In the early days, Monterey was the capital of the Spanish territory of California. The city and nearby Carmel have restored many historic buildings and Spanish adobes. Old Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf have also been restored from their fishing industry glory days to shops and restaurants. Whale watching tours leave from the Fisherman's Wharf area and cruise into the Monterey Bay Sanctuary, the largest protected sea region that is rich with marine life. Almost year-round cruises are available to witness some of the greatest and spectacular animals on earth as they migrate and feed on anchovies, sardines and krill, throughout the Monterey Bay area. From December through April, the California Gray Whales migrate from Alaska's cold waters to the warm waters of Baja, California. From May through October, there are Blue Whales, Orcas (Killer Whales), Humpbacks, Minkes, Porpoises, and Dolphins. You'll also see Seals, Sea Otter, Sea Lions, and marine birds.
All the whales have their own distinctive characteristics. Humpback whales can reach up to 50-55 feet in length, but are still quite acrobatic in their leaps or breaches from the water. The first time you see these big giants coming out of the water is a thrill! Have your camera ready.