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As the winter months sweep across Australia – and the surrounding waters begin to cool – whales migrate north to warmer waters, presenting an incredible opportunity to witness the gentle giants on their annual journey. From coastal cliffsides to cruise decks, read on to discover how to see them up close this migration season.
When is whale watching season in Australia?
Whale watching in Australia takes between May to November, with peak season occurring June and July, when humpback whales head north to breed and give birth before returning south with their calves. Australia’s diverse marine ecosystem mean eager watchers can catch glimpses of travelling humpbacks, southern right, minkes and sometimes even blue and killer whales.
The best place to whale watch in New South Wales: You can see whales from Sydney’s CBD
It’s estimated around 40,0000 humpback whales visit Sydney from May to November. Make your way to one of the city’s most impressive vantage points, Cape Solander (located in the Kurnell section of Kamay Botany Bay National Park) to catch them frolicking, or get as close as possible with an unforgettable whale watching cruise, with departures available daily from Circular Quay.
The best place to whale watch in Queensland: Hervey Bay, the country’s ‘whale capital’
Hervey Bay was titled the Whale Capital of Australia in 2019, becoming the first Whale Heritage site due to its commitment to preservation and unparalleled opportunities for whale watching. Tens of thousands of humpback whales arrive between July and November, spending around 10 days to rest, socialise and play in the calm waters before journeying back to Antarctica. Celebrate with the locals at the annual Hervey Bay Whale Festival (11 July and 7, 9, 10 August 2025), a wonderful celebration of the community’s love for their most incredible guests.
The best place to whale watch in Victoria: Phillip Island is perfect
Phillip Island truly offers the best of both worlds: not only can you see the region’s famously cute little penguins, but during migration season it welcomes humpback and southern right whales (with the chance to spot orcas). Either from land or sea, catch a glimpse by following the whale discovery trail across the Bass Coast or opt for an adventure on a whale watching cruise to get as close as possible.
The best place to whale watch in Western Australia: Wine and whales meet in the Margaret River Region
With wine tastings, surfing and a chance to view marvellous whales, there’s a lot to love in the Margaret River Region. See the humpback and southern rights frolic in the sea close-up on a whale watching cruise in Geographe Bay; the bay is a resting area for humpbacks on their southern migration, while southern right whales call this home for their calving grounds. Whales and wine: it’s the perfect pairing.
The best place to whale watch in Tasmania: Rugged cliffs and incredible marine life abound in Bruny Island
Whales are easily spotted along Tasmania’s rambling east coast, with sightings converging around Bruny Island as they migrate or the mothers rest with their calves in the calm waters. Sightings are most common in May–July or September–November; killer whales have also been spotted in more recent seasons.
