this. We will definitely visit this weekend (especially knowing there is a salt water aquarium).
There were whales pretty regularly last weekend off Bodega Bay. There were official whale waters (counting?) so they would spot them for you. As a side note toddler + cliff = no whale watching for mom.
Have fun! The little building with the tank, I think is open when the museum is open. And speaking of cliffs, there was some of these when you got near the lighthouse, but the hike up there was safe and easy.
I’ve been to this lighthouse and recommend it, though I’ve never been to the aquarium. Clearly, I need to go back! Gorgeous photo!
I love lighthouses! I’ve yet to get out to any lights on the west coast, although I’ve visited lots of them on the Great Lakes and a few out east.
Between the lighthouse, the whale watching and the trails, I’m sure this is a place I’d love to go.
There’s something fascinating about lighthouses. Your photo is beautiful!