Few experiences compare to spotting whales in the wild. Their size, grace, and unpredictability make every sighting unforgettable.
I’ve called Alaska home for more than two decades, and whale watching is still one of my favorite activities each summer. Whether from a fishing boat, a scenic cruise, or even the shoreline, the thrill of seeing a massive tail rise out of the water never fades.
Whale Watching Season in Alaska
The peak months for seeing whales are between May and September, when they travel north to feed. In Southeast Alaska, sightings can stretch into late fall, sometimes as late as November.
Top Destinations for Whale Watching
Prince William Sound
With thousands of miles of shoreline backed by glaciers and mountains, Prince William Sound is a prime summer feeding ground. Humpbacks are common here, along with occasional orcas, fin, and minke whales. Accessible towns include Whittier, Valdez, and Cordova.
Seward and Resurrection Bay
Seward is one of the most reliable places to see whales, both from the shore and by boat. Orcas and humpbacks are frequent visitors, and many wildlife cruises depart daily in summer to explore Kenai Fjords National Park.
Cook Inlet and Kachemak Bay
Homer, at the edge of Kachemak Bay, sees whales in summer, though sightings can be hit or miss compared to Seward. Beluga whales appear seasonally in northern Cook Inlet near Anchorage, usually from August to November.
Southeast Alaska
For travelers on cruise ships, the Inside Passage offers excellent opportunities. Towns like Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan are well known for whale watching. Orcas, humpbacks, gray whales, and the occasional blue whale can be spotted here.
Best Months to Visit
While whales are present throughout the summer, June through early August typically offers the highest chances of sightings. Humpbacks and orcas are especially active during this time. Belugas are more visible in late summer and early fall around Anchorage.
Can You See Whales from Shore?
Absolutely. In Seward, deep waters come right up to the coastline, and whales often venture close. Lowell Point is one of the best spots to watch them from land. Belugas can sometimes be spotted from Turnagain Arm near Anchorage, though sightings are less predictable.
Types of Whales Found in Alaska
- Humpback Whales: Known for their acrobatics, tail slaps, and immense size—often over 40 feet long.
- Orcas (Killer Whales): Sleek, social, and powerful hunters that travel in pods.
- Gray Whales: Migrating each spring, they can be seen along the coast on their way north.
- Fin Whales: The second largest species on Earth, though less often seen close to shore.
- Minke Whales: Small, fast, and found throughout Alaskan waters.
- Belugas: Distinctive white whales often found in Cook Inlet and sometimes in rivers.
Do Whales Breach in Alaska?
Humpbacks occasionally leap from the water, but it’s not something you can count on. While tail slaps and fin slaps are more common, seeing a full breach is a lucky moment.
What to Bring on a Whale Watching Trip
- Binoculars for closer views.
- A camera with zoom lens if photography is a priority.
- Layers of clothing, as conditions on the water can change quickly.
- Motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness.
What a Tour Is Like
Whale watching tours range from a few hours to full-day excursions. Larger boats handle rough seas better, while smaller vessels offer a more personal experience. Many tours include naturalist guides who share insights about the wildlife and environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re standing on the rocky shore in Seward or sailing the Inside Passage, Alaska offers some of the best whale watching in the world. Each sighting is unique—sometimes it’s a distant tail flick, other times an orca pod surfacing right beside the boat. Either way, the experience stays with you long after the trip ends.
