A comprehensive guide to whale watching on the Sunshine Coast

Megan Arkinstall Megan Arkinstall
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The Sunshine Coast serves up some of the best whale watching in Australia.

When it comes to whale watching, the Sunshine Coast has the absolute goods. Stretching from Caloundra to Rainbow Beach, the Sunshine Coast occupies 100 kilometres of prime coastal real estate along the so-called Humpback Highway, along which some 40,000 whales travel during their annual migration north. From whale watching cruises to swimming with whales and coastal lookouts, these are the best ways to spot whales on the Sunshine Coast.

What month is best for whale watching on the Sunshine Coast?

travelling humpbacks on Sunshine Coast
Spot pods of humpback whales on their journey to the north. (Image: Krista Eppelstun)

Whale watching season officially runs from June to October on the Sunshine Coast. Each year, after feeding off krill in Antarctica, thousands of humpbacks begin their long journey north to mate and give birth to their calves in the warmer waters off Queensland’s coast. Some whales travel up to 10,000 kilometres – as they socialise, play and rest along the way – with juveniles often leading the way. If you go whale watching later in the season you may be lucky enough to spot the newborn calves on their return journey south.

Where is the best place to see whales on the Sunshine Coast?

an aerial view of Alexandra Headland
Alexandra Headland is a prime spot to score a sighting. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Mark Fitz)

The coastal town of Mooloolaba is a hotspot for whale-watching. Visitors can jump onboard a cruise for both whale-watching and whale swims; these regularly depart from The Wharf Mooloolaba. On land, pack your binoculars and make a beeline for Point Cartwright Reserve, home to an active lighthouse and viewing platform that overlooks the mouth of the Mooloolaba River and coast. Or just north of town, Alexandra Headland is another great place to park yourself for a while and keep your eye on the horizon.

a whale watching tour off Mooloolaba with Sunreef
Spot whales on a four-hour cruise. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Mark Fitz)

If you’re staying in Noosa, you’ll also be able to conveniently jump onboard a whale-watching cruise, with many departing from the Noosa Marina. Within Noosa National Park, about one kilometre from the Coastal Walk entrance, Dolphin Point Lookout offers a great vantage point to spot these majestic mammals while enjoying the beauty of the national park.

an aerial view of Point Cartwright Reserve
Point Cartwright Reserve offers a great vantage point for whale watching. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Reuben Nutt)

Point Perry, in Coolum, and Moffat Headland Lookout, just north of Caloundra, also boast spectacular views of the ocean and are favourite spots for whale-watching on the Sunshine Coast.

The best whale watching tours on the Sunshine Coast

Whale watching cruises

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Whale One, Mooloolaba

an aerial view of Sunreef’s Whale One vessel, Mooloolaba
See humpbacks off Mooloolaba aboard Sunreef’s Whale One vessel. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Krista Eppelstun)

Sunreef’s Whale One vessel departs from The Wharf Mooloolaba between June and October. Its educational whale-watching tours run for two to three hours depending on whale activity, departing twice daily during the week and three times daily on the weekends. The vessel can fit up to 120 passengers, has an indoor area and light food and drinks are available to purchase on board. And if you don’t spot whales, you can try again for free on another trip!

Adventure Rafting, Mooloolaba

a whale-watching tour with Adventure Rafting, Mooloolaba
Embark on an exhilarating two-hour whale-watching tour along the stunning Mooloolaba coastline. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Krista Eppelstun)

Accommodating just 20 guests onboard, this intimate whale-watching tour departs three times daily between June and October from The Wharf Mooloolaba. The vessel features underwater cameras to live stream the whales that are swimming nearby, which is a bonus if they don’t surface, with a hydrophone relaying their symphonic calls.

Cavalier Cruises, Mooloolaba

guests onboard Crusader 1, Cavalier Cruises, Mooloolaba
Hop aboard Cavalier Cruises for a luxe whale-watching experience.

On this luxury whale-watching tour, each of the 22 guests on board Crusader 1 are spoiled with 360-degree views from the comfort of lounge seating. This open-deck vessel allows passengers to fully walk around, which is ideal given the unpredictable movements of whales. Operating from July to October, the tours include light refreshments, soft drinks and water, with drinks available to purchase from the bar onboard and BYO food allowed. These cruises depart twice daily from the Tank Bathhouse Marina.

Noosa Ocean Adventures, Noosa

a humpback whale rising from the waters, Noosa Thriller Ocean Adventures
Glimpse these gentle giants in the waters off Noosa National Park. (Image: Brent Milne)

Thriller is a purpose-built adventure-style boat that fits 12 guests. It departs two to three times daily from The Floating Boathouse Restaurant on a two-hour whale-watching tour. The boat explores the waters just off Noosa National Park between June and November, where whales, as well as dolphins and turtles are known to frequent.

Noosa Oceanrider, Noosa

a jet boat ride with Noosa Oceanrider
An action-packed ride will give you a chance to seek out whales. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Krista Eppelstun)

From July to October Oceanrider takes 12 people out cruising for whales. Departing from Noosa Marina, the two-hour tour heads along the Noosa River and around Noosa National Park seeking out whales and other marine animals.

