Whales Dazzle off the Coast of Santa Cruz County

Photo by @philiplima in Capitola

Whales are a year-round spectacle in the Monterey Bay, and Santa Cruz County is fortunate to have a front row seat to the show. Whether they’re sightings from the shore, incredible drone footage, or unforgettable tour experiences, we love seeing photos – and whales – pop up on our social media channels. Tail slaps, lunge feeding, migration, and lofty breaches interest visitors and locals alike. Check out a few of our favorite whale tales below and start planning your whale watching adventure in Santa Cruz County!

And for more wildlife watching adventures on the Monterey Bay, check out the Best Ways to View Sea Life in Santa Cruz County.

Photo by Eric Mailander in Aptos off of Rio Del Mar Beach near Seacliff State Beach

Photo by @invision_drones in Aptos at Seacliff State Beach

Photo by @ryandewittpt on a whale watching tour with Santa Cruz Whale Watching

Photo by @sharkchic off the coast of Santa Cruz

Photo by @untitledsarah from a whale watching tour with Stagnaro’s/Santa Cruz Whale Watching – September 29, 2018

Photo by @stevespiliotopoulos from the Team O’Neill