You’ll have a whale of a time – literally!
You’ll have a whale of a time – literally!
Every year, something truly spectacular happens right off the shores of the Gold Coast. Whales! AKA, the gentle giants of the ocean, make their epic migration past our sunny coastline. Sure, you could catch glimpses of the majestic creatures from ashore, but let’s be real- nothing beats getting out on the water and seeing these incredible creatures up close.
It’s time to hang up the binoculars and give you and your family front-row seats to the whale show. Here’s a list of the best whale watching experiences on the Gold Coast.
Experience the magic of the “Whale Highway” (an ancient migratory path just 20 minutes from the Gold Coast marina) on board one of the region’s newest and most versatile vessels. Family-owned and operated, Kokomo offers an intimate, crowd-free whale-watching adventure with deep lounges, comfy daybeds, and a licensed open deck for up to 40 guests. You’ll also spot other local wildlife like dolphins, sea turtles, and seabirds, making it a rich marine experience for all ages. Whale sightings are guaranteed, or you’ll receive a free return voucher! Onboard purchases are available.
Click here for discount voucher
Where: Marina Mirage, Main Beach
Set sail for an unforgettable whale watching adventure over the Gold Coast’s sparkling waters with Aria Cruises. Aboard their purpose-built sailing catamaran- with a limited capacity of just 28 passengers- you’ll enjoy front-row seats to the breathtaking migration of Humpback Whales as they journey through Queensland’s warm waters. This exclusive cruise combines comfort and connection to nature, allowing guests to witness breaching whales, playful dolphins, and even turtles and sharks in their natural habitat.
Click here for discount voucher.
Where: 95 Marine Parade, Southport
Looking to combine your love of wildlife parks with the thrill of spotting whales? Sea World Cruises tours depart from the iconic marine park precinct and whisk you out for an exhilarating day on the water. They’ve got expert guides (among the best in the business), onboard to ensure you not only see whales but also understand their behaviours and the importance of protecting them. This cruise is perfect for kids and adults alike, seeking some theme park fun and authentic wildlife experiences.
Click here for discount voucher.
Where: Sea World Cruises Terminal, Sea World, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
For a family-friendly option that’s fun and educational, the Spirit of Gold Coast offers a 2.5-hour whale-watching cruise led by a family-run team with over 20 years of experience. Operating from May to October, this purpose-built 24-metre catamaran offers 360-degree views and guaranteed whale sightings, or you’ll cruise again for free! Spot humpbacks, dolphins, and even the legendary white whale, Migaloo. Onboard, a marine biologist shares live commentary on whale behaviour and conservation.
Click here for discount voucher.
Where: 60/70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Now is the perfect time to secure your cruise. Whether you’re seeking a little luxury, education or some family-fun, the Gold Coast’s whale watching options deliver big time. Grab your sunnies, pack your camera, and get ready to meet some of the ocean’s most majestic visitors!
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Grab your blanket and your binoculars and get out there.
As we saw from that viral video of swimmers getting up close and personal with a Humpback at Snapper Rocks it’s officially whale watching season! In case you missed it, keep scrolling as we’ve included it below. Every year from May to November we are blessed to have thousands of Humpback Whales passing through the Gold Coast’s warm waters.
Everyone knows the magical feeling of spying one of the majestic mammals from afar so, in the spirit of sharing, we’ve found the top seven spots to see them (for FREE) from the shore.
Cabarita Headland
Just south of the border, one of our top whale-watching spots is Cabarita Beach’s headland. Take a little hike up the steps to Norries Headland for some seriously expansive coastal views. The elevation makes whale spotting a breeze. And, pro tip: swing by George’s Deli in Kingscliff to pick up a donut or coffee for the walk.
Point Danger Lookout, Coolangatta
This iconic spot sits right on the NSW-QLD border, boasting breathtaking panoramic views. Directly below lies Duranbah Beach (D’bah to the locals), a prime surfing hotspot. For those looking to relax with a coffee or a bite to eat while whales breach in the distance, Black Dingo Cafe offers a vantage point that won’t disappoint.
