Countdown to Oregon's Winter Whale Watch Week: December 27-31, 2023!
Whale Watch Week on the Oregon coast is an extraordinary event that captures the hearts of nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. This phenomenon, which typically occurs during the winter and spring migrations, offers a unique opportunity to witness the majestic gray whales as they make their incredible journey to and from the warm lagoons of Baja Mexico. From December through January, gray whales embark on their annual migration south, making Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston a prime viewing spot.
Whale Watch Week is not just an event; it’s a chance to create cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the Pacific ocean and the incredible marine life it supports. Visitors can marvel at these gentle giants as they breach, spout, and glide gracefully through the ocean from multiple viewpoints on the Oregon Coast, including the iconic lookout at Shore Acres State Park right here on Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston.
Oregon State Parks commemorates the annual winter and spring whale migration with its Oregon Whale Watch program in late December and late March. Thanks to their knowledgeable volunteers , curious visitors can learn more about the gray whales and their annual migration in designated sites (like Shore Acres State Park ) between 10:00am - 1:00pm December 27-31, 2023 - when these volunteers assist visitors in spotting the migrating whales and help them identify their swimming patterns and habits. The program also celebrates the annual Spring Whale Watch Week in March, when nearly 20,000 gray whales return northward.
The following links have information specifically for the Whale Watch program and on the Shore Acres event calendar:
- Shore Acres State Park calendar events
- Best Places to watch whales according to the Oregon Whale website
- Winter Whale Watch Week returns to Oregon Coast - Oregon State Parks
If you’re unable to get to a designated viewing spot during Winter Whale Week, you can still view these gentle giants on your own. Even if it isn’t Whale Watch Week, the lookouts along Oregon’s Adventure Coast are a great place to be on the lookout for gray whales and other marine mammals! Download the Oregon State Parks whale watching brochure and embark on your own whale watching adventure!
If you’re traveling here for the holidays, be sure to pack your binoculars, and don’t forget to dress in layers and bring a waterproof coat! While you’re here, we recommend exploring the state parks & national lands along the Cape Arago Highway Loop, and look for more wildlife including the famous seals and sea lions at the Simpson Reef Interpretive Stop, where you can enjoy excellent views of Oregon’s largest haul-out of seals and sea lions on Shell Island (part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge). Whether you’re a seasoned marine biologist or a first-time whale watcher, Oregon’s Adventure Coast provides an awe-inspiring setting to connect with nature and experience the wonder of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Here are some other adventures and trip ideas to consider during your visit this winter Oregon’s Adventure Coast: Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston (click here for local lodging options ):
- Winter Fun On Oregon’s Adventure Coast
- Annual Holiday Lights at Shore Acres
- Ice Skating in North Bend!
- Winter Storm Watching
- Fishing & Crabbing and Clamming
- Southern Oregon Coast Lighthouses
- Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
- Ocean Life & Tidepooling
- Charleston to Bandon Tour Route
- Undeveloped Beaches
- Shopping
- Birding & Wildlife
Additional Resources:
