What’s the story?

There has recently been a flurry of locals, excitingly scrambling up to the cliff tops along the North Cornish Coast, following the South West Coast Path from Newquay to Trevose Head. The reason? The ‘Watergate Whale‘ – there have been almost daily sightings of a Humpback Whale (or two) for over a month now (and in multiple areas around Cornwall).

The rough Cornish coastline has tall cliffs and deep waters. It provides some of the best places in the UK for whale watching. As the climate changes, ocean life and food sources change too. Because of this, these large animals are seen more often in Cornish waters. This makes Cornwall a new spot for people who love to watch whales.

When to Go

The best time for whale-watching in Cornwall is from June to December. The most activity happens from August to October. During this time, many fish fill the waters. This brings different whales close to the Cornish coast. There can also be sightings throughout the year. Smaller animals like dolphins and porpoises can be seen, too.

What You Might See

Cornwall’s waters have a great variety of sea animals.

The great fin whale, which is the second largest animal after the blue whale, often comes to Cornish waters in late summer and autumn. You can see these beautiful giants from places like Pendeen Watch and Cape Cornwall. Their unique spout can be seen from far away.

Minke whales are smaller, but they are still very interesting. They come by often from July to October. You can usually see them feeding near the shore. This happens mostly around Mount’s Bay and St Ives Bay, where they hunt for mackerel and herring.

Humpback whales are becoming easier to see in recent years, even if they are not very common. Their fun moves, like jumping out of the water, slapping their tails, and waving their fins, make them exciting to see when you come across them.

Best Viewing Locations

Land-Based Watching

• Lizard Point – Cornwall’s most southern spot has great views.
• St Ives Head – The high place offers wide views of the Celtic Sea.
• Porthgwarra is a hidden gem close to Land’s End. It is popular among people who love watching wildlife.
• Trevose Head – The north coast’s best place for whale watching.
• and most recently of course, Watergate Bay to Mawgan Porth cliffs.

Whale Watching Boat Tours

Many operators offer safe whale-watching trips from ports like:

• Falmouth
• Newquay
• Penzance
• Padstow
• St Ives

Tips for Successful Whale Watching

Timing Is Everything

Choose calm, clear days with little wind for the best viewing. Early mornings usually have the quietest seas and the best sight.

Essential Equipment

• Binoculars (7×50 or 8×42 recommended)
• Camera with a telephoto lens
• Weatherproof clothing (The weather in Cornwall can change quickly)
• A flask of hot drink and snacks
• A field guide to marine mammals

What to Look For

Start by looking over the horizon carefully. Focus on:

• Blows (spouts) – Coming out as quick sprays
• Surface issues – Waves breaking in calm places
• Birds – When you see seabirds gathering, it usually means there is feeding happening below.
• Dark shapes breaking the surface

Conservation and Responsible Watching

As the number of whales grows near Cornwall’s shores, it is important to watch wildlife responsibly. If you take a boat tour, pick companies that follow the WiSe Scheme for watching marine life. These companies keep a safe distance, approach whales properly, and limit viewing time to reduce disturbance.

Recording Your Sightings

The Cornwall Wildlife Trust is happy to get reports on whale sightings using their ORKS (Online Recording Kernow and Scilly) database. These entries help track population changes and protect these great animals.

Whether you love wildlife or just want to see one of nature’s amazing creatures, whale watching in Cornwall is a great experience. The area’s stunning coast, diverse sea life, and more whales make Cornwall one of the best places in Britain to watch whales.

Remember, patience is important. You might not always see a whale, but the excitement of seeing a whale’s spray on the horizon or watching it jump is worth the time spent waiting.

Add some time whale watching to your itinerary while staying with us – our proximity to the coast means it only takes minutes to claim your prime viewing location.