Whale Season 2026: Watch Humpbacks from Ballina’s Doorstep
Every year from June through to November, thousands of humpback whales migrate along the coast between Ballina and Byron Bay. It is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the Australian east coast, and Ballina is right in the middle of it.
Whether you prefer watching from the headlands or getting out on the water, whale season in Ballina offers something for everyone. And in 2026, there are two excellent local operators running daily tours straight from the Richmond River.
When Is Whale Season?
Humpback whales begin their northward migration from Antarctic waters in late May and early June, travelling up the east coast towards warmer breeding grounds in Queensland. The return journey south with newborn calves typically runs from September through November, when mothers and calves travel closer to shore and are often seen resting and playing in the shallower coastal waters.
Peak whale watching season along the Ballina and Byron Bay coastline generally runs from June to October, with the best months for close encounters typically being July, August and September.
Ballina Byron Marine Adventures
Ballina Byron Marine Adventures is a new, locally owned and operated family business with deep ties to the Ballina region and a lifelong connection to these waters. Their whale watching tours run seven days a week throughout the season (weather and ocean conditions permitting) aboard a fast, comfortable vessel purpose-built for whale watching.
Tours depart from the RSL Club Ballina Floating Pontoon, directly in front of the RSL Club Boardwalk, with free parking available at the RSL. Planned departure times are 8:00am, 10:30am, 1:00pm and 3:30pm, with each tour running for approximately two hours.
Beyond whale watching, Ballina Byron Marine Adventures also offers dolphin encounters, scenic river cruises, sunset adventures and private charters throughout the year.
Out of the Blue Adventures
Out of the Blue Adventures has built a strong reputation as the region’s top-rated whale watching experience, and for good reason. Their tours are guided by a passionate marine biologist who shares in-depth knowledge of humpback whale behaviour, the local marine environment and the Cape Byron Marine Park ecosystem.
Tours depart from Lance Ferris Wharf on Fawcett Street in Ballina (directly in front of The Wharf Bar and Restaurant) aboard a modern, purpose-built eco vessel designed for 360-degree viewing and a smooth, comfortable ride. The vessel carries a maximum of 20 to 25 passengers, keeping the experience intimate and personal.
One of the standout features is their underwater hydrophone, which allows you to listen to live humpback whale song during the tour. Cruise times operate at 7:30am, 10:00am, 12:30pm and 3:00pm daily during the season (June to October). Out of the Blue is so confident you will see whales that they offer a free return trip if you do not spot one.
Outside whale season, Out of the Blue runs dolphin watching tours, Julian Rocks snorkelling trips from Brunswick Heads, coastal adventures and sunset river cruises.
Watching from Shore
If you prefer to stay on dry land, Ballina and the surrounding coastline offer some excellent vantage points for spotting whales as they pass. Some of the best spots include:
Pat Morton Lookout, Lennox Head is widely regarded as one of the best whale watching viewpoints on the Northern Rivers coast. The elevated headland gives a panoramic view of the coastline and whales are often seen breaching, tail slapping and blowing just offshore.
Ballina Head (Lighthouse Beach Lookout) offers a high vantage point over the open ocean and is easily accessible from town.
Flat Rock, East Ballina is a popular spot for locals, where you can sit on the rocks and watch the ocean. Whales regularly pass within view during the season.
Angels Beach and Sharpes Beach both provide long stretches of coastline where you can walk and watch for spouts and breaches along the way.
Binoculars are a must for shore-based watching. Early morning and late afternoon often provide the calmest conditions and best light.
Your Whale Watching Base on the Richmond River
Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina sits right on the Richmond River, just minutes from both departure points for the local whale watching tours. Wake up to river views, head out for a morning whale watching cruise, and be back at the hotel for lunch. It does not get much easier than that.
Whale season coincides beautifully with winter in Ballina, when the days are mild and sunny and the town is quieter. It is one of the best times to visit.
Book your stay directly and experience whale season on the Northern Rivers.
