From June to November, majestic humpback whales tavel through the waters of the Sunshine Coast - and sometimes they put on a show!

The Sunshine Coast offers some of the best whale watching in Australia, and this year, thousands of humpbacks are expected to migrate north from Antarctica. Come June, we'll have front-row seats to the famous humpback highway, and you won't want to miss out on all the action as it unfolds.

Behind the scenes

Whale breaching in front of Mount Coolum with Sunreef Mooloolaba

Whale breaching in front of Mount Coolum with Sunreef Mooloolaba

After fuelling up on tonnes of krill and small fish in the Antarctic waters over summer, the graceful humpbacks begin migrating to warmer northern waters for their birthing season. We're in the prime position to witness these beautiful calves as they navigate the ocean, so make sure to keep an eye out for some smaller tails and blowholes!

On the boat

Join a tour and see the whales up close

Join a tour and see the whales up close

To head out on the water and get even closer to these graceful giants, try a whale-watching tour from Mooloolaba with Whale One, Adventure Rafting, or a luxury experience on board with Cavalier Cruises.

You can also head out and see these majestic creatures from Noosa. You'll love the comfortable seating and panoramic views aboard with Noosa Thriller Ocean Adventures, the fabulous tour on offer from Noosa Wave Boating Adventures, and Noosa Oceanrider's sleek 12-seater vessel, where you'll have vistas that can't be beat.

In the water

Swim with the whales

Swim with the whales

There are few opportunities in life where you can come face-to-face with a humpback whale. Thanks to Sunreef, you can get up close with the whales in their natural environment and swim with them during the winter season. What happens next is 100 percent on the whales’ terms, but one thing is certain... it's an experience you'll never forget.

Check out our other underwater friends

SEA LIFE, Mooloolaba

SEA LIFE, Mooloolaba

The Sunshine Coast also offers many other immersive animal encounters that you can dive right into! Why not try swimming with rescued seals at SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast or kayak with dolphins with the team from Epic Ocean Adventures.

Whale watching on the Sunshine Coast

Experiences & Things To Do