Tips To Gold Coast Whale Watching Season

Humpback highways have their place, but they’re no match for what has essentially become one big Airbnb between late May and November for our favourite creatures.

Much has been made of the Gold Coast skyline over the years, and with good reason. Gleaming skyscrapers; a dazzling cityscape of outdoor pools and sunset reflections, interspersed with the odd swaying palm. But during Gold Coast whale watching season, this setting essentially becomes a glamorous backdrop for the greatest nature show on Earth when pods of humpback whales breach from the water – so much so that you can often see them from the window of your accommodation.

Whale in Migaloo, Boattime Luxury Whale Watching, Gold Coast, QLD Australia — There is a staggering number of whale-watching tour choices. (Image: Boattime Luxury Whale Watching)

It’s no surprise that our marine mates are just as keen on the Gold Coast as the rest of us, says Dr. Olaf Meynecke, a Research Fellow at Griffith University’s Coastal and Marine Research Centre.

“The Gold Coast bay is an open embayment providing shallow waters with sandy bottoms, and in particular, the southern part of the Gold Coast bay gives protection from the south-easterly trade winds," he explains. “It’s the perfect place for humpback whales to socialise, rest and even give birth."

Want to know more about why the Gold Coast is one of the best places to whale watch in Australia? Settle in and listen up.

Whale-watching season on the Gold Coast

What’s so special about whale watching on the Gold Coast? Unlike some of nature’s best phenomena, this isn’t a case of a two-week window that changes every year. On the Gold Coast, the humpback whales announce their arrival in late May and stick around until late October/early November. Not only does this give you plenty of notice to book a trip, but the whales’ generosity with their scheduling allows you to research the perfect whale-watching tour to see the magnificent creatures in action.

Whale watching, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia — The Gold Coast is the perfect place for humpback whales to socialise, rest and even give birth. (Image: Sea World Cruises)

It’s also worth pointing out that the Gold Coast isn’t considered a ‘highway’ for whales on the move. Instead, they essentially treat the region like a resort for mammals, sticking around for a solid break before it’s time to move on again. And while adult whales frolicking before you is impressive enough, the warm waters there mean they also treat the joint like a nursery as the mums often bring their calves with them to prepare for their journey south in a few months.

“The Gold Coast bay is a mixing pot for humpbacks – all ages, genders, and attitudes can be found here," explains Dr. Meynecke. “Socialising is one of the most important activities, which means we see a lot of surface behaviours, from breaches to tail slaps to pectoral slaps and more."

Spirit Vessel, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia — On a whale-watching tour, you’re going to be seeing whales up close and personal. (Image: Spirit of Gold Coast)

He’s not kidding. Last season, Dr. Meynecke witnessed the largest heat run he’s seen in over 10 years of his research. “About 16 whales followed a female. At some point, they were only a few kilometres off Surfers Paradise. [It was] an incredible sight to watch one of the largest animals on Earth steaming through the water, competing for a female."

An estimated 35,000 humpback whales visit the Gold Coast each year so the odds of seeing them are in your favour! Keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins, minke whales, green sea turtles, and gigantic whale sharks too.

Best time of day to see whales on the Gold Coast

So, when is the ideal time of day to start looking out for whales? Honestly, these beautiful mammals come and go as they please, but if we had to pick a time, it’s recommended to look in the morning when the conditions are calm before any wind picks up and wave height increases. This also means you have the rest of the afternoon to explore other parts of the Gold Coast.

Whale watching, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia — On the Gold Coast, you’re in humpback whale heaven. (Image: Spirit of Gold Coast)

Whale-watching tours on the Gold Coast

From an intimate small group experience on a small boat to a more affordable option on a larger vessel with marine experts, or even a luxury whale-watching experience paired with a rotating viewing deck, there are more than enough tours to go around to suit all tastes and budgets.

Bring your binoculars along if you like, but rest assured knowing that on a whale-watching tour, you’re going to be seeing them up close and personal, as they like to hang out only 15 minutes from the shore. Here are some of the best whale-watching tours on the Gold Coast to choose from.

Sea World Whale Watching, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia — Calm days make for a relaxed tour; however, a slight breeze of 15 knots does tend to increase activity. (Image: Sea World Cruises)

1. Whales in Paradise

Setting sail from Surfers Paradise, ready yourself for an intimate whale encounter with the family-operated business Whales in Paradise . With guaranteed railside viewing, watch in awe as the whales curiously approach the purpose-built whale-watching vessel with expert commentary along the way.

Tours are limited to smaller numbers to avoid crowding and on the rare occasion the whales can’t be found, Whales in Paradise offers a free return cruise so you can see them on another day.

2. Sea World Cruises

Sea World, Gold Coast, QLD Australia — The whales announce their arrival in late May and stick around until late October/early November. (Image: Sea World Cruises)

Departing from either the Surfers Paradise or Main Beach Terminal, join marine experts at Sea World Cruises for a wonderful family-friendly whale-watching tour. Marvel at their acrobatic aerial displays and see mother whales tenderly care for calves.

If your tour fails to see a whale, Sea World Cruises will provide you with a free return cruise.

3. Spirit of the Gold Coast

Whale watching in the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia — See adult whales frolicking before you. (Image: Spirit of Gold Coast)

Get on board Spirit of Gold Coast and witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat. Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, and snacks on arrival.

Spirit of the Gold Coast has a 99 per cent success rate of finding whales but you’ll get a free return trip if no whales are sighted.

4. Boattime Yacht Charters

Boattime Luxury Whale Watching, Gold Coast, QLD Australia — The Gold Coast Bay is a mixing pot for humpbacks. (Image: Boattime Luxury Whale Watching)

Join Boattime Yacht Charters for their hit luxury whale-watching tour where you can experience the Humpback Highway in style on a 34-metre superyacht. From Main Beach, join the crew on board along with sensational commentary, a fully licensed bar, complimentary morning tea, and rotating viewing decks so everyone gets an amazing view!

If you don’t see whales on your tour, you’re invited to come back for a free return trip.

Swimming with whales on the Gold Coast

Did you know that you can swim with whales on the Gold Coast? Humpbacks have an incredible sense of their surroundings and never touch a person or vessel hence they are nicknamed ‘gentle giants’. Following the ‘soft in-water encounters’ approach —meaning you don’t swim with whales, the whales swim with you — it’s a proven method to achieve a successful and sustainable whale swim.

1. Cooley Eco Adventures

Join Cooley Eco Adventures (just over the NSW border in Chinderah) for an unforgettable eye-to-eye experience. The experienced crew will lead you and seven other swimmers into the water for whale swimming interactions as close as 30 metres – the rest is up to the whale. Snorkel training is offered to improve your current skill level

Price: $339pp

2. Sea the Gold Coast

Another bucket list whale adventure option is Sea The Gold Coast departing from Southport. Everything in this experience is at the whale’s discretion and whatever happens simply happens. You can join this tour as a whale swimmer or observer and watch from the deck.

Price: $249pp

What to bring to your whale-watching experience

If you’re hopping on board a whale-watching boat tour, don’t forget the necessities so you can enjoy the experience comfortably.

While the ocean breeze can feel invigorating, it can get chilly depending on the weather, so pack a jumper or windproof jacket to keep warm. The boat can also get quite rocky, so it’s best to wear flat, rubber shoes to ensure you don’t slip while moving around on the deck.

And of course, suncream and sunglasses are essential, and you may like to take a sea sickness tablet beforehand. Make sure to bring your phone or camera to get those epic whale breach shots.

Looking for more things to do on the Gold Coast? See our ultimate guide for tips and ideas.

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

An expert’s guide to whale watching on the Gold Coast