Best Whale Watching Spots in Sydney

Enjoy a once in a lifetime experience as you see the migrating whales swim right by Sydney’s coastline!

Sydney boasts two distinct whale watching seasons. Between May and August, you can catch a glimpse of the resident humpback whales as they head north to mate and, later in the year between August and December, you can watch them as they come back south with their calves.

You’re more likely to spot these magnificent creatures during the winter season, as there are around 20,000 individuals that migrate along this stretch of coastline. As well as humpbacks, you might even be able to spot a minke whale and an orca or two. For best views, grab some binoculars and head to one of the top lookout points.

The Top Whale Watching Lookout Points in Sydney

• Botany Bay National Park

  Set in the lush surroundings of the Kamay Botany Bay National Park, Cape Solander provides one of the best places to gaze out to sea and try and spot a whale. As well as unbeatable views, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery that characterises this part of the city.

• Barrenjoey Lighthouse

  Forming part of the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, the Barrenjoey Lighthouse sits on the most northerly part of the sprawling Palm Beach peninsula. Here, you can marvel at the stunning ocean views and climb the 113-metre-tall heritage-listed lighthouse to spot the resident humpbacks. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.

• Royal National Park

  If you’re exploring the Royal National Park, head along the pretty Coast Track which will take you directly to the New South Wales coastline. As well as the odd humpback, you can spot eagles, silver gulls, terns, and other impressive bird life. Cool off after your walk with a dip at Garie Beach or North Era Beach in the summer months.

• North Head

  North Head is one of the best spots for whale watching in Sydney. It has a spectacular view across Sydney Harbour National Park towards South Head, with the Fairfax walk a looping around North Head for a great whale watching stroll.

• South Head

  The Gap offers visitors some of the greatest views of Sydney’s attractions. There are multiple spots you can park yourself at here for a whale watching experience. Visit here during sunset for an even better view, as the orange and pink glow lights up the ocean and coastline beautifully. Or you can walk up the South Head Heritage trail and visit the historic Hornby Lighthouse nestled nearby.

• Barrenjoey Headland

  Trek up to the Barrenjoey Lighthouse and marvel at the spectacular ocean views, giving you front row views of the migrating whales. The trip here can also double as a historic adventure, with the Barrenjoey Lighthouse having a fascinating past and being one of the Northern Beach’s most iconic landmarks.

Whale Watching Tours

As well as heading to some of Sydney’s best lookout points to spot the migrating whales, you can also take a boat out to sea on a whale watching tour. These adventures will get you up close and personal with the whales, as well as give you the chance to learn more about these magnificent creatures and their behaviour. There are numerous tours that leave from various points around Sydney, providing you with ample opportunity to spot humpbacks and other incredible sea life – just don’t forget your camera!

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity really is a must-do if you find yourself in Sydney during the whale migration.