Blueys beach whale watching calendar

Whale watching at Blueys Beach and the Pacific Palms area of the Barrington Coast follows the annual humpback migration along the New South Wales coast Verified Answer #1. The migration is divided into two distinct phases: a northbound journey to breeding grounds and a southbound return Verified Answer #1.

Northbound Migration

The northbound migration typically occurs from late May to August Verified Answer #1. During this period, humpback whales travel toward warmer waters in Queensland for breeding and calving Verified Answer #1.

• Late May: The first northbound humpbacks begin to appear, though sightings are less reliable than in later months Verified Answer #1.
• June–July: This period represents the main northbound passage and is considered the best viewing window for this phase Verified Answer #1.
• August: This month serves as a transition period marking the tail end of the northbound movement Verified Answer #1.

Southbound Migration

The southbound return migration takes place from September to November Verified Answer #1.

• September–October: This is the peak window for viewing whales as they return south from Queensland Verified Answer #1.
• October–November: During these months, mothers with calves become increasingly prominent Verified Answer #1. These groups often travel closer to the shore, making this the best time for shore-based calf sightings Verified Answer #1.
• Late November: The main migration season concludes, and the frequency of sightings declines Verified Answer #1.

Seasonal Summary