During the last couple of weeks, some lucky Coasties have had a glimpse of the start of the humpback whale migration.
A few whales have been showing themselves already off our coastline and it’s only going to get better. The northern migration starts when the whales start heading north from the summer feeding grounds in the Southern Ocean in February. They are heading north to breed and give birth, with the total migration being around 10,000 klm.
On the Central Coast we get to see these amazing creatures, heading north, from around May to August. They often travel close to shore and are wonderful to watch from some of our great local vantage points.
The best places to see whales are, Boudi Boardwalk at Putty Beach, Captain Cook Lookout at Copacabana, The Skillion at Terrigal Haven, Wyrabalong NP Lookout at Foresters Beach, Crackneck Lookout at Bateau Bay, Soldiers Beach Car Park at Norah Head, Norah Head Lighthouse and Wybung Head in Munmorah Recreation Area.
For those who are more adventurous and wanting the chance of a more up-close and personal experience, Terrigal Ocean Tours start their whale watch cruises from Terrigal Haven on May 15th. Being the local whale tour operators, they offer a unique experience with professional guides with local knowledge. The tours operate during both the Northern and Southern migration and are a great way to view these incredible animals. V
Around early September, we are fortunate getting mother whales bringing their new calves close to shore on their way back south. This is a wonderful time watching little whales learning from their mothers and often putting on a quite visual show.
So it’s time to dust off your binoculars and get prepared to enjoy “the Greatest Show on Earth”!
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