10 Unmissable Whale-Watching Destinations Around The World For Nature Lovers

OT Staff & Waquar Habib

Husavik, Iceland – Europe's Whale-Watching Capital

Husavik offers prime sightings of humpback, minke, and blue whales in the Eyjafjordur fjord. Best visited from June to August, it's renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and responsible tourism practices.

A whale at Husavik, Iceland | northsailing/instagram

Hudson Bay, Manitoba, Canada – Beluga Haven

Each summer, over 60,000 beluga whales gather in Hudson Bay's warm waters. Visitors can enjoy close encounters and even snorkel with these sociable "sea canaries" from June to August.

A whale in the ocean (for represenatational purpsoe only) | cronullawhalewatching/instagram

Hermanus, South Africa – Land-Based Whale Watching

From June to December, Hermanus offers exceptional land-based whale watching. Southern right whales frequent the bay, and the town hosts a renowned whale festival in September.

Whale at Hermanus, South Africa | hermanuswhalewatchers/instagram

Baja California, Mexico – Year-Round Whale Paradise

Baja California's Sea of Cortez is a year-round hotspot for gray, blue, and sperm whales. The nutrient-rich waters also attract whale sharks, making it a diverse marine sanctuary.

A whale emerges at Baja California, Mexico | sara.jenner1/instagram

Mirissa, Sri Lanka – Tropical Whale Watching

Mirissa is one of Sri Lanka's top whale-watching spots, offering sightings of blue and sperm whales. The best time to visit is from November to April.

Whale-watching at Mirissa, Sri Lanka | rajaandthewhales/instagram

Moorea, French Polynesia – Humpback Haven

Moorea's warm, sheltered waters attract humpback whales from July to October. The island offers opportunities for swimming with these majestic creatures in a serene environment.

A whale shot at Moorea, French Polynesia | briankelly/instagram

Azores Archipelago, Portugal – Diverse Whale Species

The Azores are a prime location for spotting over 20 whale species, including sperm and fin whales. The best time to visit is from April to October.

A dolphin at Azores Archipelago, Portugal | visitportugal/instagram

Shetland Islands, Scotland – Orca Sightings

The Shetland Islands offer opportunities to see orcas, especially from May to September. The rugged coastline provides a dramatic backdrop for these marine giants.

Humpback whales at Shetland Islands, Scotland | mekanphotography/instagram

Monterey Bay, California, USA – Year-Round Whale Watching

Monterey Bay is renowned for year-round whale watching, with peak sightings of humpback and blue whales from April to November. The bay's rich ecosystem supports a diverse marine life.

A shot from Monterey Bay, California | monterey_bay_whale_watch/instagram

Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA – Seasonal Whale Watching

Cape Cod offers whale-watching opportunities from April to October, with sightings of humpback, fin, and minke whales. The waters off Provincetown are particularly popular for tours.

Whale-watching at Cape Cod, Massachusetts | whalescapecod/instagram

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Penguin parade at Phillip Island, Victoria | phillipislandnp/instagram
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