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 Port Stephen’s spectacular national park lookouts, headlands or foreshores to experience a record number of whales enjoying their natural playground.
“The waters off our coastline are 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 in Port Stephens and surround:
- Tomaree Head Summit, Tomaree National Park – Take this short walk to the summit of Tomaree Head to enjoy panoramic views of Port Stephens and its coastline. Pack binoculars for whale watching and dolphin spotting and enjoy this vista with a picnic at the lookout’s picnic table.
- Fishermans Bay foreshore, Tomaree National Park – Located close to Anna Bay and Nelson Bay, this foreshore area features a lovely, secluded beach and is a great spot for family picnics, kayaking, rockpool walks and spotting whales.
- Yacaaba Headland walking track, Myall Lakes National Park – On the northern headland of Port Stephens, this challenging walk offers panoramic coastal views of Seal Rocks and Tomaree Headland. It’s steep in parts, so set out prepared and pack your binoculars for lots of whale spotting along the way.
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 5 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.
