Planning a Whale Watching Trip? Here Are the Best and Worst Months in Australia

Whale watching in Australia is an unforgettable experience, but timing is everything.

The best time to see these gentle giants varies depending on your location.

Here’s a quick guide to when and where you should plan your whale-watching adventure—and when it’s best to skip it.

Best Months for Whale Watching 🌟

• June to August is the peak whale-watching season along Australia’s east coast.
  
  Humpback whales migrate north to warmer waters to breed, making places like Hervey Bay (QLD), Byron Bay (NSW), and Sydney hotspots. On the return trip south, you’ll likely see mother whales with their calves.

• From September to November, when whales head back south, Western Australia becomes a prime spot for sightings.
  
  Check out Albany or Bremer Bay for some of the best whale-watching experiences.
  
  This time is also great for seeing southern right whales along the south coast.

• If you’re visiting the Ningaloo Reef in WA, May to July is the perfect time to see humpback whales and majestic whale sharks.

Worst Months for Whale Watching ❌

• December to February are the quietest months for whale watching across most of Australia.
  
  Whales have migrated south to Antarctic waters, making sightings rare in most regions. It’s also the height of summer, so while the beaches are great, you’re unlikely to spot any whales.

• Whale numbers are low when the weather is still warm from March to April. You might catch a few early arrivals on the southern coasts, but overall, it’s not the best time to plan a dedicated whale-watching trip.

Best Whale Watching Locations 🐋

1. Hervey Bay, Queensland

Known as Australia’s whale-watching capital, Hervey Bay is the world’s first Whale Heritage Site.

It provides a haven for humpback whales, especially between mid-July and November.

Hervey Bay Whale Festival in July and August celebrates the whale migration.

2. Jervis Bay, New South Wales

Located along the whales’ migration route, Jervis Bay is ideal for spotting humpbacks and southern right whales from May to November.

3. Eden, New South Wales

Situated on the Sapphire Coast, Eden is famous for its “Humpback Highway,” where numerous whales pass through from September to November.

The Eden Whale Festival in October adds to the experience.

4. Merimbula, New South Wales

This coastal town offers shore-based whale watching and cruises from May through November.

5. Logans Beach, Victoria

Famous for its southern right whale sightings from May to October, Logans Beach features a dedicated viewing platform.

6. Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia (Exmouth)

Known for its unique marine life, Ningaloo Reef offers opportunities to swim with humpback whales during specific seasons.

7. Bremer Bay, Western Australia

Home to the Bremer Canyon, this area is known for killer whale expeditions from December to April.

8. Victor Harbor, South Australia

Offers various tours and excellent shore-based viewing opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Whale watching in Australia is all about timing and location.

Whether exploring the East Coast during the peak winter months or heading to Western Australia in spring, there’s always an opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Plan your trip around the best months and spots to ensure you get the most out of your whale-watching experience.

Remember that certain times of year are quieter, but your adventure will be unforgettable with the right preparation.