13 Best Whale Watching Spots on the East Coast

There’s something unforgettable about seeing a whale in the wild — the size, the grace, and that breathtaking moment when one breaches the surface.

Luckily, the East Coast of the U.S. offers some of the best whale watching opportunities anywhere, thanks to the rich marine life and annual migrations that stretch from Maine to Florida.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top whale watching spots along the East Coast — including when to go, what you can expect to see, and where to catch the most memorable views.

Key Highlights

• The East Coast of the United States offers incredible opportunities for whale watching.
• From Maine to Florida, various whale species, including humpbacks, minkes, and the endangered right whale, grace these waters.
• Peak whale watching season aligns with the pleasant summer months, typically from June to August.
• Stellwagen Bank, Cape Cod, and the Gulf of Maine are renowned hotspots for whale watching excursions.
• Responsible whale watching practices are crucial for minimizing disturbance to these magnificent creatures and their habitat.

Here are some of the best places for whale watching on the East Coast:

1. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is often considered one of the top whale watching destinations in the world — and for good reason. From April to October, humpbacks, fin whales, and minkes gather just off the coast to feed, giving visitors a front-row seat to the action.

Boats leave from towns like Provincetown and Hyannis, with many tours heading to Stellwagen Bank, a protected marine sanctuary rich with marine life. The chances of spotting whales here are excellent — some tours even boast near-100% sighting rates in peak season.

2. Bar Harbor, Maine

Nestled near Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor combines rugged coastal scenery with unforgettable whale sightings. Humpbacks, finbacks, and the occasional right whale pass through here during the summer months, typically June through August.

It’s a great place to mix adventure with relaxation — spend the morning whale watching, then head into the park for a hike or scenic drive

3. Gloucester, Massachusetts

Gloucester is one of the oldest seaports in America and home to some of the most experienced whale watching crews in the country. Like Cape Cod, tours from Gloucester often head to Stellwagen Bank, which means you’ll have a high chance of seeing multiple whale species in one trip.

It’s also a great option if you’re coming from Boston — less than an hour’s drive, and you’re on the water. Check out whale watching options from Gloucester here.

4. Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is a hidden gem when it comes to whale watching. Located at the southern tip of New Jersey, it’s where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean — a perfect intersection for migrating whales and dolphins.

From May through October, you can spot humpbacks, minkes, and sometimes even fin whales. Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center and other local tour operators offer educational and family-friendly excursions that blend wildlife watching with marine conservation. Experience this unique environment by booking a tour.

Beyond the whales, Cape May is a charming town with Victorian architecture, great beaches, and a relaxed coastal vibe. It’s a great spot for a weekend getaway with plenty to do before or after your time on the water.

5. Boston, Massachusetts

You don’t have to venture far from the city to see whales — Boston Harbor cruises often head straight to Stellwagen Bank as well. That means you can go from a coffee in the North End to watching a humpback breach in just a couple of hours. Find whale watching tours from Boston that fit your schedule and enjoy this half-day adventure on the water. It’s an ideal option if you’re visiting the city and want to fit in a half-day adventure on the water.

6. Portland, Maine

Portland is another excellent spot to hop on a whale watching tour, especially in late spring through summer. Tours often travel into the Gulf of Maine, which is rich with marine life and offers the chance to see multiple species in one outing. Plus, Portland’s food scene and walkable waterfront make it a great place to explore before or after your trip. Explore whale watching tours in Portland here.

7. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport might be known for its mansions and sailing culture, but it also offers seasonal whale watching, especially in late spring and early summer. The waters off Rhode Island can be a migration route for humpbacks and fin whales. If you’re looking for a charming seaside town with less hustle than Boston or Cape Cod, Newport is a relaxing and scenic pick.

At the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk offers surprisingly great whale watching, especially from June to September. Humpback sightings have become more common in recent years as populations rebound. Many local companies offer tours, and the peaceful beaches and small-town feel make it a great summer escape from the city.

9. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach might be better known for its boardwalk and beach scene, but it’s also a surprisingly good spot for winter whale watching. From December to March, humpback whales can be spotted migrating along the coast.

The Virginia Aquarium offers educational whale watching tours that combine science, conservation, and wildlife viewing — a great option for families or first-timers. 

10. Outer Banks, North Carolina

Cape Hatteras and the Outer Banks offer some of the best chances to spot whales in North Carolina, particularly during the winter migration months. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, humpbacks, fin whales, and even the occasional sperm whale can be spotted offshore.

Tours are more limited here, but the raw natural beauty of the area, combined with the possibility of seeing marine life without the crowds, makes it a special experience. Shore-based sightings also occasionally happen near the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. 

11. Jacksonville, Florida

Florida’s northeastern coast is one of the few places in the world where you can see North Atlantic right whales from shore. From December to March, these massive whales come close to the beaches to give birth and nurse their calves.

While boat-based whale watching tours are limited here (to protect the whales), this is one of the best places in the U.S. for land-based viewing. Head to places like Amelia Island or Ponte Vedra Beach, and bring your binoculars — you might just spot something unforgettable.

12. St. Augustine, Florida

Just south of Jacksonville, St. Augustine offers some of the same right whale viewing potential — both from land and on the water. While dedicated whale watching tours are rare, local nature cruises and eco-tours may include whale sightings in the winter months. Plus, the historic charm of St. Augustine makes it worth the visit regardless.

13. Daytona Beach, Florida

Right whales have also been seen off the coast of Daytona Beach, particularly during the winter calving season. While you won’t find traditional whale watching tours here, patient beachgoers occasionally catch a glimpse from shore. The area also offers a variety of dolphin tours, which are fun year-round.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, visiting different whale watching spots on the East Coast will give you amazing experiences with these great animals. Every location, like the beautiful views in Bar Harbor, ME, or the warm waters of Jacksonville, FL, has something special to offer when it comes to whale sightings. If you plan your trip during the best whale watching season, you will have a better chance to see these marine wonders in their homes. Whether you know a lot about whales or are seeing them for the first time, the East Coast has many chances for you to enjoy these lovely creatures. Feel free to share your favorite whale watching place or ask any questions in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best place to see whales on the East Coast?

New England is one of the best spots on the East Coast for whale watching. Among its locations, Cape Cod in Massachusetts is a top choice, as it has a large number of whales.

Where is the best place in the US to go whale watching?

Cape Cod in Massachusetts is one of the best places in the US for whale watching. This is mainly because it is close to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.

Where are the whales on the East Coast?

Whales visit the waters all along the East Coast! Where and when you see them can change. Humpback whales are the most common to spot. You can also find fin whales and the endangered North Atlantic right whales.

What month is best for whale watching in Maine?

The summer months are the best time for whale watching in Maine. The Gulf of Maine is full of life. You can see whales often from June to August.