Where Do Whales Go After You See Them?

What Happens After They Pass by Dana Point?

After you spot a whale on a Dana Wharf tour, it’s natural to wonder: Where do they go next? Each whale sighting is just a small moment in a massive migration that spans thousands of miles. These marine mammals travel with purpose, and Dana Point is one of the best windows into their journey.

Gray Whales: The Iconic Migrators

Gray whales are one of the most frequently seen species off Dana Point in the winter and early spring. They pass by Southern California during their migration from the chilly feeding grounds of the Bering and Chukchi Seas (Alaska) to the warm lagoons of Baja California, where they breed and give birth.

Once the calving season wraps up in Baja, they reverse course, heading north again from March through May, often with their calves. After you see a gray whale at Dana Wharf, it’s likely on its way to continue that epic roundtrip.

Blue Whales: Summer Giants on the Move

During summer, blue whales are more common. These massive filter-feeders follow krill blooms in nutrient-rich upwellings. After feasting off Southern California in summer, many blue whales begin heading west or south as the krill thins out.

Humpbacks, Fins & More

Humpback and fin whales may linger in SoCal waters longer, but they also follow food sources—sometimes hugging the coast or heading offshore. And unlike gray whales, many of these species don’t follow a strict schedule. After passing Dana Point, some may continue north toward Monterey Bay, others may dive deep offshore, and some may circle back to areas where bait is plentiful.

So… Where Do They Go?

While their destinations vary, one thing remains constant: their route brings them right past Dana Point, year after year, offering an unforgettable glimpse into one of the most awe-inspiring migrations on Earth.