Australia's 'Humpback Highway' Guides Whale Watchers from Coastal Towns to the Great Barrier Reef

From April to November, the east coast of Australia becomes a 'humpback highway' as tens of thousands of humpback whales, southern right whales, blue whales, and orcas journey from Antarctica to give birth and nurture their young in the warmer waters. Along their route, they stop by coastal towns and ports, stretching from southwest Victoria to the Great Barrier Reef, delighting whale-watching fans before heading back south.

Chasing the whales on their yearly migration is one of the finest ways to experience the Australian coastline. Here’s where to pause on your road trip from Victoria to far north Queensland.

Warrnambool, Victoria

Warrnambool is a coastal city situated along Victoria’s renowned Great Ocean Road, near the Twelve Apostles. Its tranquil, sheltered waters attract families who camp on the beach as well as southern right whales that often swim within 300 feet of the shore. Logan’s Beach serves as a frequent calving and nursery area for these whales, which can be observed from a specially designed platform integrated into the sand dunes.

While in Warrnambool, be sure to visit the Warrnambool Art Gallery to explore works by local artists, or unwind in a geothermal bath at Deep Blue Hot Springs. You can also discover the captivating maritime history of the Shipwreck Coast and explore the stunning gorges where shipwrecks still remain.

Eden, New South Wales 

In the 1920s, Eden was not a welcoming place for whales. Fortunately, this historic fishing town along the stunning Sapphire Coast has moved past its whaling history. The siren that once signaled harpooners now alerts the public to whale sightings.

Whales are predominantly spotted here during their southerly migration from September to November. Visitors can enjoy numerous free viewing points around Eden, including Twofold Bay and Beowa National Park, or opt for a close encounter on a whale-watching tour with Cat Balou Cruises. Eden also celebrates its annual Whale Festival in October, featuring special markets, dining events, and tours throughout the town.

Port Stephens, New South Wales

Port Stephens is an adventure haven nestled between towering sand dunes, dolphin-filled waterways, and lush mountains within the Great Lakes Marine Park. Some of the finest shore-based whale watching can be experienced at Barry Park in Fingal Bay or Birubi Beach in Anna Bay, where you can enjoy a coffee at the beach club. Eco-certified Imagine Cruises provides tours to spot whales, dolphins, and fur seals.

Once you’ve soaked in the whale watching, delve into the region’s Worimi Aboriginal heritage on a quad bike tour across the dunes, savor fresh oysters at Holberts Oyster Farm, or relax with a spritz at Shoal Bay Country Club.

Mooloolaba, Queensland

Fish and chips. Sunscreen. Long, lazy days on the beach. Mooloolaba embodies the quintessential sun-soaked beach town that Australian children cherish in their memories and marketers love to showcase. There are many ways to spot whales here, but one of the most distinctive experiences is with Saltwater Eco Tours, which offers whale-watching excursions led by Aboriginal guides who share songs and tales from Kabi Kabi culture.

Once back on land, take a stroll along the Esplanade to Pavilion Mooloolaba for a nutritious breakfast by the water, rent a fishing rod to try your luck in the river, and toast the sunset with a drink at The Dock.

Airlie Beach, Queensland

After journeying over 3,000 miles, the 'humpback highway' reaches its finale in the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef, encompassing the many protected coves and bays of the Whitsunday Islands. Airlie Beach serves as the gateway for exploring these islands and the reef, as well as the starting point for numerous whale-watching, snorkeling, and diving excursions.

While the reef captures the main attention, there’s plenty to enjoy on the mainland. Visit the weekend Whitsunday Market for shopping, dining, and viewing impressive sand sculptures, chase waterfalls at Conway National Park, or soak up the Ibiza vibes at Balearica Beach Club.