The ultimate guide to whale watching in Dunsborough

Are you a nature lover looking for a magical experience? Does watching whales and dolphins frolic in their natural habitat sound like a good time? Then whale watching in Dunsborough is for you!

Dunsborough is a relaxed coastal town where the bush meets the beach. It’s located in the South West of Western Australia, approximately two and a half hours drive from Perth.

The Dunsborough region of Western Australia stands out with breathtaking bays which are characterised by stacks of granite boulders, leafy canopies and crystalline turquoise water. 

The Dunsborough region is one of the few areas of the world in which the Humpback whale and Southern Right whales choose as their breeding ground, nursery and playground during their yearly migration up and down the coast. Minke whales and blue whales sometimes also make an appearance in the area, making Dunsborough one of the best locations to go whale watching and have a unique wildlife experience in WA. 

Whale watching season in Dunsborough runs from late September to Early November.

Where is Dunsborough?

The vibrant coastal town of Dunsborough is located just below Cape Naturaliste and West of Geographe Bay in the Margaret River Region of Western Australia. The area is rightfully a favourite holiday destination for many, and it is not hard to see why! 

The town has a modern yet laid-back, country feel to it. The surf beaches are just five minutes away. The natural beauty of the land and the ocean are hard to miss especially for city dwellers who want to escape the hustle and bustle. The air and the water are unpolluted. You will not regret taking that deserved holiday to relax in this beautiful region. 

It’s also important to note that the town won the Western Australia Top Tourism Awards for best-known towns of less than 5000 in 2013. While compared to the neighbouring town of Margaret River, Dunsborough is in closer proximity to Perth and the beaches, making it a desirable destination.

In the town centre, you will find everything you could want for the perfect holiday, including artesian restaurants, bars and cafes, charming shops and boutiques, banks, ATMs and supermarkets. 

The region also has a burgeoning craft beer industry, artisans galore and a serious coffee culture, which all tell the story of the town.

You won’t have to worry about accommodation, there are plenty of options ranging from budget camping to luxurious villas, beach houses and apartments. Just be sure to book ahead during peak times and school holidays. 

Getting to Dunsborough

The easiest way to get to Dunsborough is by car. It’s a pleasant 2-hour and 40-minute drive south of Perth, with plenty of places to stop for coffee or fuel up along the way.

Alternatively, you could get to Dunsborough by hopping on a luxury bus which allows you to relax and soak up the beautiful scenery. South West Coach Lines or TransWA are two good options for those looking to bus from Perth to Dunsborough. 

Weather in Dunsborough

Dunsborough weather is quite inviting nearly all year round – you can expect it to be clear and yet windy for most of the year.

Dunsborough winters are cool and wet, and slightly longer than the summers. 

If you prefer warmer environments, the best time to visit Dunsborough in Western Australia is mid-December to late March, when the weather is warm and dry. 

Best time to go whale watching in Dunsborough

A staggering 40 000 whales migrate along Western Australia’s coast each year! Affectionately nicknamed “Humpback Highway”, it’s a great place to spot plenty of whale species.

While migration periods differ slightly year to year due to food availability, the whale watching in Dunsborough season is early September to late November. At this time the weather tends to be warming up and days are lovely and clear. 

From June to August Humpback whales migrate north from Antarctic waters along WA’s coastline to their breeding grounds off the Kimberly region. They later migrate back south to their Antarctic feeding grounds from August to November. This southern migration is your best time to catch a glimpse of these gentle giants, as they tend to venture closer to shore. The shelter of Geographe Bay provides a resting spot for Humpbacks and their calves, making Dunsborough a great place to spot them. 

Similarly to Humpback whales, Southern Right whales migrate north from Antarctica during winter and journey back to their feeding grounds around November. However, Southern Right whales do not travel as far north as humpbacks to give birth. A popular nursery ground for these majestic creatures is located a little further south in the Augusta region. 

Why go whale watching in Dunsborough?

Whale watching in Dunsborough is a bucket-list-worthy experience! There is something so magical and exciting about spotting one of these massive mammals breach – propelling itself out of the water before it comes crashing back down onto the ocean’s surface. 

