Whale watching season is still in full swing along the NSW coast, with humpbacks now making their way south towards Antarctica after spending the cooler months in warm northern waters. While there are plenty of cruises that will take you out for a closer look, you don’t necessarily need to leave dry land to catch the annual migration. Kamay Botany Bay National Park in Sydney’s south is one of NSW’s best whale watching spots, according to NSW National Parks, with sweeping views across the Pacific. On a good day, whales can pass remarkably close to shore, making it the perfect spring outing just a stone’s throw from the city. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Where to go whale watching in Kamay Botany Bay National Park
Cape Solander is the main attraction for whale watchers, perched on the Kurnell headland with an elevated viewing platform overlooking the glittering ocean. Its position along Sydney’s exposed coastline makes it particularly suitable for spotting migrating humpbacks, which can sometimes travel within 200 metres of the cliffs. Keep an eye out for the telltale spray from a blowhole in the distance, followed by a dorsal fin or tail breaking the surface. Breaching whales are also possible, while dolphins, fur seals and the occasional southern right whale are also known to make an appearance.
For more unforgettable views, continue south along the famous Cape Baily walking track, which follows the clifftops towards Cape Baily Lighthouse. The open coastal sections provide plenty of opportunities to stop and scan the water, with patches of spring wildflowers to enjoy along the route.
There’s also the option of joining a guided Whales and Wildflowers walk this spring. The two-hour ranger-led experience covers around 4km of coastline and is running on selected dates through later this September and again in October, combining whale spotting with a closer look at the vibrant seasonal wildflowers growing across the headland. Book a spot on NSW National Parks.
Key details
- Where: Cape Solander, Kurnell area of Kamay Botany Bay National Park
- Opening hours: 7am–7:30pm daily
- Entry: $8 per vehicle per day in the Kurnell area
- Parking: Available at Cape Solander lookout; spaces can fill quickly on weekends and during whale season
- Facilities: No toilets at Cape Solander; the nearest are at Commemoration Flat
- Accessibility: Accessible parking spaces are available beside the lookout
Please note: The Kurnell Visitor Centre is currently closed while upgrade works are underway.
Getting there
Kamay Botany Bay National Park is around 25km south of the Sydney CBD. By car, the trip takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour from Sydney CBD, depending on traffic, with access via Captain Cook Drive and Cape Solander Drive. Public transport is also available. Catch the train to Cronulla Station, then take the 987 bus towards Kurnell. From Kurnell, you’ll need to continue on foot into the national park to reach Cape Solander, so allow extra time for the final stretch. Plan your trip on Transport for NSW.
