A humpback whale off the coast of California was caught on camera leaping out of the big blue waters of the Pacific Ocean to greet a bird flying just feet overhead.

Stunning photos of the breathtaking breach were captured by German photographer Mario Nonaka while on a boat trip around Monterey Bay, Caters News Agency reports.

The giant sea mammal leaps high above the water and swings his massive fin up towards the low-flying gull in a playful salute.

Humpback whales — which typically spend their winters in the tropical waters of the Pacific — have a very close relationship with marine birds, according to the Orleans Conservation Trust in Massachusetts.

The winged creatures will typically be found hovering around the feeding spots of the whales in hopes for a bite to eat.