3. You will see whales—and more! Whales are a given. Bring your binoculars and you’re bound to spot gray whale as they migrate past California’s coast, and even humpbacks, blue whales and killer whales if you’re lucky (take the Monterey Bay Whale Watch tour for an up close and personal view). You can also see sea otters at Fisherman’s Wharf and Monarch butterflies at Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary.