I'm considering taking a small group whale watching in Monterey in July. One ad reads, "Whale watching May-Nov" however, I've read most posts here that the best time is Jan-Feb. Any feedback? Also, has anyone experienced a particular company in Monterey and if I have a choice, would AM be better the PM? Any and all suggestions would be welcomed. And, I thank you in advance. I'm also considering Priceline for hotels and a visit to the Aquarium in the late afternoon (crowded?). This would have to be on a weekend.

I could be wrong, but whale watching is in the winter and spring when the whales migrate. They are already gone this time of year. Nov - May. Can't help with companies or hotel. As far as navigating the Aquarium, either go about 3pm or get your ticket ahead of time and pick up at will call so you can miss the line.

Trav,

A Google search on whale watching in california turned up TONS of information.

http://www.montereybaywhalewatch.com/schedule.htm

Curious

We have done Priceline for Monterey and got the Hyatt for $60 a night. We have never done whale watching in Monterey-we see them in Oregon every year in August--they are on their way down. I guess Jan-Feb they are on their way back up.

I do not believe there will be any whales to watch in July. I have seen them easily from shore, at Point Lobos, in February.
The Aquarium is great; try to see it near the beginning of your stay, as you'll appreciate the Bay all the more afterward. I'd like to put in a plug for Point Lobos, and tidepooling at Asilomar, if you have time that you would have spent on a boat.
Have fun!

Just got back from whale watching in Monterey. Boy, did we see whales! We saw 20 or so blue whales (did you know that the blue whale has a heart the size of a VW?). At one point the whales were right next to the boat. We moved on a little further and saw the humpbacks. For more info go to www.montereywhalewatching.com or 1/800/200-2203. We went out on the Magnum Force. $25.00 for a three hour awesome adventure.

The whales migrate south this time of year. The reason that winter (January and February esspecially) is famous for whale watching is that when the whales migrate north, they are closer to shore.