Oregon State Parks will once again host Winter Whale Watch Week at 14 sites along the Oregon Coast from Friday, Dec. 27 to Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2025.
Every year, at the end of December, thousands of gray whales migrate south through Oregon’s waters, and state parks invite visitors to the coast to witness their journey.
Trained volunteers will be stationed at 14 sites to help visitors spot whales, share information, and answer daily questions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online on the official event webpage.
The Whale Watch Week sites are some of the best places to spot whales on the Oregon Coast.
“This is a great time to see one of the world’s longest migrations, as the gray whales are traveling by our coastline,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride. “We really enjoy sharing the experience with visitors,” he said, “It’s been a tradition at Oregon State Parks for more than 40 years.”
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales in 2023 when it looked like the population was rebounding. But since then, the population has declined to its lowest level since the 1970s. NOAA now estimates about 13,000 gray whales along the West Coast.
Winter Whale Watch Week offers an opportunity to observe not only gray whales but also other coastal wildlife, including birds and other marine mammals, with the assistance of trained volunteers and rangers.
The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 27-31. Visitors can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Park rangers and volunteers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about whales.
All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, bring binoculars, and follow beach safety guidelines, such as staying out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule, and always keeping an eye on the surf. Go to visittheoregoncoast.com for a list of safety tips.
Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Winter Whale Watch on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch or through our online gallery.
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