It’s official, the southern leg of the humpback whale migration is underway!

Humpback whales are on the move, heading from their breeding grounds in sub-tropical waters off Queensland back down to their krill-rich feeding grounds around Antarctica. And they’re hugging our coastline on their trip south.

Usually we’d expect numbers during the southern leg of the annual migration – which takes place from late August to November – to peak in mid-October but new research out of the University of Queensland has the peak shifting to mid-September. 

So now's the time to grab your binoculars, a coffee and your sense of wonder and let’s go whale watching.

Bald Hill, Stanwell Tops

This spot is perfect if you’re after a bird's eye view of these gentle giants. 

By the 1960s, the humpback population had been decimated and was estimated to consist of only a few hundred individuals. Thanks to a ban on hunting and a concerted effort toward conservation, the population has surged and it’s believed to now number over 40,000. 

Here’s where the panoramic views of Bald Hill really shine: looking out over the vast expanse of ocean and you’ll get a sense of the remarkable recovery of the humpback whale, as pod after pod after pod cruise past.

And once you’re done, hit the Grand Pacific Drive and cruise over the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge on the way to your next whale-spotting destination.

Parking is free, there’s a cafe to grab a bite to eat and the views, with or without whales, are out of this world.

Hill 60, Port Kembla

Offering views up and down the coast, Hill 60 has several spots to whale watch from. There are a couple of picnic tables and toilets accessible from the top carpark but make no mistake, a lot of waiting is done in people’s cars, coffee in hand – the perfect solution when you need your whale fix but the weather isn’t playing nice. 

This is a fabulous place to watch pelicans soar on the thermals and keep your eyes peeled around the rocks below and you might spot a cheeky seal or two. You might even get an invite up to the balcony of the Marine Rescue Tower.

Head down to the lower car park and you can follow the path that overlooks stunning Fisherman’s Beach. Head around to the rock shelf and watch kestrels hunt for lizards while you wait for the main attraction to come past right at eye level. 

Kiama Lighthouse

Established in 1887 at Blowhole Point, the Kiama Lighthouse is worth the trip alone. But once you tear your eyes away from the historic lighthouse and then away from the blowhole itself, you’re likely to spot a whale or two!

There’s loads of parking here and you can even spot the spray from passing whales from the carpark.

But take a seat on the grass on the southern side or walk down the paths to the rocky outcrops and you can expect some very close encounters. We’re talking hearing the rush from passing whales blow and, on very special days, even hearing whale song.