

Whale watching in Sydney
Whale watching with Manly Ocean Adventures
Each year from May to November, more than 40,000 humpback and southern right whales make their way along Sydney’s coastline in their annual migration from Antarctica to the warmer waters of the Pacific. There are excellent vantage points where you can see these giants of the deep at play.
From mid-May, humpback whales begin passing Sydney on their northern migration from Antarctic waters. The peak months to sight them are towards the end of June and the beginning of July. Be ready to see lots of breaching and males showing off their dominance. In October and November, you will see lots of mothers and calves swimming down the coast. They usually swim a little slower and stick to the shoreline on their migration back south.
In NSW, it’s common to see humpback whales, southern right whales and dolphins, but you may also spot orcas, blue whales, minke whales and sperm whales.
On tour with Whale Watching Sydney, Sydney Harbour
Whales often cruise close to shore, so they are easy to spot, and have even been known to pop up inside Sydney Harbour. Cape Solander in Kamay Botany Bay National Park is one of the best vantage points with a covered viewing platform and information boards.
The cliff-top walking trails from Bondi to Coogee and the Federation Cliff Walk from Dover Heights to Watsons Bay also offer fantastic viewing opportunities.
Whale Watching, Sydney
Take the ferry to Manly for the North Head lookout, where whales can also often be spotted.
Farther north are Bangalley Head at Avalon Beach and Barrenjoey Lighthouse at Palm Beach for more great views of these marine mammals in their element.
Palm Beach, Sydney
If you want to get even closer to these majestic creatures, hop aboard a whale-watching cruise. During the season, cruises depart every day from Circular Quay, Darling Harbour and Manly.
Book a cruise with Whale Watching Sydney, Oz Whale Watching, Ocean Extreme, Manly Ocean Adventures or Captain Cook Cruises which can take you on their small fast vessels and take you to some of the best vantage points.
Whale Watching Sydney - Credit: Bass & Flinders Cruises
Once you see a whale, there is a good chance you will see it display one or more of the following behaviours:
Whale Watching, Sydney
As whales travel the coastline in the colder months, wear warm clothing and bring a blanket if you will be spending time in one spot. It’s a good idea to bring a camping chair to sit on too. Don’t forget to wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen and bring your camera or binoculars.
For more information about whale watching in Sydney, visit the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.
Get out on Sydney Harbour and watch on in awe while humpbacks pass by on their annual migration north. From breaching to lobtailing to spotting their blowholes from the water – there is plenty to see.
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