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Originally posted on February 15, 2021. Updated on February 15, 2023.
Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille has the inside scoop on whale watching in Cape May.
Recently, Cape May was highlighted on Conde Nast Travelers’ list of best places to watch for whales in the US! How exciting?!
Whale watching in Cape May is fun for people of all ages, lone travelers, couples, families, and large groups. It’s an excellent way to spend time outdoors and learn more about the world’s most majestic animals. Remember, many of the most fascinating mammals reside under the sea!
- For whale watching in Cape May, join:
- Cape May Whale Watcher
- Cape Sea Excursions
- Spirit of Cape May
- Thundercat Dolphin Watch Speedboat
More and more, whales are spending time off the coast of southern New Jersey. While Cape May is currently in a quiet period for whale spotting, things are expected to pick up again in just a few weeks. And, early spring is just the beginning. See whales as they come and go to feed all summer long. Spotted most often are immature (sub-adults) or adults not on a migratory pattern. Humpback, Finback, and Minke are most common.
Whales in Cape May
More about whales in Cape May according to NOAA.
Humpback
“Before a final moratorium on commercial whaling in 1985, all populations of humpback whales were greatly reduced, most by more than 95 percent. The species is increasing in abundance throughout much of its range but faces threats from entanglement in fishing gear, vessel strikes, vessel-based harassment, and underwater noise. Humpback whales live in all oceans around the world. They travel great distances every year and have one of the longest migrations of any mammal on the planet. Some populations swim 5,000 miles from tropical breeding grounds to colder, more productive feeding grounds.”
Finback
“The fin whale is the second-largest whale species on earth, second only to the blue whale. It’s found throughout the world’s oceans and gets its name from an easy-to-spot fin on its back near its tail. Like all large whales, fin whales were hunted by commercial whalers, which severely lowered their populations. The fin whale is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act and depleted under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.”
Minke
“Minke whales are members of the baleen or “great” whale family and are the smallest of the rorquals. They are one of the most abundant rorqual in the world, and their population status is considered stable throughout almost their entire range (especially when compared to other species of large whales). Minke whales in the United States are not endangered or threatened, but they are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.”
Here’s what Conde Nast Traveler says about whale watching in Cape May:
“A true paradise for animal enthusiasts, this tiny peninsula at the southern tip of New Jersey offers some of the best birdwatching in the country—and, from March to December, fantastic whale watching. Hop on the Cape May Whale Watcher for the “Cetacean Spectacular,” a three-hour voyage into the Delaware Bay. Marine mammal sightings are guaranteed, or your next trip is free. Humpbacks, fin whales, and bottlenose dolphins are a common sight, though this is also a great place to spot native shorebirds, ospreys, and even bald eagles.”
Harry’s is just steps away from all the whale watching in action in Cape May. Our oceanfront location offers quick and easy dining so you can fuel up and enjoy your day following marine life.
Whether you’re interested in whale watching or beaching-going, there’s always something fun to do in Cape May. Looking for more? Check out Cape May MAC for a full list of insider tips, events and activities. Remember, Harry’s offers live music every evening, plus daily specials, signature cocktails, and more.
Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille is a top Cape May restaurant with ocean views, Family-owned and operated, Harry’s offers delicious apps, entrees, and cocktails morning, noon, and night. Open seasonally.