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| March of the Whales |
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March and April offer an unequalled opportunity to catch sight of these fascinating creatures.
From December to early April they migrate south along the coast of California, leaving the rich feeding grounds in the Chukchi and Bering Seas. They head for the warm shallow lagoons of Baja California to give birth (calve) and breed.
In March and April thousands upon thousands are making their return, following the California coastline as they make their way back to the Bering Seas.
The California Gray Whale is typically between 35–50 feet and weighs in between 20–40 tons. The flukes (tails) can be up to 10 feet across. The whale can only stay underwater for a total of 15 minutes, and then needs to breath at the surface. Whale watchers call this a “spout,” and it’s one of the behaviors that confirms you’re on the trail of a whale.
12 Whale Watching Sites
Mendocino County:
Glass Beach. On Elm Street at the north end of Fort Bragg. Lots of tide pools. Though not the broadest view of the ocean this is a fun beach for kids. They can hunt for gem-like pieces of glass that the ocean has smoothed over. Jughandle State Reserve. One mile north of Caspar, hike from the tidepools at the waters edge where the marine animals thrive, or all the way to the Pygmy Forest. Ranger-led walks or self-guided maps are available at the entrance. Between Mendocino and Fort Bragg on Hwy 1. 937-5804.
Laguna Point at MacKerricher State Park. Set in the world of the tidal flats, the rocky shores of Laguna Point dominate MacKerricher State Park. Located approx. three miles North of Fort Bragg, this popular park consists of headlands, a small lagoon to explore, and a stretch of sand dunes to roam. Ricochet Ridge Ranch offers coastal horseback riding for whale viewing. From Willits, take Hwy 20 W to Hwy 1, three miles N of Fort Bragg. 964-9112.
Mendocino Headlands State Park. Spectacular views of sea arches and the hidden grotto along the cliffs are easily accessible. This park offers a unique blend of gentle trails, rugged coastline, and secluded beaches that surround the exciting shops in the Village of Mendocino. Hwy 128 West to Hwy 1 North. 937-5804.
Point Arena Lighthouse and Museum. On a point of land that juts out two miles into the Pacific, this lighthouse is an excellent place to look for whales. Stay at the lighthouse or explore the museum and fun shops in nearby Point Arena. North of Point Arena on Hwy 1. 877-725-4448.
Point Cabrillo Lightstation Preserve. The preserve occupies a spectacular headland thrusting out into the Pacific. Enjoy an expanded array of family activities during the 23rd Annual Whale Festival scheduled for March 4–5 and 18–19. Whale watching walks and cruises, wine and chowder tastings, arts and crafts fair, children’s activities, and more. The Historic lighthouse has been restored and is open 11–4 on weekends. 128 N to Hwy 1, midway between Mendocino & Caspar. 937-0816.
Russian Gulch State Park. Enjoy the heavily forested Russian Gulch Creek Canyon, a headland that features the Devil’s Punch Bowl (a large, collapsed sea cave with churning water), and a beach that offers swimming, tide pool exploring, skin diving and rock fishing. Inland, explore a 36-foot high waterfall, miles of hiking trails, and a paved three-mile bicycle trail. Two miles north of Mendocino on Highway 1. 937-5804.
Todd’s Point. Just south of Noyo Bridge on Ocean View Drive in Fort Bragg. Marin County: Point Reyes National Seashore and Lighthouse. A large variety of trails, beaches, visitors center and interpretive programs are available to help increase your enjoyment of the coast and the picturesque Point Reyes Lighthouse, Visitors Center is open from 10 a.m–4:30 p.m., Th.–Mo. Approachable either from Hwy 1 or from Petaluma along the Petaluma-Pt. Reyes road. Pass the red barn and proceed to the Bear Valley Visitor Center. 415-464-5100.
Sonoma County:
Salt Point State Park. Explore the marine preserve, and the Kruse Ranch Rhododendron reserve. You’ll find miles of nature trails for serious hikers through this large state park, as well as pocket beaches, tide pools and great spots to picnic. 19 miles north of Jenner on Hwy 1. 847-3221.
Sonoma Coast State Beach—Bodega Head. A rocky headland that forms the entrance into Bodega Harbor. The high cliffs offer excellent vantage points for observing whales, and the harbor side provides the many hiking trails that allow access to small, sandy coves and spectacular scenic blufftop views. Between Jenner and Bodega Bay on Highway 1. 875-3483.
Stillwater Cove County Park, Sonoma Coast State Beach. Enjoy the Redwood trail to the beach, or enjoy the open meadows and coastal forest. Follow a half-mile trail leading to the historic one-room Fort Ross Schoolhouse. Picnic tables and campground are also available. North of Jenner on Hwy 1, just south of Salt Point State Park. 875-3483.
Marin County:
Point Reyes National Seashore and Lighthouse. A large variety of trails, beaches, visitors center and interpretive programs are available to help increase your enjoyment of the coast and the picturesque Point Reyes Lighthouse, Visitors Center is open from 10 a.m–4:30 p.m., Th.–Mo. Approachable either from Hwy 1 or from Petaluma along the Petaluma-Pt. Reyes road. Pass the red barn and proceed to the Bear Valley Visitor Center. 415-464-5100.
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