How to Find Whales

Check to find out when it's high whale season for the area you have chosen. Whale season varies by location and species of whale. Whales migrate over extremely long distances, and each species of whale has different migration paths and travels at different times of the year. For example, December through April is the prime time to view gray whales off the coast of southern California, while August to October is when you're more likely to see the blue whale and the humpback whale off the coast of northern California. Whale-watching season off the Gold Coast of Australia runs from June to October. Call the local tourism organization to find out the best time for whale watching.

Choose a clear, calm day. It's much easier to spot a whale when the ocean isn't choppy. Bring binoculars to help you get a better view from a distance.

Find a prominent headland. To watch for whales from shore, try to find a spot higher than sea level. Ask local tourism groups for tips about sites that are renowned for whale sightings.

Watch from the upper deck on a boat. Choose the highest spot on the boat and look off the starboard or right-hand side. Scan the surface rather than looking into the water.

Watch for a blow or spout as you scan the surface of the water. When a whale surfaces after a dive, it will spout out of its blowhole, shooting a misting jet of spray up to 14 feet into the air.

Watch for whale "footprints" in the water. Whales create a glassy mark as they move through the water, resembling an oil slick.

Book a whale-watching tour. Tour boat operators are familiar with the migratory paths of whales in the area and are much more likely to find whales to watch. Some will even guarantee a whale spotting or refund your money.