The Best Whale-Watching Spots in Australia for Motorhome Travellers

Australia is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, with thousands of whales migrating along its coastlines each year. If you’re travelling by motorhome, you have the freedom to chase the best whale sightings while enjoying coastal road trips. In this guide, we’ll cover the top ten whale-watching destinations in Australia, when to visit, and tips to make the most of your experience.

1. Hervey Bay, Queensland

Best Time to Visit: July to November

Hervey Bay is known as Australia’s whale-watching capital, offering some of the most intimate encounters with humpback whales. The calm, sheltered waters create a perfect resting place for whales and their calves. Book a tour from the marina or enjoy spotting them from the shore at Point Vernon. Stay at the beachfront caravan parks for easy access to the bay.

Tip: Add a little bit of magic and go on a tour to have the incredible opportunity to swim with some humpback whales!

Image: Swimming with whales

2. Eden, New South Wales

Best Time to Visit: May to November

Located along the Sapphire Coast, Eden is a prime location for seeing humpback whales during their southern migration. The best land-based viewing spot is from the Eden Lookout or the historic Twofold Bay. Visit the Eden Killer Whale Museum for more insights into the region’s rich whaling history. Nearby motorhome-friendly caravan parks offer stunning ocean views.

3. Phillip Island, Victoria

Best Time to Visit: May to October

Phillip Island is famous for its little penguins, but it’s also an excellent whale-watching destination. Southern right whales and humpback whales pass by the island during migration. Head to Cape Woolamai or Pyramid Rock for the best views. There are multiple motorhome-friendly holiday parks around Cowes, offering a convenient base for exploring the island.

4. Albany, Western Australia

Best Time to Visit: June to October

Albany is one of Western Australia’s best whale-watching destinations, with southern right and humpback whales often seen in King George Sound and around the Torndirrup National Park cliffs. Book a whale-watching cruise from Albany Marina or visit the Albany Whale Museum. Several campgrounds and caravan parks offer oceanfront motorhome sites.

Image: Albany's Historic Whaling Station at Discovery Bay, Tourism Western Australia

5. Warrnambool, Victoria

Best Time to Visit: June to September

Logan’s Beach in Warrnambool is one of the best land-based whale-watching spots in Australia. Southern right whales come close to shore to give birth and nurse their calves, making it a fantastic place for up-close sightings. The Great Ocean Road makes for a stunning motorhome journey to this region, with scenic campsites along the way.

6. Augusta, Western Australia

Best Time to Visit: May to August

Augusta, located near Margaret River, is one of the best places to see humpback and southern right whales as they enter Flinders Bay. The Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse provides a fantastic vantage point, or you can book a whale-watching cruise from the Augusta Boat Harbour. Stay at one of the nearby motorhome-friendly campgrounds for an extended visit.

7. Stradbroke Island, Queensland

Best Time to Visit: June to November

North Stradbroke Island, just off the coast of Brisbane, is one of the best land-based whale-watching spots in Queensland. Humpback whales migrate past the island, with Point Lookout offering a spectacular vantage point. Take your motorhome to the ferry from Cleveland and stay at one of the island’s beachfront camping areas for a perfect coastal getaway.

Image: North Gorge Walk, Tourism and Events Queensland

8. Bruny Island, Tasmania

Best Time to Visit: May to July, September to December

Bruny Island is one of Tasmania’s best locations for whale watching, with humpback and southern right whales frequently spotted along the coastline. The Neck and Adventure Bay offer excellent viewing points. Take the ferry from Kettering with your motorhome and stay at one of the island’s scenic camping spots for an unforgettable experience.

9. Port Stephens, New South Wales

Best Time to Visit: May to November

Port Stephens, located just a few hours north of Sydney, is a premier whale-watching destination in New South Wales. Humpback whales pass close to the coast during their migration, and you can spot them from Tomaree Headland or take a whale-watching cruise from Nelson Bay. The area is motorhome-friendly, with multiple holiday parks offering beachfront views and easy access to whale-watching tours.

Image: Imagine Cruises, Nelson Bay, Destination NSW

Whale-Watching Tips for Motorhome Travellers

• Book tours in advance during peak seasons to secure a spot on whale-watching cruises.
• Pack binoculars for better sightings from land-based viewing platforms.
• Check local whale-watching reports for up-to-date sighting information.
• Stay at coastal caravan parks for easy access to prime viewing locations.
• Be patient and bring warm clothing, as coastal winds can be chilly even in warmer months.

Witnessing these majestic giants of the ocean is a magical experience that connects you to the wonders of nature. Their graceful movements and playful breaches are sure to leave you in awe, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Whale watching in Australia is an unforgettable experience, and travelling by motorhome allows you to explore the best coastal destinations at your own pace. Whether you choose Queensland’s calm bays, Victoria’s rugged shores, or Western Australia’s breathtaking cliffs, you’re sure to witness the magic of these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Image: Underwater whale

It’s Time To Book Your Holiday!

To ensure you don't miss the incredible opportunity to see these majestic whales up close, start planning your whale-watching adventure today! Book your motorhome today and experience Australia’s stunning coastlines and marine wildlife in ultimate comfort and convenience. Your journey to unforgettable memories begins now!

Call our friendly reservations team on 1300 664 485 or check out our website to see the motorhomes we have available at our branches!

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