The Gold Coast and surrounding areas of Queensland offer incredible opportunities for whale watching, with multiple tours providing glimpses of these majestic marine creatures. From June to November, humpback whales migrate along the coastline, offering spectacular viewing opportunities from elevated headlands, scenic boardwalks, and beachfront lookouts. Year-round, bottlenose dolphins can be seen playing in the waves or riding the currents near the shoreline. Whether you’re visiting a national park, walking along a boardwalk, or relaxing in a coastal park, the Gold Coast offers fantastic vantage points for whale and dolphin watching.

The best time for dolphin watching on the Gold Coast is year-round, with bottlenose dolphins frequently spotted along the coastline. Warmer months (October–April) provide excellent conditions for clear, calm waters, making dolphin sightings more frequent and enjoyable.

For the best experience, visit in the early morning or late afternoon when dolphins are most active. You’re likely to see Bottlenose dolphins and Common dolphins. Learn more about these species here!

Whale watching season on the Gold Coast runs from May to November, as thousands of humpback whales migrate along the east coast of Australia. June to August is the peak period, with whales often seen breaching, tail-slapping, and swimming close to shore.

You’re likely to see Humpback Whales. Learn more about this species here!

Frequent sightings – Humpback whales migrate from May to November, and bottlenose dolphins can be seen year-round.

Multiple scenic lookouts – Coastal viewing platforms, national park headlands, and beachside boardwalks provide fantastic vantage points.

Easy access and transport – Most whale-watching locations are easily reachable by car, with nearby walking paths and free parking available.

Visitor-friendly facilities – Many lookout points offer picnic areas, shaded seating, and informational signage to enhance the experience.

Diverse viewing locations – From the elevated trails in Burleigh Head National Park to the long ocean-facing boardwalks at The Spit, the Gold Coast provides a variety of landscapes for wildlife watching.

For an engaging adventure on the water, Kokomo Cruises is a commendable choice for whale watching on the Gold Coast.

Burleigh Heads is a renowned spot for whale watching Gold Coast, particularly during the whale migration season. Burleigh Heads offers several excellent vantage points for seeing whales and dolphins on the Gold Coast. The Oceanview Track in Burleigh Head National Park provides elevated views ideal for spotting whales and dolphins. Tumgun Lookout, situated along this track, is particularly favored for its panoramic perspectives. For those interested in marine conservation, the nearby David Fleay Wildlife Park offers educational exhibits and information on local wildlife. Remember to bring binoculars for an enhanced viewing experience and always maintain a respectful distance from wildlife.

Mick Schamburg Park, located in Miami on the Gold Coast, is a fantastic location for whale watching Gold Coast and a prime spot to see dolphins Gold Coast. With multiple elevated viewing platforms overlooking the ocean, this scenic lookout provides some of the best shore-based whale-watching opportunities on the coast. During the migration season from May to November, humpback whales can often be seen breaching and tail-slapping as they travel along the Queensland coastline. Year-round, bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted playing in the waves, making this an excellent destination for marine wildlife enthusiasts. The park is easily accessible by car, with free parking available, and it features a range of amenities, including picnic tables, BBQs, and informational signage.

The Spit, located in Main Beach on the Gold Coast, is one of the best locations for whale watching Gold Coast and a top spot to see dolphins Gold Coast. Known locally as “Dolphin Place,” this scenic area features a long boardwalk stretching into the ocean, providing an incredible vantage point for observing marine life. From June to October, humpback whales can be seen passing close to shore as they migrate along the east coast. Bottlenose dolphins are also frequently spotted throughout the year, playing in the waves and riding the currents near the Seaway. The lookout is easily accessible, with free parking and nearby walking paths, making it a perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts looking to witness dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.