March in Tofino: Grey Whale Migration and the Magic of the Herring Spawn

/ The Whale Centre/

Each spring, grey whales begin their long journey north after wintering in the warm lagoons of Baja California. These resilient whales travel more than 10,000 kilometres along the Pacific coast—one of the longest migrations of any mammal on Earth.

By March, many of these whales are moving past the west coast of Vancouver Island on their way to the rich feeding grounds of Alaska and the Arctic.

The waters around Tofino and Clayoquot Sound are an especially exciting place to observe them. Some grey whales simply pass through during their migration, while others pause along the coast to feed before continuing north.

During this time we often see:

  • Northbound migrating grey whales travelling along the coast

  • “Resident” or feeding grey whales that stay in the area to feed

  • Spectacular blows and flukes as whales surface in the calm spring waters

Grey whales are easy to recognize by their mottled grey colouring and lack of a dorsal fin. Instead, they have a series of knuckles along their back that appear as they dive.

Watching one of these giants surface beside the boat is always unforgettable.

The Annual Herring Spawn

March is also the time of the Pacific herring spawn, one of the most important ecological events on the BC coast.

Millions of herring gather in sheltered coastal waters to reproduce, releasing eggs and milt that can temporarily turn the water a pale turquoise colour. While the fish themselves are small, this event attracts an astonishing variety of wildlife that depend on them as a food source.

During the spawn around Clayoquot Sound you may see:

  • Sea lions and seals feeding in the shallows

  • Bald eagles gathering along the shoreline

  • Diving seabirds such as scoters, murres, and gulls

  • Occasionally whales and other marine predators joining the feeding activity

The abundance of wildlife around a herring spawn is something you truly have to see to believe.

March Whale Watching Tours

Our March whale watching tours in Tofino and Clayoquot Sound explore the rich coastal waters where migrating whales and wildlife activity often converge.

Early spring can be one of the most rewarding times to be on the ocean:

  • Fewer boats on the water

  • Crisp coastal air and dramatic skies

  • Active wildlife taking advantage of seasonal food sources

Every trip is unique, but March often brings sightings of grey whales, sea lions, harbour seals, porpoises, and a wide variety of seabirds.

Relax on a Hot Springs Tour

For those looking to combine wildlife viewing with a little relaxation, our hot springs tours are another unforgettable way to experience the coast in March.

After travelling through the stunning scenery of Clayoquot Sound by boat, guests can soak in natural geothermal pools surrounded by rainforest and ocean views. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day on the water.

Experience Early Spring on the Wild West Coast

March is a season of renewal in Tofino and Clayoquot Sound. With migrating whales passing by and the ocean bursting with life during the herring spawn, it’s one of the most dynamic times to explore the west coast of Vancouver Island.

If you’re visiting Tofino this spring, join us for a memorable adventure on the water.

Witness the migration. Experience the spawn. Discover the magic of Clayoquot Sound.

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