Looking for an unforgettable experience during your stay at Ramada Hotel Ballina? Whale watching is one of the most spectacular seasonal activities on offer — and Ballina is perfectly positioned to deliver front-row views. From June to November, thousands of humpback whales pass along the coastline as part of their annual migration, providing visitors with a rare chance to witness them breaching, tail slapping, and cruising the open ocean — often with calves in tow.
Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, family holiday or nature-based escape, Ballina’s coastal trails and marine tours offer easy and exciting ways to get close to the action. Best of all, many of the region’s most iconic lookouts and tours are just minutes from your room at the Ramada.
Best Land-Based Whale Watching Spots (All Within a Short Walk/Drive of Ramada Hotel Ballina)
You don’t need to be on a boat to spot whales — Ballina offers incredible lookouts just a short drive or walk from Ramada.
North Wall
A scenic and easy option, the North Wall is walkable from the hotel — around 20 minutes along the river. Walk out along the breakwall for clear views of whales, dolphins and even turtles during migration season.
Ballina Head Lookout
A short drive from the hotel, this clifftop viewpoint above Lighthouse Beach offers panoramic ocean views — ideal for spotting whales and catching the sunrise.
Sharpes Beach
Just a 7-minute drive away, Sharpes Beach offers both easy parking and beach access, with a lookout platform along the coastal path.
Skennars Head (via Coastal Path)
Arguably one of the most stunning whale-watching spots in the region. Start at either the north end of Sharpes Beach or south end of Boulders Beach car park, and follow the coastal path up over the cliffs to Skennars Head. This elevated lookout is a peaceful place to bring a picnic and watch for whales passing below.
Pat Morton Lookout – Lennox Head
Located 15 minutes north of Ballina, Pat Morton Lookout boasts sweeping views of the coastline, making it one of the Northern Rivers’ top whale-watching sites.
Image by @craigparryphotography
Whale Watching Tours Departing Ballina
For those who want to experience whales up close, a boat tour is the ultimate option. Luckily, one of the best-rated operators departs just a short riverside walk from Ramada Hotel Ballina.
Out Of The Blue Adventures
- Departs from Lance Ferris Wharf — an easy 5–10 minute stroll along the river from the hotel
- 2-hour eco-cruises guided by a marine biologist
- Unique hydrophone experience lets you listen to whale songs underwater
- 360° viewing on a custom vessel, with free professional photos included
- Whale sighting guarantee — or return for free!
- Tours run multiple times daily during the season
Bookings: outoftheblueadventures.com
Image by @outoftheblueadventures
Tips for a Great Whale Watching Experience
- Peak season runs from June to November, with mothers and calves most visible in September–October
- Bring binoculars, sunscreen and a windbreaker
- Boat tours book out early, so plan ahead
- Look for calm, clear days for best visibility
Stay Close to the Action at Ramada Hotel Ballina
Staying at Ramada Hotel Ballina puts you right in the heart of whale-watching country — with guided cruises, scenic lookouts and walking trails all within easy reach. Whether you’re strolling to the North Wall, heading off on a boat tour, or driving a few minutes to a cliffside vantage point, your Ballina accommodation gives you access to one of Australia’s greatest natural spectacles.
Add whale watching to your Northern Rivers itinerary this season and create a memory you’ll never forget.
