The cooler months of the year, May to September are the best months for seeing whales on Kangaroo Island. During this time, the main species found are Southern Right and the occasional Humpback Whale. Toothed whales such as Sperm whales, Pilot whales and Orcas can be found, but are usually found further offshore. The world’s largest animal, the Blue whale, feeds offshore of Kangaroo Island within the upwelling zones.
Kangaroo Island forms part of the migratory path for both Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales. Both species feed in Antarctica in the summer and then migrate north to Australia to breed and give birth (especially in southern corners of Australia). In late autumn they begin their annual migratory route to their winter breeding and calving grounds in the warmer tropical waters of the Pacific. They return south in spring.
Humpback whales are known to migrate around 5,000km on average, one of the longest migratory journeys of any mammal on Earth.
The best locations for viewing whales from the land on Kangaroo Island are:
- Penneshaw,
- Kingscote and Nepean Bay,
- Cape Willoughby,
- Pennington and Flourcask Bay,
- Vivonne Bay and Seal Bay,
- Cape Borda and Cape du Couedic.
They will be seen all around the Island, however, so keep your eyes peeled.
TOP TIPS:
- Get up high so that you get a great view
- Be prepared, have some binoculars handy
- Be patient, and have your camera ready
- Know the law
- Keep warm
- Share your sightings with the SA Whale Centre
If you are seeking an opportunity to view dolphins, seals, and potentially whales from the ocean, then take a tour with one of our marine operators.
