With over 30,000 whales predicted to be currently migrating along the NSW coastline, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is encouraging everyone to visit coastal national parks for some of the best vantage points to spot these majestic ocean giants.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service spokesperson Matthew Mannall said now is the perfect time to head to one of the central coast's spectacular national park lookouts, headlands or foreshores to experience a record number of whales enjoying their natural playground.
"The waters off our coastline are currently very busy with whales on their migration north to the warmer waters off Queensland to breed.
"Whale-watchers have already logged over 3000 whale sightings on our free Wild About Whales app, so it's shaping up to be a great whale watching season."
National parks make up almost 50% of the NSW coastline and provide some of the best vantage points to spot whales on their annual migration.
Humpbacks and southern right whales are the most commonly sighted, however minke, false killer whales and orcas may also be spotted.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service recommends these top whale watching spots on the central coast:
- Bouddi coastal walk, Bouddi National Park – This 8.5km Bouddi coastal walk runs from Putty Beach to Macmasters Beach and is known for its excellent boardwalk offering sublime ocean views. The track hugs the rugged coastline providing ample opportunities to spot whales and dolphins, and enjoy the beautiful beaches and picnic spots.
- Gerrin Point lookout, Bouddi National Park – For a fantastic vantage point without a long hike, head to Gerrin Point lookout. This spot is located along the Bouddi coastal walk and is reached via a short walk from the eastern end of Putty Beach. Relax on the bench and soak up the panoramic views of Maitland Bay and the Bouddi National Park Marine Extension.
- Crackneck lookout, Wyrrabalong National Park – Make a day out of whale watching and head to Crackneck lookout. Spot whales with expansive views over Shelley Beach and The Entrance and enjoy a picnic on the grassy area or at one of the picnic tables. After lunch, stroll along The Coast walking track that stretches north to Bateau Bay or south to Forresters Beach.
- Pelican Beach Road lookout, Wyrrabalong National Park – For a tranquil whale watching experience, visit Pelican Beach Road lookout, located at the northern end of Wyrrabalong National Park. Enjoy spotting whales from the great lookout platform or go for a relaxing walk along the beach's long stretch of golden sand.
For families looking to introduce their children to the wonderful world of whales, NPWS will be holding a school holiday whale watching event for kids on Thursday 11 July at Crackneck lookout, Wyrrabalong National Park. Kids will learn how to spot whales from a NPWS guide and enjoy craft and interactive games at the scenic lookout. Bookings required. Please call 1300 072 757.
Whale-watchers can download NPWS' free Wild About Whales mobile app to find the best vantage points, get real-time notifications of nearby sightings, log their own and more.
To remain safe when whale watching, NPWS reminds whale-watchers to keep at least five metres from cliff edges and rock platforms and pay close attention to signage and any advice from NPWS staff.
Visit Wild About Whales for all your whale watching information this season.
Wild About Whales is an annual campaign run by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service during the NSW whale watching season each year.
Join the whale-loving community
Stay connected and get the latest whale sightings and information:
Website – for all your whale info, best vantage points, tips for whale watching and coastal accommodation.
Free Mobile App – download the Wild About Whales app from the Apple Store or Google Marketplace to see the latest whale sightings and record your own.
Facebook – join the whale-loving community to stay updated and share photos and experiences.
