Gray Whales undertake one of the longest migrations of any mammal species. They travel annually between their summer feeding grounds in the Arctic and their winter breeding and calving grounds in the lagoons of Baja, Mexico.

The journey can take anywhere from a few weeks to two months, depending on the individual whale. Along the way, the whales pass through several coastal areas, including Tofino. The whales can stop at several resting and feeding areas, where they may stay for several days before continuing their migration.

Once they reach the lagoons in Baja, the gray whales mate, give birth and nurse their young. After a few months, usually by March, the whales begin their journey back to the Arctic, where they will spend the summer feeding on small crustaceans.

The gray whale migration is one of the most impressive natural migrations. Up to 20,000 + gray whales cover a distance of 16,000 to 22,000 kilometres each way. The journey is a remarkable feat of endurance and navigation, as the whales must navigate through vast and often treacherous ocean environments, avoid potential predators and find their way to their specific breeding grounds.

In Tofino we see the gray whales during their long journey but we also have a small population of resident gray whales in the spring, summer and fall who do not undertake the long migration. Instead these whales remain in our local waters spending their time feeding and socializing. Resident gray whales are a fascinating and unique subpopulation of gray whales that offer a glimpse into the diversity and adaptability of these remarkable animals.

We offer Whale Watching Tours from Tofino from March to early November. Book an open boat or a cabin cruiser boat!