Complete Guide to Whale Watching in Busselton (2024)

Here in Western Australia, we’re so lucky to have whales migrate along our coastline each year and Busselton is one of my favourite places to spot these beauties! 

Busselton is a charming coastal town located in the Margaret River Region in Western Australia, just 2.5 hours south of Perth. It’s a great place for a weekend getaway or stop on your classic ‘down south’ road trip. Busselton is located within Geographe Bay – where whales rest on their migration journey so it’s a great place to spot them. 

If you’re heading to Busselton on a Perth weekend getaway be sure to add this activity to your list! Here I’ll share all the tips and tricks to ensure you get the most out of your Busselton whale-watching adventure.

Whale Watching Season in Busselton

I love unique wildlife experiences so I always look forward to WA’s whale watching season! Busselton’s whale watching season usually starts in September and runs until November. 

From June to August, humpback whales migrate from their feeding grounds in Antarctica to the Warmer waters of Western Australia’s Kimberley Region to mate, calve and nurse their young. They make the return journey between August to November and this is the best time for whale watching as they tend to stick closer to the shore and you may even be lucky enough to spot the mothers interacting with their new young!

Whale Species in Busselton

Nicknamed ‘humpback highway’, a staggering 40,000 whales migrate along the coast of WA each year, making it one of the best places to go whale watching in Australia. When whale watching in the area you’ll most likely spot Humpback and Southern Right Whales. However, Blue and Minke Whales also make the occasional appearance. Here’s more info on each species: 

Humpback Whales

Humpbacks are one of the most frequently sighted species during the season. These gentle giants are a favourite of whale watchers as their acrobatic displays are super impressive. You’ll see moves like breaching, tail slapping and spy-hopping. Humpbacks can grow to an impressive 16 metres in length and weigh up to 36,000 kg!

Southern Right Whales

Another common species sighted during the season, Southern Right Whales can grow up to 18 metres in length and weigh up to 80,000 kg and are known for their distinctive callosities, which are raised patches of rough skin on their heads. You’ll see these beauties indulging in plenty of playful behaviour, such as breaching and tail slapping. 

The numbers of Southern Right Whales were drastically reduced during whaling in the 1800’s. They were known as the ‘right whale’ due to their high meat and oil content. Fortunately, numbers have been steadily increasing since the world moratorium on whaling was declared in 1986. 

Blue Whales

Perhaps one of the most exciting species to spot, the Blue Whale occasionally makes an appearance in the area. Known as the largest animal on the planet, the Blue Whale can grow up to 31 metres in length (think: almost the length of a Boeing 737!) and can weigh up to a whopping 150,000 kg! 

Unfortunately, Blue Whales are classified as endangered – only an estimated 10,000 to 25,000 are left worldwide. Global warming threatens their food supply and the human impacts of marine pollution and unintended injury by commercial fishing operations threaten these impressive creatures today. 

Minke Whales

If you spot a Minke Whale on your adventure consider yourself lucky! Sightings in WA are rare as not much is known about the migratory patterns of Minke Whales. 

Minke Whales can grow around 9 metres and can weigh up to 9 200 kg. They’re inquisitive and will often approach boats or people in the water. 

Where to Go Whale Watching in Busselton

Geographe Bay is a resting ground for these gentle giants so Busselton is perfect for a whale-watching adventure! In Busselton, whales can be seen from the shore if you’re lucky. Some of the best places to spot whales are the Port Geographe Marina, Busselton Jetty and the Busselton Foreshore. However, for the best whale-watching experience join a whale-watching tour so you can get up close and personal with these majestic creatures!

If you opt for land-based spotting, you’ll need to be patient and pack the binoculars! Here are some of the best places to spot whales from the shore in Busselton:

Port Geographe Marina

One of the best places to go whale watching in Busselton is the Port Geographe Marina. It’s a great location for those who want to avoid the crowds of the Busselton Jetty and enjoy a more intimate experience. The marina is a short 10-minute drive from the town centre and there’s plenty of parking available.

