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New South Wales

Welcome to the vibrant and expansive New South Wales (NSW), a premier destination for families and adventurers looking to explore the wonders of Australia in the unique comfort of a campervan. Nestled on the east coast, NSW is bordered by tropical Queensland to the north, verdant Victoria to the south, and azure waters of South Australia to the west, making it a perfect central starting point for any Australia campervan holiday on the mainland.

Exploring NSW in a campervan is the perfect way to experience the sheer diversity of Australia’s landscapes and NSW attractions—from the pristine beaches of Kiama and the rugged peaks of the Blue Mountains to the dynamic urban centres, remote bushland, and coastal retreats of Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour. Whether you're looking to surf the waves at Bondi Beach, enjoy a serene hike in the national parks, or indulge in the culture at the Sydney Art Gallery, there is an unparalleled variety of things to do in NSW!

 

Why explore NSW by campervan

Travelling through NSW on an Australia campervan holiday offers an unmatched sense of freedom and adventure. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the ocean at a beachside campsite near Batemans Bay or enjoying your breakfast amidst the lush greenery of a secluded forest. Campervans provide not only flexibility in your travel plans but also the opportunity to connect deeply with the Aussie landscapes. 

What’s more, an Australia campervan holiday through NSW lets you discover hidden gems that are often off the beaten path and not easily accessible by traditional means of travel. From the wine regions of the Hunter Valley, where you can taste some of the best wines in the world, to the heritage towns of the New England hinterland area, a campervan can take you to places that would otherwise require extensive planning or expensive tours.

 

Things to do in New South Wales

NSW is bursting with activities. For beach lovers, the coast offers endless opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing at famous spots like Bondi, Coffs Harbour, and Port Macquarie. Beyond the usual tourist attractions, NSW also offers unique experiences like whale watching in Nelson Bay, marvelling at contemporary art at the Sydney Art Gallery, or hiking through the ancient rainforests of the Blue Mountains. No matter what your interests are, NSW has something spectacular to explore. For information on what to do in NSW, check out our guides to exploring NSW. 

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: AU Blog

Best Spots For Whale Watching In Australia

Australia’s 50,000 km of coastline offers endless opportunities to observe several species of whales on their annual migration. This blog is your go-to guide for discovering the top spots to go whale watching in Australia to spot these majestic creatures. From the pristine waters of Queensland to the scenic coastlines of New South Wales and the rugged shores of Western Australia, we cover all you need to know to make your whale-watching experience unforgettable. Let's dive into the essential information, from what whale watching in Australia entails, the best times to plan your adventure and the best ways to explore the migration routes in a campervan. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or an extended Australia road trip, this article will equip you with everything you need to know for a spectacular whale-watching adventure.

 

What is Whale Watching?

Whale watching is, very simply, the experience of observing whales in their natural habitat, often from the comfort of a boat or from coastal vantage points. While whale watching, you have the chance to watch these majestic creatures as they breach, spout, and play in the ocean waters. This is also the perfect opportunity to learn about the diverse marine life and the importance of ocean conservation. Australia, with its extensive coastline, offers numerous spots where travellers can enjoy whale watching. 

 

What’s the Best Month to Go Whale Watching?

The best time to go whale watching in Australia varies depending on the region and the species of whales you wish to see. Generally, the whale watching season in Australia spans from May to November, coinciding with the annual migration of humpback and southern right whales along the country's coastline. During this period, these magnificent creatures travel northward from Antarctica to warmer waters for breeding and then return southward with their calves. Peak whale watching in Australia varies significantly, with June to October being optimal for east coast locations such as whale watching in Hervey Bay in Queensland and whale watching in Port Stephens in New South Wales. On the other hand, June to September is prime time for southern locations such as those looking to go whale watching in Dunsborough in Western Australia and whale watching in Phillip Island in South Australia. 

 

What’s the Best Way to Explore the Best Spots for Whale Watching in Australia?

When it comes to exploring Australia, nothing beats the freedom and flexibility of a Cheapa campa. Renting a campervan allows you to follow the migration routes at your own pace, offering comfort and convenience. You can drive along coastal roads, stay at picturesque campgrounds, and wake up to the sounds of the ocean—a perfect location to base yourself for your marine adventures. Van travel is not only cost-effective but also enhances your experience by providing the mobility to visit multiple whale-watching sites across different states. 

While Hervey Bay whale-watching season is particularly famed — often hailed as the whale-watching capital of Australia due to its high sightings of humpback whales — the adventure doesn’t have to stop there! Whether it’s parking along the cliffs of the Great Ocean Road for a sunset watch or exploring the remote waters of Exmouth, a campervan is your best companion for exploring the best whale watching in Australia. Plus, for those travelling with furry friends, many campervan rental options are pet-friendly, making it easier to plan pet-friendly holidays while exploring the best things to do in Australia.

