Whale Sightings

As record numbers of humpback whales—over 30,000—migrate along Queensland’s coast and pass through Noosa’s waters between June and the end of October, the opportunities for witnessing these majestic creatures are truly exceptional. Spotting or hearing a whale during this period is an unforgettable experience, leaving an indelible mark on anyone fortunate enough to encounter these magnificent mammals.

Here are some suggestions how you can enjoy this incredible experience.

view from you holiday house:

Imagine waking up to the sight of a whale and its newborn calf right from your holiday home. At Noosa Secret Destinations, we offer a selection of stunning homes where you can enjoy these incredible sightings in the privacy of your own space. Speak to our team, and we'll help you find the perfect choice for an unforgettable holiday.

site from land:

In the Noosa National Park, whales can often be seen from the headland when they swim close to shore. Watch for the telltale spray of water as they surface to breathe, or look for splashes between the beach and the horizon as they raise their heads, fins, or tails above the water. If you’re lucky, you might even witness them breaching, creating a spectacular splash as they leap out of the water.

From Sunshine Beach to Sunrise, Peregian, and Coolum, you can catch glimpses of whales and their calves from various vantage points along the eastern beaches. The coastal boardwalks in these areas offer fantastic viewing opportunities.

tours from noosa:

For a thrilling adventure around the Noosa National Park headland, hop on a jet boat ride with Noosa Ocean Rider, Noosa Thriller, or Noosa Wave. These tours often encounter dolphins and, during this season, whales as well.

Epic Ocean Adventures, known for their guided kayak tours to Double Island Point from Noosa, provide stunning, up-close encounters with whales.

swim with the whales:

Have you ever dreamed of swimming alongside some of the largest and most majestic creatures on earth, right in their natural habitat just off the Sunshine Coast? Immerse yourself in a truly life-changing moment as you swim with whales and occasionally dolphins in these pristine waters.

Sunreef Mooloolaba pioneered the opportunity to swim with humpback whales in Australia, offering an unparalleled experience. Noosa Wave in Noosa and Tasman Venture in Hervey Bay also provide incredible swim-with-whales experiences.

Boat Tours:

Hervey Bay stands out as the most extraordinary location on the Queensland coast to see whales. Here, whales linger for up to 10 days with their young during their return migration to Antarctica. In 2019, Hervey Bay was recognized as the world’s first Whale Heritage Site. Located just a 2.5-hour drive north of Noosa, Hervey Bay offers a fantastic selection of half-day and full-day boat tours that bring you close to these magnificent creatures. When visiting, you can choose from several excellent tour operators:

Mooloolaba is only 30 minutes south of Noosa. There are a selection of boat tours, whale watching from Mooloolaba to the warmer waters of the sunshine coast.

From the air:

Flights over Noosa, Fraser Island, and the Sunshine Coast provide incredible opportunities to spot whales from the air. Air Fraser Island offers both day tours and overnight experiences to the World Heritage-listed island just off Noosa’s coast. The Recreational Flying Co also provides scenic and charter flights over Fraser, Noosa, and Rainbow Beach.