Whale Watching Central Coast: Complete Guide on Spots and Types of Whales
There are lots of advantages to staying on the Central Coast, like enjoying the beautiful ocean views, peaceful beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle. But do you know the best part? The whale watching season which typically happens twice a year, from June to July and September to November.
During these periods, the ocean comes alive with Humpbacks and Southern Right whales making their way along the coast. They usually attract locals and visitors who gather at beaches, lookouts, and on boats to catch a glimpse of this magical moment.
If you’re curious to know more about whale watching Central Coast, keep reading to discover the best places to go, the types of whales you can see, and tips to help you prepare. Let’s get started!
Best Time for Whale Watching on the Central Coast
Generally, the best time for whale watching Central Coast is from mid-June to mid-July. You’ll see lots of whales and witness their incredible jumps and splashes.
Between May and November, the whales swim along the coast, travelling from cold Antarctic waters to warmer places to mate and have babies.
You’ll see them in the North from May to July. At first, there might be few, but by late June, you’ll see a lot of them passing every day. This happens even until August.
Then, from September to November, the whales swim south. Although most of them stay far from the show but the mother whales and their babies swim close, so you can still see them from land.
Types of Whales You Can See on the Central Coast
During Central Coast whale watching, here are the types of whales you’ll see:
Humpback Whale: You’ll mostly see this species. They are big, playful, and generally love showing off. You’ll see them jumping, splashing, and waving their tails.
Southern Right Whales: These don’t appear as often, but they visit during the migration season.
Minke Whales: Unlike the humpback whales, minke whales are shy and rarely show themselves.
If you’re lucky, you might come across a blue whale or even an orca, but these are rare.
Top Whale Watching Spots on the Central Coast
The Central Coast has many incredible places for whale sightings. Here are some of them:
Norah Head Lighthouse: This 19th-century lighthouse is one of the most iconic places for whale watching Central Coast, NSW. It gives you a breathtaking view across the Pacific Ocean, plus every July, there’s a Whale Dreamers Festival where people gather to celebrate these gentle giants.
The Skillion, Terrigal: The view from this spot stretches from North Avoca to Forresters Beach. It’s an easy walk up with paths and benches along the way. From here, you’ll see whales breaching, and if you’re a photographer, be ready to capture incredible shots.
Captain Cook Lookout, Copacabana: There are two different viewing spots here, but all of them offer views to the north, east, and south. During the popular 5 Lands Walk, many whale watchers gather here to spot water spouts and playful breaches.
Bouddi National Park: This spot has great lookouts for spotting whales. At Gerrin Point, which is about 1.2km from Putty Beach, you can sit and wait for that magical whale leaping moment. There’s also Marie Byles Lookout, which gives beautiful views over Broken Bay and Putty Beach. Just ensure you have good shoes on here because the ground can be uneven.
Crackneck Lookout, Wyrrabalong National Park: This place is best for a relaxed whale sighting, especially in the morning. It’s at the end of Bateau Road and has lots of parking and new seating areas. Come prepared with your tent, if you plan on spending the night, and a portable power station to keep your devices charged.
What to Prepare for Whale Watching Spots on the Central Coast?
If you’re planning to partake in the Central Coast whale watching season, here’s how to prepare:
First, dress in layers to stay comfortable on the water, where temperatures can feel much colder. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer like fleece or wool, and top it with a wind- and water-resistant jacket. Wear durable long pants to protect against spray and sun exposure, plus a snug hat and UV-blocking sunglasses to shield your eyes. This system lets you adjust easily as conditions change—simply add or remove layers to maintain the perfect balance of warmth and protection.
Also, come with sunscreen and sunglasses, binoculars for a close-up view of the whales, a camera to capture the beautiful moments, snacks, water, and motion sickness drugs, just in case you fall sick.
Have a wind jacket for extra warmth if it gets cold, rubber-soled shoes for better grip on trails, and boat decks. Don’t forget lip balm and chapstick to moisturize your lips when they get dry.
Lastly, bring a portable power station to keep your devices charged throughout the day. Whale watching trips can stretch on for hours, especially if you're waiting for sightings or exploring the coast before and after. The EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Station is a compact and reliable choice for such outings. With a 245Wh capacity and 300W output (boosted up to 600W with X-Boost), it can easily recharge phones, cameras, and even small electronics on the go. Lightweight and easy to carry, it’s perfect for day trips along the Central Coast.
EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Station
Conclusion
There’s no reason to miss whale watching Central Coast. It’s such a magical experience to share either alone or with friends and family. You get to sight playful humpbacks or a mother whale with her calf. If you’re lucky, Minke whales or even an orca might show themselves. Check out places like Crackneck Lookout, Wyrrabalong National Park, Bouddi National Park, Norah Head Lighthouse, The Skillion, Terrigal, and Captain Cook Lookout, Copacabana. Before setting out, prepare well and have the right clothes and gear, like your phone, camera, and binoculars. It’s also smart to have a power station to keep your devices charged while you enjoy long hours at lookout points or a portable solar generator solution like the EcoFlow Power Hat. All in all, soak in the moment-they are rare and beautiful.
FAQs
When can you see whales on the Central Coast?
The best time to see whales on the Central Coast is from mid-June to mid-July. The ocean is filled with humpbacks splashing and jumping.
Where are the best spots for whale watching on the Central Coast?
The best spots include Crackneck Lookout, Wyrrabalong National Park, Bouddi National Park, Norah Head Lighthouse, The Skillion, Terrigal, and Captain Cook Lookout, Copacabana.
Are whale watching tours suitable for families?
Yes, whale watching tours are suitable for families, especially with kids aged 7 and up. A great tip is to choose a tour with family-friendly features like shorter trips and spacious boats.
Some tours also offer fun activities on land before or after the cruise. Just check with the operator to find what works best for your family.