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Noosa Wave Boating Adventures, Noosa

Departing daily between June and November from The Noosa Whale & Dolphin Centre, this informative two-hour tour guarantees a whale sighting or you’ll receive 50 per cent off your next cruise. The vessel has a full canopy for sun protection and allows guests to move around freely.

Kayak with whales

Epic Ocean Adventures, Double Island Point

kayaking on Double Island Point with Epic Ocean Adventures
Kayak through Double Island Point alongside whales. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Krista Eppelstun)

This minimal-impact tour is a win-win for whales and whale-watchers. Departing daily from Noosa between June and October, the six-hour tour to Great Sandy National Park includes beach four-wheel-driving and a fully guided ocean kayak where you may be paddling alongside majestic humpbacks in the pristine waters of Double Island Point. You’ll likely also spot dolphins, turtles and rays too. Light snacks and water are included and you’ll enjoy leisure time before returning to Noosa.

Swim with humpback whales

Whale One, Mooloolaba

A man standing on the bow of a boat in the ocean.
Take the plunge and swim with whales. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Krista Eppelstun)

If you’ve seen whales from the surface, it’s time to see them from a different perspective. Sunreef was Australia’s first operator to offer an extraordinary swimming with humpback whales experience onboard Whale One and promises a 92 per cent success rate. Donning a mask, snorkel, fins and wetsuit, just 15 guests will head out on a four-hour cruise to find whales and, when it’s safe, will have the opportunity to enter the waters for a life-affirming swim alongside these gentle giants.

Noosa Wave Boating Adventures

This tour promises a total marine experience, during which you can swim with whales, dolphins and sea turtles in their own environment. This 2.5-hour tour on a specially designed vessel includes all the gear – just bring your swimmers, towels and sense of awe.

Things to know

  • There is no specific time of day that is better for whale watching.
  • Keep an eye out for whale blows, which happen as they rise to the surface to breathe.
  • Most whales surface every five to 10 minutes when active but can stay underwater for up to 40 minutes.
  • Dress in warm clothes and a waterproof jacket, in case of choppy conditions or seaspray.
  • Pack sea sickness tablets if you’re prone to getting sick on boats or check with the cruise operator if they have some onboard.
  • Maintain a safe distance of at least 100 metres from whales and even more from calves.
  • If whale-watching from land, take a chair, some binoculars and be patient.
Megan Arkinstall
Megan Arkinstall is a freelance travel writer who you’ll often find at the beach, bushwalking or boating with her young family. She loves reliving travel memories through writing, whether that be sipping limoncello in a sun-drenched courtyard of Monterosso or swimming with green turtles in the aquamarine waters of Tropical North Queensland.
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Why Hamilton Island is perfect for multi-gen travel

    Eleanor Edström Eleanor Edström
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    Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.

    Keeping everyone in your crew happy on holidays is no small feat. Yet ask any parent who’s been and they’ll unanimously agree Hamilton Island multi-gen travel overdelivers – for many reasons.

    Taking the family to this premier island destination is a rite of passage for many Aussie parents. Not only is Hamo stuffed to the brim with fun activities to suit all ages, but it’s accessible, safe and super easy to get around thanks to its relatively small size. And I suppose the fact that it’s undeniably stunning doesn’t hurt either.

    Whether you’re spending time together creating magical memories or relaxing while giving the young ones some kids’ club time, this guide breaks down everything there is to know about holidaying on Hamilton Island for families.

    Getting there, and around

    Hamilton Island multi-gen travel on a buggy
    Hire a buggy and explore at your own pace.

    The easiest and most fuss-free way to get to Hamilton Island is to fly to Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on the island. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. Alternatively, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) near Airlie Beach, then take a ferry from Shute Harbour with Cruise Whitsundays, which operates services daily.

    Once you’re here, rental buggies make it easy to zip around from A to B (not to mention being a fun activity in themselves – the kids will love it).

    Where to stay

    Reef View Hotel Pool Terrace hamilton island multi-gen travel
    Reef View Hotel offers pool and sea. (Credit: Kara Rosenlund)

    Part of what makes Hamilton Island so appealing is its diverse range of family-friendly accommodation. Many include return airport or marina shuttles, along with complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment – making it easy to relax as soon as you step foot on the island.

    Reef View Hotel is one of the most popular picks due to its spacious suites perfect for larger families and proximity to the island’s resort centre – a happening hub of restaurants, pools and water activities.

    Meanwhile, families looking for something more self-contained can check into Palm Bungalows. Each modern bungalow is enveloped by lush tropical gardens and offers a kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave and coffee facilities – plus a private balcony for card games and evening drinks.

    pool and sup boarders at The Sundays hamilton island
    Take in pool and sea at The Sundays.

    The Sundays is another fantastic option for families. The newest hotel on Hamilton Island, it has serious bragging rights thanks to its coastal chic design and stellar location at the end of Catseye Beach. Opt for one of the Family Connect Rooms for extra breathing room.

