Each March, coastal Mendocino County comes alive to celebrate the annual migration of gray whales. Beloved by locals and visitors alike, this month-long festival features everything from clam chowder tastings and wine walks and beer tastings, to foot races, interactive science demonstrations, and even a Margarita competition, all in honor of one of the ocean’s most majestic mammals.
Whale Fest is making waves along the north and south coast and like the migrating leviathans we adore, this year’s celebrations are bigger, bolder, and breaching with fun.
Better still, 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the legendary Whale War, when we proudly stood up for the whales. Expect an extra splash of fin-flipping pride in the air as the community celebrates its deep-rooted commitment to marine conservation.
March 7 – 8
The weekend line-up includes a Chowder Tasting Competition, Wine Walk, trolley rides, guided whale walks and talks, whale-themed activities and education, family-friendly fun, and plenty more to keep you happily occupied between whale sightings.
Is there a better time to visit Mendocino? We’ll wait while you think about it.
And if March 7 – 8 doesn’t fit your migration schedule, no worries, check out other Whale Festival Weekends to catch the awe-inspiring migration of Mendocino County’s favorite gentle giants of the sea.
March 14 – 15
In Little River, the weekend is bursting with can’t-miss fun. Join California State Parks for engaging, interpreter-led Whale Walks and Talks through the historic Van Damme Spring Ranch, where you’ll have prime opportunities to spot migrating gray whales.
Sip your way along the Mocktail Trail at various Little River lodging properties, or try a crowd favorite Margarita Madness at the Little River Inn, mixing spirited competition with a great cause in support of MendoParks.
March 20 – 22
The largest of the Whale Festival Weekends, Fort Bragg’s weekend of activities includes a Chowder Tasting Competition and Wine Walk, the Fort Bragg Rotary Beer Festival, a 10K/5K Whale Run & Fun Walk, a whale swim race, live music, food trucks, family-friendly activities and plenty more to keep you happily occupied between whale sightings.
Take the family to see the whale skeleton at MacKerricher State Park and enjoy a Whale Festival Campfire at MacKerricher – MendoParks has several fun and educational programs during the Whale Festivals.
March 28 – 29
Point Arena joins the Whale Festival celebration with a full slate of coastal charm and community fun. Explore the shoreline on guided whale walks and talks, spark young imaginations with story time and crafts at the Point Arena Library, and dive deeper into marine science with Mendonoma science talks with Scott & Tree Mercer at the Point Arena Lighthouse. Binoculars will be available to spectacular whale spotting opportunities.
Friendly competition heats up with a cornhole tournament, while local restaurants and bars add to the festivities with Whale Fest–themed food and drink specials throughout town.
Mendocino County is home to an array of dining establishments. From cozy corner pubs to Michelin-rated fine dining experiences, there’s something for every palate.
With 90 miles of coastline, whale watching is a must during Whale Festival. Check out combo Whale Watching & Lodging Packages during March.
Sip and savor at one of our 100+ wine and spirits tasting rooms, breweries and coffeehouses to discover new favorite offerings.
Travel the Coast through the Forest and into our Heartland, where you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay a night…or three!
Be the first to know about what’s going on in the County, festivals, giveaways, discounts on lodging, and so much more!
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