Top Spots for Whale Watching in Australia and New Zealand

Ready to spot a whale or two? Join us at Tasman Holiday Parks across Australia and New Zealand for the ultimate whale watching experience! From the historic waters of Albany to the calm bays of Hervey Bay, we've pinpointed the best times and spots to catch these majestic creatures on their yearly swim. Whether you're gazing from the rugged cliffs of Yallingup or sailing the seas near Cairns, our guide has all the info you need for a bonza day out. Don’t miss out on this splashing good time!

Whale watching is a fantastic way to get up close with some of the ocean’s most impressive residents. Every year, a variety of whale species hit the road, well, ocean, on their epic migrations, turning the coastlines near Tasman Holiday Parks in Australia and New Zealand into front-row seats for a marine parade.. Here’s a guide on our favourite spots to witness these magnificent creatures.

Humpback Whale jumping out of the water

Albany, South West Australia

From May through October, the coastal waters of Albany serve as a corridor for Humpback and Southern Right whales. Observers can witness these giants from multiple vantage points, including coastal trails and specialised whale-watching cruises. The historical context of Albany as a former whaling station enriches the experience, allowing visitors to explore museums like Discovery Bay, which provides insights into the region’s whaling history​

Yallingup, South West Australia

The migration season here extends from September to early December. Visitors to Yallingup can enjoy sightings of Humpback whales, known for their spectacular breaches and tail slaps, from the rugged cliffs or by participating in guided tours that explore the area’s scenic coastline. The nearby Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse offers panoramic views and is an ideal spot for whale watching, providing a picturesque backdrop of the Indian Ocean and its migrating whales​

Ballina, NSW

Ballina’s whale watching season, from May to November, offers the chance to see whales as they travel along the coast. Boat tours available from Ballina provide up-close encounters with these marine animals, allowing for an immersive experience. The region’s headlands also serve as excellent viewing points for land-based whale watching, where one might see whales breaching close to shore

Myola, NSW

Similarly, Myola offers whale watching opportunities during the same season, May – November. This location is known for its clear views over the ocean, where visitors can spot whales from the beach or nearby cliffs. The area’s natural beauty enhances the experience, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate both marine life and pristine landscapes​

Hervey Bay, QLD

Known as a whale sanctuary, Hervey Bay’s season from June to November is particularly special due to the Humpback whales that pause here to rest and play. The bay’s calm waters allow for mothers and calves to linger close to watchers, creating memorable encounters. Hervey Bay is often referred to as one of the world’s best locations for whale watching, thanks to these intimate experiences​

Cairns, QLD

In Cairns, whale watchers can enjoy the migration from May to September. This area is unique for its sightings of Dwarf Minke whales, a smaller and less commonly seen species. The proximity to the Great Barrier Reef adds another layer of attraction, offering a combination of whale watching and exploration of one of the world’s most famous coral reefs

Christchurch, New Zealand

The cold waters near Christchurch are ideal for spotting Humpback whales during their migration in June and July. Tours from Christchurch often travel to nearby Kaikoura, where the underwater geography creates ideal conditions for marine life, making it one of New Zealand’s premier whale watching destinations. Observers can often see whales along with other marine species such as dolphins and seals

Each of these locations offers unique encounters with whales, set against the backdrop of some of the most beautiful landscapes in Australia and New Zealand. Whether by land or sea, the whale migration season provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majesty of these marine giants in their natural habitats.

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