Ever thought of how breathtaking it would be to get up close and personal with these animals? To put it into perspective, imagine yourself close to a humpback whale the size of a bus (or in the case of the blue whale, the size of a Boeing 737!) – you’ll be flabbergasted and overwhelmed at their sheer enormity. It is understandable that humans would want to learn more about these majestic creatures as well as their natural environment.

Going whale watching is more than the name suggests. If you love outdoor adventure, you’ll love being in Dunsborough. The trip comes with added bonuses like being able to relax on the bright white sandy beaches, lazing in the sun and going for a cool dip in the magnificent turquoise water. All followed up with a well-deserved beer that’s local to the region. 

Just one of these scenic nearby locations is Meelup Beach – one of the top tourist destinations in Dunsborough which s famed for its grassed area which provides relaxing shades during summer. During the whale season which is mostly around September to early November, it is easy to spot these spectacular marine giants right from the shore of the beach. 

However, the best way to get get a look at these mammals is by going on a whale watching tour, where you’ll be able to get up close and personal with these gentle giants.

Going on a whale watching tour offers more than you bargain for as you’ll also get to spot plenty of other local wildlife, like the beautiful and friendly dolphins which can be found off the coast of Dunsborough. Moreover, you may get to see seals and seabirds as well, so be prepared for a fun-packed adventure.

Whale watching is not only beneficial for you but to the local communities too. Whale watching tourism has grown rapidly over the years, therefore providing direct and indirect sources of income to regional communities. 

Several coastal communities have been transformed by receiving thousands of tourists annually, who make significant long-term contributions to the local economy. In Dunsborough for instance, the income and jobs generated by whale watching instills feelings of pride among locals and also fosters a sense of stewardship for the whales and dolphins upon which the local economy depends.

During the whale watching tour, passengers are educated on responsible ways to take care of the environment and promote the animals’ welfare. The education element is especially important in raising awareness on whale protection and conservation of their natural habitats. 

Amazingly, humpback whales have recently been delisted as an endangered species. At the peak of the commercial whaling industry, their numbers were as low as 1500, but after 60 years of conservation efforts, their numbers are now estimated to be at around 40 000! However, they are a protected species as they still face a number of threats. The Southern Right whale is unfortunately still classified as an endangered species, with an Australian population of only 3500.

While no longer facing the threat of whaling, they still face a range of threats, including being entangled in fishing gear or being struck by a vessel from shipping traffic. Their huge size notwithstanding, six of the thirteen species of whales are classified as endangered as a result of fisheries bycatch and vessel collision which interferes with their natural habitat. 

Interestingly, whale watching helps to collect data on whale distribution and changing patterns. Government and conservationist partners have teamed up with the tours in Dunsborough to collect information regarding whale distribution, their habitat use and patterns of behaviour, which have resulted in several scientific publications. 

Whales may also be affected by non-visible effects which may include increased stress levels due to constant noise from boat engines or disturbance of their natural habitat. So it is important that responsible whale watching is carried out and unnecessary trips are reduced.

Whale watching is therefore not only fun but also an informative adventure you shouldn’t miss for anything.

Where to whale watch in Dunsborough

In Dunsborough, whales can be seen from onshore vantage points with a pair of binoculars or even the naked eye. However, for the best whale watching experience join a whale watching tour so you can get up close and personal with these impressive animals! 

Naturaliste Charters offer an amazing Dunsborough Whale Watching Eco Tour. They’re highly experienced, running professional whale watching tours in the region for more than 27 years. 

The tour is approximately 2.5 hours in duration and departs at 10am and 2pm daily. Visitors will have the chance to spot Humpback whales, Southern Right whales, Blue whales and Minke whales, as well as fur seals, dolphins and plenty of sea birds! The crew are well versed in marine science and provide educational and interesting commentary throughout the tour. 

Visitors set off on board a 20-metre catamaran that has all the facilities you’ll need like bathrooms and access to the Captain’s Lounge. A complimentary morning or afternoon tea is also offered onboard. 

The tour is family-friendly and safe for kids, with safety rails around the catamaran and children’s lifejackets available. 

Wherever you are whale watching, It’s important to do it safely, with whale conservation in mind. Check out the Department of Parks and Wildlife Whale Watching brochure to brush up on all the rules before you head out on your trip.

