A Go-To Guide To Whale Watching In Merimbula

A sighting of these majestic beasts is nearly guaranteed when armed with the right information.

Whale watching in Merimbula is most memorable due to the huge number of humpback whales that pass by on the Sapphire Coast’s so-called Humpback Highway. But it’s also possible to sight southern right whales, minke, orca and even the rarest of blue whales during the annual migration season from about August to November. It’s impossible not to lose yourself in the enormity of the experience. Here’s our guide on where to go whale watching in Merimbula.

Whale-watching season in Merimbula

Whale watching is popular right along Australia’s East Coast, from Port Stephens to Byron Bay. And it’s certainly one of the best things to do in Merimbula. The season extends from mid-July to November and peaks with the whale-watching festival in nearby Eden on the Sapphire Coast.

You can spot the whales travelling north from Antarctica to the Coral Sea between May and July. During August, there will be whales travelling both north and south. The largest number of whales pass by the Sapphire Coast during September and October.

a close-up shot of a whale in Merimbula — See the ocean’s gentle giants up close. (Image: David Rogers Photography)

The best time of day to see whales in Merimbula

It’s hard not to hold your breath at the drama of seeing a whale breach against the blue of a towering sky. The best thing about spotting whales while you’re in the ocean is the endless clear space all around. You will expand your sense of wonder while whale watching in Merimbula especially at dawn, when the ‘blow’ is backlit by the morning sun.

There’s also less glare glinting off the ocean later in the afternoon, which means whale watching in Merimbula is a bit easier in the late afternoon. Spring is best for whale watching according to data collected by volunteers during the annual whale count. And seeing the whales propel their mass out of the ocean is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

a huge whale jumping out of the water in Merimbula — Spring is the best time to spot whales in Merimbula. (Image: David Rogers Photography)

Whale-watching tours in Merimbula

You can choose your own adventure while whale watching in Merimbula along the Sapphire Coast Whale Trail. The region’s rugged coastline, a geographic embroidery overlaid with pink sandstone and red mudstone, is a playground for nature lovers. Head out on a whale-watching mission in Merimbula on a day when the sky is slate blue. From 2.5-hour whale-watching cruises to sunset cruises and discounted cruises on Groupon , there’s a whale-watching cruise to suit.

Sapphire Coastal Adventures

Sapphire Coastal Adventures is one of the best-known local whale-watching tour operators in Merimbula. The adventure company operate out of both Bermagui and Merimbula when the humpback whales are on their southern migration from the Queensland coast.

During this time, the mothers can be seen playing with their calves off the Sapphire Coast. Sapphire Coastal Adventures also operate daily whale-watching tours from Eden during the season when tens of thousands of whales leave Antarctica and begin their journey to warmer waters along the East Coast.

Cat Balou Cruises

Book a few nights’ accommodation in Merimbula so that you are close to the launching-off point for an expedition with Cat Balou Cruises and Whale Watching Eden . You can spot the whales travelling north from Antarctica to the Coral Sea between May and July. During August, there will be whales travelling both north and south.

The cruise company hosts twilight cruises out of Twofold Bay between May and mid-November. If you’re lucky, you might sight seals and dolphins too. Eco-conscious travellers will appreciate the company’s sustainable approach to running the cruises.

a seal swimming in the water, Cat Balou Cruises — You might also spot seals and dolphins from a Cat Balou Cruise while searching for whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Best vantage points to spot whales from the coast

Download the Wild About Whales app and bunker down in one of Merimbula’s best cafes to plot a course around the top whale-watching spots. The Sapphire Coast lies within the country of the Yuin-Monaro Nations, the Traditional Custodians of the region for tens of thousands of years. Walk in their footsteps along the Wajurda Point Walking Track until you get to Wajurda Point lookout in Mimosa Rocks National Park.

scenic coastal views from the Mimosa Rocks National Park, Tanja — Mimosa Rocks National Park offers seasonal whale-watching opportunities. (Image: Destination NSW)

Take a walking holiday with The Sapphire Coast Guiding Co. on the Light to Light walk. You can also go at your own pace on a self-guided tour.

Bittangabee Bay in Beowa National Park is another place along the NSW South Coast where the ocean roils with activity during the whale-watching season.

the Bittangabee Bay in Beowa National Park — Whales are often spotted in Bittangabee Bay. (Image: Destination NSW)

The view over the sky and sea will stop you in your tracks at the Disaster Bay Lookout even if you don’t spot whales. This vantage point is also known amid the bird-watching fraternity for being a top spot to sight sea birds.

an aerial view of the Green Cape lookout and lighthouse — Vast ocean views look stunning from the rocky peninsula of Green Cape lookout. (Image: Destination NSW)

Green Cape lookout is one of the best whale-watching spots near Merimbula. It’s where you can behold the glory of the Australian coastline from the Green Cape Lightstation which towers above the headland. The Green Cape Lighthouse and keeper’s cottage are so well preserved that they have become a landmark unto themselves.

a couple walking around the Green Cape Lighthouse, Green Cape — The Green Cape Lighthouse is not to be missed. (Image: Destination NSW)

What to bring on a whale-watching tour on land in Merimbula

For land-based whale watching, you should bring sturdy shoes, a camera, an all-weather windproof jacket and binoculars. And, regardless of the season, a hat and sunscreen are a must when you’re spending time in the Australian outdoors. Birdwatching is a popular pastime in Merimbula. Download the Merlin bird app , a digital field guide that will help you identify bird calls and songs while road-tripping along the NSW South Coast.

What to bring on a whale-watching cruise in Merimbula

Sharp-eyed whale watchers should bring a camera and binoculars. Bring ginger tablets to better handle the high seas, which affects a small fraction of visitors. Whale watching in Merimbula is a waiting game. In between scoping the sea for whales, you will spend time admiring the rugged headlands, thickets of banksia and groves of gums along the coastline.

whale watching with Sapphire Coastal Adventures — Don’t forget the essentials for your tour – including a hat. (Image: David Rogers Photography)

Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat for sun protection regardless of the temperature or whether the sky is blue or curdled with clouds. Plan ahead and book dinner at one of Merimbula’s restaurants and bars so you can relive the performances put on by these behemoths.

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .

A go-to guide to whale watching in Merimbula