Top Gold Coast Whale Watching
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From the sun-soaked shores of the Sunshine Coast to the lush islands of the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland is one of the best places for whale-watching tours in Australia. To maximize your chances of spotting the majestic creatures, here are some tips for whale watching around Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Hervey Bay.
When to Go
Queensland’s whale-watching season runs from June to November, during the Australian winter months, when the east coast becomes a breeding ground for migrating whales. Hervey Bay is the unofficial whale-watching capital, hosting its annual Whale Festival in July and August, while the Gold Coast is a prime stop on the so-called “Humpback Highway,” the whale migration route that runs between Australia and the Antarctic.
What You'll See
An estimated 10,000 whales pass through Queensland’s waters during the annual migration, including humpback whales and minke whales. Whales can often be seen with their calves, especially later in the season, and you might also spot bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, dugongs, and even sharks.
How to Go
Half- and full-day whale-watching cruises run from Brisbane to Surfers Paradise, Sea World, and the Gold Coast, aboard specially equipped boats with large viewing decks and underwater microphones so you can listen to the whale songs. Alternatively, cruise around Hervey Bay, Moreton Bay marine park, or Fraser Island on a catamaran excursion and stop to swim or snorkel along the way.
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Whale Watching Tour in Gold Coast
396
Spotting whales in their natural habitat can be tricky if you don't know where to look. Skip the guesswork on this whale-watching cruise, which guarantees you will see humpback whales as they migrate past the Gold Coast from June to November or you receive a complimentary second cruise. The tour is led by a marine biologist guide who is passionate about conservation and offers insights into whale behavior that enrich the experience. Includes morning tea and a photo booklet souvenir.
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From
$77.95
From
$77.95
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Learn More

2.5hr Gold Coast Kayaking & snorkelling tour
27
Short on time? Sample the natural beauty of the Gold Coast on this outdoor tour. Hop on a sea kayak and paddle your way over to Wave Break Island to swim and snorkel amid tropical fish and colorful coral. Spot dolphins, stingrays, and sea turtles along the coast, and enjoy a snack before heading back to shore.
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From
$54.33
From
$54.33
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Learn More

Whale Watching by Sea World Cruises
39
Witness Humpback Whales on the Gold Coast. Cruise departs from Sea World in Main Beach and continues past South Stradbroke Island. Only 20 minutes to the nearby water of the Australian Whale Sanctuary. The Spirit of Migaloo II is Australia’s newest and most advanced whale watching vessel operating in the Gold Coast. With marine naturalists onboard, passengers can enjoy a front row seat to all the action from six external viewing platforms and tiered stadium seating from sea level to the sun deck. The spacious decks all around the vessel and smaller passenger numbers ensure that the experience is a personal one with the freedom to move around and enjoy uninterrupted views of the Humpback Whales wherever you are on the boat.
Whale Watching Season is late May to early November.
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From
$70.08
From
$70.08
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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PRIVATE Whale Watching Tour - up to 11 people in your group
Step aboard our small vessel and take part in this enchanting experience, where we take you humpback whales watching off the stunning shores of the Gold Coast! An excellent chance to take in the beauty and wonder of these gentle giants. Keep a lookout for orcas, dolphins, and seabirds as well. Detailed educational commentary about the whales and our surroundings provided.
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From
$543.31
per group
From
$543.31
per group
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Learn More
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