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Whale Watching in Dalmeny & Narooma

Catch the Majestic Migration Along the South Coast

There are few experiences as awe-inspiring as witnessing the majestic migration of humpback and southern right whales along the New South Wales coast. Narooma, with its pristine waters and dramatic coastal cliffs, is one of the best spots in Australia to witness this natural spectacle. Whether you’re viewing from the stunning Dalmeny Whale Watching Lookout or embarking on a whale watching charter, Narooma offers multiple vantage points for spotting these magnificent creatures as they travel along their annual migratory route.

Here’s everything you need to know about whale watching in Narooma—an experience that promises to create unforgettable memories.

The Dalmeny Whale Watching Lookout: A Scenic Spot Just Minutes Away

Located just a 5-minute drive from Dalmeny Beach House, the Dalmeny Whale Watching Lookout is one of the region’s best-kept secrets for spotting migrating whales. Situated on the headland, this elevated viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views over the ocean and surrounding coastline—perfect for spotting humpback and southern right whales during their annual migration.

The migration season runs from May through to November, with peak whale-watching months falling between August and October. From the lookout, you can watch as whales breach, tail-slap, and spy-hop from a distance, as they make their way north to warmer breeding grounds in the winter and then head south again with their calves in the spring.

This lookout is an ideal spot for whale watching because of its relative seclusion—free from large crowds and with little to no obstruction in your view of the water. The area is well-signposted, and the short, accessible walk to the top ensures that visitors of all ages can enjoy the experience. Bring a pair of binoculars or simply sit back and relax as you enjoy the spectacular view, often accompanied by the soothing sound of the ocean and coastal birds.

Whale Watching Charters: Get Closer to the Action

For a more up-close and personal experience, hopping on a whale watching charter is the perfect way to see the whales in action. Narooma is home to a number of reputable tour operators that run dedicated whale-watching charters during the season. These tours offer the chance to get out on the water and get closer to these incredible creatures, often within just a few hundred metres.

The boat tours depart from Narooma Harbour, just a short drive from Dalmeny Beach House, and take you out to the Batemans Bay Marine Park and surrounding waters, which are known for being one of the most active whale migration routes on the South Coast. The charters are led by experienced, knowledgeable guides who can help you spot the whales, share interesting facts about the species, and answer any questions you have about the migration process.

During a typical whale-watching tour, you’ll be able to observe a range of whale behaviours, from breaching and flipper slapping to the awe-inspiring sight of a whale tail fin rising out of the water. If you’re lucky, you might even witness a rare display of a whale and her calf swimming side by side, a truly breathtaking sight.

For those looking to take their whale-watching experience to the next level, some tours even offer opportunities to spot dolphins, seals, and a variety of marine birds along the way. It’s a fantastic chance to explore the waters around Narooma from a different perspective while experiencing the thrill of watching these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

The Best Time for Whale Watching

The best time to experience whale watching in Narooma is during the southern whale migration, which occurs between May and November. Most whales pass through the area from late June to early September as they travel north towards the warmer waters for breeding. From September to November, you can see mothers and their calves making their way south.

The gentle giants are often visible from shore, but for a more intimate and exciting experience, whale watching charters are highly recommended. The charters not only take you closer to the whales but also provide knowledgeable commentary, making the entire experience educational as well as thrilling. Most tours are between 2 to 3 hours long, and there’s no shortage of opportunities for you to capture the moment with photos and videos.

Why Narooma is a Top Whale Watching Destination

Narooma is perfectly positioned for whale watching. The waters around the town are part of a protected marine sanctuary, which attracts a wealth of marine life, including migrating whales. The combination of the region’s clean, clear waters and the dramatic coastal cliffs creates a unique and accessible environment for whale watching. Whether you’re on a boat tour or from the Dalmeny Whale Watching Lookout, the views are exceptional, and the chance to see these majestic creatures up close is unparalleled.

In addition to whale sightings, Narooma is known for its diverse marine wildlife, including seals, dolphins, eagle rays, and stingrays, all of which can often be spotted during the season. If you’re lucky, you might even see a pod of dolphins or a playful seal gliding through the waters nearby.

Top Tips for Whale Watching in Narooma

  • Bring Binoculars: Even though whales can often be seen from the shore or the boat, a pair of binoculars will help you get a closer look and spot some of the more subtle movements, such as a blow or a tail fin.
  • Dress Warmly: Even on warmer days, the weather on the water can be quite cool, so it’s always a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater.
  • Camera Ready: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the magical moments—just be sure to keep your eyes on the whales first, as they can be elusive!
  • Book Early: Whale-watching charters are popular during peak season, so it’s wise to book in advance to secure your spot, especially if you’re visiting during the peak migration months.

Make Your Visit Unforgettable

Whale watching in Narooma offers a rare and exhilarating opportunity to witness one of nature’s most impressive migrations. Whether you choose to watch from the scenic Dalmeny Whale Watching Lookout or embark on a thrilling whale-watching charter, you’ll be treated to a front-row seat to the wonders of the ocean.

So, if you’re staying at Dalmeny Beach House or visiting Narooma, make sure to add a whale-watching adventure to your itinerary. The experience is truly unforgettable, and Narooma’s breathtaking coastline is the perfect setting to enjoy these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.