With over 30,000 whales predicted to be currently migrating along the NSW coastline, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is encouraging everyone to visit coastal national parks for some of the best vantage points to spot these majestic ocean giants.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service spokesperson Matthew Mannall said now is the perfect time to head to one of the mid north coast's spectacular national park lookouts, headlands or foreshores to experience a record number of whales enjoying their natural playground.
"The NSW coastline is currently very busy with whales on their migration north to the warmer waters off Queensland to breed.
"Whale-watchers have already logged nearly 5000 whale sightings on our free Wild About Whales app, so it's shaping up to be a great whale watching season."
National parks make up almost 50% of the NSW coastline and provide some of the best vantage points to spot whales on their annual migration.
Humpbacks and southern right whales are the most commonly sighted, however minke, false killer whales and orcas may also be spotted.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service recommends these top whale watching spots:
- Charles Hamey lookout, Kattang Nature Reserve – This clifftop lookout offers magnificent coastal views across Dunbogan Beach and around to Diamond Head. Pack binoculars for great whale and birdwatching. Perpendicular Point walking track in the Reserve also offers spectacular coastal views.
- Caption Cook's lookout, Hat Head National Park – Located beneath the Smoky Cape lighthouse near Kempsey, this is a great place to spot whales, enjoy a picnic and take in the amazing South West Rocks views. Experienced walkers can tackle the 10 kilometre (one way) Little Bay to Smoky Cape walk for whale spotting along the way.
- Cape Hawke lookout, Booti Booti National Park – Just 5 minutes from Forster, the Cape Hawke lookout offers spectacular 360-degree views along the coast from the top of a dedicated tower, perfect for whale watching.
- Trial Bay Gaol, Arakoon National Park – Close to South West Rocks, Arakoon National Park provides plenty of headlands and foreshores to spot passing whales, as well as great picnic spots near the historic Trial Bay Gaol. Spot mother whales and their calves in the calmer waters of Front Beach during the southern migration (August–October).
Whale-watchers can download NPWS' free Wild About Whales mobile app to find the best vantage points, get real-time notifications of nearby sightings, log their own and more.
To remain safe when whale watching, people should stay at least five metres from cliff edges and rock platforms and pay close attention to signage and any advice from NPWS staff.
Visit Wild About Whales for all your whale watching information this season.
Wild About Whales is an annual campaign run by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service during the NSW whale watching season each year.
Join the whale-loving community
Stay connected and get the latest whale sightings and information:
Website – for all your whale info, best vantage points, tips for whale watching and coastal accommodation.
Free Mobile App – download the Wild About Whales app from the Apple Store or Google Marketplace to see the latest whale sightings and record your own.
Facebook – join the whale-loving community to stay updated and share photos and experiences.
