A guide to Port Stephens whale watching

Increase your chances of spotting whales (and dolphins!) in Port Stephens with this handy guide.

Port Stephens is an aquatic wonderland, home to the Great Lakes Marine Park whose waters are thriving with marine life including hundreds of bottlenose dolphins who are often seen playfully frolicking in the local waters, sea turtles and more than 200 species of fish.

A woman and a man on a boat watching dolphins in the ocean. — Port Stephens is home to observing dolphins in the wild. (Image: The Legendary Pacific Coast)

Each year, it also becomes a temporary thoroughfare – known as the Humpback Highway – as whales make the great migration north, providing visitors with many excellent opportunities to spot these majestic mammals. Here is the ultimate guide to Port Stephens whale watching.

A humpback whale's tail coming out of the water. — Discover the splendid marine life of Port Stephens. (Image: Destination NSW)

When can you see whales in Port Stephens?

Every year, tens of thousands of humpback whales leave Antarctica and begin an epic journey of up to 10,000 kilometres along the east coast to the warmer waters of northern Australia. They mate and calve there, before returning along the same route towards the Southern Ocean. Port Stephens whale watching is usually best between June to August and September to October.

Mother and calf whales swimming in the ocean. — Discover majestic whales on your next holiday to Port Stephens. (Image: Destination NSW)

Where can I see whales in Port Stephens?

Spotting whales in Port Stephens is easy and can be done either from land or sea. You can join a whale watching cruise from d’Albora Marina, right in the heart of Nelson Bay (see below for more information), or you can head to one of the many Port Stephens lookouts for panoramic ocean views.

A boat in the ocean navigating to a beach. — Hop on a boat and cruise your way to one of Port Stephen’s best spots to witness amazing marine life with your own eyes. (Image: Destination NSW)

Tomaree Head Summit

Some of the best whale watching spots in Port Stephens include Tomaree Head Summit, located in Tomaree National Park .

A mountain with the ocean and roads. — Keep your eyes peeled for whales at Tomaree Head in Port Stephens. (Image: Jarryd Salem)

Take the short but Tomaree Head Summit Walk , which can take between one-and-a-half to two hours return. Follow the track through bushland dotted with gums, grass trees and banksia (you may even see koalas if you’re lucky). At the top, panoramic views across Port Stephens and the ocean are well worth the effort, and it’s an excellent vantage point to spot a pod of whales.

Two people standing on a platform overlooking the ocean and mountains. — The Tomaree Head Summit Walk offers rewarding views of the ocean. (Image: Destination NSW)

Barry Park

Humpbacks can also be seen from Barry Park , which has a specially built whale watching platform, at Fingal Bay Beach. Fingal Bay is also home to an 1862-built lighthouse, which is only accessible by boat.

An aerial view of the ocean. — Fingal Bay and its paradisaic beach are a must-see when visiting Port Stephens. (Image: Destination NSW)

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

Boat Harbour headland

Drive to Boat Harbour headland on Noamunga Street, just 15 minutes’ drive from Nelson Bay, and take the easy walk to Boat Harbour Whale Watching Lookout, following the signs from the car park.

Birubi Beach

Birubi Beach in Anna Bay is another great whale watching spot; grab a coffee from Crest Birubi Beach at the surf club and keep your eyes peeled for humpbacks off the beach.

People on stand up paddleboarding in the ocean. — Spend some time in Anna Bay and get down to Birubi Beach to spot some whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Iris Moore picnic area

Pack some lunch and head to Iris Moore picnic area in Fishermans Bay. This grassed area has sweeping views of Birubi Beach and Worimi Conservation Lands and is a comfy spot to settle in for whale watching.

What time of day is whale watching best?

You can spot whales any time of the day, but calmer conditions – often early in the morning before winds and waves increase – is usually best so they are easier to see.

A whale coming out of the water. — Watch whales throughout the day in Port Stephens. (Image: Moonshadow TQC Cruises)

Sunrise and sunset are also good times because this is said to be when they are most active, breaching and slapping their pectoral fins for show; the soft light also provides a beautiful backdrop for photography.

Mountains and the ocean at sunset. — Get up early for sunrise or stay up for sunset for your chance to see whales, and get your camera out to take your best shot. A win-win. (Image: Destination NSW)

Of course, spotting whales is never guaranteed, and conditions are always dependent on the weather.

Best cruises for whale watching

Departing from d’Alboro Marina, these Nelson Bay whale watching cruises make spotting whales easy.

Moonshadow – TCQ Cruises

Moonshadow – TCQ Cruises has been running cruises for more than 40 years and has seven different vessels for whale watching, dolphin watching, historical cruises, dinner cruises and more.

A boat in the ocean. — Cruises are the perfect opportunity for whale watching. (Image: Moonshadow TQC Cruises)

Departing daily from Nelson Bay, the whale watching cruises run for two-and-a-half to three hours between May and November. There is a fully licensed bar onboard for snacks and drinks.

People watching a whale in the ocean. — Get close to whales in Nelson Bay. (Image: Moonshadow TQC Cruises)

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

Imagine Cruises

Another long-running cruise operator is ecotourism Imagine Cruises , which offers whale watching, dolphin watching, snorkelling, eco walks, dinner cruises and more. It runs daily 90-minute express whale watching cruise on board a 40-foot power cat run by AquaMarine Adventures , as well as a daily three-hour-plus whale and dolphin watching cruise on a 53-foot catamaran.

People on a boat watching and photographing dolphins in the water. — In Nelson Bay, you can also spot dolphins. (Image: Imagine Cruises)

Blue Water Sailing

If you’d prefer a private whale watching charter, where you don’t have to hustle for a good view of a whale breaching, check out Blue Water Sailing . It has luxury yachts available for a three-hour cruise for up to six people.

What to bring and other tips

Because whale watching occurs over the winter months, you’ll need to wear warm clothes.

Consider packing a wind jacket, as it can get windy out on the ocean, and a waterproof jacket is a good idea in case of wet weather or ocean spray.

Pack a hat and sunscreen, as even during winter the sun can burn, especially when reflecting off the water.

Take binoculars with you, especially if you’re trying to spot whales from the land.

If you’re heading out on a boat, and you’re prone to sea sickness, prepare yourself by taking sea sickness tablets and taking a sick bag (though many cruise operators will have these on board in case of the unfortunate event that you do get sick!).

If you’re heading up to Tomaree Head Summit, be sure to wear some good walking shoes.

Download the Wild About Whales app , which has been developed by the Office of Environment and Heritage NSW, so you can track sightings and learn about whale species at the same time.

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.

A guide to Port Stephens whale watching

Increase your chances of spotting whales (and dolphins!) in Port Stephens with this handy guide.

When can you see whales in Port Stephens?