 

The 12 Best Spots in Australia for Whale Watching

Now, where is the best place to see whales in Australia? From the serene bays of Queensland to the bustling harbours of New South Wales, each of the following spots for whale watching in Australia offers a unique vantage point to observe these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you’re steering your campervan down scenic drives or anchoring down near top-notch viewing areas, this guide will lead you to the best whale-watching experiences Australia has to offer.  

 

1. Hervey Bay, Queensland

If you have been asking yourself, “What is the whale-watching capital of Australia?” — Hervey Bay is it. This quaint little seaside town offers a front-row seat to the humpback whales' spectacular display during their annual migration. This tranquil spot is renowned for its calm waters, which provide ideal conditions for whales to frolic and rest before continuing their journey. This area is especially prolific due to the high potential to see whales and calves on their return journey. Beyond whale watching, Hervey Bay enchants travellers with its charming esplanade, dotted with cafes and shops, and access to K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island), a World Heritage-listed paradise. To reach Hervey Bay, drive your campervan north from Brisbane, a journey of about 3.5 hours. Convenient campgrounds near the beach offer easy access to whale-watching tours and ensure a comfortable stay in your van travel adventure.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

2. Gold Coast, Queensland

The vibrant city of the Gold Coast is not only famous for its surf beaches and nightlife but also as a thrilling whale watching destination. Departing from the Gold Coast, whale-watching tours offer a dynamic experience as humpback whales perform breathtaking breaches close to the shore. While in the area, explore the bustling seaside markets or take a dip in the clear blue waters. Travelling to the Gold Coast is straightforward, with a short drive south from Brisbane. For campervan parking, several beachfront parks provide prime locations to stay close to the action, making it easy to hop on early morning tours or simply marvel at these ocean giants from the oceanside cliffs. 

 

3. Port Douglas, Queensland

Port Douglas serves as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and a phenomenal place for whale watching. The region's crystal-clear waters and proximity to the Coral Sea attract humpback whales, offering spectacular sightings from July to September. While here, you can also tick off a few of the best things to do in Australia, including snorkelling in the reef and exploring the Daintree forest. Port Douglas can be reached by a scenic drive north from Cairns, which takes about an hour in your campervan. There are ample campgrounds along the coast that accommodate campervans, providing easy access to both the town and departure points for whale-watching cruises.

 

4. Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney’s iconic coastline offers more than just beautiful beaches; it’s also a prime location for whale watching in Australia. As whales migrate along the coast, they often come close enough to be seen from land, especially from headlands such as Bondi and Manly. For those seeking a closer look, you will find plenty of whale-watching boat tours departing from Sydney Harbour. Best of all, Sydney is easily navigated in a campervan and parking options are plentiful near popular beaches and tour departure points.

 

5. Eden, New South Wales

Eden, located on the stunning Sapphire Coast of New South Wales, is a haven for whale-watching in Australia. The town’s strategic location offers exceptional views from vantage points like Boyd's Tower, where you can see migrating whales with remarkable clarity. Eden’s historical whaling past enriches the experience, with the Eden Killer Whale Museum providing context and insights into the local whaling history. This town also hosts an annual Whale Watching Festival in October, which celebrates the migration season with educational and cultural events. To get to Eden in your campervan, drive about six hours south from Sydney. There are several campervan-friendly sites, such as the Eden Beachfront Holiday Park, which is conveniently located for those looking for campgrounds to stay close to the sea and join the early morning whale-watching tours.

 

6. Port Stephens, New South Wales

Port Stephens is another idyllic coastal destination renowned for its clear waters and beautiful beaches, making it one of the prime spots for whale watching in Australia. The area is particularly popular for its humpback whale sightings, which can be seen from both land and sea. The Tomaree Head Summit walk offers panoramic views of the ocean, perfect for spotting these majestic creatures. To go whale watching in Port Stephens, drive approximately 2.5 hours north from Sydney in your campervan. Ample parking is available at various campgrounds around Port Stephens, such as the Halifax Holiday Park, which offers direct access to beaches and whale-watching tour operators.

 

7. Warrnambool, Victoria

Warrnambool, located along the scenic Great Ocean Road, is famous for its Southern Right Whale Nursery, located at Logan’s Beach. During the winter and early spring, female Southern Right Whales and blue whales return to these waters, providing spectators a unique opportunity to observe mother whales and their calves. From Melbourne, Warrnambool is a scenic three-hour drive along the Great Ocean Road, making it a perfect campervan road trip stop. Parking for campervans is available at the Surfside Holiday Park, which offers easy access to the whale viewing platforms at Logan’s Beach.

