When can you see the orcas?

There is no central source for the public to find out exactly when the whales are present in the San Juans.

But, generally speaking, members of the Southern Resident Community are regularly seen in the area from May through September. You can view a series of charts that show since 1978 when the orcas were seen in the San Juan and Canadian Gulf islands, and when they were seen in Puget Sound (south of the San Juans).

Another chart shows the breakdown, since 1976, of the monthly arrivals and departures of each pod. The data was collected and compiled by Whale Museum staff.

You can also see where the whales have been in the last month by visiting the Whale Hotline. Keep in mind, however, that the location of the whales on one day is no predictor of where they will be the following day.

Don't forget: The least intrusive way to see the orcas is from shore. When the whales swim by Lime Kiln Point State Park on the west side of San Juan Island (also known as Whale Watch Park) you can get a fantastic view of them! (See "San Juan Island is a happenin' place for land-based whale watching.")

Just remember--the whales aren't on a schedule. You never know when they might pass by!