What’s happening?
Whale watching season is underway across Australia, running from May through November.
SeaLink Marine & Tourism has highlighted North Stradbroke Island, also known as Minjerribah, as a key Queensland viewing spot for 2026.
The island’s whale watching season runs from June to November.
Point Lookout offers one of Australia’s best land-based whale watching locations. Visitors can see whales from the headland, with wide ocean views and regular sightings.
The destination is just a short ferry trip from Brisbane, making it a strong day trip or weekend option.
Donna Gauci, CEO of SeaLink Marine & Tourism, said the experience carries a strong emotional pull for visitors.
“Watching whales in the wild is a truly moving experience; one that reminds us of the power and beauty of the natural world,” Ms Gauci said.
Why it matters?
The annual whale migration gives Queensland another strong seasonal tourism drawcard.
For North Stradbroke Island, the appeal is simple. Visitors do not need to board a whale watching vessel to see the migration.
Point Lookout gives locals and visitors a chance to view humpbacks from land, while staying close to Brisbane.
SeaLink said its experiences help connect guests with whales across some of Australia’s key marine destinations.
“Through our experiences across Australia, we’re proud to help guests connect with these incredible animals in some of the country’s most spectacular marine environments,” Ms Gauci said.
Local Impact
North Stradbroke Island is well placed for Brisbane and South East Queensland visitors.
The ferry connection makes Point Lookout accessible for families, day trippers, photographers, and nature lovers.
Local tourism operators may benefit as whale watchers visit the island during winter and spring.
The season also reinforces Minjerribah’s role as a major coastal nature destination.
By the numbers
- Tens of thousands of humpback whales migrate along Australia’s coastline each year, creating major viewing opportunities.
- Humpback whales travel up to 10,000 kilometres between Antarctica and the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
- North Stradbroke Island’s whale watching season runs for six months, from June through November.
Zoom In
Point Lookout is the main draw for whale watching on North Stradbroke Island.
The headland gives visitors sweeping views across the ocean. It also offers regular sightings during the migration period.
SeaLink said North Stradbroke Island is among Australia’s best land-based whale watching destinations.
In Queensland’s northern waters, whale encounters are often slower and more intimate. Mothers and calves rest and build strength in calmer waters.
Zoom Out
Across Australia, SeaLink is highlighting several whale watching locations for 2026.
Bruny Island offers sightings from May to July and September to November. Humpback whales, southern right whales, and Orcas are often spotted there.
Kangaroo Island has southern right whale sightings from May to September.
Sydney Harbour offers a 2.5-hour Captain Cook Cruises whale watching experience from Circular Quay.
K’gari’s western waters become a nursery for humpback whales and calves from July to October.
The Whitsundays see humpback whale sightings from July to September across island, reef, and jet ski experiences.
Magnetic Island and Townsville offer three-hour whale watching cruises from mid-July to August.
Rottnest Island offers sightings from September to November during the southbound migration.
What To Look For Next?
North Stradbroke Island’s season will build from June as more whales move along the coast.
Point Lookout is expected to remain a key viewing spot through November.
SeaLink is encouraging travellers to check tour details, schedules, and bookings across its whale watching destinations.
