4 Places to see whales from the Capricorn Coast mainland

Written By: Kerry Kerr

About the author:

Passionate about the Capricorn region, Kerry is both an employee of the regional tourism organisation and a proudly born and raised local. When she’s not in the office singing the region’s praises, you’ll find Kerry kicking back on a Capricorn Coast beach pinching herself about how lucky she is to call Capricorn her home.

Whether you’re at a lookout, enjoying some family fun on a beach, or lazing in the comfort of a high-rise apartment, there are many vantage points to see Humpback Whales from the Capricorn Coast. Pack your binoculars and your camera. We’re sharing some of the local’s land loving hots spots for watching whales.

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1. Wreck Point Scenic Lookout

The view from the Wreck Point Lookout is arguably one of the best on the Capricorn Coast, but during whale watching season it is also one of the best spots to see whales. Only a short drive from Yeppoon town centre, a viewing platform with a shaded roof making it a great place to settle in and look for the spray from whale’s blowholes.

2. Double Head, Rosslyn Bay

This high cliff top location is a spectacular option to spy the whales frolicking, this rocky outcrop is a prominent feature of the Capricorn Coast. Formed when lava forced through outer layers of rock, these trachyte plugs now provide visitors with scenic viewpoints out to the Keppel Bay islands and the coastal hinterlands. The walk entry point adjoins Rosslyn Bay Harbour and nearby Keppel Bay Marina, with Waterline Restaurant which is perfect for coffee and cake once you are done looking for whales.

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3. Singing Ship Monument at Emu Park

The view from The Singing Ship takes in Fisherman’s beach and the islands of Keppel Bay so it gives a great opportunity to spot a whale, or maybe even a turtle or dolphin, at play in the warm waters. It’s also a great place to grab some fish and chips at any time of the year.

The 40-foot-high structure represents a billowing sail, mast and rigging of Captain Cook’s Endeavour with concealed organ pipes creating music from the sea breezes. This lookout has a viewing platform and a boardwalk that leads to Emu Park’s wonderful Anzac Memorial. Emu Park is located 21km south of Yeppoon

4. Beachfront accommodation

High rise accommodation establishments make perfect man-made viewing points. Think of it as your own private grandstand to view a humpback whale at play from the comfort of your holiday accommodation.

Perched up high, be sure to check out the views from Rosslyn Bay Resort, Salt Apartments, Villa Mar Colina, Echelon Apartments and Beaches on Lammermoor Apartments in Yeppoon. Even if you don’t happen to spot a whale, you will still be treated with great ocean views for miles.

View places to stay>>

Bonus tip for viewing whales from the Yeppoon mainland.

Whales can hold their breaths for up to 20 minutes, so you may have to be patient. Be sure to bring along a picnic lunch and soak in the warm summer sunshine while taking in the views.

While there is nothing like an up-close and personal experience with a whale, Capricorn Coast also has many easily accessible land-based whale watching opportunities.