Where can I see Hawaiian monk seals in 2025?

Poipu Beach on the island of Kauai is one of the best places to spot the endangered Hawaiian monk seal, though sightings are rare due to the species' critically low population.

What is the largest seal population on the East Coast of the U.S. in 2025?

According to NOAA, Massachusetts has the largest tracked population of gray seals on the East Coast, with an estimated 28,000 seals as of 2015.

Can I see seals in the city of Seattle in 2025?

Yes, the Ballard Locks in Seattle are a prime spot to see harbor seals in an urban setting, with locals and travelers reporting frequent sightings.

Home / Lifestyle / Seal Spotting Secrets: Discover the Best U.S. Destinations for Seal Sightings

Seal Spotting Secrets: Discover the Best U.S. Destinations for Seal Sightings

13 Nov

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Summary

Over 16,000 harbor seals along Oregon and Washington coasts
Ballard Locks in Seattle a prime spot to see seals in urban settings
Endangered Hawaiian monk seals can be spotted on Kauai's Poipu Beach

Seal Spotting Secrets: Discover the Best U.S. Destinations for Seal Sightings

As of November 2025, seal populations are thriving across the United States, with diverse species found along the country's coasts. According to the latest data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the West Coast is home to over 16,000 harbor seals in Oregon and Washington, while the East Coast boasts the largest tracked population of gray seals in Massachusetts.

For those seeking to spot seals in their natural habitats, several destinations stand out. In Washington, the Ballard Locks in Seattle offer an urban oasis for harbor seals, with locals and travelers alike reporting frequent sightings. Further north in Alaska, the Kenai Fjords National Park and the town of Seward are renowned for their harbor, elephant, and northern fur seal populations.