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.

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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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From reef to rainforest: Discover the best Port Douglas experiences

(Credit: TTNQ)

    Lucy Cousins Lucy Cousins
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    Ancient rainforest, coral reefs, laid-back luxury and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Port Douglas offers a side of Australia unlike anywhere else.

    Mornings in Port Douglas start with a beautiful symphony. As day breaks, the lyrical calls of Rainbow Lorikeets, cries of the sulphur-crested cockatoos and rhythmic Coral Sea waves create a colourful soundtrack for Tropical North Queensland’s sunrise. If there’s one place in Australia that captures the sweet spot between luxury and laid-back living, it’s here. This small, seaside village has just enough glamour to feel indulgent and just enough barefoot charm to make you feel like you’ve escaped the chaos of everyday life.

    Whether you’re diving into the warm waters on Four Mile Beach or enjoying an ice-cold drink and a Barramundi burger overlooking the marina, Port Douglas offers more than just a seaside holiday.

    Local gourmet goodies

    Nautilus restaurant port douglas
    Nab an open-air table beneath a canopy of palms at Nautilus. (Image: Toby Stanley)

    The tropical food scene in Port Douglas is influenced by the rich agricultural regions surrounding it, with fresh produce arriving daily from nearby farms and tropical growers across the region. At Nautilus – a hidden, palm-fringed restaurant just off Macrossan Street – the menu showcases regional flavours. Its Signature Nautilus Mango Soufflé is a long-time favourite.

    Nearby, Hi-Tide by the Beach offers a relaxed way beachfront dining experience overlooking the Coral Sea. From crocodile and lemon myrtle spring rolls to wild barramundi and a volcanic hot stone steak, taste the diverse flavours of Tropical North Queensland.

    Visitors can also explore the region’s local markets. Port Douglas Markets offers artisan products and tropical treats each Sunday, while the Saturday morning Mossman Markets is the place for fresh local produce from the surrounding farming community.

    Just outside of Port Douglas, Ospreys at Thala Beach Nature Reserve has one of the region’s most memorable dining outlooks. Perched on a small headland between rainforest and sea, take in views across the coastline and mountains while you dine. The seasonal menu highlights local seafood, tropical fruits and native ingredients sourced from across the region

    Travelling with young humans

    Hartley's Crocodile Adventures port douglas
    Catch a spectacle at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. (Credit: TTNQ)

    Port Douglas caters for all types of visitors, but families especially love the walkable streets, wide beaches and range of activities nearby. An attraction that never fails to delight all ages is Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures – a wildlife sanctuary and ecotourism park with some of the region’s largest crocodiles. Here, you’ll also find koalas, cassowaries, turtles and other Australian wildlife.

    For something slower paced, sit back and enjoy a tranquil visit aboard the historic Lady Douglas River Cruise. Glide along the calm waters of Dickson Inlet, keeping an eye out for birdlife and estuarine crocodiles along the mangroves. Children can take part in activity sheets onboard and even have the opportunity to help steer the boat.

    This region is also deeply connected to Indigenous culture, and a Dreamtime Walk is one way to learn about it. Discover the stories, traditions and connection to Country of the local Kuku Yalanji people from local Indigenous guides, while exploring the rainforest and waters of Mossman Gorge.

    Exploring local waterways

    Coya Beach port douglas
    Walk along the peaceful Cooya Beach. (Credit: TTNQ)

    Join a guided tour with Walkabout Cultural Adventures to explore the peaceful Cooya Beach. Led by deeply knowledgeable local Aboriginal guides, try seasonal local bush tucker, take in the beautiful landscape and gain insight into the history, culture and traditions of this land.

    Surrounded by dense canopy and ancient species, nearby Hartley’s Creek Falls are at their finest after rain. These beautiful falls are reached via a lush rainforest walk that winds through creek crossings, towering greenery and moss-covered boulders.

    To swim where the locals swim, head out past local farms and into the foothills of the Mossman River to Shannonvale – a low-key freshwater swimming hole surrounded by sun-warmed rocks and deep pockets of clear water. It’s a quiet area to spend a few hours retreating from the world.

    Adrenaline adventures

    Sailaway Port Douglas
    Take to the ocean with Sailaway Port Douglas. (Credit: TTNQ)

    One of the most high-octane ways to enjoy the nature of Tropical North Queensland is white-water rafting down the impressive Barron River. With Grade two and Grade three rapids, expect plenty of splashing, some teamwork, and a few moments where everyone in the raft screams and laughs at the same time.

    Join Back Country Bliss for the most unique floating experience you’ll ever encounter. Head into the rainforest and float along the serene Mossman River on your individual board, taking in the sights and sounds of the ancient landscape around you.

    If you prefer ocean swimming, Sailaway Port Douglas explores the idyllic Low Isles and the outer reef on their snorkelling tours. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef from above or below and look out for coral gardens, giant clams, colourful reef fish and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles.

    For land-lovers, the Devil’s Thumb is a challenging but rewarding hike with incredible views over the coast and endless cane fields. This 10km return hike will take around six to eight hours, so leave a whole day and pack snacks!

    Experiences that give back

    Skyrail Rainforest Cableway port douglas experiences
    See the rainforest from above on The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. (Credit: TTNQ)

    With two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland rainforest region – it’s not surprising Tropical North Queensland is a hub for eco-tourism. The stunning Daintree Ecolodge was founded on the principles of minimising environmental impact, supporting the local community and teaching guests about the local Indigenous culture. Their elevated rainforest-style ‘bayans’ are tucked among the trees, bringing nature into every part of a guest’s stay.

    Further down the coast, the luxury bungalows and treetop hideaways of Thala Beach Nature Reserve are dotted across 45 acres of protected headland, forest and beach. The property’s design intentionally preserves large areas of native vegetation and beachfront ecosystem, while conserving the surrounding habitat. The private beach and various swimming pools offer a cool retreat from the heat of the day, while the main lodge offers the perfect place to read and relax.

    The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, a 7.5-kilometre cableway between Cairns and nearby Kuranda, has won multiple tourism and environmental awards. It’s also the first tourism attraction in the world to achieve Platinum EarthCheck Accreditation, for its long-term environmental management and sustainability initiatives.

    Start planning your Port Douglas adventure at tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au.