If you’ve ever dreamed of watching whales breach just offshore or seeing dolphins ride the waves in their natural habitat – now is the perfect time.
We’re excited to announce that our updated Dolphin and Whale Watching Guide is officially live! Whether you’re a seasoned marine wildlife lover or planning your first coastal adventure, this free resource helps you discover the best places to watch wild whales and dolphins in Australia – all while putting animal welfare first.
And just in time for whale migration season, the guide is packed with new features to help you plan unforgettable, ethical wildlife experiences.
Why we created this guide
Every year, thousands of tourists seek out dolphin and whale encounters — but not all experiences are created equal. Some venues still keep dolphins in captivity or promote exploitative interactions.
That’s why we developed this guide: to make it easy for people to find ethical dolphin and whale watching in Australia, where wild animals remain wild and free.
Backed by a growing network of passionate volunteers, this guide is designed for conscious travellers who want to enjoy our incredible marine life without causing harm.
What’s new in the 2025 guide?
This isn’t just an update — it’s a major expansion. Here’s what you’ll find in the new edition:
Whales have joined the journey
We’ve expanded the guide to include wild whale watching, with details on species you’re likely to encounter and the best times to see them across the country.
More locations across Australia
Now featuring Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, and South Australia, the guide covers both well-known hotspots and hidden coastal gems.
More tours and lookouts assessed
Our dedicated volunteers have reviewed even more responsible whale and dolphin watching tours, plus land-based lookouts for those who prefer to stay on shore.
Species info, ID tips, and timing
We’ve added marine species guides, whale and dolphin identification tips, and advice on the best time of year to spot them in each region.
Clickable maps for easy planning
The downloadable PDF guide now includes a clickable map, helping you plan your trip with ease.
The timing couldn’t be better
Whale migration season in Australia typically runs from May to November, depending on the region. This means there are already whales on the move — and incredible opportunities to witness them from shore or aboard ethical tours.
Whether you’re spotting humpbacks along the east coast, southern rights off the southern shores, or dolphins year-round, our guide helps you do so with care and confidence.
Explore Australia’s best ethical dolphin and whale watching spots
From dramatic cliff-top viewpoints to peaceful bays, from boat tours run by marine biologists to community-led lookouts, the guide features the best whale and dolphin watching experiences in Australia, all reviewed for their conservation value, visibility, accessibility, and animal welfare standards.
Every location is rated and described in detail to help you choose an experience that fits your travel style — whether you want an eco-certified boat tour or a quiet picnic spot to watch whales breach at sunset.
Why responsible wildlife tourism matters
Sadly, some marine parks and tour operators still offer captive dolphin shows or encourage harmful human-wildlife interactions.
But we believe tourism can be a force for good — when done responsibly. Ethical wildlife watching reduces demand for captivity, supports conservation efforts, and fosters a deeper appreciation for the animals we share our oceans with.
By choosing ethical experiences, you help protect dolphins and whales for generations to come.
Our free guide is available now as a downloadable PDF and can also be browsed online. It’s your go-to resource for planning whale and dolphin watching in Australia with heart.
Want to do more?
This guide was made possible thanks to the generosity of our supporters. If you’d like to help us continue protecting marine life and expanding resources like this, you can make a donation here: