Best Places to Whale Watch Wollongong & Illawarra. Spot Majestic Whales from May – November Here…

Where to Whale Watch in Wollongong & NSW South Coast. Each year from May to November, more than 40,000 humpback and southern right whales migrate up and down the NSW South Coast. Let us at What’s on in Wollongong show the best Whale Watching vantage points in Wollongong, Shellharbour, Illawarra and further down NSW South Coast. Here are the best ways to find and watch for whales. Witnessing these magical giants at play is awe inspiring….

Also before we start, there is some great news, our Whale population is actually growing again, yay!

1. Bald Hill Lookout

Photo c/o Wollongong City Council

Located in Stanwell Tops, Bald Hill offers panoramic views of the coastline and is known as one of the best vantage points for whale watching in the region. It’s easily accessible by car and offers both northern and southern viewing points. You’ll be high up so choose as clear day for best views and bring your binoculars!

2. Kiama

Just 25 minutes south of Wollongong, Kiama is another excellent spot for whale watching. Go out to the blowhole for the best views. Or, the Kiama Coastal Walk winds round the whole coast to Gerringong, offer so many glorious vantage points along its route. Pack a picnic or enjoy one of the many cafes, bars and restaurants in this vibey coastal town.

3. Wollongong Lighthouse

Located at Flagstaff Point, Wollongong Head Lighthouse offers a great vantage point for whale watching, especially during the winter migration season. Enjoy the Blue Mile Walk around the Harbour whilst you are there.

4. Steamers Bar & Grill Wollongong

View from Steamers Bar & Grill

Like your whale watching with delish food, drinks and a relaxed vibe overlooking the ocean? Steamers Bar & Grill is a wonderful choice overlooking City Beach – perfect for whale spotting with a beer or vino in hand!

5. Sublime Point Lookout

This lookout, located in Bulli Tops, provides breathtaking views of the coastline and is another popular spot for whale watching. You’ll only really see the big breaches from this high vantage point, but the epic views are worth the trip! If you like fancy brunch or lunch with your whale spotting, try the divine Altitude 1148 which offers stunning coastal views.

Photo c/o Altitude 1148

6. Sea Cliff Bridge

While primarily a scenic drive, the Sea Cliff Bridge offers several vantage points for whale watching along the way. Pull over at either end, and walk the bridge whilst watching for whales. Read more about Sea Cliff Bridge here. Remember to bring binoculars, wear sunscreen, and pack some snacks and water for your whale watching adventure.

7. The Imperial at Clifton

View from The Imperial at Clifton

The Imperial at Clifton is the perfect viewing location for the avid Whale watcher, perched high on the clifftop, providing the perfect view! With breathtaking views, amazing food and loads of history, there is a little something for everyone at The Imperial at Clifton. Catch a glimpse of these amazing creatures from the comfort of their dining room or their open air back deck.

8. Sandon Point

Located in Bulli, Sandon Point Beach is a favourite spot for surfers and nature lovers alike. The headland overlooks the beach and is framed by beautiful bushland, creating a stunning backdrop. With ample parking, a spacious reserve perfect for picnics, and access to the coastal walking track, it’s an ideal place to spend the day – keep an eye out and you might even spot a passing whale!

9. Flagstaff Hill

Right in the heart of Wollongong beside the harbour, Flagstaff Hill offers sweeping views up and down the coast. It’s the perfect spot to lay out a blanket, relax, and take in the scenery – keep your eyes on the water, as whales are often spotted passing by.

10. Grand Pacific Walk (Bald Hill to Clifton)

This stunning section of the Grand Pacific Walk stretches from Bald Hill to Clifton, following the scenic Grand Pacific Drive. Along the way, a dedicated viewing platform offers the perfect spot to watch for passing whales. You’ll find it just south of Stanwell Park as you make your way toward Coalcliff, making it an ideal stop to take in the breathtaking coastal views.

11. Waniora Point/Bulli Beach

Perched along the Grand Pacific Walk, this headland provides breathtaking views up and down the coast. While keeping an eye out for whales, you can stop at nearby cafes for coffee or a snack, and let the kids enjoy the recently upgraded playground to burn off some energy.

12. Hill 60

Photo c/o Wollongong City Council

According to Wollongong City Council, if you choose just one spot for whale watching, this is it. From its vantage point, you can take in views over Fisherman’s Beach and the port to the north, and Port Kembla Beach stretching toward the Five Islands to the south—perfect for spotting passing whales. Beyond its natural beauty, the area holds deep cultural significance for the Aboriginal community and is also an important site in Australia’s military history, having played a key role in the nation’s coastal defence network.

13. Bushrangers Bay, Bass Point

Photo c/o The Illawarra Mercury

Access this spot via the Fisherman’s Walk track. Keep a close eye & get ready to be amazed as the gentle giants of the sea sometimes come incredibly close to the rocks. During the Southern Migration (September to November), the best viewing point is from the Boston Shipwreck carpark. A short concrete path makes it accessible for those less mobile, or, if you’re lucky enough to find a spot facing the ocean, you can even watch the whales right from your car.

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We offer our gratitude and deep respect to the lands, waters and skies of Dharawal Country. We stand in solidarity with its traditional custodians, the Dharawal and Wodi Wodi people, whose sovereignty was never ceded.