Whale Watching in Beautiful Byron Bay
Whale Watching in Beautiful Byron Bay is your guide to spotting whales. Where to see them, on land and water, how to get there and where to stay. Plus tips on how to avoid seasickness.
Humpback whales travel 10,000kms from their feeding grounds in Antarctica to the breeding grounds in sub-tropical waters. Whales can swim up to 8km/hr but during the migration cruise at an average leisurely 1.6km/hr. This is affectionately known as the humpback highway.
Humpback whales measure 16-17m in length and weigh up to 40 tonnes. That’s a bit bigger than a bus! So, when they breach, that is when they throw their entire body out of the water, in an action of pure joy, it’s truly impressive. Humpback whales can live up to 50 years. They eat krill and small fish and practice the techique called bubble netting where they swim in circles blowing bubbles which compress the krill or fish together, then they will swim up through the bubble net and open their enormous mouths to engulf their meal. Humpback whales can eat 1360kg of krill per day during feeding season.
The trip south later in the year is slower as the new mums swim with their 4-5m long, 2 tonne calves. Humpback whales are the most playful whale species. Look out for spouts, spyhops, pectoral slaps, body rolls and if you are lucky, breath-taking breaches where the 40 tonne mammals launch themselves skyward in a display of pure power and joy.
If you are lucky, you might even see Migaloo, the famous white whale.
When do the whales visit?
Whales visit Byron Bay from June to November.
Getting there
Byron Bay is located approximately 2-hour drive from Brisbane or an 8-hour drive from Sydney. Just drive along the M1 and follow the signs. Alternatively, you can jump on board the Greyhound coach or take a direct flight from Sydney.
You can also fly from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.
Where to stay
Luxurious – The Villas of Byron Each villa is a secluded haven, meticulously crafted to provide an unparalleled indoor/outdoor living experience. From private courtyards boasting mineral pools, waterfalls, and heated spas to sumptuous furnishings, spacious bedrooms, opulent ensuite bathrooms, and modern galley kitchens, every detail is curated to elevate your stay.
Mid-range – The Lord Byron is located in the very centre of Byron Bay. Enjoy the tranquility of a property surrounded by lush foliage, a divine swimming pool and spa with wraparound decking, spacious cabana, and tennis court.
Budget – Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay Located only five minutes’ drive from downtown Byron, you’ll be close enough to the action, yet far enough away to feel like you can truly unwind. Choose from a range of accommodation across the park’s 28-acre beachfront location, from campsites to cabins, villas, glamping tents and even the luxurious Fig Tree House.
Whale watching tours
The only whale watching tour operator departing directly from The Pass, Byron Bay. So there are no long boat rides to and from whale watching sites and your 2-hour on water adventure.
Out of the Blue Adventures Whale watching tours depart from the Richmond River, Ballina and cruise the pristine waters of Cape Byron Marine Park. Their onboard marine biologist will share their in-depth knowledge of the area and drop a hydrophone into the water so you can hear the underwater whale songs.
Whale Watching Safari with Wild Byron
Wild Byron operate out of Brunswick Heads Boat Harbour just 15 mins north of Byron Bay. With a maximum of 12 passengers, you will enjoy an intimate experience with the whales. Marine experts and researchers will guide you through the cruise with in-depth knowledge of the whales and their behaviours, while listening to the Humpback Whale song via our underwater hydrophone.
Land based whale watching
- Cape Byron Lighthouse is the go-to location for whale watching. It’s also the most easterly point in Australia so tick that one off your bucket list.
- Captain Cook Lookout. Follow the Cape Byron walking track and you will come to the Captain Cook Lookout. Follow the trail further and there are other vantage points with less people.
Tips to avoid sea sickness
- Eat a good breakfast – not too fatty
- Stay hydrated – nothing worse than heading out to sea with a hangover!
- Take seasickness tablets before you leave. They take 15 minutes to start working. There are 2 types of Travacalm available from the chemist. (They are not sold in supermarkets. Grrrrr.) The original blue one, I find works best. There is also a ginger based one, but this doesn’t work so good in my opinion. The cruise operators should also have sea sickness tablets available on board.
- Stand outside with the breeze in your face. Front of the boat is the best spot anyway for spotting wildlife.
- Look out to the horizon and look for whales and dolphins. This will help you brain, eyes and ears to figure out which way is up.
So what are you waiting for? Book your winter whale watching holiday now, or if you are a local, take a day off and spend the day with these gentle giants. You won’t regret it.
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