Best lookouts and handy tips
There’s just something so magical about seeing whales and the Fleurieu Peninsula is one of the best places in SA to catch a glimpse during the cooler months.
Every year between May and October, Southern right whales and even Humpback whales make their way from Antarctic waters along our coastline to breed, birth, and raise their calves in the warmer waters. This is when we try our luck to spot a whale or two cruising past! It’s such a beautiful experience seeing them, and I highly recommend watching Australia's Ocean Odyssey: A Journey Down The East Australian Current if you're curious to learn more about them and ocean life in general. It's one of my favourites to date and it honestly opened my eyes to how far these incredible creatures travel!
We've been lucky enough to spot whales at Basham Beach Lookout (there’s usually a bit of a crowd gathered quietly watching them), and Freeman Lookout in Horseshoe Bay is another fave – I’ve seen plenty of fin slapping from there too!
Other popular whale-watching spots to check out:
🐋 Port Elliot – especially near the lookout at The Bluff or along the cliff walk.
🐋 Granite Island – keep your eyes on the water while walking the causeway or hiking around the island.
🐋 Waitpinga & Parsons Beach Lookouts – a bit more remote, but so worth the visit.
While you're in Victor Harbor, be sure to pop into the SA Whale Centre – it's a really cool spot for learning more about these gentle giants, especially great if you're travelling with kids or just keen to get to know some whale facts.
To stay in the loop on the latest whale sightings, check out:
🐳 Whale Watching SA Facebook group – they post updates, sightings, and handy tips all throughout the season. This is my go to group when I plan on heading out to look for them.
Do pack a warm jacket, bring your binoculars (or camera), and head out for a little whale spotting adventure 🐳✨
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