What to pack for whale watching in Dunsborough

Now you’re off on your whale watching trip, what should you pack? Ensure you have the most comfortable trip you should wear light and comfortable clothes and bring:

• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Sturdy closed-in shoes
• Waterbottle
• Snacks 

Where to Stay in Dunsborough

Not sure where to stay during your whale watching trip? Here are some great options for accommodation in and around Dunsborough.

Smiths Beach Resort, Yallingup

Located just a 10-minute drive from Dunsborough, Smiths Beach Resort, Yallingup is for those seeking ultimate beachfront luxury. Nestled right on the sands of Smiths Beach with sweeping views of the sparkling Indian Ocean, this award-winning resort offers a range of accommodation types, from one-bedroom beach shacks to four-bedroom beach houses, villas and apartments. 

Stylish and minimal with large windows, you’ll feel like you’re truly immersed in nature. Smiths Beach resort also offers world-class dining in Lamont’s restaurant, swimming pools and tennis court, in-room massage and yoga classes. 

Dunsborough Beach Lodge

Dunsborough Beach Lodge provides quality, affordable accommodation right in the heart of Dunsborough. It offers dorm-style rooms with shared bathrooms as well as private rooms with ensuites.

This clean and comfortable accommodation is perfect for holidaymakers looking to enjoy the region without breaking the bank.

Yallingup Lodge Spa Retreat

Yallingup Lodge Spa Retreat is a spa retreat located on 7 acres of peaceful bushland. It’s designed to provide guests with a relaxing break from everyday life. Spa Suites all have their own private rainwater spa. There are also glamping options as well as pet-friendly suites. 

Guests can indulge in ultimate relaxation at the OM day spa, receiving treatments such as soothing massages and rejuvenating facials.

Ramada Resort By Wyndham Dunsborough

Located just a 7-minute drive from the heart of Dunsborough, Ramada Resort by Wyndham Dunsborough (AKA Club Wyndham) is a fantastic option.

This resort offers plenty of room styles to suit each and every traveller. From rooms that can sleep 2 people to rooms that can sleep 8 guests, they offer stylish and comfortable accommodation. They also offer condo-style suites with self-contained kitchens, living areas and full balconies/patio areas. 

You’ll find a full range of facilities, including a pool, bar, restaurant, spa, gym, tennis court and a volleyball court and children’s playground. 

Seashells, Yallingup

Seashells Yallingup is just 8 minutes from the centre of Dunsborough, Seashells overlooks the beautiful Caves House heritage gardens. 

Seashells offers a variety of apartment-style accommodation options, each with a private balcony overlooking the gardens. 

There is plenty to do at Seashells Yallingup. Visitors can enjoy a walk through the beautiful gardens and spot the local wildlife. Pop into Caves House next door for a beer and lunch and enjoy some live music. There is even the occasional markets on the lawn and outdoor twilight movies on the lawn. 

Fun facts about whales

Want to be a whale expert before you head off on your whale watching adventure? Here are some quick whale facts:

• Whales are the largest mammals on the planet
• They are warm-blooded and breathe air just like human beings 
• Unfortunately, each whale gets caught in a fishing net at least once in its lifetime
• An estimated 35000 whales migrate between June and December
• Humpbacks live on their fat deposits for nearly six months during their migration
• Whales can be playful 
• Blue Whale is the largest of the whale species, reaching up to 30 meters long and weighing up to 200 tons!
• Humpback whales can be as long as 17 meters, weighing up to 40 tons

Last words on Whale Watching in Dunsborough

There you have everything you need to know about whale watching in Dunsborough. Make sure you get up close and personal with these majestic beauties on your next trip down south – you won’t be disappointed! 

Have you been whale watching in Dunsborough? How was your experience? Comment and share below!

Looking for more weekend inspiration? 

We’re so lucky to have some absolutely spectacular spots so close to the city! Why not go fishing in Augusta or fishing in Dunsborough while you’re down south? You can also check out the Best things to do in Augusta. Or go exploring the Caves of Margaret River. Or head up north on a Cervantes road trip? How about going snorkelling in Exmouth? Or for more wildlife experiences check out the Jurien Bay Sea Lions or Hamelin Bay Stingrays.

Whale Watching in Dunsborough FAQ:

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