whale watching in new jersey best time of year
Peak times
The greatest whale activity at the Jersey Shore is between May and November. This time of year also coincides with the migrations of prey fish, as the water starts to warm in the spring.
I think the best time with the most whales and great weather conditions is September and October in Monmouth County NJ for whale watching.

Whales are usually spotted in New Jersey in the fall as they migrate from Canada to warmer waters near Florida and the Caribbean, and in the spring (April can be amazing)when they head back. The whale and dolphin watching season in New Jersey runs from March to December, and the peak time to go on a sea excursion is from June to begin of November, after that its too cold for most passengers, but the whales are still out there.We saw 4 whales in February 2023 in one day from the beach.

 

### Whale Watching in New Jersey: The Best Time of Year for 2024 (And Plan for 2025!)

Whale watching at the Jersey Shore has become a must-do activity for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a unique adventure, seeing these magnificent creatures up close is an unforgettable experience. As we dive into 2024, it’s the perfect time to plan your trip and get the most out of the peak whale-watching season. And for those looking ahead, now is also the ideal time to plan your **2025 whale-watching adventure** with Jersey Shore Whale Watch aboard our top-rated boat, **Jersey Girl**.

#### Peak Whale Watching Season at the Jersey Shore

The peak time for whale sightings off the Jersey Shore runs from **May to November**. This period aligns with the whales’ migration routes as they follow large schools of prey fish, primarily menhaden (also called bunker), along the coast. As the waters warm in the spring, these fish move north, and the whales follow, feeding as they go. From **April to November**, the waters off **Monmouth County** become a prime feeding ground for humpback whales and occasionally other species.

While the whale-watching season spans from **March to December**, the best time for sightings occurs in **late summer and early fall**, especially during **September and October**. These months offer the perfect combination of abundant whale activity and ideal weather conditions, making them the best time for whale watching in 2024.

#### Why September and October Are the Best Months for Whale Watching

The **September and October** timeframe is truly the highlight of the whale-watching season, especially along the scenic coastline of Monmouth County, including towns like **Belmar, Asbury Park, Bradley Beach, and Deal**. Here’s why these months are the best:

– **Migration Routes**: During the fall, whales are migrating south from the cooler waters of Canada, heading toward the warmer waters near Florida and the Caribbean. As they travel along the Jersey Shore, they’re often spotted feeding close to shore.

– **Feeding Frenzy**: The waters in the fall are rich with menhaden, attracting whales and providing them with a plentiful food supply. This makes for incredible whale-watching opportunities, as the whales are often seen actively feeding, breaching, and spouting close to the boat.

– **Perfect Weather**: September and October bring mild, comfortable temperatures, perfect for spending a few hours on the water. The cooler fall air is refreshing, and the seas are typically calm, providing smooth sailing and excellent visibility for spotting marine life.

– **Multiple Sightings**: Many tours during these months report seeing **multiple whales on a single trip**—sometimes as many as 10 whales in one outing, with even more visible in the distance. It’s the best time to maximize your chances of seeing whales up close.

Whale Watching Year-Round

While **September and October** are the most popular months, whales can be seen off the coast of New Jersey at various times throughout the year.

– **Spring (April-May)**: The whale watching season kicks off as whales migrate north from the Caribbean. April is especially exciting, as mothers and calves can often be seen together as they make their way along the coast.

– **Summer (June-August)**: Summer is a busy time for whale watching, with warm weather and plenty of wildlife to see. While whales are active, you may also spot dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine animals. However, the highest concentration of whale sightings generally occurs later in the season.

– **Fall (September-November)**: This is the peak season, where the most whales are spotted due to migration and feeding patterns. It’s the perfect time for a whale-watching trip, with mild weather and clear skies making for ideal viewing conditions.

– **Winter (December-February)**: Although winter is not the busiest season, whales are still out there. In fact, in **February 2023**, we spotted four whales in one day from the beach. The cold weather makes tours less frequent, but the whales don’t disappear entirely.

#### Plan Your 2025 Whale Watching Trip Now!

While 2024 is shaping up to be a fantastic season, it’s never too early to start planning for 2025! If you’re thinking about next year, you’ll want to book your trip early and secure your spot on the **number one whale-watching boat at the Jersey Shore—Jersey Girl**.

**Jersey Girl** is the perfect vessel for a comfortable and memorable whale-watching experience. Here’s why:

– **Two Floors**: Enjoy panoramic views from the upper deck or relax in the spacious seating on the lower deck. With two levels, there’s plenty of room for everyone to enjoy a great view of the ocean and the wildlife.

– **Indoor Air Conditioning and Heating**: Whether you’re whale watching in the summer or on a crisp fall day, Jersey Girl has you covered with climate control. Stay cool in the summer and warm in the fall with both air conditioning and heating in the indoor cabins.

– **Snack Bar**: Feeling hungry while spotting whales? Our snack bar offers a variety of treats and drinks to keep you energized throughout the trip.

– **Comfortable Seating**: We offer plenty of comfortable seating, both indoors and outdoors, so you can enjoy the experience in whichever way suits you best. The upper deck also provides great visibility for photographers and whale watchers alike.

– **Onboard Restrooms**: For your convenience, we have both men’s and ladies’ restrooms on board, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free experience for all passengers.

#### Book Your 2024 and 2025 Whale Watching Adventures!

Whether you’re planning your 2024 whale-watching trip or looking ahead to 2025, **Jersey Shore Whale Watch** has you covered. September and October are the best months for whale watching, with sightings of multiple whales, dolphins, and more. And now is the perfect time to plan your 2025 adventure with us aboard the **Jersey Girl**, the top-rated boat at the Jersey Shore.

For tickets and more information, call **732.592.6400**. Join us for an unforgettable whale-watching adventure and experience the beauty of New Jersey’s coastline while witnessing the wonder of marine wildlife up close!