 

8. Great Ocean Road, Victoria

The Great Ocean Road is not only an iconic Australia road trip destination but also a superb location for whale watching in Australia. The route offers numerous lookouts, such as the Castle Rock and Teddy’s Lookout, where you can watch whales as they travel along the coast. The area is frequented by both humpback and Southern Right Whales, particularly near Apollo Bay and Portland during their migration season. Starting your journey from Melbourne, the drive is an experience in itself, with dramatic coastlines and lush rainforests. Campervans can be parked at several spots along the route, including the Great Ocean Road Tourist Park in Peterborough, which is centrally located for accessing various whale-watching lookouts along the coast.

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

 

9. Apollo Bay, Victoria

Apollo Bay — another gem nestled along the spectacular Great Ocean Road — offers a picturesque setting for whale watching near Melbourne. During the migration season, visitors can spot humpback whales and occasionally Southern Right Whales as they journey along the coast. This serene bay is perfect for those looking to combine whale watching with a relaxed beach atmosphere and scenic hikes through the nearby Otway Ranges. To reach Apollo Bay, take a scenic drive from Melbourne, which takes about three hours in a campervan. What’s more, Marengo Holiday Park offers excellent campervan-friendly facilities and easy access to the bay, providing a perfect base from which to explore the area and enjoy whale sightings.

 

10. Albany, Western Australia

Albany is renowned for its rich maritime history and as a prime location for watching Southern Right Whales and humpback whales. The town offers multiple vantage points, including Discovery Bay and the historic Albany Whaling Station, which now serves as a museum providing insights into the region's whaling past. Travellers can enhance their visit with hikes along the rugged coastline or kayaking trips in the sheltered waters. Albany is a roughly 4.5-hour drive south of Perth, making it an accessible destination for an Australia road trip. Emu Point Campsite provides ample parking for campervans, and its location is ideal for those looking to stay close to nature and whale-watching spots.

 

11. Broome, Western Australia

Broome, a coastal enclave in the Kimberley region, offers dramatic landscapes and the chance to witness humpback whales on their annual migration. The turquoise waters against the backdrop of the red cliffs provide a stunning setting for whale watching in Australia. Beyond whales, Broome's rich pearling history and the iconic staircase to the moon phenomenon are not to be missed. The drive from Perth to Broome is an adventurous road trip, covering approximately 2,200 kilometres, ideal for those looking to add a little whale-watching into a larger campervan journey. Cable Beach Caravan Park offers excellent facilities and direct beach access, making it an ideal spot for campervan travellers looking to explore Broome’s unique attractions and whale-watching opportunities.

 

12. Exmouth, Western Australia

Exmouth, the gateway to the Ningaloo Reef, is a world-renowned spot for not only whale sharks but also for observing humpback whales. The proximity to Ningaloo Marine Park allows unique on-water experiences where visitors can swim alongside whale sharks and watch humpback whales up close. The town also provides access to stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a must-visit for marine lovers. Like most of Western Australia, Exmouth is a long haul from Perth, approximately 13 hours by campervan, but well worth the distance. The Yardie Homestead Caravan Park, located halfway between the town and the national park, offers excellent amenities and easy access to the town centre and Ningaloo Reef, ideal for those seeking an extended stay in this remarkable region.

 

Think Whale Watching in Australia Sounds Like Fun?

From the serene waters of Hervey Bay to the dramatic coastlines of Broome, Australia offers some of the best whale-watching experiences in the world. Whether you're an avid marine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique adventure, whale watching in Australia is an unforgettable experience to add to any Australia road trip. Think whale watching in Australia sounds like fun? You can book your Cheapa campa online and pick it up from any Cheapa branch to begin exploring the best whale-watching spots across the continent. 

 

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Popular NSW road trips & itineraries

New South Wales, located on the southeastern coast of Australia, is bordered by Queensland to the north, Victoria to the south, and South Australia to the west. Accessible internationally via the Sydney International Airport and an achievable drive away from major cities like Brisbane (approximately 10 hours) and Melbourne (about 9 hours), NSW is ideally positioned for an Australia campervan holiday adventure. Some of the most popular road trips within New South Wales include the scenic coastal drive from Sydney to Byron Bay, the food and wine trail in the Hunter Valley, and the heritage-rich adventures around the historical towns of Bathurst and Mudgee.

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Great savings on your NSW road trip

New South Wales offers a mosaic of dazzling coastal views and exquisite natural terrains. From the iconic beaches within Sydney's bustling centre to the serene heights of its alpine regions, discover the full splendour of this region and see how you can make your travel budget go further with our incredible deals. Check out the epic savings available for your NSW road trip. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked shores or mountainous adventures, these offers help ensure your Australia campervan holiday is both memorable and affordable.

