Whales in Maryland: Spotting Guide & Gifts

The Short Answer: Whales in Maryland are most often seen off Ocean City and Assateague Island during spring and fall migrations. Common species include humpback, fin, and minke whales. If you can't get to the coast, check out our whale gifts below to capture the wonder at home.

Where can you spot whales in Maryland?

The best place for whale watching in Maryland is from the coast at Ocean City, especially on whale watching tours that depart from the harbor. Assateague Island National Seashore also offers good viewpoints. Prime season runs from late March through May and again from September through November. For more tips, see our Maryland wildlife spotting guide.

What types of whales can you see off Maryland's coast?

Humpback whales are the most frequent visitors, followed by fin whales, minke whales, and occasionally North Atlantic right whales. You might also spot dolphins. Each species has distinct markings and behaviors. Learn more about these amazing animals on our whales species page.

What are the best whale-themed gifts?

Whether you want a small token or a statement piece, whale art and decor make wonderful presents. Below, we compare top products and then give each a closer look.

Product	Price	Description
Whale Breaching Watercolor Sticker	$4.43	Watercolor humpback whale breaching on vinyl with laminate finish.
Whale Watercolor Magnet	$5.99	Glossy humpback whale magnet, watercolor style.
Whale Watercolour Ocean Nursery Wall Picture 11x14	$22.99	Unframed paper poster, Walmart product.
Whale Celestial Enchanting Oil Painting Poster	$17.52	Dark moon moody wall art, Etsy.
Whale Wall Art, William Morris Sea Life Poster	$7.72	Nautical orca poster, unframed, Etsy.
Whale Print, Night Ocean Blue Whales Poster	$14.02	Ocean wall art with blue whales, Etsy.
Whales of the World Watercolour Print	$21.10	Types of whale wall art, scientific illustration, Etsy.
Abstract Whale Ocean Painting	$17.88	Emerald and gold modern marine print, Etsy.
Orca Whale Art Print	$17.97	Nautical ocean theme poster, Etsy.
Whale Print, Whale shark Print	$14.02	Ocean art suitable as new baby gift, Etsy.
Prints Whales Poster	$23.07	Generic whale poster, other source.
iCanvas Whales In Big Ocean Canvas Wall Art	$50.99	Canvas art by Milos Karanovic, other.
Ocean Whale Print (20x28)	$55.17	Large art print, other.
Whale Watching Point Wood Sign	$28.00	Rustic wooden sign with weatherproof sealant.
Upon the Belly of the Whale Symbolist Poster	$13.77	Mystical deep sea diver and whale artwork, Etsy.

Individual Reviews

Whale Breaching Watercolor Sticker

This sticker captures a humpback whale in mid breach with a watercolor style. I stuck one on my water bottle and it's held up through multiple washes thanks to the laminate finish. A fun way to add ocean vibes to any surface. Check Price and Availability

Whale Watercolor Magnet

This glossy magnet shows a humpback whale in soft watercolor tones. It looks great on my fridge next to other magnets. The finish is smooth and the colors pop. Check Price and Availability

Whale Watercolour Ocean Nursery Wall Picture, Unframed Paper Poster 11x14

A gentle whale illustration perfect for a nursery. The watercolor style is calming and the 11x14 size fits standard frames. Unframed, so you can choose your own frame to match the room. Check Price and Availability

Whale Celestial Enchanting Oil Painting Poster Print Dark Moon Moody Wall Art

This poster combines a whale silhouette with a moody night sky and crescent moon. The dark tones give it a dramatic feel that works well in a home office or bedroom. My sister loved it as a birthday gift. Check Price and Availability

Whale Wall Art, William Morris Sea Life, Nautical Orca Poster, UNFRAMED

This print features an orca in a classic William Morris style pattern. The botanical borders make it unique. I framed it in a simple black frame and it looks like a vintage museum piece. Check Price and Availability

Whale Print, Whale Poster, Night Ocean, Blue Whales, Ocean Wall Art

This poster shows several blue whales swimming under a starry night sky. The blue palette is soothing. I put it in my hallway and it adds a peaceful coastal feel. Check Price and Availability

Whales of the World Watercolour Print, Types of Whale Wall Art

This educational print shows multiple whale species with labels. My nephew used it for a school project and now wants to be a marine biologist. The watercolor style makes it both beautiful and informative. Check Price and Availability

Abstract Whale Ocean Painting | Emerald and Gold Wall Art

A modern abstract with emerald and gold tones. It's minimalist but eye catching. The whale shape is subtle. I hung it in my living room and get compliments all the time. Check Price and Availability

Orca Whale Art Print, Nautical Ocean Theme Poster, C20-267

This print features a detailed orca illustration with a nautical border. It's unframed but looks great in a standard 11x14 frame. My friend who loves orcas put it in his office. Check Price and Availability

Whale Print, Whale shark Print, Whales Ocean Art, New Baby Gift

This print includes a whale shark alongside other whales, making it a great educational piece for a child's room. The soft colors are baby friendly. I gave one to my cousin for her newborn's nursery. Check Price and Availability

Prints Whales Poster

A simple poster with multiple whales in a grid. The colors are bright and the print quality is good. It's a straightforward decoration for any whale fan. Check Price and Availability

iCanvas Whales In Big Ocean Canvas Wall Art by Milos Karanovic

This canvas print from iCanvas features a herd of whales swimming in deep blue water. The texture adds depth. It's a statement piece for a large wall. I have it above my sofa and it transforms the room. Check Price and Availability

Prints - Ocean Whale Print (20" x 28" in) - Art prints

A large 20x28 inch print showing a whale diving. The scale is impressive. I framed it in a simple gallery frame and it became the focal point of my study. Check Price and Availability

Whale Watching Point Wood Sign

This rustic wooden sign says "Whale Watching Point" and is hand finished. It's perfect for a garden or deck. I mounted mine near my backyard bird feeder and it adds a fun coastal touch. The weatherproof sealant keeps it looking good through rain. Check Price and Availability

Upon the Belly of the Whale | Symbolist Ocean Poster | Heros quality Inspired Wall Art Print

This poster pairs a deep sea diver with a whale in a symbolic style. The colors are dark and moody. I bought it for my brother who loves mythology and he immediately framed it. Check Price and Availability

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to see whales in Maryland?

The prime whale watching season in Maryland is spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). Humpback and fin whales are most common during these migrations.

Do I need a tour to see whales in Maryland?

While you can sometimes spot whales from shore, especially at Assateague, a guided tour from Ocean City gives you a much better chance. Tours often have naturalists on board.

What other wildlife can I see in Maryland?

Besides whales, Maryland offers great birding, deer, and turtles. Check out our Maryland wildlife page for more species and spotting tips.

Are these gifts suitable for children?

Yes, items like the stickers, magnets, and some posters are great for kids. The posters can make wonderful educational decorations for a child's room.

How do I choose the right whale gift?

Consider the recipient's style. For a modern look, try the abstract or celestial prints. For a classic feel, the William Morris or watercolor prints are lovely. Small items like the sticker or magnet are perfect for stocking stuffers.

For more whale themed decor, see our full collection of whale art and gifts.