Call of the Wild. Victor Harbor

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Whale Watching in Victor Harbor

Nothing compares to seeing the largest mammals on earth breaching through the shimmering ocean and crashing back down through the waves. These gentle giants are found all over the world, but whale watching in Victor Harbor is truly a magical experience because the whales come to the protected bays of our shores to raise their calves in safety.

Best Spots for Whale Sightings in Victor Harbor

There are many reasons why watching in Victor Harbor is popular. During whale season there are several ways to see the whales passing by or basking in our turquoise waters.

To spot whales from the land, here are the best whale-watching vantage points:

  • Head to the top of the cliffs at The Bluff
  • Stop past Nakurami Kondoli, the whale lookout at Encounter Bay
  • Check out Basham Beach at Middleton
  • Head to Frenchman’s Lookout at Port Elliot

You can also stop by the South Australia Whale Centre or jump on their Facebook Page to check the most recent sightings in the area. Check out their interactive exhibits and activities while you’re visiting.

If you haven’t had any luck spotting whales from the shore, don’t worry. The best whale sightings in Victor Harbor happen from the sea! Hop on board The Big Duck Boat Tours and go on The Southern Ocean Adventure, departing at the end of the causeway on Granite Island. The tour takes you to inaccessible islands and areas of coastline where you can admire the spectacular views and spot seals, sea lions, dolphins and whales in the wild. Keen bird watchers can also spot sea birds fishing the surrounding waters. The tour operators will also give you valuable insights into these wonderful marine creatures.

Southern Right Whale breaching out of the ocean at Petrel Cove, Victor Harbor

Whale Season in Victor Harbor

Typically, whale season in Victor Harbor runs from late May to October when the whales migrate to the warmer, sheltered waters of Encounter Bay to socialise, court, and raise their calves before heading back down south to Antarctica. This creates the perfect excuse for a winter getaway to the region.

Visit the SA Whale Centre for a whale watching map or download the map or full brochure.

Encounter Bay Whale Trail illustrated map of the coastline from Encounter Bay to Goolwa, marking whale watching locations, visitor centres, walking trails and the Encounter Bikeway
Whale Trail brochure panels: how to identify a Southern Right Whale and a Humpback Whale, how to report a whale sighting, whale watching guidelines and the Encounter Bay Whale Trail

Looking to feel rejuvenated?

Get close to nature at Victor Harbor.

Nature & Wildlife