Each winter, Kiama sits right on the humpback whale highway. Between May and November, tens of thousands of humpbacks pass close to this stretch of the New South Wales South Coast on their annual migration, and the town’s high sea cliffs make it one of the best places in the state to watch them from dry land. This guide covers when to come, the best spots to watch from, whether to take a cruise, and what you can expect to see.
When can you see whales in Kiama?
Whale season in Kiama runs from May to November, tracking the humpback migration up and down the east coast. The northern leg (heading to warmer breeding waters) peaks around June and July, while the southern return, often with calves in tow, builds through September to November. For the best chance of a sighting, head out on a calm day, early morning or late afternoon, when the light is low and the water is easier to read.
Best places to watch whales in Kiama
You don’t need a boat. Kiama’s elevated headlands give you a genuine chance of spotting whales from shore, for free:
- Minnamurra Whale Watching Platform: the purpose-built elevated platform just north of Kiama is widely rated the best land-based vantage point in the area.
- Gerringong Whale Watching Platform: on the cliffs of Gerringong Headland to the south, with a grassy reserve and amenities.
- Kiama Lighthouse and Blowhole Point: the headland by the lighthouse is a classic lookout, and you can take in the blowhole while you wait.
- Kiama Coast Walk: the 20km cliff-top track strings these headlands together, so you can walk and watch; the Kiama to Gerringong stretch is a favourite for sightings.
Bring binoculars, and keep an eye on local sighting groups (the community “Kiama Whale & Dolphin Sightings” page posts near real-time reports) so you know when the action is on.
Whale watching cruises from the Kiama area
If you’d rather get closer, operators run whale watching cruises out of the neighbouring Shellharbour and Wollongong harbours through the season (roughly May to November). A cruise puts you out among the migration for a couple of hours, though land-based watching from the Kiama headlands is free and surprisingly reliable on the right day.
What you’ll see
The stars of the season are humpback whales, often breaching, slapping their tails and travelling in pods. You may also spot the occasional southern right whale closer to shore, along with pods of dolphins that work this coast year-round. On a good day from the Minnamurra platform you can see whales spouting and rolling just offshore.
Where to stay for whale season in Kiama
The whales pass when they pass, so the best way to catch them is to be right here when the season’s on. Ridgewaters Kiama offers luxury beachfront apartments a short walk from the coast walk, the lighthouse headland and Blowhole Point, so you can be out on the cliffs early without a long drive. Settle in for a few days through winter and you give yourself the best odds of a sighting. See our Kiama accommodation and book your stay.
Kiama whale watching FAQs
When is whale season in Kiama?
May to November, peaking around June-July on the way north and September-November on the way back south.
What’s the best month to go whale watching in Kiama?
June and July tend to be the most reliable for the northern migration, with high numbers passing close to the coast.
Can you see whales from the shore in Kiama?
Yes. The Minnamurra and Gerringong whale watching platforms, plus the Kiama Lighthouse headland, are among the best free land-based spots on the South Coast.
What’s the best time of day to spot whales?
Early morning or late afternoon on a calm day gives you the best visibility and the best odds of a sighting.
Do you need a boat to go whale watching in Kiama?
No. Land-based watching from the headlands is free and reliable in season; cruises out of nearby Shellharbour and Wollongong are an option if you want to get closer.
