6 Whale Watching Hot Spots

Have a Whale of a Time in Lake Macquarie

Make the most of the whale watching season with Lake Macquarie's hotspots for viewing these majestic mammals.

Whale watching season is well underway, and Lake Macquarie is at the centre of the action! !t's time to round up the hottest spots to view nature's most majestic mammals as they flip and frolic off the NSW coastline.

Between May and November, the Pacific Coast migration runs from south to north then back again as whales seek warmer waters to wait out the winter months. From humpbacks galore to the occasional orca, Bryde's whale and Southern Wright whales – these are the spots to stake out and set up camp to catch a glimpse, or more, of these incredible creatures just off shore. Binoculars, snacks and cameras highly recommended!!

Redhead Bluff

Don't miss the incredible views from Redhead Bluff, a rocky headland boasting panoramas that stretch across the ocean and south over Nine Mile Beach towards Blacksmiths Beach and Swansea – a prime spot that's got the lot.

Awabakal Viewpoint

You'll find the Awabakal Viewpoint along a walk through the Awabakal Nature Reserve from Dudley south through coastal heath and forest to Redhead. The viewpoint itself offers panoramic views to the north and the walk is full of spectacular wildflowers between July and October. A fantastic choice for whale watching, observing local birdlife and wildflower photography.

Caves Beach Walk

A haven for whale watching, the picturesque Caves Beach Walk, which traverses the clifftops south from Caves Beach to secluded Pinny Beach in the Wallarah National Park, is an easy walking trail ideal for observing the northern migration between May and July. The trail features plenty of spots to enjoy the view, while the southern end of the beach is home to a famous group of sea caves which shouldn't be missed – for the maximum exploring opportunity, go at low tide!

Ken and Audrey Owens Walk

A community-created coastal walkway through restored bushland, the Ken & Audrey Owens Walkway is split into two sections, with one direction taking in Redhead Lagoon and the other heading to Webb Park. A concrete and timber boardwalk suitable for wheelchairs and prams, this is a fabulous family-friendly option for those keen to catch a glimpse of the whales in action all the way down to Norah Head from the easily accessible viewpoint in the Owens Walkway car park.

The view from the sky

For an entirely different way to whale watch, Skyline Aviation operates helicopter joy flights departing from Lake Macquarie Airport and taking in the sights of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the coastline from Umina Beach and Terrigal past Caves Beach, Blacksmiths, Redhead and Bar Beach all the way to Newcastle Harbour.

Up close and personal

For the ultimate up close and personal experience with the migrating whales, hop aboard a Nova Whale Watching Tour with Nova Cruises to enjoy an unforgettable almost three-hour voyage with plenty of opportunities to get close to playful dolphin pods, sea birds, seals and humpback whales. And in the unlikely event you don't spot a whale – they'll offer you another cruise free of charge.

To book your 2018 trip to Lake Macquarie, visit www.visitlakemac.com.au/ or call 1800 802 044.