Best places to spot whales in Sydney

Whale watching season is officially underway, with a Humpback already spotted in Manly last weekend. These are some of the best places to spot whales in Sydney, and there’s no need to leave solid ground.

Get your winter woolies on and head to the coast to see one of nature’s greatest events: the humpback whale migration. From May to July, around 40,000 whales swim north from Antarctica to the warmer waters of Queensland. Come August, they return south, travelling past New South Wales once more, with newborns in tow, offering a second chance at a sighting. Whale watching season is one of the many highlights of winter in the Harbour City, and these are some of the best places to spot whales in Sydney—and you don’t even need to leave solid ground.

1. Cape Solander

Cape Solander, near Cronulla, is a well-known whale-watching hotspot with a dedicated viewing platform and informative signage. From late May through July, it’s common to see multiple whales a day. The local volunteer-run whale counting station is a bonus for curious onlookers wanting insights on migration patterns.

2. Barrenjoy Headland, Palm Beach

For the adventurous, hike up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse for panoramic views of the ocean. The 1km climb is worth every step, especially during peak season when sightings are almost guaranteed. Early mornings here are serene, and the sight of a breaching humpback silhouetted against the sunrise is unforgettable.

3. North Head

A little southeast of Manly, North Head offers sweeping views over the Pacific Ocean. This elevated vantage point makes it one of the best places to spot whales breaching or blowing in the distance as they pass Sydney. Plus, you might even see dolphins tagging along. The Fairfax Walk is a short, family-friendly circuit that leads you straight to prime viewing platforms.

READ MORE: The ultimate guide to Manly

Spotting whales as they pass Sydney is one of winter's highlights. — *Spotting whales as they pass Sydney is one of winter’s highlights. (Image: DNSW).*

4. Bondi Beach

Sydney’s most iconic beach isn’t just for surfers and sunbathers. The famous Bondi to Coogee coastal walk gets even better with an appearance from passing whales. There are numerous vantage points along the cliffs. Ben Buckler Point, on the northern end of Bondi, is a particularly good spot—grab a coffee from Pocket, take a stroll up the hill and keep your eyes on the sea.

5. Dover Heights

The coastal path at Dover Heights recently reopened after an upgrade, so it’s worth checking out anyway. The high cliffs and unobstructed views make it a bit of a hidden gem for spotting whales though. Rodney Reserve, in particular, has sweeping ocean views without the crowds. It’s also a great place to bring a picnic blanket and make a morning of it.

6. Watsons Bay & South Head

Watsons Bay is already a weekend favourite for Sydneysiders, and during winter, it doubles as a fantastic whale-watching location. The Gap lookout provides dramatic cliffside views where you might catch humpbacks breaching just offshore. Afterwards, grab some fish and chips or take a seat at Watsons Bay Hotel and soak in the scenery—whether or not the whales make an appearance.

There’s something awe-inspiring about seeing a 30-tonne creature launch itself from the water, and in Sydney, you don’t need to go far to witness it. Whether you’re a seasoned spotter or a curious first-timer, the humpback highway is open—and the show is free.

Ready to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures? Which spot will you try first?