Kirra Hill, Kirra
Just a little further north is Kirra Hill, another picturesque piece of land. You can drive or walk up (be warned, it’s quite steep) and then enjoy the view, it’s pretty special! Once you’re done, head back down and check out one of the eateries with a view along Marine Pde. Our hots tips are Siblings or Kirra Beach House.
Tumgun Lookout, Burleigh Heads
Sitting atop the Burleigh Heads National Park is Tumgun Lookout. It’s higher than Burleigh Point and gives you a different angle all together (on a clear day you can see all the way to Coolangatta). Put on some activewear, run up Tumgun Lookout through the National Park and enjoy the breathtaking view, and keep a lookout for the BIG SPLASH!
Burleigh Point, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Point is paradise, the most peaceful place on earth, not to mention a perfect picnic spot. It’s easy to spend a whole day here and not get bored. What a coincidence that it’s also one of the best whale-watching vantage points on the Coast. When hunger hits, continue the whale watching from The Tropic or Burleigh Pavilion.
Miami Hill, Miami
Located between North Burleigh Surf Club and Miami Surf Club is the Miami Hill lookout. The all-wooden verandah stretches around the headland and offers great views to the north and south. We suggest going up in the afternoon for whale watching and staying ’til dusk to see the sunset over the hinterland. Then take an easy walk down the hill and pop in for a cocktail at Sandfire.
The Spit, Main Beach
The Spit may not be the highest lookout on the Coast but it surely is closest to the action as it stretches way out to sea. It’s a great place to take your doggo for a walk and enjoy the scenery (go for a swim if it’s warm enough – we dare you!).
If you want to see the whales up close and personal jump on a whale watching cruise with Spirit of Gold Coast or Kokomo Cruises.
Words by Belinda Symons.
Spirit of Gold Coast’s sunset, lunch & party cruises will leave you in oar!
Ahoy there, mateys! Ok, so we’ve been having a whale of a time on Spirit of Gold Coast for almost three decades now, but fun fact incoming; did you know that this 24-meter super catamaran is more than a one-trick-pony? Whilst it is undeniably THE choice for whale watching #HeyMigaloo, this shipload of fun also offers sunset cruises, lunch cruises, and party cruises – and buoy are they top-‘knot’ch.
Family owned and operated, Spirit of Gold Coast will float everybody’s boat from your nautical loving nan to your boat-loving bestie, and even your water worshipping whipper snapper (say that five times over). Setting sail from Mariner’s Cove in Main Beach and perfect for any occasion, get ready to sail-a-brate with Spirit of Gold Coast.
Sunset cruises
Want to bid adieu to the day in style? Embark on a magical sunset cruise on the Broadwater, soaking up the last of the sun’s rays as twilight shows off the glittering GC skyline in all her glory. With a frozen cocktail in hand, see how the other half live with views right down to the sea-lebrity style homes on Sovereign Island.
Tuck into the tasty complimentary eats, including finger foods and wraps that are fresher than the sea breeze. Plus, there’s onboard commentary, which is like having your own Gold Coast Wikipedia, offering insights into the area’s history, environment, and wildlife. Ferry impressive! $79 per adult and $39 per mini-mate.
Party cruises
What’s better than carving up the dancefloor and we’ll tell you – carving up the dancefloor aboard Spirit of Gold Coast! Each Friday night from 7pm, DJ Tiki transforms the nautical nirvana into the ultimate party cruise with the latest beats and breathtaking Broadwater views.
Once again, the captain will set sail towards Sovereign Island for a glimpse of the region’s most ritzy abodes, before cranking the tunes and making the voyage back against the dazzling GC night sky. The fully licensed bar will be serving up all your faves, and snacks are available if you need to line your belly before the next frozen cocktail.
The two-and-a-half to three-hour cruise will return to Mariner’s Cove, where you’ll be docked and loaded for a night on the town! Hull yeah! Tickets are $49 per person.
