Top Gold Coast Whale Watching
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From the sun-soaked shores of the Sunshine Coast to the lush islands of the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland is one of the best places for whale-watching tours in Australia. To maximize your chances of spotting the majestic creatures, here are some tips for whale watching around Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Hervey Bay.
When to Go
Queensland’s whale-watching season runs from June to November, during the Australian winter months, when the east coast becomes a breeding ground for migrating whales. Hervey Bay is the unofficial whale-watching capital, hosting its annual Whale Festival in July and August, while the Gold Coast is a prime stop on the so-called “Humpback Highway,” the whale migration route that runs between Australia and the Antarctic.
What You'll See
An estimated 10,000 whales pass through Queensland’s waters during the annual migration, including humpback whales and minke whales. Whales can often be seen with their calves, especially later in the season, and you might also spot bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, dugongs, and even sharks.
How to Go
Half- and full-day whale-watching cruises run from Brisbane to Surfers Paradise, Sea World, and the Gold Coast, aboard specially equipped boats with large viewing decks and underwater microphones so you can listen to the whale songs. Alternatively, cruise around Hervey Bay, Moreton Bay marine park, or Fraser Island on a catamaran excursion and stop to swim or snorkel along the way.
11 results | All Gold Coast Tours

Whale Watching Tour with Spirit of Gold Coast
482
Spotting whales in their natural habitat can be tricky if you don't know where to look. Skip the guesswork on this whale-watching cruise, which guarantees you will see humpback whales as they migrate past the Gold Coast from June to November or you receive a complimentary second cruise. The tour is led by a marine biologist guide who is passionate about conservation and offers insights into whale behavior that enrich the experience. Includes morning tea and a photo booklet souvenir.
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From
$47.87
From
$47.87

Whale Watching by Sea World Cruises
64
Wildlife enthusiasts will love the chance to spot whales in the wild so close to the Gold Coast. Just a twenty-minute cruise off shore, the Australian Whale Sanctuary is prime humpback whale habitat. Get great views of the creatures (when conditions are right) from on board your comfortable boat. This easy 2.5-hour trip can fit into busy itineraries.
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From
$75.62
From
$75.62

2.5hr Gold Coast Kayaking & snorkelling tour
64
Short on time? Sample the natural beauty of the Gold Coast on this outdoor tour. Hop on a sea kayak and paddle your way over to Wave Break Island to swim and snorkel amid tropical fish and colorful coral. Spot dolphins, stingrays, and sea turtles along the coast, and enjoy a snack before heading back to shore.
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From
$47.87
From
$47.87

Whale Watching Gold Coast
26
You will be part of the closest and one of the most intimate encounters in the region due to the eye-level viewing offered by the safari-style vessel.
This whale watch is unique, and our highly experienced skipper and crew are on hand throughout to make this experience personal as well as professional. They have a wealth of knowledge and passion for whales and the stunning Gold Coast region they look forward to sharing with you.
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From
$68.68
From
$68.68

Gold Coast Whale Watching Cruise
4
Experience the wonder of the Whale Highway
Admire humpback whales on their annual migration during an unforgettable cruise with Kokomo. Only a short trip to the seaway and out to the ‘Whale Highway’, we guarantee whale sightings with every cruise or a free return ticket is issued.
Our experience is simply unique and intimate onboard our luxurious Brand-New vessel, which has been crafted especially for Queensland Waters by Woody Marine Fabrications in Brisbane.
Coming equipped with an underwater 'WHALE EYE VIEW' camera, Underwater 'DOLPHIN EAR' microphone, full surround speakers and expert crew. We offer the best experience, and the best whale views.
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From
$41.63
$10.40 savings
From
$41.63
$10.40 savings

Gold Coast Jet Boat Ride Adventure Ride
192
Zip through the scenic Gold Coast Broadwater on a high-octane jet boat ride that combines speed-driven fun with sightseeing. Hang on as your boat performs 360-degree spins, power slides and other tricks, then slow down to see Southport Yacht Club, Palazzo Versace Hotel and Marina Mirage. You'll also buzz past Seaworld, the mansions of Sovereign Island and Moreton Bay Marine Park, venturing further than other similar tours. Dolphins and other marine life often seen in these waterways — keep your eyes peeled!
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From
$58.97
From
$58.97

Aquaduck Gold Coast 1 hour City and River Tour
247
Experience the Gold Coast’s beautiful Surfers Paradise on a tour aboard an amphibious Aquaduck. Bring the kids and hop aboard this unusual dual-purpose vessel for a jaunt along the area’s picturesque beaches and past local landmarks like Palazzo Versace and Marina Mirage. Then, enjoy a thrilling river cruise past the glitz of millionaire’s row as the Aquaduck transforms from a bus into a boat.
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From
$41.63
From
$41.63

Evening Rainforest & Glow Worm Experience - Small Group Tour
128
Experience the nighttime enchantment of Mt Tamborine National Park on this unique 4WD rain forest walk and glowworm tour. At the mountain summit, stop for a light supper of cakes and hot chocolate, and soak up views of the twinkling Gold Coast from a lookout. Then, observe nocturnal wildlife by torchlight with a guided bushwalk through the rain forest, where you’ll come across an ethereal waterfall illuminated by glowworms.
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From
$68.68
From
$68.68

Half Day Dolphin Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour
143
Start your day off right with a half-day kayak tour to South Stradbroke Island. Enjoy a great vantage point on the beaches and wildlife of the Gold Coast as you paddle at a leisurely pace, stopping to snorkel off Wavebreak Island, visit secluded beaches, and enjoy a picnic breakfast on the beach. Your expert guide shares informative commentary about the region's ecology and animals, and provides full instruction on kayaking and snorkeling — making this tour suitable for both experienced paddlers and first-timers.
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From
$61.74
From
$61.74

Gold Coast Parasailing - Tandem, Triple
146
Experience the thrills of parasailing while on the Gold Coast of Australia. First, you’ll receive a short safety training before being outfitted with a harness. Then, soar high above the Gold Coast, up to 400 feet (122 meters) high, and take in aerial views of the coastline. This is available for solo travelers or with one or two partners.
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From
$62.44
From
$62.44

Wave Break Island Scuba Diving on the Gold Coast
41
The exotic marine life of Wave Break Island offers a spectacular backdrop for a scuba diving adventure, and this half-day scuba diving tour is open to all levels. Choose a beginner-friendly dive, accompanied by a PADI instructor, or a solo dive for certified divers only, and marvel at the underwater world of the Gold Coast.
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From
$89.49
From
$89.49
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