It’s our favourite time of year in the Whitsundays… Humpback Whale season!
Getting up close and personal with one of the oldest living creatures on the planet is really something special, which is why whale watching is most definitely one of the most popular activities on the island. They’re a pretty playful bunch and love putting on a show for our guests, often coming close to the shore with their calves.
There are stacks of options to check out nature’s biggest and bravest, and we want you to have front row seats to this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle. To help you have a whale of a time, the WAHI team has put together a handy guide with everything you need to know for your next trip.
When is whale season?
Crystal blue waters, balmy temperatures and perfect weather aren’t the only draw cards for visiting the Whitsundays during winter. June also kickstarts whale season for the region, with hundreds of whales migrating north for the cooler months. The majority of these ocean-travellers will pass by our doorstep between June and September, which gives our guests plenty of opportunities to spot the whales frolicking in our backyard.
Image credit: @jamesunsworth93
What makes whale season so special?
If you've ever wondered why everyone goes nuts for a glimpse of a Humpback Whale, you've obviously never laid eyes on one of these gentle giants before! From their athletic prowess to their incredible and mysterious whale songs, they're nothing short of amazing.
While there are still some zoos and other wildlife establishments around the world that have whales in their care, the best way to support these creatures is to enjoy their performances in the wild. There is no other option that lets you get so close, while still seeing them at their most uninhibited.
We see plenty of other marine mammals like dugongs, pilot whales and dolphins throughout the year, but Humpbacks only make an appearance once a year. It's a beloved activity for people of all ages, and many of our guests report whale watching as the highlight of their holiday.
Image credit: @meganrubi
How can you make the most of whale season?
The Whitsundays is undeniably one of the best locations in the world to spot Humpback Whales. Our calm and protected waters are the ideal nursery to give birth to their calves, so you’re likely to spot plenty of newborns too! And there are plenty of different ways you can go whale watching while visiting the island.
The best way to see these creatures is to hop on any of the day tours that travel around the Whitsunday waters. Your crew will keep an eye out for whale activity and be sure to let you if any of these magnificent animals are spotted hanging around. Seeing the whales from the air is a real treat, with seaplane or helicopter flights often enjoying the show too. You might even be lucky enough to spot a whale from the island, having hiked up to one of the many island lookouts or even just looking out from your WAHI balcony.
Humpback Whale season is one of our favourite times of the year, and the WAHI team wants you to enjoy every minute of it! Book your stay with us today, and we’ll help you plan the perfect whale watching trip.
