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Every winter, Australia’s east coast becomes a front-row seat to one of the world’s most spectacular migrations. From Queensland’s tropics to the wild southern shores of Victoria and South Australia, thousands of humpback and southern right whales make their annual journey to breed, calve and play.
If you’re wondering where to whale watch on the Australian east coast, this guide brings together the best whale watching spots Australia has to offer, with family-friendly tips and nearby Hampshire Holidays parks to help you turn your road trip into a memorable escape.
Queensland: Tropical Waterways & Warm Winter Days
Lucinda, North Queensland
Season: June to September
Peak: July–August
Whales: Humpbacks
Lucinda is ideal for travellers chasing a quieter, nature-led escape. With Hinchinbrook Island as the backdrop, humpbacks cruise along the channel and are sometimes visible from the shoreline or during local boat tours departing nearby Cardwell or Hinchinbrook.
Stay nearby:
BIG4 Lucinda Wanderers Holiday Park offers peaceful cabins and powered sites close to the water and nearby scenic lookouts.
Townsville, North Queensland
Season: June to September
Peak: July–August
Whales: Humpbacks
Townsville remains one of the region’s under-the-radar whale watching gems. Here, tours head out from the marina with views of Magnetic Island and the Great Barrier Reef, giving you a unique coastal experience.
Stay nearby:
BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park is a relaxed, comfortable base for families exploring Townsville, Magnetic Island and the reef.
Whitsundays, North Queensland
Season: June to October
Peak: July–August
Whales: Humpbacks (including mothers and calves)
If you’re looking for the most enchanting place to see humpback mums with their calves, the Whitsundays are one of the best whale watching spots in Australia. Calm, warm waters make this region a favourite rest stop for the migration.
Stay nearby:
BIG4 Whitsunday Islands Holiday Park in Airlie Beach puts you close to day tours, snorkeling, sailing and endless coastal views.
Bribie Island, Moreton Bay
Season: May to October
Peak: July–August (northbound) and September (southbound)
Whales: Humpbacks
Bribie Island’s quiet beaches offer relaxed shoreline whale watching. Spot whales from Woorim Beach or join a cruise from nearby Redcliffe for a closer encounter.
Stay nearby:
Bribie Island Caravan Park offers easy beach access and a laid-back base for exploring the region.
New South Wales: Dramatic Headlands & Coastline Lookouts
Valla Beach & Nambucca Heads
Season: May to November
Peak: June–July (north), Sept–Oct (south)
Whales: Humpbacks
Perched along high headlands, Valla Beach and Nambucca Heads are some of the easiest places to enjoy whale watching from shore. Valla Headland and Captain Cook Lookout are two must-visit vantage points.
Stay nearby:
Valla Beach Holiday Park is only a short drive from top lookouts and pristine beaches.
Port Macquarie
Season: May to November
Peak: June–July & October
Whales: Humpbacks
From the iconic Tacking Point Lighthouse to the surrounding coastal headlands, Port Macquarie is a haven for whale spotters.
Stay nearby:
North Haven Holiday Village gives families a peaceful retreat close to beaches and local tours.
Southbound Spring Migration (September–November)
This is when whales travel south with their playful calves — often coming close to the coastline. It’s one of the cutest spectacles of the season.
Batemans Bay & Durras
Season: May to November
Peak: September–October
Whales: Humpbacks
For unforgettable sightings, head to Observation Point, Snapper Island or Surf Beach. Boat tours along the Clyde River also offer magical close encounters.
Stay nearby:
Batemans Bay Marina Resort for waterfront relaxation or Joalah Holiday Park in Durras North for a peaceful, nature-rich stay
Bermagui & Camel Rock
Season: May to November
Peak: August–November
Whales: Humpbacks, Southern Rights
With stunning vantage points like Camel Rock Lookout and the Bermagui Headland, this region remains one of NSW’s most dramatic whale watching corners.
Stay nearby:
BIG4 Wallaga Lake Holiday Park sits between Wallaga Lake and Camel Rock Beach, putting you in prime position for whale spotting and coastal walks.
Merimbula & the Sapphire Coast
Season: May to November
Peak: September–October
Whales: Humpbacks
Watch whales from Merimbula Wharf, Short Point or Spencer Park, or head out on a cruise from Merimbula Marina for a closer look.
Stay nearby:
Merimbula Lake Holiday Park offers spacious powered sites with serene coastal views.
Victoria: Wide Beaches & Coastal Lookouts
Lakes Entrance
Season: September to November
Whales: Humpbacks & Southern Rights
Head to Buchan Point Lookout or 90 Mile Beach for sweeping views of whales migrating through Bass Strait.
Stay nearby:
BIG4 Waters Edge Holiday Park places you near beaches, fishing spots and local tours.
South Australia: Southern Right Whale Territory
Victor Harbor
Season: May to October
Peak: June–August
Whales: Southern Right Whales
Victor Harbor is one of Australia’s most famous southern right whale nurseries. Encounter Bay often hosts mothers and calves just metres offshore.
Stay nearby:
Victor Harbor Holiday Park is a quiet, comfortable spot close to the foreshore and viewing platforms.
Ready to Go Explore?
Whether you're looking for where to whale watch on the Australian east coast, searching for the best whale watching spots Australia has to offer, or simply planning your next family road trip, our coastal parks put you close to the action.