7 best spots to see whales in SA

Posted 31 May, 2019 Jeremy Rochow and Samuel Smith

Fill a flask with coffee, pack your binoculars and head for the coast – whale watching season is here.   Each year from June to September, whales flock to South Australia as part of their migration from Antarctica. Here are 7 of the best places to catch a glimpse of these majestic giants as they breach, dive and slap their tails in the water.  

1. Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is surrounded by marine life, so it shouldn’t come as surprise that the isolated area sees dozens of whales each year. About a 30-minute flight from Adelaide or a 4-hour drive and ferry trip, Kangaroo Island boasts a number of locations where you can spot our ocean’s gentle giants. If you’re lucky enough, you might even see some during the 45-minute ferry trip out to the island.   Visit Hog Bay at Penneshaw, Kingscote, or Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary for the best chance to see the mammoth mammals in all their glory. Self-drive, hire a guide or join a Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari. Extend your stay: Book a night at Emu Bay Stay where you could catch a glimpse of a whale from the balcony.    

2. Hallett Cove Conservation Park

The boardwalk encircling Hallett Cove Conservation Park is known for its beautiful coastal views, but from June to September, it’s also a great spot to watch southern right whales. So, next time you’re strolling along the dramatic clifftops or dreaming of the ricotta hotcakes you’ll devour at Hallett Cove’s Boatshed Café afterwards, make sure to pause for a second and watch the ocean. Hallett Cove Conservation Park is an easy 30-minute drive from Adelaide’s CBD. With plenty of parking, all you need to do is put on your walking shoes and follow the trail to the ocean. Extend your stay: Turn your trip into a whale watching weekend at McCloud House in Port Noarlunga. The self-contained apartments are the perfect home away from home, right by the ocean.    

3. Middleton

It’s common to see dozens of whale watchers standing on the Middleton foreshore to view the whales visiting the area. You can park your car on Miami Blvd and walk just a few metres before seeing the ocean’s giants in the distance. It’s also worth checking out other whale-watching spots at Surfers Beach and Middleton Point. Simply enjoy the road trip to Middleton Beach, park along the coast and hit the sand. Whales can be seen anywhere along the lengthy shoreline, so keep your eyes peeled. Extend your stay: After spotting our ocean’s gentle giants at Middleton, treat your taste buds at nearby McLaren Vale. Our top spots include Kimbolton Wines, Maxwell Wines and Mollydooker Wines.