Best Time to See Seals in New Hampshire

February, January and May is the best time to see seals in New Hampshire. Based on 69 verified iNaturalist observations, here is exactly when seals are most active across the year in New Hampshire.

T

By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.

Harp Seal photographed in New HampshireAtlantic Harbor Seal photographed in New HampshireAtlantic Harbor Seal photographed in New Hampshire
Photos by iNaturalist observers, used under Creative Commons.
Best months: February, January, May

69 verified observations of seals in New Hampshire, recorded across 12 months of the year on iNaturalist.

When seals are recorded in New Hampshire

Peak month

February

9 records (13% of the year)

Quietest month

April

1 records

MonthObservationsShare
Januarypeak811.6%
Februarypeak913%
March22.9%
April11.4%
Maypeak811.6%
June45.8%
July68.7%
August811.6%
September22.9%
October68.7%
November710.1%
December811.6%

Seals you are most likely to see

SpeciesVerified observations
Harbor Seal54
Grey Seal9
Harp Seal3

Sightings of seals in New Hampshire peak in February, when 9 of the year's 69 verified observations are logged — about 13% of the annual total. Activity stays high through February, January and May.

The quietest stretch is April, when seals are hardest to find — April sees just 1 records. If a reliable sighting matters, plan around the peak window rather than the off-season.

The seals you are most likely to encounter in New Hampshire are Harbor Seal, Grey Seal and Harp Seal — the most-recorded species in the state. Each keeps its own seasonal rhythm, but the month-by-month pattern above reflects every reported sighting together.

Where to go

Best places to see seals in New Hampshire

  • Appalachian National Scenic TrailNational Scenic Trail
  • Saint-Gaudens National Historical ParkNational Historical Park

Tours and experiences nearby

Viator

Book a seal tour in New Hampshire

Guided wildlife tours, boat trips and nature experiences, with free cancellation on most.

See tours

Booking.com

Stay near Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Compare hotels, cabins and lodges close to the best seal viewing in New Hampshire.

Find stays

Frequently asked questions

What is the best month to see seals in New Hampshire?+

February is the single best month, and the broader peak window runs through February, January and May, based on 69 verified iNaturalist observations.

When are seals hardest to see in New Hampshire?+

April is the quietest month for seals in New Hampshire, with only 1 verified records.

Are seals active year-round in New Hampshire?+

Seals are recorded in 12 of 12 months in New Hampshire, so they can be seen year-round, with a clear peak in February.