Duration: 2.5 hours

Location: Mariners Cove, Gold Coast

Budget: $99

Miles Travelled: The humphack Highway is 5-10 nautical miles from the Coastlines

Whale watching is one of the most exciting and unforgettable experiences you can have on the Gold Coast. With its stunning coastline, the Gold Coast is a perfect place to go on a whale watching tour. Whether you are a local or a visitor, you can witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat in a way that few other experiences can compare. In this blog, we will explore the best places to go whale watching on the Gold Coast.

Why the Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, theme parks, and vibrant nightlife. But what many people don’t know is that it is also a prime location for whale watching. Every year, humpback whales make their annual migration along the eastern coast of Australia, passing by the Gold Coast on their way to breeding grounds in warmer waters. This means that you can spot these gentle giants between June and November each year.

What to expect

Before we delve into the best spots for whale watching on the Gold Coast, let’s talk about what you can expect from a whale watching tour. Whale watching tours are typically offered by boat tour companies that specialize in wildlife encounters. These tours take you out to sea, where you can observe whales in their natural environment.

Whale watching tours usually last between 2-4 hours, and the experience can vary depending on the weather and the time of day. Most tours operate in the morning and afternoon, when the sea is calmer and the whales are more active. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to see humpback whales breach, tail slap, and even sing. These magnificent creatures can grow up to 16 meters long and weigh over 30 tonnes, making them a truly awe-inspiring sight to behold.

Things to consider

If you’re planning a Gold Coast whale watching tour, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to choose a reputable tour operator that follows sustainable and responsible whale watching practices. Look for operators that are licensed by the Department of Environment and Science and follow the guidelines set out by the Australian National Guidelines for Whale and Dolphin Watching.

Second, consider the time of day and weather conditions when booking your tour. Morning and afternoon tours are recommended for the best whale watching experience, as the sea is usually calmer and the whales are more active. If you’re prone to seasickness, you may want to take motion sickness medication before the tour.

Third, dress appropriately for the weather and bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It can get cold out at sea, so bring a jacket or sweater just in case. Finally, don’t forget your camera! You’ll want to capture this unforgettable experience on film.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the best places to go whale watching on the Gold Coast.

Tweed Coast

The Tweed Coast, located just south of the Gold Coast, is one of the best places to go whale watching in the region. The area is known for its clear waters and abundant marine life, making it an ideal spot for whale watching tours. Tweed Coast tours offer a unique perspective of the whales, with views of the surrounding hinterland and Mount Warning in the background.

Gold Coast Seaway

The Gold Coast Seaway, located at the northern end of the Gold Coast, is another popular spot for whale watching. This area is known for its deep-water channel, which attracts large pods of humpback whales during their migration. From the seaway, you can observe these magnificent creatures up close as they breach and tail slap in the water.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise, one of the Gold Coast’s most popular beaches, is also a great spot for whale watching. From the beach, you can often spot whales breaching and playing in the water. If you want to get a closer look, there are several whale watching tours that depart from Surfers Paradise. These tours offer a unique perspective of the whales, with views of the city skyline in the background.

Burleigh Headland

Burleigh Headland, located in the southern part of the Gold Coast, is a popular vantage point for whale watching. The headland offers panoramic views of the coastline and the ocean, making it an ideal spot to spot humpback whales during their migration. From here, you can often see the whales breaching and playing in the water.

Moreton Bay

If you’re willing to venture a little further afield, Moreton Bay, located north of the Gold Coast, is another great spot for whale watching. Moreton Bay is home to a large population of humpback whales, making it one of the best places in the region to spot them. There are several whale watching tours that depart from Moreton Bay, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, the Gold Coast is one of the best places in Australia to go whale watching. From Tweed Coast to Moreton Bay, there are several great spots to observe these gentle giants in their natural environment. Whether you choose to go on a whale watching tour or rent a boat hire and explore the coastline on your own, a whale watching experience on the Gold Coast is one that you will never forget.

When planning your whale watching adventure, remember to choose a reputable tour operator or boat hire company, consider the time of day and weather conditions, and dress appropriately. With a little bit of planning, you can enjoy a safe and unforgettable whale watching experience on the Gold Coast.

Luxury Whale Watching with Boattime YC

For those looking to enjoy a whale watching tour with a group of friends or family, Boattime Yacht Charters offers group boat hire options that are perfect for this purpose. Their flagship vessel ‘Sun Goddess’ provides a unique and luxury experience for whale watching on the Gold Coast, and is available for both group boat hire and yacht hire.

Booking a group boat hire with Boattime Yacht Charters allows you to enjoy the whale watching tour with your chosen group of people, all while exploring the picturesque coastline at your own pace. The vessel is captained by an experienced and professional crew who prioritize both your safety and enjoyment, ensuring that everyone has a memorable experience.

In addition to group boat hire, Boattime Yacht Charters also offers yacht hire options for those looking for a more luxurious and private experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in an unforgettable adventure, their yacht hire options aboard the ‘Sun Goddess’ are the perfect choice.

Overall, booking a group boat hire or yacht hire with Boattime Yacht Charters is the perfect way to experience whale watching on the Gold Coast in style and comfort. With a range of packages to suit different group sizes and budgets, they offer the perfect solution for those seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure. You can book tickets here for our Cruises which run from