When looking for a fun adventure, there are many options at your disposal. If you’re currently exploring Australia, you have so many opportunities to meet new people and see breathtaking sights. However, you should also not overlook the chance to encounter some interesting animals. For example, the Land Down Under is a prime location to spot all kinds of whales. Here are the best places to visit.
Port Stephens, New South Wales
Sydney is not all that New South Wales has to offer. While it’s possible to spot some giants even in this metropolis, why not visit Port Stephens instead? If you visit this bay, located an hour away from Newcastle, between June and November, you can see humpback whales and over a hundred bottlenose dolphins. As it is home to 26 stunning beaches, you can also enjoy some water activities here, such as fishing, kayaking, swimming, and surfing.
Eden, New South Wales
If looking to see whales in NSW, you shouldn’t overlook Eden, which is often called a paradise for whale lovers. To see whales, you want to be here from June to November as well. Time your visit for October to witness the annual whale festival. In addition to humpbacks, you can also see sperm and killer whales. The great thing is that you can see whales from land and on a boat tour. Consider going to the Killer Whale Museum to learn more about the local whale population.
Great Barrier Reef, Queensland
Any marine animal lover knows that the Great Barrier Reef is the place to be if they want to see some fascinating species. There are about 30 whale and dolphin species in this area, with the most common being dwarf minke whales and humpback whales. Killer whales, false killer whales, sperm whales, short-finned pilot whales, and different beaked whales can all be seen here. The best time for a visit is between June and September.
Hervey Bay, Queensland
In case you’re looking to avoid the busy Great Barrier Reef, you can try going to Hervey Bay. Located 300km north of Brisbane, this city offers the opportunity to see whales that breed and play with their young. The best time to visit Hervey Bay is between May and November. You can see humpback whales most commonly, but southern right whales are also known to appear. Here, there are some operators that offer swimming with whales as well.
Warrnambool, Victoria
Logans Beach in Warrnambool is a great spot to see some southern right whales mate, give birth, and help their young ones become strong. This Victoria spot is about three hours away from Melbourne, but it is well worth the trip. Time your visit for somewhere from May to September. Lady Bay in Warrnambool might be a better option for you, as whales come close to the shore and spray visitors with breakwater. May is also a good time to maybe spot the rare blue whale.
Bass Coast, Victoria
Visit Bass Coast from April to November to see some migrating mammals. The most commonly encountered whales here are humpback and southern right ones. However, you might also get a chance to see some orcas as well, in their unique black and white markings. There are many viewing points where you can camp out and wait to see a few and make some stunning snaps.
Bremer Bay, Western Australia
If you’re exploring Western Australia, you probably want a nearby location to visit where you can see some majestic giants. Well, Bremer Bay might be just what you’re looking for. For example, fun Bremer Bay tours can show you the area and bring you closer to some orcas, sperm whales, pilot whales, beaked whales, and many other marine animals. Be there between January and April, and a unique experience is guaranteed.
Albany, Western Australia
Western Australia has other options for spotting whales. For example, Albany’s bays are the place to be between June and November. Here, you can see southern right and humpback whales. The former actually mate and calve here, while the latter continue their journey to Broome. Blue whales can also be spotted in May and June, on occasion. Moreover, you can visit an interactive museum – Whale World – to learn more about various species.
Victor Harbor, South Australia
Another location to consider is Victor Harbor in South Australia. About 80 kilometers south of Adelaide, you will find this place that is home to southern right whales. They breed in this area and swim rather close to shore, meaning that you can easily watch them and take some stunning photos. You can see them from a beach, but you can also climb the steep cliffs around Encounter Bay. Come here from June to October for the best sights. Additionally, you can see sperm whales, blue whales, killer whales, and humpback whales here too.
Bruny Island, Tasmania
Finally, you shouldn’t overlook Tasmania either when looking to spot some whales. Humpbacks and southern rights pass Bruny Island and shelter at Adventure Bay. Moreover, orcas, minkes, and pygmy rights can also be seen during their migrations. Visit between May and July or September and December for the best experience.
As you can see, Australia is full of amazing spots where you can see some majestic whales. No matter in which part of the continent you are, whales are easy to encounter.
