Around 30,000 whales are now migrating along the NSW coast - a great time to visit a coastal national park, according to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
NPWS spokesperson Matthew Mannall said now it’s the perfect time to head to one of our national park’s spectacular lookouts, headlands or foreshores on the south coast to experience the record number of whales enjoying their natural playground. “The waters off our coastline are bustling with whales on their annual migration. At this time of year, whales are on their journey south to Antarctica, often hugging the coastline with newborn calves in tow”, Mr Mannall said. “We commonly see humpbacks, but visitors may be lucky enough to also spot southern right whales, minke and orcas,” he said. National parks make up almost 50 per cent of the NSW coastline and provide some of the best vantage points to spot the ocean’s most majestic creatures on their annual journey. NPWS recommends these top whale watching spots in the Batemans Bay region: • Meroo National Park – Located between Ulladulla and Batemans Bay, this national park has some of the best vantage points for whale watching on the NSW south coast. Don’t miss the panoramic coastal views from Meroo Head lookout, or follow the walking track to Nuggan Point. • Murramarang National Park – With 44km of dramatic coastline near Batemans Bay, this is a great spot to explore the cliffs, headlands and pristine beaches of the NSW south coast, with many whale watching opportunities. Head to Snapper Point or North Head lookout to spot migrating whales and enjoy a weekend getaway by staying at Depot Beach or Pretty Beach cabins. • Eurobodalla National Park – North and south of Narooma, this park offers plenty of lookouts and headlands for whale viewing. Visitors keen to explore the area on foot can set out on the Bingi Dreaming Track - a 14km walk along the coast south from Congo to Tuross Head. • Montague Island Nature Reserve – For the ultimate whale watching adventure, book a trip to Montague Island Nature Reserve (Barunguba) to experience a wildlife wonderland, with whales, seals, dolphins and seabirds aplenty. Explore the island on a day trip or indulge yourself with a stay at the historic Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottages. “Whale-watchers are reminded to stay safe during the season by keeping a safe distance from cliff edges and rock platforms, on coastal walks, and at lookouts”, Mr Mannall said. Whale-watchers can download the free Wild About Whales app to get real-time notifications of sightings nearby, log their own sightings, find top vantage points and much more. For all your whale watching information this season, visit: www.wildaboutwhales.com.au Wild About Whales is an annual campaign run by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service during the NSW whale watching season each year. JOIN THE WHALE-LOVING COMMUNITY Stay connected and get the latest whale sightings and information: Website – for all your whale info, best vantage points, tips for whale watching and coastal accommodation, visit www.wildaboutwhales.com.au FREE Mobile App – download the Wild About Whales app from the Apple Store or Google Marketplace to see the latest whale sightings and record your own Facebook – join the whale-loving community to stay updated and share photos and experiences at www.facebook.com/wildaboutwhales
