Top Gold Coast Whale Watching
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From the sun-soaked shores of the Sunshine Coast to the lush islands of the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland is one of the best places for whale-watching tours in Australia. To maximize your chances of spotting the majestic creatures, here are some tips for whale watching around Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Hervey Bay.
When to Go
Queensland’s whale-watching season runs from June to November, during the Australian winter months, when the east coast becomes a breeding ground for migrating whales. Hervey Bay is the unofficial whale-watching capital, hosting its annual Whale Festival in July and August, while the Gold Coast is a prime stop on the so-called “Humpback Highway,” the whale migration route that runs between Australia and the Antarctic.
What You'll See
An estimated 10,000 whales pass through Queensland’s waters during the annual migration, including humpback whales and minke whales. Whales can often be seen with their calves, especially later in the season, and you might also spot bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, dugongs, and even sharks.
How to Go
Half- and full-day whale-watching cruises run from Brisbane to Surfers Paradise, Sea World, and the Gold Coast, aboard specially equipped boats with large viewing decks and underwater microphones so you can listen to the whale songs. Alternatively, cruise around Hervey Bay, Moreton Bay marine park, or Fraser Island on a catamaran excursion and stop to swim or snorkel along the way.
15 results | All Gold Coast Tours

Whale Watching Tour with Spirit of Gold Coast
Spotting whales in their natural habitat can be tricky if you don't know where to look. Skip the guesswork on this whale-watching cruise, which guarantees you will see humpback whales as they migrate past the Gold Coast from June to November or you receive a complimentary second cruise. The tour is led by a marine biologist guide who is passionate about conservation and offers insights into whale behavior that enrich the experience. Includes morning tea and a photo booklet souvenir.
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From
USD50.38
From
USD50.38

2.5hr Gold Coast Kayaking & snorkelling tour
Short on time? Sample the natural beauty of the Gold Coast on this outdoor tour. Hop on a sea kayak and paddle your way over to Wave Break Island to swim and snorkel amid sub-tropical fish and marine wildlife. Look out for dolphins and stingrays and enjoy a snack before heading back to shore
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From
USD53.79
From
USD53.79

Gold Coast Whale Watching Cruise
Don't just see the Whales, EXPERIENCE THEM!
Our experience is like no other! Onboard our luxurious new vessel, we are able to get you to the whales a lot quicker, meaning more time watching whales and less time travelling!
With 360 degree views from all positions onboard, and limited tickets onboard, you'll always have prime views and never have to battle crowds.
Our professional crew onboard also offer great commentary of the whales through the surround speakers.
We offer the best experience, and the best whale views, unobstructed by crowds onboard the safest and fastest whale watching vessel.
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From
USD51.06
From
USD51.06

2 Hours Dolphin Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour on the Broadwater
If you love getting outdoors and experiencing nature and making memories, this is the kayaking trip for you. We kayak on the beautiful board water on the Gold Coast where we see wild dolphins 80% of the time an a lot of the time very close. We snorkel with hundreds of Sup-Tropical fish right off the beach which you can try and catch, they come very close.
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From
USD51.74
From
USD51.74

Small Boat Whale Watching Tour in Gold Coast
Experience an intimate whale encounter with this small-boat tour. A small boat allows you to get as close as possible to the whales, who tend to be scared off by larger vessels. The low sides of the boat allow you to submerge your waterproof camera for amazing underwater shots, and feel the spray of whale blows on your face. Courtesy spray jackets and life vests are provided.
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From
USD74.21
From
USD74.21

2 Hour Surf Lesson At The Spit, Main Beach ( 13 years and up)
Feel the thrill of catching a wave at one Australia’s most famous surf hotspots and sign up for this 2-hour beginner surf lesson in Surfer’s Paradise. Master the basics under the guidance of an expert instructor with a small group, ensuring plenty of one-to-one instruction. Hotel pick-up is included.
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From
USD50.38
From
USD50.38

