Known for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and the world-famous Twelve Apostles. But one of its most beautiful natural wonders can be found just off shore each winter. Southern right whales are known to return to the calm waters found along Victoria’s coastline for rest, calving, and nursing. Seeing these gentle giants in their natural environment is an amazing experience for travellers, no matter their age.
A Great Ocean Road day tour during whale season is pretty much a two-in-one match made in heaven, with those world-famous coastal vistas and the chance to witness some extraordinary wildlife.
Why Southern Right Whales Visit?
Each year, southern right whales migrate from the frigid waters of Antarctica to the warmer coast of southern Australia. They look for calm bays to where mothers can give birth and nurse their calves before heading back south.
Between late fall and spring, whale season usually takes place, with some of the best sightings during winter along the Great Ocean Road.
They’re instantly recognisable by their huge, bulky bodies and broad backs, and the distinct white patches of rough skin on their heads called callosities.
Best Places to Spot Whales
Along the world-famous Great Ocean Road, a number of destinations provide some great vantage points for on land whale watching.
Popular viewing areas include:
- Logan’s Beach near Warrnambool
- Bay of Islands Coastal Park
- Cape Bridgewater
- Port Campbell coastline
- Different views of lookouts at cliff tops
There are many whale watching platforms you can visit in a Great Ocean Road day tour, and some of them allow you to safely watch whales from a distance.
Often, travellers are told of locations to view these magnificent creatures by their local tour guide on the day, as they will be trained in where whales have been seen that week along the way on a Great Ocean Road day tour.
Respect Wildlife from a Distance
Whale watching is fun, whale protection is the goal. Be sure to always develop through designated viewing factors and do not disturb their natural activity.
Remember to:
- Stay on marked paths.
- Follow local signs and guidelines.
- Keep noise levels low.
- Never try to come up next to whales by boat without approved conditions.
Responsible tourism keeps these majestic beasts alive for the next generation.
In addition to many operators offering Great Ocean Road private tours, most also educate visitors about whale conservation and responsible wildlife viewing.
More Than Just Whale Watching
The journey is so loaded with endless attractions along the Great Ocean Road where you can stop and take a look, even if whales are not currently jumping out as soon as they are viewable.
Visitors can also enjoy:
- The Twelve Apostles
- Loch Ard Gorge
- Rainforest walks
- Native wildlife
- Scenic coastal lookouts
- Charming seaside towns
With this in mind there are plenty of highlights to keep the trip worthwhile regardless of whether or not whales decide to play ball during the tour.
Why Choose a Private Tour?
Independent travel is fun, but Great Ocean Road private tours give more flexible time management. Guides also monitor what whales are doing and can tailor where you stop to weather conditions, as well as your interests.
Additional time at favourite viewpoints without group itinerary pressure is achievable with private tours too.
Final Thoughts
The reason to visit the Great Ocean Road is that it is very special place. Some Southern right whales are adding extra reasons for long visits on this area about little stopover. This chance to experience one of nature’s most stunning migrations from the refuge of Victoria’s picturesque coastline is unique.
You can take a Great Ocean Road day tour or the more flexible option of Great Ocean Road private tours, just make sure you schedule: straight after booking, and time your visit nicely because this is whale season − what was once a picturesque drive will soon become something even greater than wildlife adventure! Offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and remote along the coast lookout spots Great Ocean Road has the features that remain with you long after the tour ends.