The Ultimate Guide To Whale Watching In Byron Bay

Find out how you can make your whale watching experience extra special in Byron Bay.

The whale migration season is one of nature’s most spectacular sights and NSW coastal national parks are the ideal place to catch the action. Plan your next coastal adventure to Byron Bay to experience the whales enjoying their natural playground.

When can you see whales in Byron Bay?

You can observe the yearly migration of humpback whales passing by Byron Bay from May to November. And while it is possible to spot the whales as early as May, the tours don’t generally start up until June when the whales are travelling north from their Antarctic summer feeding grounds past Cape Byron and onto their breeding and birthing grounds.

As real estate prices indicate, Byron Bay is a beautiful part of the world to be. In addition to dedicated whale watching tours, there are a vast array of activities in the area such as bushwalking, bird watching, photography and guided discovery activities where you might see whales by default.

Byron humpback whale — Humpback whales pass Byron Bay from May to November.

What whales are you likely to see off the coast of Byron Bay?

According to a spokesperson from Byron Bay Whale Watching, 99.9 per cent of whales spotted on a tour off the coast of Byron Bay are humpback whales. To increase the likelihood of seeing whales while in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, book a tour from late June to late September as this is peak time for traffic along the humpback highway.

Can you spot whales in Byron Bay from the land?

Home to some of the most enviable whale watching in the country, NSW coastal national parks are the perfect location to see the annual migration. Wander along the Cape Byron walking track to see breaching humpbacks along the way, rated as one of the top 10 things to do in Byron Bay. It’s little wonder Cape Byron State Conservation Area is a popular whale-sighting spot as there are top spots to stare out to sea at Captain Cook Lookout , the lighthouse and the surrounding cliffs.

What are some of the best vantage points?

During the whale season, it is also easy to spot whales from the beaches and headlands in the Cape Byron State Conservation Area. BYO binoculars. There are also vantage points at the viewing platform at the end of the Three Sisters walking track in Broken Head Nature Reserve, which is a few minutes’ drive south. According to local yoga instructor Marie Baker, whales have also been spotted mid-warrior pose during a First Light Beachfront Yoga class at Elements of Byron. It’s oh-so-Byron.

The Pass Byron — Go whalespotting at The Pass.

Was Byron Bay a whaling station?

Byron Bay was known as a whaling town between 1954 and 1962. During that time, a total of 1146 humpbacks and two Sei whales were slaughtered. Whalers hunted whales for their oil, which was used in lamp fuel, lubricants, candles and as a base for perfumes and soaps. The largest whale caught at Byron Bay was a female that was 15.9 metres long. During the time the whaling station operated in Byron Bay, a whopping 10,000 tonnes of oil was produced from the slaughter of these majestic creatures. Although Australia ceased whaling in 1978, humpbacks, bowhead, blue and right whales are some of the most endangered species on earth.

A whale breaches in front of Byron Bay lighthouse.

How has the whale population recovered since then?

A research paper published in the international scientific journal Marine Mammal Science, indicates the number of migrating humpback whales travelling up and down the coast has increased by an average of 10 per cent since 1997. The study, entitled A citizen science approach to long-term monitoring of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) off Sydney, Australia, was led by researcher Vanessa Pirotta, of the Marine Predator Research Group, Macquarie University. And according to an article published in The Lighthouse the study used long-term data to demonstrate that northward-migrating humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) had “shown signs of recovering post-exploitation". The article states that a whale observation program has also run in Byron Bay since the 1980s but only records data for two weeks of the year, compared to two months a year at Cape Solander, located near to the southern entrance to Botany Bay.

What are the best whale watching tours in Byron Bay?

Byron Bay Whale Watching , Byron Bay Charters and Blue Bay Whale Watching all slice out to sea from the Northern Rivers’ town to try and spot the gentle giants in their native marine habitat. There are trained expert eco guides onboard all of the custom-built vessels during the intimate tours to answer any questions they might have about the whales. And those who book a tour with Byron Bay Whale Watching can also listen through a hydrophone to hear live humpback whale song as they hump and bow all around. In addition to spotting whales, passengers are likely to encounter dolphins, sea turtles and migratory sea birds.

Where to stay in Byron Bay with ocean views?

The Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottages

Stay a few days at one of the accommodation options in the national parks, such as The Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottages . The cottages offer sweeping views of white-sand beaches, coastline and the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse from the summit of Cape Byron State Conservation Area. The cottages have been lovingly restored to retain their heritage charm, with the addition of modern conveniences to ensure you holiday in style. There are two lighthouse cottages, each with three bedrooms, sleeping up to six.

Byron lighthouse cottages — Panoramic views from the lighthouse cottages.

Mildenhall Cottage

With spectacular coastal vistas and direct access to one of Byron’s best beaches, award-winning Mildenhall Cottage is the ideal holiday accommodation for those who love nature and the beach. The cottage is one of four 1920s-1950s beach shacks that have been carefully restored to offer modern convenience with eco-tourism accreditation, while still retaining its original character, heritage and charm.

Luxury places to stay in and around Byron Bay

Visitors to Byron are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation. You can book a boho-chic Airbnb so you can stare out at the watery landscape where whales are regularly spotted during the season or dial things up by staying at one of the region’s best beach houses or apartments.

You can also turn your back on the sea and enjoy the region’s subtropical rainforest at the newly minted Crystalbrook Byron (formerly known as Byron at Byron). Embrace Byron’s lifestyle at the resort, which has 92 guest suites, an infinity pool, daily yoga classes and an Eleme Day Spa. Meet your new friends from the whale-watching tour at Forest, the on-site restaurant, which only uses sustainably sourced seafood.

Crystalbrook Byron pool — Poolside at the newly minted Crystalbrook Byron.

Belle Escapes has expanded its offerings beyond NSW’s Central Coast with Alcorn Cottage at Knockrow , which is paradise for those seeking to avoid the paparazzi as it’s located on a 40-hectare farm that is completely private and separate to the caretaker’s residence. The faithfully restored farmhouse is the embodiment of a tree change done well. It’s warm, liveable and stylish while combining the past with the present. Want lunch at Harvest Newrybar? It’s five minutes away. Want to see the sunrise? Walk to the top of the hill and look out over Byron Bay hinterland down to Lennox Head.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

The ultimate guide to whale watching in Byron Bay