Calling all whale watchers! Did you know there are over 30 different whale species found in Aussie waters?
There’s nothing quite like going whale spotting to see these spectacular giants of the sea as they make their annual migration along our coast. From the south of WA to the top of Queensland, we’ve got you covered when it comes to finding the best Australian whale watching destinations so you can have a whale of a time on your next holiday.
Busselton, Western Australia
Kick off your whale watching adventures in Busselton! The south-west of Western Australia has the longest whale watching season in the country, so add a stay in beautiful Busselton to your wishlist. From September to early December, humpback and southern right whales and calves are migrating along the waters of Geographe Bay to their summer home of Antarctica, and during November it’s the best place to catch a glimpse of the mighty blue whale.
While you’re in Busso, make sure you explore the iconic Busselton Jetty – the longest timber jetty in the world – and check out more underwater marine life delights at their observatory, laze on pristine beaches, or take in a wine tour to sample some of the Margaret River region’s best reds.
Nearest Parks: Busselton Lazy Days Caravan Park and Discovery Parks - Busselton
Warrnambool, Victoria
Logans Beach in Warrnambool is famously the best place in Victoria to watch female southern right whales and their calves in the warm nursery waters, from June to October. You can spot whales as close as 100 meters from shore and the best vantage point is from the specially constructed viewing platform in the sand dunes. Top tip: the best time to see whales is in the morning and middle of the day, as the whales are more likely to breach while sunning themselves.
Complete your coastal adventure with a visit to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, a heritage-listed town that’s a step back into the 1870s. You’ll find out more about the shipwreck coast and Warrnambool’s maritime history. It's not to be missed!
Nearest Parks: Central Warrnambool Holiday Park and Hotel and Discovery Parks - Warrnambool
Eden, New South Wales
Eden and its stunning Twofold Bay, on the south coast of New South Wales, is a hotspot along the famed ‘Humpback Highway’, with whales migrating south from tropical Queensland between August to November. Hop aboard a chartered whale-watching cruise to get great vantage points and don’t miss the Eden Whale Festival, held each October, which boasts a parade, fantastic food stalls, live shows, and more.
Top up your whale trivia with a visit to the Eden Killer Whale Museum, providing great insight into the town's whaling past, and leave time for exploring other delights of the Sapphire Coast, including walks and trails, foodie experiences, and a bustling art scene to boot.
Nearest Parks: Eden Gateway Holiday Park and Discovery Parks - Eden
Victor Harbor, South Australia
Image: The Causeway, Victor Harbor; Credit: Michael Haines & South Australian Tourism Commission
Many whales love the sheltered bays and warmer waters of Victor Harbor. Every winter, South Aussies grab the binoculars and head down to Victor Harbor – the best spot in the state to catch a glimpse of southern right whales as they migrate north, before returning south to Antarctica – with top viewing from the cliffs and headland, as well as the beach. Start the day with a visit to the South Australian Whale Centre for the best tips in current sightings and for all the local know-how on the best whale watching locations, or catch a horse-drawn tram over the causeway to Granite Island for panoramic views and great walking trails.
With the McLaren Vale wine region close by, extend your stay to sample rich local reds and delectable dining experiences to cap off your coastal getaway.
Nearest Parks: Victor Harbor Holiday Park and Discovery Parks - Goolwa
Hervey Bay, Queensland
Known as Australia's whale watching capital (and the world's first Whale Heritage Site), Hervey Bay is a unique spot to see these magnificent creatures during whale season on Australia's east coast. Rather than cruising by as part of their migration, humpback whales stay for days at a time in the sheltered waters to rest and play. The season runs from July to early November, with the annual festival a big event on the calendar in August, packed with live concerts, stalls, conservation talks, and more.
Take a chartered whale watching tour or hop over to World Heritage-listed K'gari to get up close and personal with these gentle giants. While you're there, take some time to explore the tropical rainforests and national parks that make this region a must-see.
Nearest Parks: Fraser Coast Holiday Park and Discovery Parks - Fraser Street, Hervey Bay
Choose whale watching as your next reason to explore somewhere new on holiday. Wherever you decide to go whale watching, along with majestic creatures of the sea, you'll find a G'day Parks location nearby.
