Whale Watching at Point Reyes

Fun Activity Info

Watch the California gray whale on their journey between Alaska and Baja California.
Where to go
Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary is a stretch of land for excellent whale viewing. Chimney Rock and Lighthouse are also great locations for a clear view of these spectacular animals.

Why they jump
Breaching takes place when a whale jumps out of the water into the air. Although scientists do not know exactly why whales breach, they believe it to be form of communication, play or a way to release parasites located on their body. Upon impact to the water, much of the whales skin is sloughed off.

Image traveling a third of your life
The California whale travels about 10,000 miles a year! Can you imagine spending most of your life traveling between two locations? There are two major reasons these animals travel so far: to eat and to have babies.