Experience Whale Watching on Australia’s Humpback Highway to the Great Barrier Reef

From April to November, Australia’s east coast transforms into a “humpback highway” as tens of thousands of humpbacks, southern right whales, blue whales, and orcas migrate from Antarctica to give birth and raise their young in the warmer waters. Along the way, they visit coastal towns and ports, from southwest Victoria right up to the Great Barrier Reef, putting on a show for whale-watching devotees before returning south again.

Following the whales on their annual pilgrimage is one of the best ways to see the Australian coastline. Here are the top destinations to consider on your road trip from Victoria to far north Queensland.

Warrnambool, Victoria

Warrnambool is a coastal city along Victoria’s famous Great Ocean Road and close to the Twelve Apostles. Its sheltered, calm waters are popular with both families who camp on the beach and the southern right whales that often swim within 300 feet of the shore. Logan’s Beach is a regular calving and nursery spot for the whales, and you can observe them from a specially constructed platform built into the sand dunes.

While in town, visit the Warrnambool Art Gallery to browse works from local creatives, or soak in a geothermal bath at Deep Blue Hot Springs. Additionally, learn about the dramatic maritime history of the Shipwreck Coast by visiting the spectacular gorges where ill-fated ships still rest.

Eden, New South Wales

Eden, a historic fishing town on the scenic Sapphire Coast, was notorious for its whaling operations in the 1920s. However, this charming town has moved past that dark history, and now a siren alerts the public to whale sightings during migration season.

Whales can be seen during the southerly migration from September to November. You can take advantage of numerous free vantage points around Eden, including Twofold Bay and Beowa National Park. Alternatively, you can get up close via a whale-watching expedition with Cat Balou Cruises. Don’t miss Eden’s annual Whale Festival held in October, featuring special markets, dining events, and tours.

Port Stephens, New South Wales

Port Stephens is an adventure playground nestled between giant sand dunes, dolphin-filled rivers, and verdant mountains in the Great Lakes Marine Park. Some of the best whale watching can be found at Barry Park in Fingal Bay or Birubi Beach in Anna Bay, where you can enjoy a coffee at the beach club. Eco-certified Imagine Cruises offers tours dedicated to searching for whales, dolphins, and fur seals.

After you’ve had your fill of whale watching, participate in a quad bike tour over the dunes to learn about the area’s Worimi Aboriginal heritage, shuck fresh oysters at Holberts Oyster Farm, or unwind with a spritz at Shoal Bay Country Club.

Mooloolaba, Queensland

Mooloolaba is a quintessential sun-kissed beach town that offers a nostalgic experience. There are numerous ways to see whales here; however, one unique option is with Saltwater Eco Tours, which facilitates whale-watching tours alongside Aboriginal guides who share songs and stories from Kabi Kabi culture.

On solid ground, stroll along the Esplanade to Pavilion Mooloolaba for a healthy breakfast by the water, hire a fishing rod, or enjoy a sunset beer at The Dock.

Airlie Beach, Queensland

After traveling more than 3,000 miles, the “humpback highway” comes to an end in the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef, including the many protected coves and bays of the Whitsunday Islands. Airlie Beach serves as the gateway to exploring the islands and reef, and it is the launching point for an extensive variety of whale-watching, snorkeling, and diving tours.

While the reef captures major attention, there’s still plenty to do on the mainland. Explore the weekend Whitsunday Market for shopping and dining, chase waterfalls at Conway National Park, or soak in the vibrant ambiance at Balearica Beach Club.