Best Time to See Whales in Perth - Season Guide
Every year, more than 45,000 humpback whales travel along the Western Australian coastline on their journey south to the feeding grounds of Antarctica, passing close enough to Perth to watch from a boat window. But whale watching is a game of timing. Turn up on the right week and you might see a breach, a tail slap and a mother swimming beside her calf all in the same hour. Turn up on the wrong one and the ocean can feel a lot quieter. Here is what to know before you book.
When Is Whale Watching Season in Perth?
Perth's whale watching season runs from late August through to early November each year, lining up with the annual southern migration of humpback whales down the Western Australian coast. Our 2026 season runs daily from 21 August to 9 November, with tours departing from Hillarys Boat Harbour at 9am, plus an additional 12pm departure on Saturdays and Sundays through September and October. Outside of this window, the whales have largely moved on, so the season dates are the first thing to lock in before you plan anything else.
Peak Season: Why September and October Are the Best Months
If you want the strongest odds of an unforgettable encounter, aim for September and October. These are the peak months of the migration, when the number of whales passing through Perth's waters is at its highest and sightings are most frequent. It is also when you are most likely to see the whales at their most active, breaching clear of the water, tail slapping and waving their pectoral fins. Because whale numbers are so high during these weeks, this is also when Whale Watching Perth adds a second tour each day on weekends, giving you more chances to fit a cruise around your plans.
Credit: Toby Nichol
Early Season vs Late Season: What Actually Changes
Late August to Mid-September
Whales are further along in their journey south and tend to be more spread out. Tours in this window are often a little quieter in terms of whale traffic, but with fewer crowds on the water and calmer conditions, it can still be a rewarding time to go.
September to October
The migration is at its busiest. Whale numbers peak, sightings are most frequent, and active behaviour like breaching and tail slapping is common on almost every tour.
Late October to Early November
Mothers and their newborn calves make their way south, often travelling slower and closer to the coast so the calves can rest. A wonderful time to spot the gentler side of whale behaviour.
Any Time in Season
Live commentary from a marine biologist runs on every tour, so whichever week you choose, you will understand exactly what the whales are doing and why.
Best Time of Day to See Whales
Morning tours tend to offer the calmest sea conditions, which makes it easier to spot a distant blow or a fin breaking the surface. Whale Watching Perth's standard departure is 9am daily, with a second 12pm departure on weekends through September and October if the morning slot does not suit your schedule.
Credit: Toby Nichol
What You Might See at Different Times of the Season
- Breaching: Most common during peak season in September and October, when whales are at their most energetic.
- Tail slapping and pectoral fin waves: Seen throughout the season, particularly in the middle months.
- Mothers and calves: Most likely from mid to late in the season, as calves make the journey south with their mothers.
- Other marine life: Depending on the timing of your tour, you may also spot southern right whales, dolphins, Australian sea lions and a variety of seabirds.
Credit: Toby Nichol
No Bad Time to Book, Just Different Experiences
The truth is there is no single wrong time to go whale watching in Perth between August and November, only different kinds of experiences. Book in September or October for the highest chance of action packed sightings, or aim for the edges of the season if you would rather enjoy a quieter cruise or catch mothers travelling with their calves. Whatever week you choose, Whale Watching Perth backs every tour with a 100 percent sighting guarantee. If whales are not spotted on your cruise, you are welcome to join another tour free of charge within the same season.
Credit: Toby Nichol
Ready to See It for Yourself?
Our 2026 whale watching season runs daily from 21 August to 9 November. Book your tour today and see the Humpback Highway for yourself.