Travelers have been venturing west in search of the powerful Pacific for centuries. The same awe-struck feeling that washed over the indigenous communities of the West Coast and the first American settlers when they looked out to sea from the cliffy Pacific coastline now overwhelms each visitor at The Inn at Otter Crest.
The Central Oregon Coast has it all: meandering trails, dense forests, craggy mountain tops, and a lively coastline. At our resort, guests can explore tide pools along Otter Crest Beach, see harbor seals, and even spot the occasional grey whale or migrating orca. The Central Oregon Coast, as it turns out, is one of North America’s best whale-watching destinations. Continue reading below for an Oregon Coast whale watching guide.
When to Go
The Oregon Coast enchants visitors year-round, but the best time for Oregon Coast whale watching falls between June and mid-November. While whales are visible off Oregon’s coast all year long, Oregon’s resident grey whale population swims close to shore to feed during June and mid-November. Additionally, Oregon state parks celebrate the migration twice a year during “Whale Watch Weeks” in late March and late December.
What You’ll See
Oregon Coast whale watchers can expect to see grey whales year-round and may occasionally spot humpback whales, orcas, and blue whales further off the coast as they migrate. There are a few resident whales near our Otter Rock resort, but grey whales migrate to and from the Gulf of California for their winter birthing and feeding grounds. They then head up to Alaskan breeding and feeding grounds in the summer, so spring and fall are the prime whale-watching seasons! In addition to whales, whale watchers will spot harbor seals and various porpoises.
Where to Go
There are over 24 Oregon Coast whale-watching destinations, including our very own Inn at Otter Crest. A willing whale watcher can visit a handful of world-renowned Oregon Coast whale watching spots near our inn, including Otter Rock, Cape Foulweather, Yaquina Head, Don Davis Park, and many more. Pro tip: Whale watching on a boat—say in Depoe Bay—is great, but whale watching from land is tough to beat at The Inn at Otter Crest. The water is deep offshore here, and we are high enough to see a long way.
Spring Is in Bloom at Otter Crest 
Flora and fauna come alive during the spring at The Inn at Otter Crest! We have a large number of mature Rhododendrons dotting the property, which bloom in multiple colors. Along with the area’s majestic whales, our inn’s foliage will undoubtedly draw you and yours in. Head to our website today to book your brilliant stay at The Inn at Otter Crest!