The 2026 humpback whales are heading for Hervey Bay again. Season runs July–October, with the best encounters in August–September. If you’re ready to go, choose a tour and book early.

Celebrate humpback whale season in Hervey Bay

EACH Queensland winter, the calm waters of Hervey Bay become one of the best places in the world to see migrating humpback whales up close.

From July to October, thousands of humpback whales arrive in the sheltered waters between Hervey Bay and K’gari, pausing on their long journey south to rest, socialise and nurture their young before continuing on. It’s one of nature’s great annual spectacles — and a defining part of winter on the Fraser Coast.

The whale season traditionally begins with the Blessing of the Fleet in mid-July, a much-loved local event that marks the official launch of the Hervey Bay whale season and honours the region’s strong connection to the sea.

From there, the annual Hervey Bay Whale Festival builds on that excitement with a vibrant program of community events celebrating the return of these majestic visitors. Locals and visitors can enjoy marine discovery experiences, talks, touch tanks, live music, lantern-making workshops, art installations, community parades and family entertainment.

One of the festival’s most meaningful traditions is the Paddle Out for the Whales, a gathering of paddleboards, kayaks and surfcraft on the bay to honour the ocean and the humpbacks that migrate through these waters each year. It’s both a celebration and a reminder of the importance of protecting marine life for future generations.

Festival events also often recognise the deep cultural connection of the Butchulla people to sea country, with storytelling, art and illuminated marine displays forming part of the program.

While dates, locations and activities can vary from year to year, the festival’s purpose remains the same: to celebrate the whales, the bay and the unique bond between them.

For details, visit https://herveybaywhalefestival.com.au/

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Aerial view of a Humback Whale with her calf above her.

FIND OUT WHEN AND WHERE TO SPOT HUMPBACK WHALES

The haunting songs of humpback whales

As we welcome humpback whales back to the bay each winter, one of the most fascinating parts of their journey is something most people never hear — their song.

Male humpback whales are famous for producing long, complex songs beneath the surface, made up of moans, cries, grunts and repeating patterns that can last for up to 30 minutes and be repeated for hours. Scientists believe these songs play an important role in communication, particularly during breeding season, although much about them remains a mystery.

What makes humpback whale songs so remarkable is that they evolve. Whales in the same population sing the same song, but over time the pattern changes, almost like a tune being rewritten each season. Researchers have found these new “versions” can spread across oceans as whales interact with other groups along migration routes.

Here in Hervey Bay, the sheltered waters provide a rare resting place for mothers and calves, as well as younger whales and escort males. It’s often during these quieter moments that underwater microphones capture the haunting calls and songs drifting through the bay.

For whale watchers, hearing a humpback song live through a hydrophone can be one of the most unforgettable parts of the experience. It’s a reminder that beneath the splashes and breaches is a rich, unseen world of communication still being explored.

Whale season is short: July–October 2026, with peak sightings in August–September. Book your tour now to secure your date and avoid the rush.

Plan Your Whale-Watching Getaway

If you’re heading to Hervey Bay or another whale-watching destination, these trusted travel partners may help you plan your trip.

Stay Close to the Action

Oaks Hotels & Resorts offers comfortable accommodation in popular coastal destinations, including Hervey Bay, making it easy to enjoy whale-watching tours, waterfront dining and local attractions.

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Explore at Your Own Pace

Whether you’re flying in or planning a regional road trip, Hertz Car Rental can help you discover more of the Fraser Coast and beyond.

HERTZ CAR RENTALS

Travel with Confidence

Unexpected disruptions can happen when travelling. AllClear Travel Insurance offers cover options, including for many travellers with pre-existing medical conditions.

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