Queenslanders are very fortunate when it comes to whale watching. We get hundreds of whales passing up and down the coast each winter, and we also have mild weather and plenty of sunshine so we can get out on the water and enjoy nature putting on the show.

Whales are fantastic animals with fascinating behaviour. If they don’t already love animals, whale watching this winter in South-East Queensland will leave your kids with a life-long love of these sea-dwelling beasts.

Where To Go Whale Watching In South-East Queensland This Winter

1. Tangalooma Whale Watching | Moreton Island 

The Tangalooma Resort Day Trip is one of South-East Queensland’s most unforgettable experiences! Your day kicks off in Brisbane with a scenic ferry ride to beautiful Moreton Island, arriving just in time for the daily pelican feeding—a fun, up-close encounter with these cheeky seabirds, guided by a knowledgeable ranger.

Then it’s all aboard the whale watching boat for a three-hour cruise around the island’s northern tip. Enjoy lunch on board as you spot majestic whales breaching and playing in the bay, all with stunning views of Cape Moreton and its iconic lighthouse.

After the cruise, you’ll have time to relax and explore the resort. And if you’ve opted for the premium package, the magic continues with the chance to feed the wild dolphins that call Moreton Bay home. It’s a fun-filled, nature-packed day that’s perfect for families, couples, and anyone who loves a bit of marine magic!

2. Tasman Venture Whale Watching Tour | Urangan

Get ready for an unforgettable whale watching adventure with Tasman Venture—one of Queensland’s best! Hop aboard a luxurious 20-metre catamaran specially built for getting you closer to the action, with spacious viewing decks, an underwater camera, a hydrophone, and even underwater viewing rooms.

Watch in awe as humpback whales glide, breach and play just metres away, and soak up the incredible experience from the unique water-level viewing platform. With a friendly, expert crew on hand to guide the way, it’s the perfect mix of comfort, excitement and once-in-a-lifetime moments you’ll be talking about for years to come.

3. Sea World Whale Cruise | Gold Coast

Get ready for a whale watching experience you’ll never forget with Sea World Cruises—voted the Gold Coast’s #1 whale tour!

Start your adventure with easy parking, cafe treats, and stunning Broadwater views before hopping aboard to cruise the famous Humpback Highway. Along the way, you’ll learn amazing whale facts from passionate crew and marine researchers, spot dolphins and turtles, and witness the unforgettable magic of humpback whales up close.

Even better, every ticket helps support marine conservation through the Sea World Foundation. From start to splash, it’s a feel-good, awe-inspiring day out on the water!

4. Whale One | Mooloolaba  

For a truly unforgettable experience on the Sunshine Coast, Whale One offers more than just a whale watching cruise—you can actually swim alongside these gentle giants! With small group sizes (just 20 passengers), it’s an intimate and awe-inspiring way to connect with nature.

If conditions are right, the boat will stop about 100 metres from the whales, giving adventurous guests the chance to jump in and snorkel near these majestic creatures. Swimmers must be confident in the water, over eight years old, and kids aged 8–15 need to be accompanied by an adult. It’s an extraordinary way to see the whales up close and create a memory you’ll never forget!

5. Winter With The Whales At Paradise Resort | Gold Coast

Chase the sun and embrace the extraordinary with Winter with the Whales at Paradise Resort Gold Coast. Create unforgettable memories and dive into the adventure of a lifetime as you witness majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Book the two-night family getaway package at Paradise Resort and enjoy exclusive perks including a Whale Watching Cruise with Seaworld Cruises for every guest. Experience the thrill of seeing whales in the wild, a spectacular sight perfect for all ages.

The package also includes daily breakfast and a Kids Club or Teen Club session, plus unlimited use of the waterpark, pool and spa, and a range of daily activities and entertainment. Your Winter With The Whales getaway is bursting with delights to make your winter stay magical. Spaces are limited, so book your escape package today.

More Fun For Families In Queensland

Best Places to Go On The Sunshine Coast With Kids
10 of the Coolest Water Parks in Brisbane
Which Gold Coast Theme Park is Right for Your Family?

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