Every spring, the west coast of Vancouver Island becomes part of one of the longest mammal migrations on Earth.
Each year, approximately 20,000 Gray whale (Eschrichtius robustus) travel up to 15,000–20,000 kilometres round trip between the lagoons of Baja California, Mexico and their Arctic feeding grounds in Alaska.
Tofino sits directly along this migration corridor, making March and April some of the most active and exciting months on the water.
Why Gray Whales Migrate
Gray whales migrate for two primary reasons:
1. Calving in Warm Water
From December to February, gray whales gather in protected Mexican lagoons such as Ojo de Liebre and San Ignacio. These shallow, warm waters provide safer conditions for calves, who are born weighing roughly 700–900 kg (1,500–2,000 lbs) and measuring about 4–5 meters long.
2. Feeding in Cold Water
In spring, they head north toward the Bering and Chukchi Seas where nutrient-rich Arctic waters support large populations of amphipods and other bottom-dwelling invertebrates.
Unlike many baleen whales that feed in the water column, gray whales are bottom feeders. They roll onto their sides, scoop up sediment, and filter out prey using baleen plates, often leaving visible mud plumes at the surface.
Why Tofino Is a Prime Viewing Location
Tofino lies along the outer coast of Vancouver Island, directly on the whales’ migration route.
Several factors make this area particularly productive such as the nutrient-rich upwelling zones, the protected inlets within Clayoquot Sound, and the abundant benthic (sea-floor) food sources.
Some gray whales (often referred to as “sounders”) pause here to feed before continuing north. This extends viewing opportunities beyond the peak migration window.
Whales are often spotted travelling steadily north in March and April, feeding in nearshore waters, logging (resting) at the surface, and showing flukes before deeper dives.
Because gray whales frequently travel within a few kilometres of shore, sightings can occasionally occur from land, but being on the water offers a more immersive experience with the whales.
The Herring Spawn
Another remarkable spring event unfolds along the coast: the Pacific herring spawn.
Each year, vast schools of Pacific herring return to nearshore waters to lay their eggs on eelgrass, kelp, and seaweed. During peak spawn, the water can turn a beautiful milky turquoise colour from the sheer density of eggs and milt in the shallows.
This short but intense event creates one of the most important feeding frenzies in the coastal ecosystem.
Steller sea lions, harbour seals, sea birds, and bald eagles gather in large numbers to feed. While gray whales are primarily bottom feeders, humpbacks and other species may also take advantage of the increased prey activity in the area.
For visitors on the water in March and early April, it is possible to witness both migrating whales and the rich marine life drawn in by the spawn which just goes to show how interconnected the Pacific ecosystem truly is.
Other Whale Species Commonly Seen in Tofino
While gray whales are the focus of early spring, Tofino’s waters support multiple species throughout the season.
Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)
Humpbacks are commonly seen from late spring through fall.
Key facts:
- Length: 12–16 metres
- Weight: Up to 40 metric tonnes
- Known for: Breaching, tail slaps, and long pectoral fins (up to 5 metres)
- Diet: Krill and small schooling fish
Humpbacks were heavily impacted by commercial whaling in the 20th century but have made a notable recovery along the British Columbia coast in recent decades.
Many humpbacks now return to the same feeding grounds each year, and some individuals are catalogued and identified by the unique patterns on their tail flukes.
Orca (Orcinus orca)
Orcas are the largest member of the dolphin family and are present along the outer coast throughout much of the year.
Two main ecotypes are observed in this region:
Bigg’s (Transient) Orcas
- Feed primarily on marine mammals
- Travel in smaller, quieter groups
- Frequently spotted along the outer coast near Tofino
Resident Orcas
- Feed primarily on salmon
- Travel in larger pods
- More commonly associated with inside waters, though occasionally seen offshore
Adult males can reach 8–9 metres in length and are distinguished by dorsal fins that can exceed 1.8 metres tall.
Whale Watching & the Pacific Rim Whale Festival
Pacific Rim Whale Festival celebrates the return of migrating gray whales each March.
The festival highlights:
- Marine research and conservation
- Educational programming
- Community events
- Indigenous knowledge and stewardship
For visitors, it marks the beginning of the active whale watching season on the West Coast.
Best Time to See Whales in Tofino
March–April:
Peak gray whale migration northbound.
May–October:
Strong opportunities to see humpbacks, feeding gray whales, and Bigg’s orcas.
Wildlife often spotted on the same tour:
- Steller sea lions
- Harbour seals
- Sea otters
- Bald eagles
Because Tofino sits directly on the Pacific migration route, whale activity is not limited to a single short window, it evolves throughout the season.
Whale Watching in Tofino
Being on the water allows guests to observe:
- Feeding strategies
- Travel patterns
- Social groupings
- Tail fluke identification
- Blow intervals and dive behaviour
Whale watching is conducted under strict marine wildlife viewing guidelines to ensure safe distances and minimal disturbance.
When done responsibly, it provides both an unforgettable experience and a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems along the West Coast.
During the Pacific Rim Whale Festival, we are offering whale festival and spring break, we are offering a special promotion on our whale watching trips. During March 14-31, for each adult whale watching seat purchased, get a free child seat! Call or email our adventure center to book now.