A Whale of a Tale
Stunning. Breathtaking. Gorgeous.
Endless adjectives try to do justice to our captivating Central Coast. Jagged cliffs,
smooth stretches of beach, glittering crystal waters …
That only scratches the surface. The ocean life beneath these waters is the real
star. Especially when these magnificent sea creatures treat us mere mortals to a
spectacular show.
Along Highway 1, if we’re lucky, we’ll catch a glimpse of sea lions, dolphins, sea
otters, and seals dancing, floating, and gliding in their deep blue playground.
And, if we time our coastal adventures just right, maybe, just maybe, we’ll spy
gray whales as they traverse north from Alaska this time of year. During their
migration, mothers and their calves tend to swim closer to shore.
With a little help from the Whale Trail organization, make the most of your whale
watching adventures by visiting the viewpoints designated by the group. Hold
onto your hats, jackets, and sunscreen … and don’t forget to grab your binoculars
from storage! We’re going on a little road trip!
So, where is the best place to see whales in San Luis Obispo County? We have a
handful of fabulous spots to share!
Two of them are in San Simeon and offer some of the Central Coast’s best
viewpoints, including one at the San Simeon Bay Pier (at William Randolph Hearst
State Beach) and the other at the Cavalier Resort next to the boardwalk. Along
your journey, you’ll also find vantage points at Cambria’s Shamel Park, the
Cayucos Pier (or the Estero Bluffs north of Cayucos for a more elevated position),
Point Buchon inside Montana de Oro State Park, the Pismo Beach pier, the Morro
Bay bluffs, and the Oceano Dunes. While Avila Beach is also wonderful, a boat trip
may maximize your viewing potential.
Check in with the Whale Trail organization at https://thewhaletrail.org to find
updated information on the most current viewing spots and sightings before you
embark on your quest.
This is one road trip sure to become a grand whale of a tale to share over the
coming years!
