Whale watching in Phillip Island is one of the most thrilling wildlife activities in Victoria. The island is approximately 90 minutes away from Melbourne by car and is famous for its stunning ocean views, rocky cliffs, and diverse marine life.
Each year, whales move through the waters of Bass Strait and frequently come near the island's coastline. Seeing a whale rise to the surface, splash water into the air, or leap out of the ocean is a moment you won’t forget. It's a great experience for families, couples, and people who enjoy nature and taking photos.
Top Whale Watching Spots in Phillip Island
- Cape Woolamai
Cape Woolamai is known for its scenic lookout and beautiful walking trails. The higher places make it easier to see humpback whales when they are migrating. It's also a nice spot for walking along the coast. - The Nobbies
The Nobbies provide a beautiful view of Bass Strait. The boardwalk is easy to access and is a major attraction on the island for watching whales. - Pyramid Rock
Pyramid Rock is quieter and less crowded. If you like a calm environment while looking for whales in the ocean, this is a good option. - Seal Rocks
Seal Rocks is home to Australia’s largest fur seal colony and is usually accessed by boat tours.
Whale Species Information
Phillip Island’s waters are part of Australia’s major whale migration route, meaning visitors commonly see two primary species during the season.
| Whale Species | Size | Behaviour | Migration Timing | How to Identify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Humpback Whale | Up to 16 metres long | Active and playful; known for breaching, tail slapping and fin waving | May – August (northbound migration), September – November (return south) | Long white flippers, rounded blow, small dorsal fin, frequent jumping |
| Southern Right Whale | 14–18 metres long | Slow-moving and calm; often rests near shore | June – September | No dorsal fin, large head with white callosities |
Best Time for Whale Watching Phillip Island
If you're watching whales from the coast, visitors usually spend one to three hours at lookout points such as Cape Woolamai or The Nobbies.
Boat tours usually take about 3 to 4 hours and start from San Remo Jetty. These tours go deeper into Bass Strait, which makes it more likely to spot whales and other sea animals.
Typical tour inclusions may include:
- Whale and dolphin sightings (not guaranteed)
- Commentary from experienced crew
- Tea, coffee and light refreshments included
Guided Experience
Joining a guided whale watching tour makes the experience even better. Marine experts share interesting facts about whale migration, behaviour and conservation.
If you're visiting for the first time and want to know the top things to do in Phillip Island, going on a guided tour is a great idea.
What to Bring
To stay comfortable during your trip, carry:
- Warm layered clothing
- A windproof or waterproof jacket
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Binoculars
- A camera with a zoom lens
- Motion sickness tablets (for boat tours)
- Drinking water
The coastal weather can change quickly, so it’s always better to be prepared.
Insider Tips (Locals Perspective)
These are the kinds of tips locals often share with first-time visitors:
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early at San Remo Jetty - parking fills quickly.
- The return migration (Aug–Sept) often gives closer sightings because whales travel nearer the coast.
- Stand near the rear deck of boats for wider viewing angles.
- Take gloves and a beanie because the wind makes it feel much colder on the ocean than on land.
- Watch for seabirds plunging into the ocean, as whales and dolphins are usually hunting close by.
- Whale activity may go up after storms because the ocean gets more nutrients.
Photography Spots
Phillip Island offers fantastic photo opportunities:
- Clifftop trails at Cape Woolamai
- The Nobbies boardwalk during golden hour
- Pyramid Rock at sunrise
- Open ocean views during boat tours
Best Time to Visit
- The whale watching season in Phillip Island usually runs from May to October.
- June to August: Peak season for humpback whale migration
- August to September: Southern right whales are often seen closer to shore
Morning and late afternoon are great times to go because the ocean is calmer and the lighting is better for taking photos.
How to Get There
- By Car: Drive on the South Gippsland Highway and then turn onto Phillip Island Road. The journey takes around 90 minutes.
- By Tour Operators: Many tour companies in Melbourne provide day trips that let you watch whales and enjoy other wildlife experiences.
- By Public Transport: Bus services are available but limited. Driving lets you move around the island however you like and when you want.
Nearby Attractions (Local Guide Recommendations)
After enjoying whale watching in Phillip Island, many visitors continue exploring the island’s famous wildlife experiences and coastal attractions.
Phillip Island Seal Watching Cruise
For another amazing adventure with marine wildlife, the Phillip Island Seal Watching Cruise takes you to Seal Rocks, where you can see Australia's biggest group of fur seals. Starting from San Remo, the cruise gives you a chance to see seals having fun and moving around the rocky shore, and you'll also hear interesting stories from local guides. It's a great way to keep exploring Phillip Island's amazing ocean wildlife after you've seen the whales.
Book your Seal Watching Cruise
Phillip Island Penguin Parade Day Tour (From Melbourne)
One of the most iconic wildlife experiences in Victoria, the Phillip Island Penguin Parade Day Tour lets you witness little penguins returning to shore at sunset. This guided day trip from Melbourne includes scenic coastal stops and expert commentary, making it ideal for visitors who want a relaxed, well-planned wildlife experience.
Book your Penguin Parade Day Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is whale watching in Phillip Island good for families?
Yes. It’s a great activity for families. Many places along the coast are safe and easy to get to, so they work well for children too. - Are whale sightings guaranteed?
No wildlife tour can promise a sighting. However, if you visit during the migration season, there is a very good chance of seeing whales. - What kinds of whales can I see?
The whales most often seen here are Humpback Whale and Southern Right Whale. - How long does a whale watching tour usually take?
Most boat tours last about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the weather and sea conditions. - Can I see whales from the shore?
Yes. There are several coastal lookout points where you can sometimes spot whales from land, especially during the migration season. - Do I need to book a tour in advance?
It’s a good idea to book ahead, especially on weekends or during school holidays when tours can fill up quickly. - What should I wear for whale watching?
Wear warm, layered clothing and bring a windproof jacket. It can get quite windy near the ocean. - Is whale watching one of the best things to do in Phillip Island?
Yes. During whale season, whale watching is one of the most exciting wildlife experiences you can have at Phillip Island. - What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours might be scheduled to another day or canceled if the weather is too dangerous. In most situations, you will either get a different date or a refund. - Can I do whale watching along with other things?
Yes. Many visitors also visit beaches, take coastal walks, visit wildlife parks, and check out other sights around Phillip Island during their trip.
