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.

Warmer days call for slowing down and relaxing in nature. Discover why The Tweed is the ultimate destination to do just that.

As the end of the year draws near, the need for rest and restoration grows ever more prominent. For many, that means heading into nature – and there’s plenty of science to back up the benefits of doing so. It quite literally makes us happier as it reduces stress hormones, lowers our blood pressure and more. And what better place to lean into this feel-good effect than during summer in The Tweed (in the Northern Rivers region of NSW)? Blending sparkling beaches, riverside towns and hinterland villages, this area has nature covered, while also offering top activities and dining options.

And of course, pack your SPF. We Are Feel Good Inc’s Ultra-Light Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that keeps your skin hydrated and shielded, thanks to nourishing Coconut Oil and Vitamin E. But it’s also helping preserve the natural beauty around you on your Tweed vacation, thanks to 30 per cent ocean waste packaging.

Discover eight experiences that make The Tweed the perfect place for summer.

1. Underwater worlds

two people swimming after turtle on the tweed — Get a chance to swim with the locals.

There’s something about the ocean that calls to us as humans, and what’s below the surface is even more magical.

Green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles (not to mention an abundance of other marine life) all use the protected waters around Cook Island, near Fingal Head, as their foraging ground, making it the perfect place to dive and snorkel to spot these adorable creatures.

Join Cooly Eco Adventures on a guided snorkelling tour that combines unforgettable turtle encounters with an inspiring look into marine conservation.

2. Farm-to-table dining

table spread at Potager restaurant — Treat your taste buds at Potager. (Image: Cara Sophie)

Respecting the land and nature also means appreciating its abundance of food. From farm-to-table cafes and boutique breweries to river cruises and restaurants championing local produce, dining around The Tweed often means engaging with the best local producers.

The award-winning Potager Restaurant , part of The Hinterland Collection , is the perfect example; beginning life as a kitchen garden, the passion to champion local producers is woven into every dish. Vegetables, fruit and herbs are picked from the garden or sourced from other local producers, the seafood comes from the Northern Rivers, and meat is sourced from ethical local producers. Even the cocktail list features local distillers.

Extend your stay with a night (or several) at boutique on-site accommodation, Potager House . This French-inspired country four-bedroom retreat boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and nearby ocean, as well as a large pool, outdoor entertaining area and infrared sauna.

3. Water wellness

Waterguru Mindfulness in the Mangroves summer on the tweed — Find mindfulness in mangroves. (Image: Matt Johnson)

You’ll find mindfulness while floating around the mangroves of Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek at any time, but Watersports Guru offers an immersive experience to help guests do so with more intent. Join a 90-minute guided session on a stand-up paddleboard to reconnect with nature and relax through breathwork, gentle movement and sensory awareness.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, Watersports Guru also offer Kayak fishing adventures or join a Sea Turtle Odyssey experience.

4. Restorative seaside stays

woman relaxing in spa at Halcyon Wellness, halcyon house — Unwind at Halcyon Wellness.

The Tweed encourages locals and visitors alike to slow down. To really indulge, a seaside stay is a must. Halcyon House has understood the assignment, blending a wellness philosophy centred on balance and self-discovery with luxurious surrounds. Stay in one of 22 rooms and suites (each individually designed by eclectic interior designer Anna Spiro) right on the beachfront. Book restorative treatments at the onsite spa, Halcyon Wellness, relax by the pool, dine at the hatted Paper Daisy restaurant and just let The Tweed work its magic.

While Blue Water Motel offers a relaxed coastal escape, just steps from Kingscliff Beach. Settle in stylish rooms, recently restyled by Jason Grant, nodding to the cool of Kingscliff with a fun retro vibe. Hire a bike from reception to explore the surrounding area.

5. Tasty drops

The owners at Husk Farm Distillery aren’t just about creating high-quality rum: they’re also farmers themselves. In fact, they create one of the world’s only single estate, farm-to-bottle spirits. Join a Farm to Bottle tour to discover the sustainable ‘full circle’ distilling practices used here, and even get hands-on with your own cane knife to help harvest and juice your own stalk of cane. And, of course, a welcome drink plus complimentary tastings along the way.

6. Rail trail adventures

Exploring the rolling green slopes and historic towns of the 24-kilometre Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is one of the best ways to connect with the region’s lush hinterland and interesting heritage. In this section of the trail, discover the area’s railway history at heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station, and traverse by 18 railway bridges and through two railway tunnels.

Linking vibrant towns and villages with the larger hub of Murwillumbah, this section of the trail is covered in asphalt or compacted gravel, making it accessible for all ages and abilities, from prams to adaptive bikes.

7. Linger longer

surfer at fingal heads the tweed — Enjoy beachside locations, like Fingal Heads.

Linger longer at one of the seven idyllic beach, river and creekside locations of Tweed Holiday Parks – including at Tweed Heads, Kingscliff Beach, Hastings Point and Pottsville South. All just steps from the water’s edge, they make the ideal base to unwind, or head out for exploration of The Tweed. Choose from luxury waterfront cabins, accessible cabins, surfari tents (yes, they are basically glamping tents) or spacious sites for caravans, motorhomes and campervans or tents.

Find your feel-good summer in The Tweed at visitthetweed.com.au .

A go-to guide to whale watching in Merimbula