Spotting Killer Whales on the Oregon Coast
When can you see Killer Whales in Oregon?
We’ve found the best months to spot killer whales in Oregon are April- June. The transient Orcas are mostly likely to be seen close to shore as they feed on seals, sealions, and baby grey whales.
Where’s a good place to spot killer whales?
Killer whales sightings are rare, so you will need a little luck. Sightings have been going up recently probably due to successful conservation efforts, and social media sharing.
You can spot them anywhere along the Oregon coast. The best place to spot them is somewhere that’s higher up than the ocean, so you can see further out. You don’t want top be at sea level as you will only see an orcas that is close to shore.
A few of our favorite spots to look are Neahkahnie Mountain, Spanish Head Lincoln City, Boiler Bay, Depoe Bay, Cape Foulweather, and Yaquina Lighthouse. Once in a while they swim up into the bays (Yaquina Bay, Tillamook Bay, and others). If you happen to be around when that happens it’s an amazing event to see.
Killer Whale in Yaquina Bay 2023 T051 The Loan Wolf
Spotting Killer whales on the Oregon coast can be difficult. If you keep at it, you can be successful.
More info at Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife