During the colder months, from mid-May to September, you might be lucky enough to see beautiful humpback whales, southern right whales and occasionally even killer whales migrating along the coastline of Phillip Island and Bass Coast. And if you adore wildlife, or you’re keen to do a bit of whale watching, why don’t you travel along the Bass Coast Whale Discovery Trail? Walk or ride your bike between some of the scenic coastal viewing points, or hop in the car and travel along the full length in search of whales. Just remember to rug up, bring some binoculars and have fun!
Bass Coast Whale Discovery Trail
Each year, whales travel up from Antarctica and the Southern Ocean to breed in the shallow and warmer waters off Australia’s coast. They might travel alone, or in small pods of up to five whales. The peak season for whale sightings is in June and July, and it’s best to go on a calm day with no white caps or little disturbance in the water, as it can be trickier to spot them when it’s windy.
This particular trail maps out some great vantage points for you to look out over the water in search of whales. If you can’t see any whales, you can at least enjoy the splendid ocean views. Keep your eyes peeled for vertical sprays from their blowholes or big splashes from when they breach the water. You might also see them slap their tails or pectoral fins against the water, or even raise their head above the surface to look around.
You can also download the Wildlife Whales app and get notifications about any recent whale sightings around Phillip Island.
Whale spotting locations on Phillip Island
The whale trail will take you to:
- Cowes – humpback whales have been seen near the jetty as they enter the bay. While you’re there, see if you can spot any dolphins too.
- Grossard Point in Ventnor – look out for any whales entering the bay close to shore.
- Summerland – this space is home to the iconic Little Penguins of Phillip Island, who waddle home to their burrows at sunset. If you can’t see any whales during the day, stick around to see the adorable penguins at dusk.
- The Nobbies – amble along the boardwalks as you look out for whales.
- Pyramid Rock – head up the rocky cliff to the viewing platform and look out over the water in search of whales. Or, walk along the Pyramid Rock to Berries Beach track, and see if you can spot any whales along the way.
- Cape Woolamai – this area is home to the largest colony of short-tailed shearwaters on Phillip Island. When you’re not looking for whales, admire the birds and see if you can spot any albatross or sea eagles.
More locations along Bass Coast
- Punchbowl – stretch your legs along the George Bass Coastal Walk, and look out for whales from the high cliff.
- Kilcunda – look out for whales in the water, as well as dolphins and seabirds.
- Harmers Haven – see if you can spot any whales from the nearby Wreck Beach.
- Cape Patterson – Bunurong Marine Park protects rock platforms and reefs that are home to over 300 species of animals and plants. With an abundance of diverse marine life, it’s a great place to go whale watching, particularly at First Surf Beach.
- Eagles Nest – head to this viewing platform in Inverloch and look out for whales.
If you’re keen to get off land, you can also book a whale watching cruise with Wildlife Coast Cruises.
To learn more about whale watching on Phillip Island, click here.