It’s that time of year again and we are lucky to witness one of the largest whale migrations right from our shores! From July to November thousands of Humpback Whales will pass through our waters as they head south for the Summer. We all know the breath-taking feeling of spying one of these majestic animals from afar, so here are the top 5 spots to see them from the land and the best news is they are all within a 25 minute drive from Kirra Palms Holiday Apartments! So grab your binoculars, blanket and a picnic and head to one of these locations!
Kirra Hill Lookout, Kirra – 5 minute walk
Literally a 5-minute walk from Kirra Palms Holiday Apartments and you’ve got yourself a perfect picturesque area to relax and watch the whales pass by. You can either drive or walk up (be warned, the stairs are for the brave-hearted!) see the mighty eagle upon his perch, and the view is pretty amazing too! Afterwards, head down to the local restaurants on Marine Parade – we recommend Bassk at Kirra Point.
Point Danger Lookout, Coolangatta – 5 minute drive
Located right on the QLD – NSW border, Point Danger Lookout is the perfect location to pull up a blanket and settle in to watch the whales play. They even provide you with free binoculars! With views from the north to the south, and iconic surf beach D’Bah below, be sure to pack a camera to get shots of surfers in action too! Warm up with a delicious Coffee or Hot Chocolate from Café DBAH, while browsing their Art Gallery – just across the road!
Tumgum Lookout, Burleigh Heads – 15 minute drive
Put on your active wear and take the peaceful rainforest hike up Burleigh Heads National Park to the top where you’ll find Tumgum Lookout and the most breathtaking view. On a clear sunny day you can see all the way down to Coolangatta and all the BIG splash’s of the whales afar! Head back down the hill to the other side and you’ll find yourself on Burleigh Hill, also another great spot to catch all the surf action. Take a 5 minute stroll into James Street and enjoy a breakfast or coffee at one of the many cafes – we recommend The Pantry Café.
Norries Head, Cabarita – 20 minute drive
Heading South of Kirra, take the scenic Tweed Coast Road down to Norries Head in Cabarita. On the way stop at the local markets before heading up to the most spectacular views of Northern NSW beaches. There will be plenty of whale action to see, so grab your binoculars and settle in for the day. Fancy a dip in the water? Beautiful Cabarita Beach is just below the headland, and on a warmer sunny day this little spot is just perfect! We recommend The Stunned Mullet for classic Fish & Chips if your feeling peckish.
Hastings Point Lookout, Hastings Point – 25 minute drive
Further along the Northern NSW coast line and a popular whale watching spot is Hastings Point Lookout. Many locals can be seen pulling up a camp-chair and catching all the mischief of the big mammals as they swim, play and splash. They’ll have you hooked for hours! Fun Fact: Hastings Point Lookout was a set location for the action blockbuster Aquaman! On the way home, stop in at Kingscliff and take a stroll up the main street full of boutique shops and cafes or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.
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If you’d prefer to get amongst it even more, book a whale watching tour. Prices start from $125 per adult. You’ll get up close and personal with these gentle giants and see them in their natural habitat, and seriously, what could be more spectacular than that?!
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Image courtesy of 1770 Reef Tours