Welcome to the ultimate whale watching guide in Washington that lets you explore the wild side of the state and observe its resident whale species in their natural habitat, from killer whales to fin whales and other marine life.
In this guide, I’ll share details about whale tours you can take from various parts of Washington, how to reach each location using public transit (if available), and how much they cost. So, get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Whale Tour from Seattle
A lot of people think they have to travel all the way to Anacortes to see whales in Washington. Well, I have some good news! There’s a whale watching tour that departs right from Downtown Seattle. No car, no long travel time, just pure adventure.
This tour is operated by FRS Clipper, the same company that runs ferry service between Seattle and Victoria. It begins at Pier 69, just a 5-minute walk from Pike Place Market and takes you out into the waters of Puget Sound in search of transient orcas roaming freely in the wild.
I recently took this tour, and we spotted a group of four orcas between Vashon Island and Tacoma. It was such a thrilling sight, watching them mill and hunting for food. At one point, the orcas came so close that we could actually hear them breathe, both fascinating and a little surreal.
- Location & Operator: Pier 69, FRS Clipper
- How to reach: Bus >> Walk (Closest bus stop is 3rd & Cedar)
- Cost & Timing: $129-155 | 12 PM
Whale and Puffin Tours from Edmonds
If you’re looking for a quieter, less crowded starting point than Seattle, Edmonds is a fantastic option. Just a short drive or train ride north of the city, this charming waterfront town offers whale watching tours that often include puffin sightings during the right season, making it a two-in-one wildlife experience.
Tours from Edmonds typically head into the Salish Sea, where you have a chance to spot orcas, gray whales, humpbacks, and a variety of seabirds. The addition of puffins, especially in late spring and summer, makes this tour extra special for bird lovers and photographers.
The marina is easily accessible, and the overall experience feels more relaxed compared to bigger departure points. If you want fewer crowds and a more intimate wildlife encounter, Edmonds is a great choice.
I took the puffin tour last year and ended up seeing the orcas as well. It was a delightful bonus, spotting the T99 group exploring the choppy waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
- Location & Operator: 459 Admiral Way (Edmonds), Puget Sound Express (they also have tours from Port Townsend & Port Angeles)
- How to reach: Light Rail to Lynwood >> Bus 102 OR Bus Route E to Aurora Village Transit Center >> Bus 130
- Cost & Timing: $155 | 9:30 AM (Apr 1 – Sep 27) & additional 2:30 PM tour (Jun 19 – Sep 7), check website for winter timing.
Bellingham Whale Tour
Bellingham is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most underrated spots for whale watching in Washington. Located close to the Canadian border, this coastal town gives you quick access to some of the richest marine ecosystems in the region.
Whale tours from Bellingham usually explore areas around the San Juan Islands and the Strait of Georgia, increasing your chances of spotting resident orcas, humpbacks, and even minke whales. The scenery here is stunning, with mountain backdrops and open waters that make the journey just as memorable as the sightings.
It’s a bit of a drive from Seattle, but if you’re planning a weekend getaway, Bellingham offers a perfect mix of nature, waterfront charm, and incredible wildlife experiences.
- Location & Operator: 355 Harris Ave #104 (Bellingham), San Juan Cruise
- How to reach: Flix bus / Amtrak Cascades Train / Drive
- Cost & Timing: $129 | 11 AM
Anacortes Whale Tour
Anacortes is often considered the whale watching capital of Washington, and for good reason. Located at the gateway to the San Juan Islands, this is where you’ll find some of the most frequent and reliable whale sightings in the state.
Tours from Anacortes head straight into prime whale territory, significantly increasing your chances of seeing orcas, humpback whales, and gray whales. Many operators here also work closely with local researchers, so you often get more educational experience along with the adventure.
While it does require a longer drive from Seattle, the payoff is worth it. If spotting whales is at the top of your list, Anacortes gives you one of the best opportunities to see them up close in their natural habitat.
- Location & Operator: 2201 Skyline Way, Anacortes, Outer Island Excursions
- How to reach: Car is the best option
- Cost & Timing: $119 | Timing will be revealed at time of confirmation
San Juan Islands Whale Tour
If you want to turn your whale watching trip into a full getaway, the San Juan Islands are the ultimate destination. Places like Friday Harbor and Orcas Island offer some of the most immersive whale watching experiences in Washington.
From here, you’re already in the heart of whale territory, so tours are shorter but often more rewarding. Orcas are commonly seen, along with humpbacks and other marine life, and the surrounding island scenery adds a magical touch to the entire experience.
You can reach the islands by ferry from Anacortes, making the journey part of the adventure. Whether you stay overnight or just visit for the day, whale watching in the San Juan Islands feels like a true escape into the wild.
Abhi on his first trip to the island took this whale tour and saw both orcas and humpback whales. I, on the other hand, saw a grey whale breach right from Lime Kiln State Park, which was absolutely amazing to watch!
- Location & Operator: 1608 Rosario Rd, Eastsound, Outer Island Excursions
- How to reach: Drive to Anacortes Ferry Terminal >> Ferry to Orcas island or Friday Harbor
- Cost & Timing: $119 | Timing will be revealed at time of confirmation
Depending on where you are in Washington, choose the tour that’s closest to you. Each one offers an incredible opportunity to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Let me know in the comments how your tour was, and don’t forget to check out my Washington page for more recommendations.
