Humpback, southern right and rare blue whales can be viewed during their annual migration in the waters off the coast of the south west of Western Australia between June and early December.
The waters off Antarctica are the summer home for humpback and southern right whales, where they feed on the rich supply of krill. In autumn (June), as the temperature falls, the humpbacks and southern right whales leave Antarctic waters and can be spotted as they make their way to the warmer waters along the Western Australian coast, which are conducive to mating and birth.
In September, the whales and their calves begin the journey south again.
There are a number of ways to view the whales in this region. There are land-based vantage points in Albany, Augusta and Dunsborough. Whale watching cruises are also available throughout the season.
The purpose-built viewing platform at Point Ann in the Fitzgerald River National Park provides sensational views of up to 40 whales at a time. The area is one of the most important calving areas for southern right whales in Australia. Whales are visible from Point Ann from July to early November.
Point D'Entrecasteaux Cliff Top Walk is a 350 metre wheelchair accessible walk trail that incorporates four lookouts around Point D'Entrecasteaux and provides visitors with spectacular views and the opportunity to spot whales during the season.
The walk is located in the D'Entrecasteaux National Park off Salmon Beach Road, Windy Harbour.
Location:
- Fitzgerald River National park is located 519 kilometre south east of Perth, or 258 kilometres north east of Albany.
- D'Entrecasteaux National Park is located 370 kilometres south of Perth, or 176 kilometres east of Augusta.
- Dunsborough is located 253 kilometres south west of Perth.
- Albany is located 471 kilometres south east of Perth.
- Augusta is located 318 kilometres south west of Perth, or 143 kilometres south of Bunbury.
Australia’s South West
Albany Visitor Centre