The best ways to whale watch in Newcastle

Each year from May-June to November, the Newcastle coastline becomes a little busier as humpback whales make their seasonal commute. These gentle giants are on their epic migration from the cool climate of Antarctica to warmer waters and then back again, and this year is set to be a record-breaker with 50,000 whales tipped to travel along the coast. 

The warmer waters along the east coast of Australia present bountiful opportunities for the whales breeding and birthing, as the young calves don’t have enough blubber on them yet to withstand the winter temperatures down south. It's a spectacle not to be missed.

If you want to see these incredible animals pass through Newcastle, here's how:

CoastXP’s Encounter Tour is a nature-based immersion experience, focusing on the annual humpback whale migration, where you get to watch the fascinating marine mammals up close in their natural environment.

Enjoy ocean enthusiasts' expert commentary onboard a custom built rigid inflatable vessel 'Atmos' complete with unobstructed 360° views making for a truly remarkable adventure. In addition to whale watching, each tour shows off the stunning Newcastle coastline with the added chance of encountering dolphins and New Zealand fur seals. 

Departs: Dock C, Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club
When: May-Nov. Visit CoastXP for departure times. 

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Hop onboard Nova Cruises for an unforgettable ocean voyage to experience the migration of the humpback whales along the Newcastle coastline.

Whale watch from the comfort of the main saloon floor or head upstairs and take in the view from the alfresco sundeck. This 2.5 hour whale watching tour takes you out to the ocean, which also means you will get an opportunity to glimpse pods of playful dolphins, sea birds, the occasional seal, and more.

Departs: Harbour Square Boat Dock, along the Honeysuckle Foreshore
When: Wed, Sat and Sun during June – Nov. For departure times, visit the website.  

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For those that prefer to stay on land, there are some great vantage points around the city to watch the whales past by:

Immerse yourself in military history whilst checking out one of the city's best whale watching vantage points at Fort Scratchley. The grassy headland is the ideal spot to roll out the picnic blanket and take in the panoramic views of the ocean and harbour. 

Perched above King Edward Park, the obelisk provides stunning 360 degree views of the ocean, harbour, and city. Climb the 120 steps from street level up to the peak and you’ll understand why this is a favoured spot for many visitors to spot whales. 

The 450m walkway is a tribute to the region's ANZACs and the city's steel making heritage, but it also doubles a great lookout along the coastline for humpback whales.

Insider tip: the Newcastle Memorial Walk is wheelchair accessible from Strzelecki Lookout. 

Grab a seat (and a coffee) outside the kiosk at Merewether Beach and lookout over the ocean at the busy humpback highway. 

Set up on the grassed area next to the car park at Bar Beach. Enjoy some fish and chips with family and friends, but make sure to keep your eyes peeled over the ocean for fin flips and whales  breaching.  

One of Newcastle's best kept secrets, you'll find Hickson Street Lookout down a short meandering track where Merewether meets Glenrock State Conservation Area. Pack a picnic and your binoculars, and find a spot on the grassy outlook to watch for whales among the panoramic sea views of Burwood Beach.