    For that relaxed, home-away-from-home feeling, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes hit the nail on the head. Choose from more than 100 self-catering homes dotted around the island that accommodate both large groups and smaller families. From waterfront luxury to spacious villas, there’s something for everyone.

    Family tip: Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and The Sundays all participate in Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay Free program, earning themselves a reputation as some of the best family-friendly accommodation on Hamilton Island. No extra charge is added for up to one or two (dependent on the hotel) children under 12 who are sharing a room with parents and using existing bedding.

    Where to eat

    coca chu on hamilton island
    Sit down to a feast at coca chu.

    Hamilton Island’s foodie scene is seriously worth its salt. From just-caught seafood to family-friendly staples, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied.

    Start at coca chu, one of the best Hamilton Island restaurants for families. Spotlighting vibrant Southeast Asian flavours, it offers a lively, high-ceiling setting overlooking Catseye Beach. Nearby is Catseye Pool Club, Josh and Julie Niland’s breezy coastal venue that’s at once elevated and laidback. Dishing up the likes of charcoal tiger prawns with lemongrass marinade and Greek-style lamb shoulder, it’s the perfect place to celebrate birthdays or milestone moments with older kids.

    Got young ones who recoil at the sight of vegetables? Not to worry. Head straight to Romano’s for please-all pizza, or Marina Tavern for hearty pub classics in a relaxed atmosphere complete with an outdoor deck.

    Catseye Pool Club hamilton island
    Grab some tasty bites by the pool at Catseye Pool Club.

    For brekkie or lunch, Bob’s Bakery is a family favourite for affordable pastries, sandwiches and pies, while Marina Cafe serves up bacon and egg rolls and salads with fresh smoothies. And Popeye’s does a mean fish and chips to go.

    Sails Restaurant is the place to be for poolside bites with views of the Whitsundays’ famous turquoise waters. The kids can splash in the pool while parents sip spritzes and graze on mezze plates of za’atar pita, hummus and olives. The menu leans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, though you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly crowd favourites such as ham and cheese toasties. For something extra special, book in the Piper Package – expect exclusive access to a king-size sunbed with a shaded umbrella, plus a chilled bottle of Piper-Heidsieck NV Champagne and a showstopping seafood platter (I still have dreams about it).

    Where to explore

    hamilton island couple running on trail
    Explore the island’s walking trails.

    There are bucket loads of family-friendly activities on Hamilton Island that the whole clan can do together. First stop: hiring a buggy and taking your time to explore the island at your own pace. Next stop: getting active and creating memories together in the process.

    One of the best activities on Hamilton Island for families is tackling one (or more) of its beautiful bush and walking trails, with the one-hour hike to Passage Peak a standout for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Morning is a great time to go to beat the heat (and other walkers).

    For the active and adventurous, the all-new E-mountain biking facilities make for an adrenaline-packed experience your teens won’t be able to stop talking about. It’s a self-guided trail taking riders to some of the island’s quietest and most scenic pockets, and the knowledgeable staff at Hamilton Island Trails HQ will fit you out with all the gear you need for a safe adventure.

    E-mountain biking on hamilton island
    Check out the all-new E-mountain biking facilities.

    Come sunset, you’d be silly not to head up to One Tree Hill at least once during your stay. Offering breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun brushes the horizon with gold, it’s a popular place for groups and families to come together and enjoy a drink from the pop-up cocktail van.

    Family tip: If you’re staying at the Sundays, Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows or Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to a range of water activities, including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment at Catseye Beach. Keep an eye out for the turtles that love to hang around the shallow fringing reef.

    Where to play

    heart reef
    Take the family on a day tour to places like Heart Reef.

    Kids are sure to have a field trip thanks to the island’s abundance of child-centric offerings.

    Parents in need of some ‘me time’ can drop little ones between six months and 12 years off at the Clownfish Club, located near the Resort Centre and Pool. Overseen by trained professionals, the nursery offers a calm space for toddlers and babies with a balance of gentle play and rest. Meanwhile, older kids can unleash their imaginations with age-appropriate craft, games and group activities.

    Parents seeking a stress-free night out can also make use of Hamilton Island’s babysitting services, which start from $40 an hour.

    Hamilton Island Wildlife is another must-visit stop. Fun for children of all ages (and adults too!), the centre provides up-close encounters with a variety of cute and fascinating Aussie animals. Think marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos, along with a giant saltwater crocodile. Catch the 10am or 2pm daily tours (included with entry) guided by expert keepers, or opt for a 30-minute private or small-group VIP encounter with an animal of your choice.

    More kid-friendly entertainment awaits at Palm Valley Activities, where you can race around the go-karting track and reach up to 45 kilometres per hour. Kids under 16 can ride as passengers in double go-karts. Or perhaps try your hand at mini golf at the HI Fitness Club, navigating palms, playful challenges and pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens.

    Keen to explore further afield? A wide range of Hamilton Island day trips promise endless excitement, from snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef tour and chartering a boat to marvelling at the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach from a scenic plane.

    To plan your family island escape, visit hamiltonisland.com.au.