Have a whale of a time

Published Date
12/06/2019
News Topic
Beaches & Lifeguards
Whale

We’re entering whale season – our favourite time for coastal walks! The chance of seeing a whale in the distance means you’ll need to keep a keen eye out as you enjoy our beautiful coastline, or you can take a moment to enjoy the scenery in front of you at one of our many park benches along the way. Here’s a few hot spots to enjoy a spot of whale watching (fingers crossed!).

What you’ll see:

It’s the time of the year when humpback whales migrate north to warmer waters to give birth. They’ll return back down the coast closer to December on their way to the Antarctic when they’ll fatten up on krill, ready to breed again.

Whales can be very active or glide by without much notice. Whales are mammals, which means they’re warm blooded and breathe air. They can hold their breath for up to 90 minutes, but usually surface a little more often for air. It’s when they come up and take a breath, that we get the pleasure of seeing them – a breach is beautiful, as is lobtailing or tail or fin slapping. Why the whales do these movements is mostly unknown, but it could be a way to communicate with other whales,  a way to warn of danger, or just a way to have fun.

Here’s a few great spots in Randwick City where you might be lucky enough to get your very own whale show.

Trenerry Reserve
The ideal spot for an off-leash walk with your best friend, you can also relax on one of the park benches that are dotted along the path. Sit a while and have a chat while you take in the view. Fingers crossed some whales show themselves in the distance – often first spotted by the mist of air and water that arises from their blow hole.

Trenerry Reserve

Bundock Park
Another exceptional view, Bundock Park, located at the southern side of Clovelly Beach is a stunning place to stop for a whale watch. Take in the view after you’ve enjoyed the Coogee to Clovelly Coastal walk – a lovely meander through Gordon’s Bay with plenty to see.

Bundock Park

Cape Banks
Take some time to enjoy the Henry Head Walkway and land just north of Little Bay, at Cape Banks. This beautiful coastal walk, offers plenty of opportunity to for a little whale action. Should you miss out on a whale show, the walk itself provides boundless views that are nothing short of stunning.

Cape Banks

Mahon Pool
The grassy hill near Mahon Pool is incredibly inviting on a sunny winter’s day. Watch the ocean pool swimmers who brave the cooler water temperatures and see if you can see a humpack frolicking in the distance.

Mahon Pool

Malabar Headland
If you haven’t yet walked the Western Escarpment Walking Track, it’s a must-do on your Randwick City to-do list. It offers plenty of opportunity to enjoy the coast and endless ocean views.

Malabar Headland

Walking our coastline is such a pleasant way to enjoy a winter’s day in Sydney, we hope you take advantage of it. If you spot a whale, let us know by tagging us on Facebook or Instagram (@randwickcouncil).

Last Updated: 1 March 2022
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