Hervey Bay - Whale watching delights

Hervey Bay's reputation as a vibrant seaside holiday destination for families grows in strength each year. It is the jewel of the Fraser Coast, four hours drive from Brisbane or a 40 minute flight, and has a host of natural entertainments as well as offering mainland access to beautiful Fraser Island.

Hervey Bay has become famous as the best place to go to encounter humpback whales. Each year between August and October Hervey Bay really comes into its own with the return of humpback whales to the bay, on their southerly trip to the Antarctic. The season kicks off with a two week festival in August - this includes an aquatic carnival and a procession of floats, and the blessing of the fleet ceremony.

Certified tour operators regularly depart the shore of Hervey Bay with groups of whale watchers, and can explain to you the habits and idiosyncrasies of these magnificent mammals. People find the safe and calm waters of Hervey Bay are perfect for watching the whales, which put on quite a display for their admirers. You may also spot dolphins!
The bay's sheltered waters are the scene of a host of watery and boating pleasures: estuary, beach, jetty or reef and game fishing, diving, water and jet-skiing, wind-surfing and snorkelling. Its long sandy beaches are attractions in their own right and its shores are lined by a string of seaside communities: Burrum Heads, Howard, Toogoom and Torbanlea. It also offers access to the first coral cay of the Great Barrier Reef, Lady Elliott Island.