Busselton Jetty

Busselton Jetty reaches a whopping 1.8km out into the waters of Geographe Bay and is a popular tourist destination. Being the longest timber-piled Jetty in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s no wonder whales can be spotted as they cruise past. 

While you’re here, take the train ride to the end, go snorkelling around the pylons, check out the underwater observatory or just grab a coffee and go for a stroll. 

Entry onto the jetty is $4 per day and there’s plenty of parking nearby. 

Busselton Foreshore

The Busselton Foreshore is another great location for whale watching. It’s a beautiful spot with plenty of grassy areas, picnic tables, playgrounds and BBQ facilities. The foreshore is also wheelchair accessible. Once you’re done whale spotting you can head to Shelter Brewing Co. for a well-deserved beer!

Best Whale Watching Tour in Busselton

If you want a better chance at spotting whales and getting up close and personal, your best bet is to join a whale-watching tour. 

The Whale Watching Busselton tour by All Sea Charters is your best option for spotting whales in the area – it’s got an almost perfect 5-star guest rating on Tripadvisor. Their experienced guides will take all the guesswork out of whale watching. 

The tour is approximately 2.5 hours in duration and departs in the morning and afternoon from the front of the Deck Restaurant in the Port Geographe Marina complex. Your ticket will give you access to the Busselton Jetty so you can explore after your tour – bonus.

You’ll board the Vessel and be off and away into the bay and out to sea. The crew are super knowledgeable and friendly and when they spot whales the skipper will turn the boat to give you the best view so you can take some great pictures! When the experience is over you’ll head back to shore to the original departure point.

Keep in mind that the tour is dependent on weather – if it has to be cancelled you’ll be able to reschedule for a different date or receive a full refund. Remember it can be a bumpy ride – they stock Anti-Nausea wristbands for purchase but if you suffer from seasickness it’s best to bring medication so you can fully enjoy your trip.

The Whale Watching Busselton tour is also wheelchair and pram accessible.

Best time to go Whale Watching in Busselton

The best time to go whale watching in Busselton is between September and November. During these months, you’ll find migrating Humpback Whales hanging out in Geographe Bay. 

You might also spot some Blue whales and their calves around late September and October. The weather is pretty mild with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C, making it a good time to be outdoors​.

Where to Stay in Busselton

Wondering where to stay in Busselton on your whale watching adventure? I’ve got you covered! Here are the best Busselton accommodation options for each style of traveller.

AQUA Resort Busselton

Best for Luxury Travellers

Aqua Resort Busselton is a haven for those seeking comfort and recreation. Its prime location makes it a great base to explore Busselton and its surroundings. The resort holds an overall superb rating of 9.1, reflecting the satisfaction of past guests with the facilities and the serene atmosphere​.

The resort offers well-appointed villas that cater to a comfy stay, whether you’re looking to relax or step out to soak in the natural beauty of the area. Guests have access to a variety of top-notch facilities including a swimming pool, sauna, gym, and tennis courts, promising a mix of relaxation and active recreation​.

Guest reviews frequently praise the spacious and well-equipped villas, the relaxing atmosphere, and the resort’s proximity to the beach. There’s plenty of parking and the friendly front office staff add to the hassle-free experience at Aqua Resort Busselton​.

Broadwater Resort

Fantastic Location

Broadwater Resort is a delightful place to stay while exploring Busselton. It’s in an excellent location, close to local attractions and the beach. The resort holds a very good overall rating of 8.4, with guests praising the facilities, cleanliness, and comfort provided during their stay​.

Broadwater Resort offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences. From a cosy Resort Room to spacious One, Two, or Three-Bedroom Apartments and Villas, there’s something for everyone. The beachfront villas are a real treat for those looking for a relaxing seaside escape. Each room is equipped with essential amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests​.

