Every year from June to November, the Gold Coast becomes one of Australia’s premier whale-watching destinations, drawing nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With humpback whales making their annual migration from Antarctica to warmer waters, visitors are treated to breathtaking displays of breaching, tail slapping, and playful antics.
If you’re planning a Gold Coast whale watching adventure, there are plenty of ways to witness these incredible creatures. Whether you prefer to watch them from land or embark on a whale-watching cruise, here’s where to find the best whale-watching experiences on the Gold Coast.
Watch Them from Your Balcony at Boulevard Towers
For those staying at Boulevard Towers in Broadbeach, you don’t even have to leave your apartment to see these magnificent creatures!
Guests can watch humpback whales breaching right from their private ocean-view balcony, offering one of the most comfortable and breathtaking whale-watching experiences. With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, your apartment becomes a front-row seat to the magic of whale migration.
Imagine sipping your morning coffee as a humpback whale launches itself out of the water, or watching playful calves tail-slap just beyond the waves. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience without even stepping outside.
Watch Them from Burleigh Headland
If you’d rather watch from land, Burleigh Headland is a prime location for spotting whales on the Gold Coast.
Located within Burleigh Head National Park, this elevated vantage point along the Oceanview Walk provides panoramic views of the coastline—a perfect backdrop for spotting whales as they swim past.
Tips for Whale Watching at Burleigh Headland:
- Bring binoculars for a closer look at whale activity.
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially during peak season.
- Walk up to Tumgun Lookout, one of the best whale-watching spots in Burleigh.
- If you’re lucky, you might see whales breaching close to shore!
With its scenic coastal setting, Burleigh Headland offers a free and accessible way to witness whale migration in all its glory.
Gold Coast Whale Watching Tours
For an up-close encounter, nothing beats hopping on a whale-watching tour. The Gold Coast is home to several highly-rated operators, offering unforgettable experiences on the water.
1. Spirit of Gold Coast
🛳️ Spirit of Gold Coast Whale Watching
- Spirit of Gold Coast is one of the most popular and well-established whale-watching tours on the Gold Coast. Departing from Main Beach, this tour offers:
100% whale sighting guarantee - Expert commentary from marine biologists
- Spacious viewing decks for the best experience
If you want a trusted whale-watching experience, Spirit of Gold Coast is a top choice!
2. Sea World Cruises
🌊 Sea World Cruises Whale Watching
- Sea World Cruises offers a luxurious and educational whale-watching experience. Departing from Surfers Paradise, these tours feature:
360-degree views from state-of-the-art vessels - Underwater microphones to hear whale songs
- Onboard educational presentations
Perfect for families, photographers, and nature lovers, Sea World Cruises brings you closer to the action in comfort.
3. Whales in Paradise
- If you’re looking for a smaller, more intimate whale-watching experience, Whales in Paradise is ideal. Their tours feature water-level viewing decks for the closest encounters
- Small-group cruises with fewer crowds
- Departures from Surfers Paradise
Whales in Paradise offers a unique perspective, allowing guests to get closer to the water and experience the whales up close.
4. Cooly Eco Adventures
- For an eco-friendly and sustainable approach, Cooly Eco Adventures operates out of Coolangatta and focuses on:
Environmentally conscious whale-watching tours - Small, low-impact vessels
- Once-in-a-lifetime whale swim encounters
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, you might even witness a whale swim, where you can observe these gentle giants from the water under strict conservation guidelines.
Best Time for Whale Watching on the Gold Coast
The humpback whale migration season on the Gold Coast runs from June to November, with different phases of the migration offering unique experiences:
- June – July: Best time to see northern migration, with whales heading toward warmer waters.
- August – September: Peak season! More whale breaches, tail slaps, and playful activity.
- October – November: Best time to see southern migration, often with calves swimming close to shore.
For the best experience, book your whale-watching adventure during peak season (August – September) when whale activity is at its highest.
Plan Your Gold Coast Whale Watching Experience
Whether you choose to watch from your private balcony at Boulevard Towers, Burleigh Headland, or embark on an unforgettable whale-watching cruise, the Gold Coast offers some of the best opportunities to witness these majestic creatures up close.
Book your whale-watching experience today and create once-in-a-lifetime memories on the Gold Coast! Make the most of your visit with a stay at Boulevard Towers and take advantage of the best attractions and experiences in the region.
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