Best Spots For Whale Watching In Australia
Australia’s 50,000 km of coastline offers endless opportunities to observe several species of whales on their annual migration. This blog is your go-to guide for discovering the top spots to go whale watching in Australia to spot these majestic creatures. From the pristine waters of Queensland to the scenic coastlines of New South Wales and the rugged shores of Western Australia, we cover all you need to know to make your whale-watching experience unforgettable. Let's dive into the essential information, from what whale watching in Australia entails, the best times to plan your adventure and the best ways to explore the migration routes in a campervan. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or an extended Australia road trip, this article will equip you with everything you need to know for a spectacular whale-watching adventure.
What is Whale Watching?
Whale watching is, very simply, the experience of observing whales in their natural habitat, often from the comfort of a boat or from coastal vantage points. While whale watching, you have the chance to watch these majestic creatures as they breach, spout, and play in the ocean waters. This is also the perfect opportunity to learn about the diverse marine life and the importance of ocean conservation. Australia, with its extensive coastline, offers numerous spots where travellers can enjoy whale watching.
What’s the Best Month to Go Whale Watching?
The best time to go whale watching in Australia varies depending on the region and the species of whales you wish to see. Generally, the whale watching season in Australia spans from May to November, coinciding with the annual migration of humpback and southern right whales along the country's coastline. During this period, these magnificent creatures travel northward from Antarctica to warmer waters for breeding and then return southward with their calves. Peak whale watching in Australia varies significantly, with June to October being optimal for east coast locations such as whale watching in Hervey Bay in Queensland and whale watching in Port Stephens in New South Wales. On the other hand, June to September is prime time for southern locations such as those looking to go whale watching in Dunsborough in Western Australia and whale watching in Phillip Island in South Australia.
What’s the Best Way to Explore the Best Spots for Whale Watching in Australia?
When it comes to exploring Australia, nothing beats the freedom and flexibility of a Cheapa campa. Renting a campervan allows you to follow the migration routes at your own pace, offering comfort and convenience. You can drive along coastal roads, stay at picturesque campgrounds, and wake up to the sounds of the ocean—a perfect location to base yourself for your marine adventures. Van travel is not only cost-effective but also enhances your experience by providing the mobility to visit multiple whale-watching sites across different states.
While Hervey Bay whale-watching season is particularly famed — often hailed as the whale-watching capital of Australia due to its high sightings of humpback whales — the adventure doesn’t have to stop there! Whether it’s parking along the cliffs of the Great Ocean Road for a sunset watch or exploring the remote waters of Exmouth, a campervan is your best companion for exploring the best whale watching in Australia. Plus, for those travelling with furry friends, many campervan rental options are pet-friendly, making it easier to plan pet-friendly holidays while exploring the best things to do in Australia.
The 12 Best Spots in Australia for Whale Watching
Now, where is the best place to see whales in Australia? From the serene bays of Queensland to the bustling harbours of New South Wales, each of the following spots for whale watching in Australia offers a unique vantage point to observe these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you’re steering your campervan down scenic drives or anchoring down near top-notch viewing areas, this guide will lead you to the best whale-watching experiences Australia has to offer.
1. Hervey Bay, Queensland
If you have been asking yourself, “What is the whale-watching capital of Australia?” — Hervey Bay is it. This quaint little seaside town offers a front-row seat to the humpback whales' spectacular display during their annual migration. This tranquil spot is renowned for its calm waters, which provide ideal conditions for whales to frolic and rest before continuing their journey. This area is especially prolific due to the high potential to see whales and calves on their return journey. Beyond whale watching, Hervey Bay enchants travellers with its charming esplanade, dotted with cafes and shops, and access to K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island), a World Heritage-listed paradise. To reach Hervey Bay, drive your campervan north from Brisbane, a journey of about 3.5 hours. Convenient campgrounds near the beach offer easy access to whale-watching tours and ensure a comfortable stay in your van travel adventure.
Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
2. Gold Coast, Queensland
The vibrant city of the Gold Coast is not only famous for its surf beaches and nightlife but also as a thrilling whale watching destination. Departing from the Gold Coast, whale-watching tours offer a dynamic experience as humpback whales perform breathtaking breaches close to the shore. While in the area, explore the bustling seaside markets or take a dip in the clear blue waters. Travelling to the Gold Coast is straightforward, with a short drive south from Brisbane. For campervan parking, several beachfront parks provide prime locations to stay close to the action, making it easy to hop on early morning tours or simply marvel at these ocean giants from the oceanside cliffs.
3. Port Douglas, Queensland
Port Douglas serves as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and a phenomenal place for whale watching. The region's crystal-clear waters and proximity to the Coral Sea attract humpback whales, offering spectacular sightings from July to September. While here, you can also tick off a few of the best things to do in Australia, including snorkelling in the reef and exploring the Daintree forest. Port Douglas can be reached by a scenic drive north from Cairns, which takes about an hour in your campervan. There are ample campgrounds along the coast that accommodate campervans, providing easy access to both the town and departure points for whale-watching cruises.
4. Sydney, New South Wales
Sydney’s iconic coastline offers more than just beautiful beaches; it’s also a prime location for whale watching in Australia. As whales migrate along the coast, they often come close enough to be seen from land, especially from headlands such as Bondi and Manly. For those seeking a closer look, you will find plenty of whale-watching boat tours departing from Sydney Harbour. Best of all, Sydney is easily navigated in a campervan and parking options are plentiful near popular beaches and tour departure points.
