The best whale watching locations in the Central Coast

Whale season

The whale migration runs every year from May until November. The whales spend the summer months feeding in Antarctica then towards the end of the Autumn, they begin their migration north to warmer waters. Humpback Whales and Southern Right whales are frequently sighted with Minke whales and Orcas seen on rare occasions.

Feast yourself with these amazing whale watching locations…

The Central Coast is an amazing place to view the winter whale migration. The whale migration runs every year from May until November. The whales spend the summer months feeding in Antarctica then towards the end of the Autumn, they begin their migration north to warmer waters. Humpback Whales and Southern Right whales are frequently sighted with Minke whales and Orcas seen on rare occasions.

The 8 best spots to whale watch:

1. CRACKNECK LOOKOUT (WYRRABALONG NATIONAL PARK)
You can drive right to the lookout where there is parking, and you will find several picnic tables and benches. Pack a picnic and enjoy the views.

2. THE SKILLION, TERRIGAL
As you drive into Terrigal, the Skillion is easily recognisable and is a prominent landmark. You can drive and park easily at the base of the Skillion and walk to the top. Your effort will be rewarded with your uninterrupted ocean view from the top.

3. NORAH HEAD LIGHTHOUSE
Norah Head Lighthouse is a beautiful place to visit. There is designated parking with a pathway to the Lighthouse. There are ample spots to sit and scan for the passing whales. You can also book a lighthouse tour and walk to the top.

4. BATEAU BAY BEACH VIEWING AREA
Recently renovated this area is perfect for whale watching. Plenty of parking is available, and picnic tables and amenities are close by.

5. COPACABANA BEACH CAPTAIN COOK LOOKOUT

At the Southern end of the coast this purpose-built platform has views all the way south to Palm Beach perfect for watching the annual whale migration.

6. GERRIN POINT LOOKOUT, BOUDDI NATIONAL PARK

Located on the Bouddi Coastal Walk within the Bouddi National Park, Gerrin Point Lookout is an ideal location for whale watching. The 300-hectare national park is one of Australia’s earliest marine protected areas.

7. BARRENJOEY LIGHTHOUSE HEADLAND, PALM BEACH

Located 91 metres above sea level within the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Barrenjoey Lighthouse and is one of the most popular whale watching spots in NSW, which you can reach via a leisurely one-kilometre hike.

8. NOBBYS HEADLAND, NEWCASTLE

The iconic Nobbys Headland boasts 360-degree views of Newcastle and the surrounding coast, offering unlimited views over the Pacific. The headland is not only the perfect place for whale watching but also to catch a view of dolphins and seals.

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