Brief Summary
This article serves as a guide to whale watching in Sydney and New South Wales (NSW) for the 2025 season. It details the best times and locations to spot whales, the types of whales you might see, and the costs associated with whale watching tours.
- Whale-watching season in Sydney runs from May to late July and again from August to November.
- Peak season is between June and July for the northbound migration and August to November for the southbound migration.
- Humpback whales are the most common, but you might also see blue whales, minkies, and orcas.
- Prime viewing spots in Sydney include Ben Buckler, Barrenjoey Lighthouse walk, and Manly’s North Head.
- Whale watching tours start around $70 for adults.
When is Whale-Watching Season in Sydney?
Whale-watching season in Sydney occurs from May to late July and then again from August to November. The whales start their journey north in May, with the peak season for northbound migration being June and July. The return journey of mothers and calves heading south can be observed between August and November. It's advantageous to watch early in the season as whales travel closer to the coast during their northbound migration.
What is the Best Time for Whale Watching in Sydney?
The optimal time for whale watching in Sydney is debated, with some suggesting early mornings due to calmer ocean conditions, which make it easier to spot whale activity. Others propose that the hours between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. are better for spotting breaching whales. Mornings are generally favored because the ocean tends to be calmer, increasing the visibility of whales.
Where to Go Whale Watching in Sydney?
During whale-watching season in Sydney, whales can often be seen from eastern-facing beaches and clifftops. Prime locations include Ben Buckler at the northern end of Bondi, the Barrenjoey Lighthouse walk, and Manly’s North Head. These spots offer excellent vantage points for observing whales in their natural habitat.
Which Whales Can You See From Sydney?
Humpback whales are the most commonly sighted whales off the coast of Sydney. The population of humpbacks is increasing, which is positive news for conservation. Besides humpbacks, there is also a chance to see blue whales, minke whales, and even orcas.
How Much Is It to Go Whale Watching in Sydney?
While whales can be spotted for free from various points along the NSW coast, guided whale watching tours offer a closer experience, with tours starting around $70 for an adult. These tours operate under regulations designed to minimize disturbance to the whales, allowing for viewing from just meters away.
Which Month Is the Best for Whale Watching in Sydney?
The best time to see migrating whales near Sydney is typically around the last week of June and the first few weeks of July. Although whale sightings are possible from May through July and again from August to November, the late June to early July period offers the highest likelihood of spotting whales.
Where Are the Very Best Places for Whale Watching Across NSW?
While Sydney offers great whale-watching opportunities, other locations in NSW provide even more impressive experiences. The eastern-most point of Australia and the 9-kilometer coastal walk at Port Macquarie are known for excellent views. For earlier sightings, head south to Shoalhaven, particularly Seven Mile Beach, to catch the whales at the beginning of their migration.
