By Annie Dang
South Head: Perfect spot for whale watching.Credit: David Finnegan
Whaling watching is a popular pastime for locals and travellers alike, and this year, with between 16,000 and 18,000 whales predicted to pass the NSW coastline, Sydneysiders and tourists will be in a for whaling delight.
According to NSW National Parks and Wildlife, these figures represent more than a 10 per cent increase in the number of humpback whales passing the Sydney coastline year on year.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife says Sydney Harbour National Park has already been visited by early migrating whales. It expects that the majority of whales will pass through the area between the end of June and start of July.
The majority of migrating whales is expected to pass through the area between the end of June and start of July.
The official whale season runs from 1 June to 30 November when humpback whale migration passes Sydney's coastline, providing the perfect excuse for visitors to pop on a wind jacket and pull out a pair of binoculars, and head down to the coast for some whale watching.
These are the top five vantage points for whale watching at Sydney Harbour National Park, according to NSW National Parks and Wildlife.
North Head lookout
This lookout provides views across Sydney Harbour National Park towards South Head. It is one of the best spots for whale watching in Sydney. Head to Fairfax Lookout for sweeping Harbour panoramas and whale spotting.
Hornby Lighthouse
The Historic Hornby Lighthouse is near Watsons Bay in Sydney Harbour National Park. Walk the easy track to the lighthouse for great whale watching.
Arabanoo Lookout
Located at Dobroyd Head in Sydney Harbour National Park, Arabanoo offers fantastic views over to North Head and South Head, and the expansive Pacific Ocean beyond, making it a perfect spot for whale watching.
South Head
There's no shortage of lookouts at South Head in Sydney Harbour National Park. The Gap offers some of Sydney's finest views and fantastic opportunities for whale watching.
Shark Island
With its lush grassy areas, picnic shelters and spacious gazebo and amazing 360-degree views, the island is a great vantage point to spot whales popping into the Harbour during the migration season.
Visitors can download the Wild about Whales app to see the latest whale sightings at these locations as well as post their own sightings.
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