Your Guide to Brisbane's Best Whale Watching Spots
Where to Witness Nature’s Giants Near Brisbane this Winter
Winter is a great time to be in Brisbane. Not only can you avoid the serious winter chill that afflicts our Southern neighbours (though don’t get me wrong – Brisbane winters are still no joke!), you also have a front-row seat to one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles: the annual humpback whale migration. These incredibly creatures journey thousands of miles each year, and Brisbane's coastline offers some epic vantage points to see this in action. Whether you prefer land-based lookouts or getting up close on a boat trip, there's something for everyone on this list.
Point Lookout, North Stradbroke Island
A 2-hour ferry ride from Brisbane followed by a short drive will bring you to Point Lookout, Queensland’s most easterly point and a great whale watching spot. The stunning headland offers panoramic ocean views, the perfect place to enjoy humpback whales breaching, tail-slapping, and frolicking in the waters below. There’s ample parking available near Point Lookout, and there are numerous walking trails for you to explore while you wait for the whales to appear.
Cape Moreton Lighthouse, Moreton Island
Another island option! Accessible by a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Brisbane, Cape Moreton Lighthouse not only has a fascinating history, but it also serves as a prime whale-watching destination. Climb to the lighthouse for 360-degree views of Moreton Bay, where you might be luckily enough to spot humpback whales, dolphins, and even the occasional pod of orcas. While parking is limited near the lighthouse, the breathtaking scenery makes it well worth the visit and a bit of a hike.
Point Arkwright Lookout, Sunshine Coast
Just 1.5-hour north of Brisbane, the Sunny Coast’s Point Arkwright Lookout near Coolum provides a picturesque setting for spotting migrating humpback whales. This popular wedding spot (for good reason!) offers a great vantage point to see these gentle giants making their way past the sunshine coast. Parking for your GoGet is available near the lookout, and the scenic coastal walk is a delightful way to spend a crisp winter’s day.
Boat Tours leaving from Redcliffe Jetty, Redcliffe
While you may not see too many whales from the Redcliffe Jetty itself, there are a heap of great whale watching boat tours that leave from Redcliffe Jetty. For a truly immersive experience, viewing whales by boat is hard to beat. It really gives you the opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. Cruises typically also include interesting commentary from marine experts and the chance to spot dolphins, turtles, and other marine life too! There’s no shortage of different boat tour options, though we’d recommend Brisbane Whale Watching. A word of warning – if you’re prone to sea-sickness, make sure to take some motion sick pills before you get on the boat!
Mooloolaba/Buddina, Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life –and that includes whales too! The headland at Point Cartwright north of Buddina beach, offers gorgeous views of the coastline and a great place to spot a whale, as does the end of Mooloolaba Rock Wall at the southern end of the Mooloolaba Spit. Remember to note, although Point Cartwright and the Mooloolaba Rockwall are a stone’s throw away from each other, you cannot walk between the 2 as they are separated by Mooloolabah River, so make sure you pick which side of the river you want to be. Parking is readily available at the Point Cartwright car park, or near the Mooloolaba Fish Market if you are sticking to the Mooloolaba side. If so, make sure to stop by for a fresh catch or some fish & chips – it’s some of the best on the coast!
Greenmount Point, Gold Coast
Just over an hour's drive south of Brisbane lies Greenmount Point, a picturesque headland on the Gold Coast. Its elevated position provides excellent whale watching opportunities, allowing you to scan the horizon for spouts and tail slaps. The nearby Greenmount Beach offers additional viewing points and ample parking options.
Bonus: Hervey Bay, Fraser Coast
While Hervey Bay is a 4-hour drive north of Brisbane, so we’re really stretching the “near Brisbane” tag, we couldn’t leave it off our list. Known as the "Whale Watching Capital of the World," Hervey Bay is the premier spot to see whales. You’ll find numerous boat tours that provide the very best whale watching that Australia has to offer. Witnessing humpbacks breaching, tail slapping, and interacting with their calves is an experience you won't ever forget. Why not grab a GoGet and tick off a real bucket-list experience!
A Few GoGet Whale Watching Tips:
Timing: The whale watching season in Queensland typically runs from June to November, with peak activity in August and September.
Gear: Bring binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens for a closer look at the whales. It really will make a difference!
Weather: Check the weather forecast before heading out, as windy conditions can make it more difficult to spot whales.
Respect: The most important one! Remember to respect the whales and their environment. Keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing their natural behaviour.
Patience: Whale watching requires patience. Be prepared to spend some time scanning the horizon – they don’t appear on-command but that just makes it all the more special when you spot one.
Whether you choose a land-based vantage point or embark on a boat tour, whale watching near Brisbane is an unforgettable experience. So grab your binoculars, jump in a GoGet, and prepare for a winter adventure you won't soon forget. And if you can’t get enough of whale watching - check out Sydney’s best whale watching spots too.
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