Each year, the Eurobodalla coastline becomes a highway for migrating whales, providing unparalleled viewing opportunities. Eurobodalla boasts some of Australia’s best wildlife and whale watching, making it a top spot for wildlife and whale watching.
Over 35,000 whales make the journey along the NSW coast annually. Eurobodalla National Park extends from Moruya Heads to Mystery Bay, making it an ideal destination for whale watching and fishing.
Whale Watching Season in Eurobodalla
The best time to see whales in Eurobodalla is during their southern migration, from September to November. As they journey back south after breeding in the warmer northern waters, female whales and their calves tend to stay closer to the coast, increasing your chances of spotting them.
Whale Species in Eurobodalla
Common whale species you might encounter in Eurobodalla include:
- Humpback Whales: Known for their impressive size and spectacular displays of breaching and playing in the water. Witnessing these acrobatic feats is genuinely breathtaking.
- Southern Right Whales: Often seen from vantage points like Toragy Point and Bar Rock Lookout. These whales lack a dorsal fin and have a distinctive V-shaped blow.
- Orcas (Killer Whales): While technically dolphins, these apex predators often follow the humpback migration from Jervis Bay down to Montague Island (Barunguba).
With a bit of luck, you might also spot other whale species, such as Bryde’s whales, strap-toothed whales, and even the elusive southern minke whale.
Other Marine Life
Beyond whales, Eurobodalla is teeming with other fascinating marine life:
- Fur seals basking in the sun at the breakwaters in Narooma.
- Little penguin colonies on Montague Island (Barunguba).
- Dolphins frolicking in the waves.
Best Whale Watching Spots around Eurobodalla
Here are some of the best locations in Eurobodalla to spot whales:
- Myrtle Beach: Hike the two kilometres to Wasp Head to watch some whales.
- Malua Bay: Head to South Head for optimal whale-watching vantage points.
- Broulee Point: Bushwalk and enjoy the scenic views of the ocean and its whales.
- Bawley Point: Bawley Point was once a Jervis Bay whaling fleet. You can now enjoy whale watching.
- Toragy Point: A 10-minute drive from Moruya is an excellent vantage point for seeing whales.
- Bar Rock Lookout: This is one of the best spots to spot whales, seals and dolphins.
- Montague Island (Barunguba): A boat trip to Montague Island offers excellent whale-watching opportunities, plus a chance to observe diverse seabird colonies.
Other locations for whale watching:
- Narooma Bar Rock Lookout: This is an excellent spot for watching whales as they cruise along the coastline.
- Moruya Heads Lookout: A fantastic spot for spotting whales breaching.
- One Tree, Tuross Heads: Another location for whale watching in the early morning.
- Batemans Bay: A large bay for whale watching during their annual migration.
Optimal Times for Whale Watching
While whale sightings can occur as early as late April when they begin their northern migration, peak viewing times are during the later part of winter in August and throughout spring from September to November. While whales can be spotted any time of day, early morning and late afternoon often provide the best viewing conditions when the whales tend to be more active.