Lunch cruise
If a feast on the high seas is more your speed, the Spirit of Gold Coast has a sensational lunch cruise just for you. Enjoy an award-winning 2.5-hour aquatic escapade whilst indulging in a freshly prepared seasonal lunch that’ll tantalise your taste buds.
Grab a complimentary cuppa and morning tea on arrival, before touring the iconic Broadwater – and even venturing out to sea! The GC Seaway is like a wildlife red carpet, showcasing sea lions, dolphins, marine birds, turtles, and more, so keep your phone at the ready coz if you didn’t snap it, did it even happen?
The Tiki Bar is on hand to serve up your fave tipple, and the bow of the boat is always ready for the token Titanic shot #I’mTheKingOfTheWorld. $99 per adult, $79 per senior, $59 per child, and small folk under four are free!
So, whether you’re chasing sunsets, cruisin for some beats, or craving a quality lunch with a side of sea-life, don’t harbour any regrets – seas the moment and book yourself an unforgettable Spirit of Gold Coast cruise here.
Sea you there!
Where: Mariner’s Cove, 60-70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
When: Daily. Check website for cruise times
Website: www.spiritofgoldcoastcruises.com.au
Instagram: @spiritofgoldcoast
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY SPIRIT OF GOLD COAST
Here’s how to do nature right on the Gold Coast.
Look, we love a good coffee run and a cheeky rooftop cocktail as much as the next Gold Coaster, but sometimes, the best thing you can do for yourself is step off the pavement and into the wild. And the best part? You don’t even have to go far. From the green hinterland to golden beaches, the Gold Coast is basically one big, beautiful backyard just waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re hiking a mountain, cycling a forest trail, paddling through crystal-clear creeks, or pulling out the picnic rug for a slow afternoon snack-a-thon, there’s something magical (and free!) for everyone. The Gold Coast’s conservation estates are stacked with stunning walks, summit climbs, waterholes, and wildlife-filled wonderlands that feel a million miles away from the hustle… even though most are just a short drive from home.
Take Bally Mountain Conservation Area, for example. Tucked away in Bonogin, this Class 5 summit trail is not for the faint-hearted, but if you’re a confident hiker with a decent fitness level, it’s a must-do. The 6km return trail takes about three to four hours and rewards you with panoramic views stretching across Springbrook, Wollumbin (Mount Warning), and the coastline. A solid leg day, if you ask us, and a very brag-worthy addition to the camera roll.
More of a two-wheels-over-two-feet kind of explorer? Head to Glossy Black Reserve in Reedy Creek. With eight dedicated mountain bike trails, it’s a playground for MTB lovers, trail runners and birdwatchers alike. The Drop Bear trail serves up a thrilling downhill ride, while Jumpin’ Ant Hill is your go-to for a climb with a view (and probably a cheeky quad burn). Not into biking? No stress. The walking trails and birdlife are top-tier too. Pack the binocs and channel your inner David Attenborough.
For water babies who love a bit of paddle-powered peace, Tchoobey Reserve is a hidden gem on Tallebudgera Creek. Start with a stroll along the mangrove boardwalk before launching a kayak into the calm waters. It’s so tranquil it almost feels like meditation. With native birdlife, peaceful forest surrounds and grassy areas to kick back and enjoy a picnic after your float, this spot is peak serenity.
And if wildlife is your thing, don’t skip Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area. This conservation area is a haven for nature walks and wildlife spotting, think koalas in trees, kangaroos hopping past, and flocks of birds doing their thing. The trails are easy and flat making it perfect for all ages and abilities.
The real magic of all these places? They’re right here in our own backyard. You don’t need to spend big or go far to reconnect with nature, boost your mood, and give your brain a break from the scroll. Just lace up your shoes, fill up your water bottle, and choose your own outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re climbing mountains, floating down creeks or simply lying under a tree with your phone on silent, the Gold Coast offers endless ways to enjoy, appreciate, and protect the natural beauty that makes this place so special.
Ready to roam? Explore more Gold Coast bushwalks and nature trails at goldcoast.qld.gov.au and find your next fave spot in the wild.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY CITY OF GOLD COAST
