The best ways to see whales in the tweed

Whale Watching Tours 

One of the best ways to see migrating humpback whales in action is on a whale-watching tour. Whales are known for their show-off nature, breaching, pectoral slapping, mugging and tail throwing for crowds all season long. There are several amazing whale watching tours offering you front-row seats to the action.  

Cooly Eco Adventures puts you right in the splash zone on a safari-style whale watching tour. This 2.5 hour intimate experience has you observing these beautiful creatures at eye level with captivating and informative commentary throughout. 

Coolangatta Whale Watch promises to ‘blow you away’ with a 3-hour whale watching tour aboard a spacious 65ft purpose-built catamaran. The experienced crew skippered by Captain Stephen know all the best spots for a truly exceptional whale watching cruise.  

Watersports Guru offer private whale watching tours for you and 9 of your closest friends and family. Perfect for the avid whale watcher, photographer or for an upcoming special occasion. Ask the friendly team about creating a personalised experience.  

Tweed Gold Coast Dive Charters invites guests to witness the gentle giants of the sea on their annual migration. This extraordinary encounter is offered in small groups.

Image by Ben Uttley Photography

Swim With Whales 

Swimming with whales is an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience available right here on The Tweed. Cooly Eco Adventure’s swim with whale tour is available July – September. A ‘soft in-water encounters’ approach is used to achieve a successful and sustainable whale swim. The highly experienced and professional crew possesses a wealth of knowledge providing you with a safe and informative encounter. Whilst all your in-water gear is provided, be sure to bring a spray jacket and layers as it can get chilly on the ride home.  

Tweed Gold Coast Dive Charters also offer private swim with whale encounters for you and your mates.

Whale Watching Viewpoints 

From June – November migrating humpback whales can be spotted from any beach stretching along the Tweed’s 17km coastline. Whilst you might get lucky on a stroll along the beach, there are a few go-to spots for whale watching. Check out these popular vantage points among the locals.  

Right on the QLD/NSW border, Point Danger Lookout showcases expansive views of both Tweed Heads and Southern Gold Coast. Up here, you will find observation binoculars perfect for spotting passing whales. In the mornings grab a coffee and bite to eat from Barefoot Bowls and set up on the lush green grassed hill.  

Image by Jeffrey Kieffer

Moving South, one of the most popular vantage points during whale watching season is Fingal Heads headland. Accessible via a short, shaded walk, the headland is a rock outcrop known as Giant’s Causeway, so named after the similar UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ireland. At the headland you’ll find Fingal Head Lighthouse and uninterrupted views out to Cook Island Nature Reserve. We recommend swinging by Cubby Bakehouse and picking up a sausage roll or hot donut for the walk.  

Climb the steps of Cabarita Beach’s infamous headland, Norries Headland, to expansive coastal views. With Cabarita Beach to the North and Casuarina to the South, the height of this vantage point makes for easy whale spotting.

Image by Jeffrey Kieffer

Hastings Point Lookout is a favoured spot for families looking to see these gentle giants this whale watching season. Less than 30 minutes South of Gold Coast Airport, Hastings Point is a safe, family-friendly beach town promising beautiful sunny days and clear blue water. We recommend grabbing fish and chips from Okky in neighbouring Pottsville, and setting up on the grassy knolls with your loved ones.  

Don’t let this year’s whale watching season pass you by, book your experience today.

Image by Max & Faye