5. Eden, New South Wales
Eden, located on the stunning Sapphire Coast of New South Wales, is a haven for whale-watching in Australia. The town’s strategic location offers exceptional views from vantage points like Boyd's Tower, where you can see migrating whales with remarkable clarity. Eden’s historical whaling past enriches the experience, with the Eden Killer Whale Museum providing context and insights into the local whaling history. This town also hosts an annual Whale Watching Festival in October, which celebrates the migration season with educational and cultural events. To get to Eden in your campervan, drive about six hours south from Sydney. There are several campervan-friendly sites, such as the Eden Beachfront Holiday Park, which is conveniently located for those looking for campgrounds to stay close to the sea and join the early morning whale-watching tours.
6. Port Stephens, New South Wales
Port Stephens is another idyllic coastal destination renowned for its clear waters and beautiful beaches, making it one of the prime spots for whale watching in Australia. The area is particularly popular for its humpback whale sightings, which can be seen from both land and sea. The Tomaree Head Summit walk offers panoramic views of the ocean, perfect for spotting these majestic creatures. To go whale watching in Port Stephens, drive approximately 2.5 hours north from Sydney in your campervan. Ample parking is available at various campgrounds around Port Stephens, such as the Halifax Holiday Park, which offers direct access to beaches and whale-watching tour operators.
7. Warrnambool, Victoria
Warrnambool, located along the scenic Great Ocean Road, is famous for its Southern Right Whale Nursery, located at Logan’s Beach. During the winter and early spring, female Southern Right Whales and blue whales return to these waters, providing spectators a unique opportunity to observe mother whales and their calves. From Melbourne, Warrnambool is a scenic three-hour drive along the Great Ocean Road, making it a perfect campervan road trip stop. Parking for campervans is available at the Surfside Holiday Park, which offers easy access to the whale viewing platforms at Logan’s Beach.
8. Great Ocean Road, Victoria
The Great Ocean Road is not only an iconic Australia road trip destination but also a superb location for whale watching in Australia. The route offers numerous lookouts, such as the Castle Rock and Teddy’s Lookout, where you can watch whales as they travel along the coast. The area is frequented by both humpback and Southern Right Whales, particularly near Apollo Bay and Portland during their migration season. Starting your journey from Melbourne, the drive is an experience in itself, with dramatic coastlines and lush rainforests. Campervans can be parked at several spots along the route, including the Great Ocean Road Tourist Park in Peterborough, which is centrally located for accessing various whale-watching lookouts along the coast.
Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
9. Apollo Bay, Victoria
Apollo Bay — another gem nestled along the spectacular Great Ocean Road — offers a picturesque setting for whale watching near Melbourne. During the migration season, visitors can spot humpback whales and occasionally Southern Right Whales as they journey along the coast. This serene bay is perfect for those looking to combine whale watching with a relaxed beach atmosphere and scenic hikes through the nearby Otway Ranges. To reach Apollo Bay, take a scenic drive from Melbourne, which takes about three hours in a campervan. What’s more, Marengo Holiday Park offers excellent campervan-friendly facilities and easy access to the bay, providing a perfect base from which to explore the area and enjoy whale sightings.
10. Albany, Western Australia
Albany is renowned for its rich maritime history and as a prime location for watching Southern Right Whales and humpback whales. The town offers multiple vantage points, including Discovery Bay and the historic Albany Whaling Station, which now serves as a museum providing insights into the region's whaling past. Travellers can enhance their visit with hikes along the rugged coastline or kayaking trips in the sheltered waters. Albany is a roughly 4.5-hour drive south of Perth, making it an accessible destination for an Australia road trip. Emu Point Campsite provides ample parking for campervans, and its location is ideal for those looking to stay close to nature and whale-watching spots.
11. Broome, Western Australia
Broome, a coastal enclave in the Kimberley region, offers dramatic landscapes and the chance to witness humpback whales on their annual migration. The turquoise waters against the backdrop of the red cliffs provide a stunning setting for whale watching in Australia. Beyond whales, Broome's rich pearling history and the iconic staircase to the moon phenomenon are not to be missed. The drive from Perth to Broome is an adventurous road trip, covering approximately 2,200 kilometres, ideal for those looking to add a little whale-watching into a larger campervan journey. Cable Beach Caravan Park offers excellent facilities and direct beach access, making it an ideal spot for campervan travellers looking to explore Broome’s unique attractions and whale-watching opportunities.
12. Exmouth, Western Australia
Exmouth, the gateway to the Ningaloo Reef, is a world-renowned spot for not only whale sharks but also for observing humpback whales. The proximity to Ningaloo Marine Park allows unique on-water experiences where visitors can swim alongside whale sharks and watch humpback whales up close. The town also provides access to stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a must-visit for marine lovers. Like most of Western Australia, Exmouth is a long haul from Perth, approximately 13 hours by campervan, but well worth the distance. The Yardie Homestead Caravan Park, located halfway between the town and the national park, offers excellent amenities and easy access to the town centre and Ningaloo Reef, ideal for those seeking an extended stay in this remarkable region.
Think Whale Watching in Australia Sounds Like Fun?
From the serene waters of Hervey Bay to the dramatic coastlines of Broome, Australia offers some of the best whale-watching experiences in the world. Whether you're an avid marine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique adventure, whale watching in Australia is an unforgettable experience to add to any Australia road trip. Think whale watching in Australia sounds like fun? You can book your Cheapa campa online and pick it up from any Cheapa branch to begin exploring the best whale-watching spots across the continent.