Discover the Magic of Whale Watching in Exmouth, Western Australia

Cindy Small
Jul 16
3 min read

Updated: Aug 6

Humpback Whale tail — Humpback Whale Tail

When I think about whale watching in Australia, places like Hervey Bay often come to mind first. However, tucked away on Western Australia's stunning North West Cape lies one of Australia's true hidden gems for whale lovers – Exmouth.

Every year, between August and November, thousands of humpback whales arrive in the calm, protected waters of the Exmouth Gulf during their southern migration. This is a sanctuary where mothers rest with their newborn calves. It's also where males compete for females in spectacular heat runs. You can witness breaches, tail slaps, and playful behavior right before your eyes.

While Exmouth may not receive the same level of attention as some of Australia's east coast destinations, many visitors are surprised to discover that Western Australia is home to one of the world's largest recovering humpback whale populations.

A Remarkable Conservation Success Story

One of my favorite aspects of humpback whales isn't just watching them — it's knowing their story. At the height of commercial whaling, Western Australia's humpback whale population was reduced to an estimated 600–900 individuals. Since humpback whales became protected in Western Australia in 1967, that population has recovered to more than 50,000 whales. It's one of Australia's greatest conservation success stories.

Today, those same whales — and the generations born since protection — continue their incredible annual migration along the West Australian coastline before many enter the sheltered waters of the Exmouth Gulf. This serves as a powerful reminder that when we choose conservation, nature can recover.

Humpback whale mother and calf resting in the Exmouth Gulf

Why Exmouth Is So Special

Exmouth offers something incredibly unique compared to other whale watching destinations. The Exmouth Gulf provides calm, protected waters where humpback whales can rest during their long migration. Mothers with young calves often spend time here, building strength before continuing their journey south.

Because the Gulf is so sheltered, conditions are often beautifully calm, particularly during the afternoon. We regularly experience the famous glass-off conditions that make the ocean look almost like a mirror. Combined with spectacular sunsets over the Cape Range, it creates an atmosphere that's difficult to describe until you've experienced it yourself.

Some days are filled with non-stop action. You may witness whales breaching clear of the water, enormous tail slaps echoing across the Gulf, or groups of whales charging through the water during competitive heat runs. Other days are much quieter. A mother and calf may simply rest together beneath the surface while you drift quietly nearby. Honestly? Those peaceful moments often stay with you the longest.

Calm conditions with whales spy hopping next to boat

Fewer Boats. More Space. Incredible Encounters.

One of Exmouth's biggest advantages is something many visitors don't realize until they arrive. There are simply fewer boats and fewer crowds on the water. While humpback whale numbers along the West Australian coastline now exceed 50,000 individuals, Exmouth remains a relatively uncrowded destination compared to many better-known whale watching locations.

The result is a relaxed, intimate experience where the focus stays on the whales—not on competing with dozens of other vessels. It feels more personal. More peaceful. And far more connected to nature.

More Than Just Whale Watching

At Ocean Eco Adventures, we've designed our Sunset Whale Watching Cruise to be much more than simply looking for whales. From the moment we collect you from your accommodation, the afternoon is about slowing down and enjoying everything the Exmouth Gulf has to offer.

As you cruise through calm waters, our experienced crew provides informative commentary about humpback whale behaviour, migration, and conservation while keeping a lookout for the incredible wildlife around us.

Throughout the afternoon, you'll enjoy:

Gourmet platters and canapés
Complimentary professional photography of your experience
Courtesy accommodation transfers
Plenty of room to move around our spacious vessel
The option to BYO alcohol to enjoy as the sun sets over Cape Range

Every cruise is different, and that's part of what makes them so special. Some afternoons are filled with spectacular surface displays. Others are quiet, peaceful, and deeply moving. Nature writes the itinerary.

Humpback Whale Breach
Gourmet platters served on tours
Guests getting photos taken on tour with sunset behind them

An Experience You'll Never Forget

There is something incredibly humbling about watching a humpback whale surface beside the boat as the afternoon light turns golden. Knowing these whales have traveled thousands of kilometres. Knowing many are mothers caring for newborn calves. Knowing their population has recovered because people chose to protect them.

It changes the experience from simply "seeing whales" to appreciating one of the greatest wildlife stories on Earth. If you're planning a trip to Western Australia between August and November, whale watching in Exmouth deserves a place at the very top of your itinerary.

Come for the whales. Stay for the sunsets. Leave with memories you'll never forget.