If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing whales up close, Western Australia is the place to be. Our beautiful coastline, with its clear, unspoiled waters, becomes a playground for these gentle giants during their migration. Whether you’re a long-time whale enthusiast or a curious beginner, this guide will tell you everything you need to know to catch the best whale sightings across WA.
So what are you waiting for? Read on to discover how you can witness these gental giants in all their aquatic glory!
What makes WA perfect for whale watching?
Western Australia is a whale-watching paradise, especially in the southern regions. With over 12,000 kilometers of stunning, pristine coastline, there are plenty of spots to watch these majestic creatures.
The Indian and Southern Oceans create an ideal haven for whale migration, thanks to their rich food supply, perfect water temperatures, and safe breeding grounds. These relatively undisturbed waters offer a peaceful environment for many species whales to travel, feed, and nurture their young.
Augusta, Dunsborough, and Bremer Bay offer some of the best whale-watching experiences thanks to their thriving marine ecosystems. These areas are less crowded than other popular destinations, giving you a more intimate and peaceful encounter with the whales. Plus, the breathtaking coastal landscapes and vibrant marine life make WA’s southern coast a highlight for nature lovers and marine enthusiasts.
Here, you can see a variety of whale species, including humpback whales, southern right whales, orcas, blue whales, and pilot whales. If you’re looking for a truly memorable and awe-inspiring adventure, the south of Western Australia is the place to be.
When is whale watching season in Western Australia?
Whale watching season in Western Australia changes depending on where you are.
In Augusta, the best time to see whales is from late May to early December. During these months, you can spot majestic humpback whales, southern right whales, and occasionally blue and pilot whales as they migrate north along the coast.
In Dunsborough, the whale-watching season runs from mid-August to the end of November. This is when the whales are migrating south, often with their calves. The weather is still cool, and the whales pass through the calmer waters of Geographe Bay, making for a peaceful and enjoyable tour.
If you’re keen to see orcas (killer whales), head to the Great Southern coast along the Bremer Bay Basin between mid-December and late April. This is the prime time to witness these incredible apex predators in action. You might also see pilot whales and the occasional sperm whale.
From June to October, you can spot humpback whales and southern right whales along the coast from Esperance to Albany.
Augusta
Augusta is one of the first places in Australia where you can see the humpback whales as they make their way up from Antarctica. The calmer waters of Flinders Bay provide an excellent viewing experience for families and those visiting the Margaret River Region.
- What whales you might see: Humpback whales, Southern right whales, dolphins
- Season: Late May until mid August
Dunsborough
Dunsborough offers sheltered waters and beautiful coastal scenery, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed whale-watching experience that’s perfect for families. As the whales migrate south with their calves, you can often see mothers and their young swimming close to the shore, making for a spectacular sight.
- What whales you might see: Humpback whales, Blue whales, dolphins
- Season: Mid August to November
Busselton
Famously home to longest jetty in the southern hemisphere, Busselton provides fantastic vantage points for whale watching. The tours here often include educational talks, giving you deeper insights into the lives of these incredible creatures. Tours leave from the town of Dunsborough 20 kilometres west of Busselton.
- What whales you might see: Humpback whales, Southern right whales, dolphins
- Season: Mid August to November
Broome
Broome offers a unique whale-watching experience with its tropical climate and stunning beaches. Known for the famous “Staircase to the Moon” phenomenon, this location provides not just whale sightings but also a range of other natural wonders. The warm waters of Broome attract humpback whales, and on lucky days, you might even spot a blue whale.
- What whales you might see: Humpback whales, blue whales
- Season: July to September
Bremer Bay
Bremer Bay is famous for orca sightings, making it thrilling experience for more daring whale enthusiasts. This area is a hotspot for marine biodiversity, and during your visit, you might also see humpback whales, southern right whales, sperm whales, and other fascinating creatures like sunfish, dolphins, giant squid, and even sharks!
- What whales you might see: Orcas (killer whales), Southern Right whales, Humpback whales, Sperm whales.
- Season: Mid December to April
Esperance
Esperance, with its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, is perfect for a peaceful and intimate whale-watching adventure. Its remote location means fewer crowds, letting you soak in the natural beauty of the area without the hustle and bustle of tripical tourist hotspots.
- What whales you might see: Humpback whales, Southern right whales, dolphins
- When the whale watching season is in that location: June to October
Perth
Perth offers convenient whale-watching tours right from the city, making it easy to fit this magical experience into your itinerary. Here you can observe whales in their natural habitat against the stunning backdrop of Perth’s skyline. These tours offer you a glimpse into Australia’s thriving marine life without having to leave the city, allowing you to witness humpback and blue whales, as well as playful dolphins up close and personal.
- What whales you might see: Humpback whales, blue whales, dolphins
- Season: June to November
Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island offers a picturesque setting for whale watching, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Known for its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife, the island provides a beautiful backdrop for spotting migrating whales. The island’s vantage points, such as West End and Cape Vlamingh, are ideal for observing these magnificent creatures up close.
While you’re on the island, don’t miss your chance to see the famous quokkas, the adorable and friendly marsupials that are unique to Rottnest.
- What whales you might see: Humpback whales, dolphins
- Season: June to November
Kalbarri
Kalbarri is known for its dramatic coastal cliffs and beautiful national park, offering breathtaking views both on and off the water. Whale watching here is a spectacular experience, with the majestic cliffs providing a stunning backdrop to the sight of humpback and blue whales swimming through the ocean.
- What whales you might see: Humpback whales, Blue whales, dolphins
- Season: June to November
Monkey Mia
Famous for its friendly dolphins, Monkey Mia also offers fantastic whale-watching opportunities. The calm waters of Shark Bay are perfect for spotting whales, and the friendly dolphins often seen in the area add an extra charm to the experience.
- What whales you might see: Humpback whales, Blue whales, dolphins
- Season: June to October
Join us for a south west whale watching season!
Ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Join us at Naturaliste Charters for an unforgettable whale-watching experience in Southwest Australia! Our experienced crew and comfortable 23-metre vessel are here to ensure you have a fun, educational, and extraordinary whale watching experience.
Naturaliste Charters offers three tours from their South West and Great Southern locations:
- Augusta – Augusta Boat Harbour – 10am & 2pm – 2.5 hr tour – May until mid August
- Dunsborough – Professional Fisherman’s Boat Ramp Quindalup – 10am & 2pm – 2.5 hour tour – mid August until November.
- Bremer Bay – Bremer Bay Boat Harbour – 8:30am – 8 hour expedition – mid December to April
Don’t miss the chance to witness these majestic giants up close—book your whale watching tour now!
