Phillip Island is off the south coast of Victoria in Australia so it’s a nature and wildlife lovers paradise. The Whale Discovery Trail is just one of many things that sets it apart from other island attractions; you can watch these incredible creatures swim along the coast every year as they make their annual migration. Plus it’s a whale watching route and a scenic coastal walk and showcases the island’s coastline and marine life.
Phillip Island Coastal Wonders
The island has some of the most beautiful coastlines in Victoria. From Cape Woolamai’s dramatic cliffs to Pyramid Rock’s beaches, there’s a lot of landscape from which to get inspiration. The purpose of the Whale Discovery Trail was to showcase the island’s natural beauty at points where people can see whales and other native animals. It goes through bushland walks, seaside villages, and coastal areas, where you can see marine life and enjoy great views.
The Whale Season
Whale watching at Phillip Island is best done in winter (June–October) and early spring. It’s called “whale season” when you can see various types of whales including Humpback Whales. At this time, the coastal waters at the island are hotspots for sightings as they are part of the whale migration route they travel every year.
The Amazing Annual Migration
Every year, the whales migrate, and it’s an incredible spectacle that fascinates observers, scientists and anyone who loves natural life. This journey is one of the longest ever travelled by any mammal from cold, nutrient-rich Antarctic waters to their warmer breeding grounds in higher latitudes. As they pass through the coastal waters of Phillip Island, this migration allows visitors to get up close and personal with these creatures. The Bass Coast Whale Discovery Trail has several great spots for whale watching, and this event can be seen here.
Join a Phillip Island tour from Melbourne and embark on an unforgettable journey to see migrating whales. Enjoy nature while exploring the Bass Coast Whale Discovery Trail!
Majestic Migrants: Humpback Whales
But apart from humpbacks, other marine animals inhabit the island’s coastal waters. Southern Right Whales, Blue whales and different species of dolphins. And around the island there’s a seal colony with friendly seals that swim curiously among them and various birds including the shy albatross. Plus kids can learn about whales through fossilized whales, water activities and more at the island.
Other Species to Look Out For
Besides humpbacks, southern right whales and blue whales are also in these waters around Phillip Island. A couple of others are killer whales orcas and shy albatross so it’s one of the best places in the world for bird watching marine mammals. That’s why it’s a top spot for people who come here to see these amazing creatures.
Trail Locations
Along the Phillip Island coast, there are certain spots that are key to the Whale Discovery Trail. Here are a few other locations where you can get up close to these big ocean dwellers.
Cape Woolamai
Phillip Island has one of the best whale watching spots within Cape Woolamai. It’s high and you can see right down the ocean so it’s a great spot to see whales. The rugged coastline and cliffs just add to the experience of whale watching and give you a different perspective on their migration.
Pyramid Rock
Another whale-watching spot near Cape Woolamai is Pyramid Rock. They are on layers of rock shaped like pyramids and look great when viewed from above. The area has good vantage points and is popular with people who want to see whales.
Wildlife Coast Cruises
If you want to see these gentle giants up close, book a Wildlife Coast Cruise whale watching tour. These cruises allow you to see whales and other marine mammals like seals up close, which makes the whole experience more enjoyable. They are popular with many visitors who want to make the most of these experiences because they have knowledgeable guides and comfortable boats.
Fly
If you really want to make it unforgettable, make sure you fly over Phillip Island. A bird’s eye view of these whales can be achieved through aerial tours over the island where you can see them from different angles and see the whole migration and the surrounding landscape.
From Land
If you prefer to stay on terra firma, there are several land based viewing platforms and paths along the Whale Discovery Trail where Humpback Whales can be seen in close proximity (WINE). They are positioned to increase your chances of seeing whales that pass through. By having well maintained tracks with good viewing points, whale watching is easy.
Where to See Whales on Phillip Island and Surrounds?
Other places to spot whales besides Cape Woolamai are also on Phillip Island. These are:
- The Nobbies: A place with stunning views of the coast and huge seal colonies. You can also see whales here.
- Summerland Peninsula: There are several points along the coast where you can watch whales.
- Rhyll Inlet: Many people go here to watch the waves quietly.
FAQ
When should I visit Phillip Island for whale watching?
The best time to come to Phillip Island just for bird watching would be June to October when big movements of Humpback Whales are recorded here.
What types of whales can I see on Phillip Island?
Phillip Island has a variety of species as they pass by close by, including Humpback Whales, southern right whales and occasional blue and killer ones.
Are there guided whale watching tours on Phillip Island?
Wildlife Coast Cruises and Dolphin & Whale Cruises offer guided tours where passengers listen to educational talks and see these sea creatures up close (sic).
What other wildlife can I see on Phillip Island?
Also Little Penguins which are world famous live here and various bird species such as shy albatrosses and fur seals marking their territory among others.
Do I need to hire a boat to see whales from the shore?
You can see whales from the shore at Cape Woolamai and Pyramid Rock. But if you want to see them up close then whale cruises or scenic flights might be for you.
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