Whale Watching season is upon us, and you might be thinking of heading down to Sydney to watch the majestic whales and other animals pop up near the shores of the NSW capital. From getting a boat for hire or hiking to the best spots, here’s a list of the best whale watching spots to help you have the best experience!
What is Whale Watching?
Around 30,000 whales migrate north from Antarctica to the Coral Sea every May to August for mating and to give birth. In their journey to their breeding grounds, these beautiful marine creatures swim closely around Sydney’s coastline. And as they rise above sea level to breathe and jump out, they let lucky Sydneysiders and visitors catch a glimpse of their large and awesome appearance. During this time, and peaking from June to July, you can expect sightings of humpbacks, southern right whales, dolphins, and even oceanic birds near the Sydney coast.
Where to Watch Whales
You can watch whales in the Sydney region in many ways and places. On land alone are 38 spots along the coast and harbour, so we’ll narrow down your choices with some of the best venues for this fun activity.
1. A private boat charter
Naturally, getting as close as possible to the water will give you an astonishing viewing experience. By getting a private whale watching boat charter in Sydney, you’ll get the best seats in the house without a crowd around you.
You’ll be almost face-to-face with the whales and dolphins. If you get lucky, they’ll jump right before you for a picture-perfect moment.
Moreover, these private boat charters offer food and beverages so that you can make a whole party out of it.
2. Ticketed Whale Watching cruise
The next best thing to a private cruise is a ticketed one. You’ll still be in the middle of the water and sharing the viewing platforms with other guests.
3. Cape Solander, Kurnell
As the official spot where the passing whales are counted, this lookout in Kurnell is one of the best places to watch whales from.
You’ll find info about whales on the boards scattered in the area. Helpful volunteers are there to lend their hand, especially to the first-timers who have difficulty spotting them from afar.
This place is known as the best spot because whales are known to swim as close to 200 metres from the shore!
4. Fairfax Lookout, North Head
If you’re looking for a place to watch the whales on their way north while also getting a view of the beautiful harbour and city skyline, a hike to the Fairfax Lookout at North Head.
This tall cliff provides a perfect view of the sea below so you can see as many whales as possible. Just watch out for the water streams and get your binocular so you can close up when they appear.
Also, this spot lets you see the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House from a one-of-a-kind perspective!
5. Coast Track Royal National Park
For those who fancy a bit of trekking adventure before watching the whales, a hike on the Coast Track in the Royal National Park is right up your alley.
This vantage point offers a panoramic view of the ocean below where the whales will be swimming. You can spot beautiful animals on the water thanks to its high coastal cliffs.
Planning to get a private boat charter or a ticketed cruise for whale watching in Sydney? Let Any Boat help you find the best vessel! Call us now for enquiries, or sign up for this quote request form!