Gold Coast Jet Boat Ride Adventure Ride
Zip through the scenic Gold Coast Broadwater on a high-octane jet boat ride that combines speed-driven fun with sightseeing. Hang on as your boat performs 360-degree spins, power slides and other tricks, then slow down to see Southport Yacht Club, Palazzo Versace Hotel and Marina Mirage. You'll also buzz past Seaworld, the mansions of Sovereign Island and Moreton Bay Marine Park, venturing further than other similar tours. Dolphins and other marine life often seen in these waterways — keep your eyes peeled!
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From
USD57.87
From
USD57.87

Aquaduck Gold Coast 1 hour City and River Tour
Experience the Gold Coast’s beautiful Surfers Paradise on a tour aboard an amphibious Aquaduck. Bring the kids and hop aboard this unusual dual-purpose vessel for a jaunt along the area’s picturesque beaches and past local landmarks like Palazzo Versace and Marina Mirage. Then, enjoy a thrilling river cruise past the glitz of millionaire’s row as the Aquaduck transforms from a bus into a boat.
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From
USD40.85
From
USD40.85

Gold Coast Parasailing - Tandem, Triple
Experience the thrills of parasailing while on the Gold Coast of Australia. First, you’ll receive a short safety training before being outfitted with a harness. Then, soar high above the Gold Coast, up to 400 feet (122 meters) high, and take in aerial views of the coastline. This is available for solo travelers or with one or two partners.
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From
USD61.28
From
USD61.28

Full-day Springbrook National Park Tour from the Gold Coast
Exploring the Gold Coast Hinterland can be a challenge if you don’t have your own transport, but this full-day tour from the Gold Coast offers the perfect introduction. Discover the natural wonders of the Springbrook National Park, stopping to take in the views of Mt Warning and the Numinbah Valley, and admire landmarks including the Natural Arch, Rainbow Falls, and Goomalarah Falls.
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From
USD90.69
From
USD90.69

JetBlast Jet Boat Ride
Zip through the waters of the Gold Coast off Main Beach on this group boat trip. This lasts for around thirty thrilling minutes, where you’ll have the chance to experience spins, slides, and other fancy jet boat moves. You’ll see Sea World, Palazzo Versace, and Marina Mirage from the water, and hopefully see wallabies and dolphins too.
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From
USD47.66
From
USD47.66

Whale Watching Gold Coast
Experience an intimate encounter with whales on this safari-style whale watching tour. Head out into the ocean on small motorized boats, which enable you to get as close to the whales as possible. With just 12 guests, a personalized experience is assured. While seeing the whales, enjoy commentary from an onboard marine naturalist.
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From
USD81.02
From
USD81.02

Swim with Whales Gold Coast
Swim with whales on the Gold Coast with this guided half day excursion. Get eye to eye with these amazing, gentle creatures in either the Gold Coast, Coolangatta, or Tweed heads area. Your guide will do everything they can to find humpback whales for you to swim with. Coffee/ tea and fresh fruit will be provided after the swim, and snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, and spray jackets included.
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From
USD230.80
From
USD230.80

Whale Watching Tour Gold Coast
Get amazingly close to humpback whales with this whale watching cruise in the beautiful Gold Coast. Specially-designed boats mean that you are able to get incredibly close to the surface of the water, ensuring truly impressive views of these majestic creatures. See them up close, take phenomenal photos and even feel the spray of whale blows on your face.
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From
USD44.25
From
USD44.25

Whale Watching by Sea World Cruises
Wildlife enthusiasts will love the chance to spot whales in the wild so close to the Gold Coast. Just a twenty-minute cruise off shore, the Australian Whale Sanctuary is prime humpback whale habitat. Get great views of the creatures (when conditions are right) from on board your comfortable boat. This easy 2.5-hour trip can fit into busy itineraries.
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From
USD81.02
From
USD81.02
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