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Where to Go For the Best Whale Watching in Brisbane
Up your chances of spotting these mesmerising creatures in the wild with our edit of the best locations for whale watching in Brisbane.
Every year, from June to October during Australia’s mild winter, a mesmerising migration takes place along the East Coast. Upwards of 40,000 humpback whales make their way from the crisp Antarctic waters to Queensland’s balmy Great Barrier Reef to recharge, refuel and give birth. It’s one of the world’s most memorable and accessible wildlife spectacles and one we look forward to every year.
For your best chance of spotting whales, it is recommended to head out early morning when the sea is smooth, and the whales are at their most active. It’s also important to choose a location with plenty of visibility out to sea and adjacent to their migratory route. Looking to get a start? Read on for our edit of where to find the best whale watching in Brisbane..
Best Whale Watching in Brisbane
Moreton Bay
Moreton Bay sits right alongside the bustling humpback highway, the 10,000km route from Antarctica to Queensland. The calm waters of the bay draw migrating whales in, offering a safe place to give birth.
Your best chance of observing any tail slapping action comes with joining a tour. Brisbane Whale Watching has tours departing Redcliffe (just 40 minutes north of Brisbane CBD) daily during migration season and offer a 100% sighting guarantee. Their purpose-built catamaran provides a smooth journey and includes on-board commentary detailing whale migration, behaviour and tips on protecting this majestic species, as well as a picnic lunch box.
If you’d prefer to stay on dry land, head to Cape Moreton to try your luck. During peak season, there have been reports of up to 30 whales spotted per hour. If you’ve a pair of binoculars handy, be sure to bring them along.
North Stradbroke Island
Whilst a holiday to North Stradbroke Island is always a great time, planning a trip between June and October will give you the chance to indulge in a spot of whale watching, too. The Island offers a series of land-based vantage points perfect for tracking these gentle giants as they continue their journey north.
For those who prefer their whale watching with a coffee in hand, head to Point Lookout. Pick up a toasty beverage along Mooloomba Road before setting up camp at the Point. Patience is key! If you fancy stretching your legs, consider tackling the North Gorge Walk, a scenic trail dotted with plenty of view points.
Frenchmans Beach is another great spot and comes complete with a series of purpose-built whale viewing platforms.
Coolum & Mooloolaba
Both Coolum & Mooloolaba, around an hour and a half north of Brisbane, are regular haunts for whale spotters. If you fancy a hike, head up to Mount Coolum for superb views. It will take you around 45 minutes to summit, but once you’re up, the 360-degree views make the trek worthwhile.
For a more laidback experience, head to Point Perry to soak up the sights from the viewing platform and grassy headland. Make a day of it and pack a picnic!
If you’re looking to get a wee bit closer, you’ll find plenty of cruises departing from Mooloolaba at a number of different price points. Whale One offer one of the most affordable cruise options at under $100 per person.
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Best Whale Watching in Brisbane: Further Afield
Hervey Bay
Hervey Bay is just over three hours from Brisbane, so more of a weekend away than a day trip. But as it’s one of the best places in Australia to spot whales, we thought we’d best pop in a mention. Shallow depths, warm waters and a calm bay provide a safe calf training ground, which in turn leads to an increase in above-water action and spotting opportunities.
Accredited as the world’s first Whale Heritage Area back in 2019, you know you’re in the right place. There are plenty of cruise options to get you out on the water, from overnight trips to four-hour zip-alongs.
If you’re looking to really get up close and personal, Hervey Bay Dive Centre offer enthusiasts the chance to jump in the water for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. You’ll hang onto the ‘mermaid line’ as whales weave past you on their way up the coast. Curious creatures have even been known to come up and say hello!
There are also opportunities to spot whales from land, at vantage points along the coast. Headlands and beaches at dawn offer you the best shot at spotting.
Loved this edit of spots to go whale watching in Brisbane this winter? You might also like to take a peep at our edits of our favourite national parks and hikes near Brisbane for more animal spotting opportunities.