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Apollo NSW campervan branches

Sydney, a gateway to some of the most captivating NSW attractions, is also home to our Sydney Apollo campervan branch. Strategically located, it offers seamless access to iconic NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House, the Northern Beaches, and regional NSW gems. Apollo's Sydney branch is the perfect launchpad for your Australia campervan holiday, and our knowledgeable team is there to equip you with everything you need to explore urban wonders and serene landscapes at your own pace.

 

 

Helpful tips for visiting NSW

Are you excited to start planning your very own NSW Australia campervan holiday? Here are a few essential tips to consider when crafting your campervan itinerary, ranging from the best travel times and climate insights to packing essentials and must-see NSW attractions.

New South Wales boasts a climate as varied as its landscape, with coastal regions enjoying mild, breezy summers and crisp winters while the western plains see more extreme temperatures. All in all, the ideal times to visit are spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May), when the weather is most temperate, and the natural scenery is at its peak. Visiting outside the peak months means you won't have to navigate the hotter (and much busier) summers and cooler (and often rainy) winters. Travelling in the shoulder seasons also means fewer crowds and potentially lower costs for those looking to save a little on accommodation and NSW attractions.

Your packing list for an Australia campervan holiday in NSW should include versatile outdoor gear for sudden weather changes, sun protection like sunscreen and hats, and any campervan add-ons that enhance comfort, such as outdoor chairs (which are available from Apollo for hire). Don’t forget a good camera to capture the stunning views and any hiking or beach gear if you plan on heading out to explore NSW’s wild, remote regions. For more details on what to pack, check Apollo's summer campervan road trip essentials.

Wondering what to do in NSW? This state is booming with attractions, from natural beauties to man-made wonders. Here's a closer look at some must-visit things to do in NSW:

  • Sydney: As Australia's iconic face, Sydney is packed with must-see NSW attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The city's vibrant culture and bustling nightlife are complemented by serene spaces like the Royal Botanic Gardens and bustling markets like The Rocks.
  • Taronga Zoo: This zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from around the globe and offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour. The zoo features daily animal shows, a sky safari gondola, and interactive encounters, making it a perfect day trip while exploring New South Wales.
  • Blue Mountains: Just a short drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and lush eucalyptus forests. The region is perfect for hiking, with trails leading to stunning waterfalls and overlooks and the famous Three Sisters rock formation.
  • Hunter Valley: Renowned for its exquisite wineries and gourmet dining, Hunter Valley is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Explore vineyards, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy farm-to-table meals in picturesque vineyard settings.
  • Port Stephens: Known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, Port Stephens is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. From snorkelling and sailing to sandboarding on the dunes, it offers many outdoor activities.
  • Coffs Harbour: This coastal city is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and the Big Banana, one of Australia's original 'big things'. It's also a great spot for surfing, whale watching, and exploring the surrounding natural reserves.
  • Newcastle: A blend of old and new, Newcastle boasts a vibrant arts scene, historical architecture, and a strong surf culture. Its revitalised waterfront district offers trendy cafes, galleries, and parks.
  • Booderee National Park: Located at Jervis Bay, this national park is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and abundant wildlife. It's an excellent spot for camping, fishing, and bushwalking.
  • Kiama: Famous for the Kiama Blowhole, this charming seaside town offers scenic coastal walks and a laid-back atmosphere. The blowhole is a natural spectacle where seawater spouts high into the air from the rocks.
  • Port Macquarie: A historic town with a rich convict past, Port Macquarie has stunning coastal walks, beautiful beaches, and a koala hospital where visitors can learn about conservation.
  • Batemans Bay: Ideal for nature lovers, Batemans Bay is located at the entrance of the Clyde River and is surrounded by forests, estuaries, and national parks. It's popular for fishing, boating, and kayaking, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Sydney.

New South Wales offers a variety of campervan accommodation options, ranging from beachfront caravan parks to secluded free camping spots. For those looking to wake up to ocean views, there are plenty of stunning beachfront caravan parks in NSW that offer prime locations and amenities. Holiday parks in NSW are also for the whole family! Families can enjoy the comforts and activities at family-friendly campsites in NSW as well as family-friendly campgrounds in Sydney, while pet owners will appreciate the pet-friendly campsites across NSW that welcome even the furriest members of the family. For those seeking a more rustic experience, NSW's free camping spots provide a perfect way to save a few pennies, all while connecting you with nature. Notable parks like South West Rocks Holiday Resort on the mid-north coast, Lake Mac Holiday Parks in Lake Macquarie, and Norah Head Holiday Park on the Central Coast offer excellent facilities and stunning natural surroundings, making them ideal bases for exploring the state in a campervan.

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