Whales are magnificent. On that we can agree. But have you ever wondered why we get so excited to see them travelling up and down our eastern coastline between May and November every year on what is now called the Humpback Highway?
The excitement of Whale Watching brings people together, creating unforgettable memories as they witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
It is not just that these gigantic creatures thrill us by leaping out of the sea and crashing down again. It’s because this is a phenomenon that just didn’t happen not so long ago in the lives of many of the people watching them today.
As a result, Whale Watching has become a popular activity, attracting both locals and tourists eager to experience this awe-inspiring event.
Back in the 1960s, for example, humpback whales migrating from the icy Antarctic to the warm shallower waters of the tropical north to give birth only numbered in their hundreds. People rarely saw them. Now that 40,000-plus are expected to cruise on by, sightings are guaranteed.
This increase in numbers has not only made Whale Watching a fascinating experience but also highlights the importance of conserving these gentle giants.
It’s the greatest environmental success story of the last century, proving that some dire situations can be reversed when humans act. Fortunately, the commercial harvesting of humpback whales was banned in 1963.
This is a great story to tell your children when you take them to look for whales at one or more of Port Stephens’ excellent viewing sites listed on this page.
Standing on the whale-viewing platform at Barry Park, Fingal Bay, a year ago, we saw up to 20 whales cruise past, disappearing behind Fingal Island, in a bit over an hour.
A small crowd gathered, with people vying to be the first to spot the spouts or flukes of the whales and point them out to each other.
Afterwards, having stopped for a bite at Saltwater Restaurant, Fingal Bay, we saw even more whales, a lot further away. Thanks to a waiter who lent us a pair of binoculars, we could watch them from the sundeck.
Apart from that, one of my most memorable whale viewings was at Boat Harbour. A friend had recommended it, so I drove out, parked near the rocky headland, walked a short distance and… voila! Right there in the water below was a whale. It seemed unfair that no one else was around to share the treat.
The Boat Harbour headland is about a 15-minute drive from Nelson Bay via Gan Gan Road. Follow the sign left to Boat Harbour all the way down Noamunga Street to a carpark. You’ll see people gathering on a rocky platform up a short track. Sit there to spot whales or walk further along the rocks to the far end of the headland for an even better view.
For all of these views, appropriate shoes are necessary so you have the option of taking the rockier paths.
Here are some more land-based places for watching the whale parade:
TOMAREE HEAD
Climb to the summit (a 2.2km return trip) for spectacular views across to Cabbage Tree Island and beyond. The start of the walk – while you are still on the red brick path – is the most challenging, but don’t let it stop you. If the kids are complaining or you’re a bit puffed, just stop, rest, go slowly and you will get there. It is absolutely worth it and… all downhill on the way down!
Alternatively, stick to the lower path and do the easier walk out to the World War II gun emplacements for a reasonable view too.
IRIS MOORE RESERVE, ANNA BAY
Follow Morna Point Road, Anna Bay, to the end, turn left into Birubi Lane and there’s the carpark and picnic tables. Either walk a short distance to the lower viewing platform or climb the stairs on the new coastal walk for a better outlook. Find a flat rock, sit down and stare out to sea; before long you’ll see whales frolicking. This great spot also offers spectacular sunset views.
FISHERMANS BAY FORESHORE
Close to Anna Bay and featuring a lovely, secluded beach, this is a great place for swimming and snorkelling as well as being a good spot for whale-watching. It has a carpark and a small boat ramp for those who want to go boating or kayaking. It is accessible via Pacific Street at Fishermans Bay.
WHALE-WATCHING CRUISES
If you really want to get up-close and personal for an unforgettable experience, you can always hop on board one of Port Stephens’ whale-watching cruises. All of these can be booked online:
