It’s whale watching time again when those giants of the deep head north on their annual migration to the warmer waters of their breeding grounds.
Baleen whales like the Humpback and Southern Right whales (which are commonly seen at this time of year) feed mostly on krill, which is abundant in the very cold waters of the Antarctic. But its way too cold down there to give birth because their newborn calves have no protective blubber and would quickly freeze to death. So it’s north they go. They head back to their cold water feeding grounds around August and September when you’ll see them heading south once more.
There are many places and ways to view this incredible natural phenomenon along the NSW coast. Often the best land-based spots can be a bit exposed so its always good to come prepared with a warm jacket and a hat. On very windy days with lots of white caps on the ocean, it can be hard to spot the tell-tale blow as the whales surface for air. The calmer the better. You will need to be patient as you scan the sea for the whales. Sometimes you see lots and other days nothing – but when you do it’s an awe inspiring sight.
You can also watch the whales from the air or on a boat tour, and in the latter case, you may get to see whales at very close quarters. Here’s some suggestions of how you can make the most of whale watching seasons, , and for other locations, go to Wild About Whales.
1. Redhead Bluff
Don’t miss the incredible views from Redhead Bluff, a rocky headland boasting views that reach across the ocean and south over Nine Mile Beach towards Blacksmiths Beach and Swansea – a prime spot that’s got the lot.
2. Awabakal Viewpoint
You’ll find the Awabakal Viewpoint along a walk through the Awabakal Nature Reserve from Dudley south through coastal heath and forest to Redhead. The viewpoint itself offers panoramic views to the north and the walk is full of spectacular wildflowers between July and October. A fantastic choice for whale watching, observing local birdlife and wildflower photography.
3. Caves Beach Walk
A haven for whale watching, the picturesque Caves Beach Walk, which traverses the clifftops south from Caves Beach to secluded Pinny Beach in the Wallarah National Park, is an easy walking trail ideal for observing the northern migration between May and July. The trail features plenty of lookouts where you can enjoy a closer view, while the southern end of the beach is home to a famous group of sea caves which shouldn’t be missed and are perfect for exploring at low tide.
4. Ken and Audrey Owens Walk
A community-created coastal walkway through restored bushland, The Ken & Audrey Owens Walkway is split into two sections, with one direction taking in Redhead Lagoon and the other heading to Webb Park. With a concrete and timber boardwalk suitable for wheelchairs and prams, this is a fabulous family-friendly option for those keen to catch a glimpse of the whales in action all the way down to Norah Head from the easily accessible viewpoint in the Owens Walkway car park.
5. The view from the sky
For an entirely different way to whale watch, Skyline Aviation operates helicopter joy flights departing from Lake Macquarie Airport and taking in the sights of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the coastline from Umina Beach and Terrigal past Caves Beach, Blacksmiths, Redhead and Bar Beach all the way to Newcastle Harbour.
6. Whale watching up close
For the ultimate up close and personal experience with the migrating whales, hop aboard a Nova Whale Watching Tour with Nova Cruises to enjoy an unforgettable almost three-hour voyage with plenty of opportunities to get close to playful dolphin pods, sea birds, seals and humpback whales. And in the unlikely event you don’t spot a whale – they’ll offer you another cruise free of charge.
Nova Cruises 2018 whale cruise season starts 2 June. They are offering a special rate where everyone travels for child rate $35pp (on launch cruise 2 June only).
7. Central Coast
Many Central Coast residents and visitors have already been fortunate to catch a glimpse of the first migrating humpback whales. The top Central Coast vantage points include Captain Cook Lookout at Copacabana, The Skillion at Terrigal, Cromady Hill at Foresters Beach, Soldiers Beach, Crackneck Lookout, Norah Head and Wybung Head.
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