The resort features excellent facilities including a restaurant and bar, tennis court, golf course within 3 km, and options for fishing. The availability of non-smoking rooms and tea/coffee maker in all rooms adds to the convenience. Free private parking on-site is an added bonus for those driving in. The environment at Broadwater Resort is welcoming and the staff is noted for being accommodating, making it an enjoyable place for both solo travellers and families​.

BIG 4 Breeze Holiday Parks – Busselton

Best for Families

Big 4 Breeze Holiday Parks in Busselton is a fantastic choice for a family getaway. It’s in an excellent location, close to both the beach and local attractions. The park has an overall rating of 8.5, with great facilities, cleanliness, and comfort​.

The park offers a variety of accommodation options to cater to different preferences. You can choose from Two-Bedroom Bungalows, One and Two-Bedroom Chalets, Deluxe Two-Bedroom Villas, and even options with a hot tub or spa bath for that extra touch of luxury. Each unit is designed to provide a comfy and homey stay, ensuring guests have all they need for a memorable visit.

Big 4 Breeze Holiday Parks is equipped with family-friendly facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, free parking, free WiFi, and facilities for disabled guests. The park’s friendly and helpful staff add to the welcoming atmosphere, making it a great choice for families or couples looking for a peaceful retreat. The proximity to the beach and the quiet, relaxing environment are often highlighted by guests, making it a popular choice for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty Busselton has to offer​. 

How to Get to Busselton

Getting from Perth to Busselton is a breeze, and you’ve got a few options depending on how you’d like to travel.

By Car:

The straightforward route by car covers a distance of 222 km and will have you taking in the sights of Busselton in around 2 hours and 19 minutes. It’s a pretty and easy drive and there are plenty of spots to stop and stretch your legs along the way. 

Need to rent a car?
Check Discover Cars for great deals:

By Coach:

If you’re not in a rush and fancy an easy ride, hop on the Transwa Road Coach from East Perth Station to Busselton. The coach will get you there in about 3.5 hours.

What to Pack for Whale Watching in Busselton

Prepping for a whale-watching adventure in Busselton is all about ensuring comfort while being ready to enjoy the sights! Here’s a packing list to keep you sorted:

• Weather-appropriate clothing: Light layers for the warmer months, and warmer layers like a jacket for the cooler months. A waterproof or windproof jacket could be handy too.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sandals. If you’re going on a boat, non-slip shoes are a good choice.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against the Australian sun.
• Binoculars: A pair of binoculars to get a closer look at the whales and other marine life.
• Camera: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the memorable moments. A waterproof case or cover could be useful.
• Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and keep some snacks handy to keep your energy up.
• Seasickness Remedies: If you’re prone to seasickness, consider packing some remedies like ginger tablets or sea sickness bands.
• Reusable Water Bottle: To minimise waste and stay eco-friendly.
• Backpack: A comfortable backpack to keep your hands free while you roam around.

Weather in Busselton

Busselton, with its relatively warm climate, makes for a great outdoor destination almost year-round. Here’s a glimpse into what the weather looks like through the seasons:

Summer (December to February):

The summer months are the warmest, with daytime temperatures averaging around 29°C, making it a great time for beach outings and water activities​.

Autumn (March to May):

As you move into autumn, the temperatures begin to mellow a bit. March still enjoys warm sea temperatures of around 21°C which gradually cool down as May approaches​​.

Winter (June to August):

Winter is mild with daytime temperatures hovering around 18°C in July. It’s a cool but not freezing season, allowing for pleasant outings with the right amount of layering​.

Spring (September to November):

Spring sees a gradual warming trend with temperatures often reaching up to 25°C, making it a pleasant time for outdoor exploration, including whale watching.

Last Words on Busselton Whale Watching

Whale watching is an unforgettable outdoor wildlife experience! There you have everything you need to know about whale watching in Busselton. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out my Complete Guide to Fishing in Busselton.

Have you been whale watching in Busselton? How was your experience?

Comment and share below! 

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