Explore the Museum

Enter a place that is a delightful combination of science and education!

There are two floors to explore at The Whale Museum. On the first floor, you will encounter our gift shop as well as our newest exhibit area. This accessible exhibit area features an exhibit honoring Sooke (L-112), a young orca who passed in 2012.

• Mitsu, an adult male Steller Sea Lion Skeleton
• An overview of baleen whales.
• Our Sightings Map
• Viewing of "Expedition Killer Whale" movie
• Much more..."

Upstairs, you can explore the Gallery of Whales.

Gallery of Whales

In the Gallery of Whales you'll learn about the natural history of marine mammals, with a special focus on the orcas of J, K and L Pods living in the Salish Sea, the inland waters around the San Juan Islands.

You'll find a fascinating collection of exhibits, artwork, models, and artifacts, including real whale skeletons and a family tree of the Resident orcas.

Learn more about our hours of operation and admission rates.

Education Programs

We offer a variety of educational programs for adults and students to learn more about whales, our local orcas, and the marine ecology of the Salish Sea.

Research Programs

More than a museum, we promote the stewardship of whales in the Salish Sea through research and education programs.

• Soundwatch: Learn how boaters and kayakers can view whales sustainably - without causing disruption or harm to them.
• Marine Naturalist Training: An intensive 5-day overview of the natural history of the San Juan Islands and the  Salish Sea.
• The Whale Hotline: Have you seen the whales? Call the hotline to report a sighting!
• Stranding Network: Report marine mammals that are found ashore. Provides help to living animals and valuable data on the health of our local ecosystem.
• Hydrophone Network: Detects whale sounds and measures ambient noise levels in the habitat of the endangered Southern Resident orcas.