December 28, 2022 10:50 a.m.

Whale Watch Week on the Oregon coast is underway, despite recent blustery conditions that brought downed trees, power outages and high water to the coast.

A release from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department said only one location – Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint – had to close but is expected to reopen in time to participate.

For the first time since 2019, Oregon State Parks will host Whale Watch Week in person through Sunday. Every year thousands of Gray whales migrate south through Oregon’s waters at the end of December and state parks officials are inviting residents to see their journey.

Trained volunteers at most of the 17 sites help visitors to spot whales, share information and answer questions from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. daily. The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon coast.

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily through Sunday. Visitors can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks are also on hand to answer questions about whales.

A map of volunteer staffed sites is linked: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=things-to-do.whale-watching