Victoria offers spectacular land-based whale watching opportunities in Australia. The state’s Whale Trail spans the coastline, providing excellent vantage points to witness migrating southern right and humpback whales, as well as resident populations of bottlenose dolphins. From the dramatic cliffs of Cape Bridgewater to the sandy shores of Logans Beach, Victoria’s lookouts and reserves provide unforgettable encounters with marine wildlife. This guide will highlight the best spots for whale watching Melbourne and beyond!

The best time for dolphin watching in Victoria is year-round, with resident bottlenose dolphins frequently sighted near Port Fairy, Portland, and Cape Bridgewater. Calm, sunny conditions between October and April provide the best visibility. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best chances of sightings, as dolphins are often more active during these times.

You’re likely to see Bottlenose dolphins and Common dolphins. Learn more about these species here!

Victoria’s whale-watching season runs from May to November, when humpback and southern right whales migrate along the coastline. June to September is the prime period for southern right whales, particularly at Logans Beach, where mothers and calves rest close to shore. November to May offers the unique opportunity to spot blue whales, drawn to Victoria’s waters by the Bonney Upwelling, a seasonal ocean phenomenon that supports their feeding.

You’re likely to see Southern right whales, Humpback whales and even Australian fur seals. Learn more about these species here!

Frequent sightings – Southern right whales are commonly seen close to shore between June and September, while humpback whales migrate along the coast from May to November.

Diverse marine life – In addition to whales and dolphins, many lookouts offer views of fur seals and seabirds such as albatross and gannets.

Scenic coastal locations – Victoria’s lookouts range from rugged cliffside reserves to beachfront platforms, ensuring stunning views of the ocean.

Educational opportunities – Interpretive signage at many locations provides insight into whale conservation and local marine life.

Accessible and visitor-friendly – Many sites have parking, picnic areas, and walking trails, though some elevated platforms require stair access.

Logans Beach Whale Nursery is one of the most reliable locations for whale watching near Melbourne, particularly for spotting Southern Right Whales during their annual migration and calving season. From June to September, female whales return to the sheltered waters off Logans Beach to give birth and nurse their calves, providing an extraordinary opportunity for shore-based whale watching. The elevated sand dune platform offers uninterrupted ocean views, allowing visitors to spot whales from approximately 200 metres offshore.

The site is equipped with interpretive signage detailing the region’s marine environment and whale conservation efforts. While guided tours are occasionally available, visitors can enjoy independent whale watching year-round. The platform is accessible by car, with free parking available, and there are walking and public transport options.

The Portland Whale Viewing Platform, located in Portland, is one of the best spots for whale watching near Melbourne. This purpose-built viewing deck offers unobstructed ocean views, making it a prime location for spotting marine life. During the winter months, Southern Right and Humpback whales migrate along the coast, often coming close to shore. In summer, Blue whales can sometimes be seen feeding offshore due to the Bonney Upwelling, making this one of the few places in Victoria where they can be spotted.

The platform is fully accessible, with level entry and no stairs, making it suitable for visitors with mobility aids. While there are no toilets at the platform, public restrooms are available 160 metres away at Flinders Park Reserve. Visitors can also use free binoculars provided on-site to improve their chances of spotting whales and dolphins in the distance.

East Beach in Port Fairy is a prime location for whale watching Port Fairy and whale watching near Melbourne, offering a wide-open vantage point over the ocean. Although it does not have a dedicated viewing platform, its flat foreshore and scattered seating make it a comfortable and accessible spot for wildlife observation. This stretch of coastline is part of Victoria’s famed Whale Corridor, where Southern Right, Humpback, and Blue whales are commonly sighted during their migration. Free binoculars are available, allowing visitors to scan the waters for marine life. The foreshore is easily accessible by car, with free parking and footpaths leading to the best viewing spots.

The Crags Coastal Reserve, located near Port Fairy, is an excellent location for whale watching Port Fairy and a must-visit spot for whale watching near Melbourne. The lookout features an elevated wooden platform that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the waters surrounding Deen Maar Island.

The reserve is part of Victoria’s “Whale Trail,” a stretch of coastline known for reliable whale sightings during the winter months. Humpback whales and southern right whales are frequently observed as they migrate through the region, and blue whales are occasionally spotted in the summer months when they feed in these waters. While The Crags offers excellent visibility, the platform includes a steep staircase, which may pose challenges for visitors with mobility needs.

Cape Bridgewater, located along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, is a must-visit destination for whale watching near Melbourne. This stunning coastal location is renowned for Southern Right Whale sightings from June to September, as these majestic creatures migrate and nurse their young in the sheltered waters. Humpback Whales are also spotted passing through during their migration. Beyond whales, Cape Bridgewater is home to Victoria’s largest fur seal colony, with over 650 Australian fur seals inhabiting the rocky outcrops.

Visitors can join a boat tour to get a closer look or view them from the cliffs. The region also offers occasional sightings of common dolphins, particularly in calmer waters. While the main vantage points are accessible by car, reaching the best viewing spots requires walking along the coastal trails, which may not be suitable for all visitors. Interpretive signage is present at key locations, providing insights into the marine life and conservation efforts in the area.