Whale Watching Season in NSW: When to Go & How to Spot Whales

When Is Whale Watching Season in NSW?

The NSW whale watching season typically runs from May to November each year, following the annual migration of whales along Australia’s east coast.

Northbound Migration (May – July)

From May to July, whales travel north from Antarctic waters to warmer breeding grounds. This is a peak period for sightings, with large pods often visible offshore and impressive behaviours such as breaching, tail slapping and pectoral fin waves.

Southbound Migration (August – November)

Between August and November, whales make their return journey south, often with calves. During this time, whales tend to swim more slowly and closer to the coastline, making them easier to spot from headlands and coastal lookouts.

Best overall months: June to August for high numbers, and September to November for close-to-shore sightings and calves.

Best Places for Whale Watching in NSW

Land-Based Whale Watching (Free)

NSW offers outstanding land-based whale watching, often without the need for a boat. Some of the best regions and locations include:

Sydney & Greater Sydney

• Cape Solander, Kamay Botany Bay National Park
• North Head Lookout, Manly
• Bondi to Coogee coastal walk headlands

South Coast (Kiama, Jervis Bay, Batemans Bay)

• Minnamurra Whale Watching Platform (Kiama)
• Boat Harbour Whale Watch Lookout (Kiama)
• Point Perpendicular Lookout, Jervis Bay

Central Coast & Hunter

• Crackneck Lookout, Wyrrabalong National Park
• Tomaree Head Summit Walk, Port Stephens

North Coast (Coffs Harbour, Yamba, Byron region)

• Look At Me Now Headland, Emerald Beach
• Angourie Blue Pool Headland, Yamba

These elevated coastal vantage points are ideal during calm weather. All you need is a clear day, patience, and a good pair of binoculars.

Whale Watching Cruises & Tours

For an up-close experience, boat-based whale watching tours operate throughout the season across NSW. These regions consistently offer some of the best on-water experiences:

Sydney & Surrounds

• Sydney Harbour and offshore coastal cruises

Port Stephens & Newcastle (Hunter Region)

• One of Australia’s most reliable whale watching destinations due to its wide bay and offshore migration corridor

Jervis Bay & South Coast

• Sheltered waters and clear visibility, ideal for seeing whales and calves

Coffs Harbour, Yamba & NSW North Coast

• Excellent mid-migration viewing with frequent breaches close to shore

Tours usually include a marine guide and commentary. Sightings are never guaranteed.

Where You Can Go Whale Watching in NSW

Boat tours & cruises:

• Whale Watching Sydney: departures from Circular Quay
• Whale Tales Whale Watching Sydney: Sydney tours
• Barefoot Whale Watching Sydney: Sydney tours
• Go Whale Watching Sydney: Sydney tours
• Cronulla Whale Watching: closer to southern Sydney
• Ocean Extreme: tours from Campbell’s Cove
• Jervis Bay Wild: South Coast trips
• Whale Watch Experience: based in Coffs Harbour
• CoastXP: Newcastle region tours
• Dolphin and Whale Watch Booking Agency Nelson Bay / Port Stephens & Manly Ocean Adventures: other local operators
• Yamba Whale Watch: North Coast operator

Operators are listed for convenience. We have no commercial relationship with them. Check current departures and conditions with each operator.

Land-based viewing spots (free):

• Minnamurra Whale Watching Platform: Kiama Downs headland lookout
• Boat Harbour Whale Watch Lookout: great coastal vantage point

Plus plenty of coastal headlands and cliff lookouts up and down the NSW coast.

Tips for Better Sightings

• Time of day: Morning or midday often has calmer seas and better visibility.
• September–November is great for seeing calves and slower swimming whales.
• Bring binoculars and warm clothing: the ocean breeze can be chilly even on sunny days.

Make the Most of Whale Watching with the WhaleWatch App

WhaleWatch is a free app from Mobiddiction with whale sightings, a gallery, tips and information for whale watchers in NSW. See the WhaleWatch case study.

Courtesy: Thank you to Sarah Gower (sarahmgower.com)