When is the best time to go whale watching in Australia?

May to November for humpbacks; June–August for southern rights; March–July for whale sharks.

Where is the best place in Australia to see whales?

Top regions include the Gold Coast, Hervey Bay, Sydney, Albany (WA), Ningaloo Reef and Tasmania.

Can you swim with whales in Australia?

Yes — but only in strictly regulated locations (e.g. Ningaloo Reef) with licensed operators.

Things To Do: Whale Watching in Australia

Why Australia Is a World-Class Whale Watching Destination

Australia’s long coastline supports major migratory routes for humpbacks, southern rights, blue whales and whale sharks. From warm Queensland waters to the dramatic southern cliffs of Western Australia and Tasmania, the variety of habitats makes Australia ideal for both boat-based and land-based whale watching.

Family-friendly Photography tours Eco-certified operators

Gold Coast — The Humpback Highway

Season: June–November. See fast-breaching humpbacks and mother-calf pairs close to shore.

Quick link: Whale Watching — Gold Coast (Cooee Tours) — Book now

Hervey Bay — Whale Nursery & Long Interactions

Peak: July–October. Whales often rest and play in sheltered waters, making Hervey Bay a world-renowned spot for prolonged viewing.

Combine with a K'gari (Fraser Island) tour for a perfect multi-day itinerary.

Sydney — Urban Whale Watching with Iconic Views

Season: May–November. Quick trips from Circular Quay, sightings often framed by the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

Top land lookouts: North Head, Bondi to Coogee, and Manly.

Albany, Ningaloo Reef & Tasmania

Albany (WA): southern right whales June–August; dramatic coastal cliffs.

Ningaloo Reef (WA): whale sharks March–July and regulated humpback swim options July–November. Explore Ningaloo tours.

Tasmania: Bruny Island & Maria Island offer quiet coastal viewing and land-based watchpoints.

When to Go & What You’ll See

Humpback whales: May–November (northbound May–July; southbound Aug–Nov)
Southern right whales: June–August (southern Australia, WA & TAS)
Whale sharks (Ningaloo): March–July
Orcas & blue whales: Occasional in deep-water WA & southern coasts

Types of Tours & Best Land-Based Lookouts

Tours: Half-day cruises, sunset cruises, photography and eco-interpretation tours, regulated swim experiences (WA).

Land lookouts: Point Lookout (North Stradbroke Island), Cape Byron, Logan's Beach (Warrnambool), Head of the Bight (SA), Bruny Island (TAS).

Practical Tips & Packing Checklist

Wear layers — it’s often cooler offshore.
Bring sun protection: hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen.
Camera: telephoto lens (200mm+ recommended); use burst mode.
Binoculars and a refillable water bottle.
Motion sickness tablets if you’re prone to seasickness.

Download the free lead magnet: Whale Watching Quick Guide (PDF)

Responsible & Ethical Viewing

Choose licensed, eco-certified operators; respect approach distances; never chase or corner animals; follow crew instructions to minimise disturbance.

Sample 7-Day East Coast Itinerary

Days 1–2: Gold Coast — morning whale tour + hinterland.
Days 3–4: Hervey Bay — extended whale interactions + Fraser Island.
Days 5–7: Sunshine Coast or Brisbane — coastal walks and wildlife.

FAQ

When is the best season?

May–November for humpbacks; June–August for southern right whales; March–July for whale sharks.

Can you swim with whales?

Only in strictly regulated locations (Ningaloo Reef and approved swim programs in WA).

Are tours family friendly?

Yes — especially in calm-water regions like the Gold Coast and Hervey Bay. Check operator age limits for safety info.

Quick Map & Contact

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