NORTH Stradbroke Island is being tipped as one of Australia’s premier whale watching hotspots for 2026, with tourism operator SeaLink Marine & Tourism highlighting Minjerribah as a must-visit destination during this year’s migration season.
Each year, tens of thousands of humpback whales travel up to 10,000 kilometres along Australia’s east coast in one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife movements – the so-called “humpback highway”.
For Redlands Coast residents, that global phenomenon is playing out right on their doorstep.
From June through November, the headlands at Point Lookout offer sweeping ocean views and frequent sightings of humpback whales as they migrate north to breed and south again with their calves.
Unlike many destinations that rely on boats, Straddie’s appeal lies in its accessibility, with tourists along North Gorge Walk often able to spot whales breaching, tail-slapping and travelling in pods.
SeaLink General Manager South East Queensland Ben Renwick said North Stradbroke Island was one of the country’s standout land-based whale-watching locations.
“North Stradbroke Island is one of Australia’s premier land-based whale-watching destinations, with Point Lookout regarded as one of the best vantage points along the humpback highway,” Mr Renwick said.
“From June to November, humpback whales migrate past the island, often travelling remarkably close to shore.
Visitors can experience the migration from Straddie’s beaches and headlands, as well as the iconic Gorge Walk and Point Lookout itself.
“Even after seeing it year after year, it never gets old spotting a whale breaching or tail slapping off the coastline.
There’s something incredibly special and humbling about witnessing these animals in their natural environment; it’s a truly memorable experience that stays with people long after they leave.”
The deck at The Straddie Hotel also provides a popular vantage point, with elevated views out over the ocean making it an ideal place to catch passing whales.
“Lucky Straddie Hotel guests that visit its stunning function space get treated with their very own whale viewing platform from the new deck with uninterrupted views over Cylinder Beach,” owner Greg Hazell said.
The island was singled out by SeaLink among a national list of top whale-watching locations, alongside destinations such as K’gari, the Whitsundays and Sydney Harbour.
SeaLink Marine & Tourism chief executive Donna Gauci said the annual migration continued to captivate visitors from around the world.
“Watching whales in the wild is a truly moving experience,” she said.
“Through our experiences across Australia, we’re proud to help guests connect with these incredible animals.”
