Eye spy something starting with WHALE!

Luke Young • April 26, 2021

August marks the halfway point of this year’s Humpback whale migration for 2020, and we have put together a helpful guide to make the most out of a day out spend whale watching with the kids. While getting out and about with your ankle biters can be a fun way to spend a day of the school holidays, there are sure to plenty of questions while waiting to (hopefully) spot a whale! We’ve put together some tips to make sure you have the best opportunity of sighting one of these magical animals in the wild directly from the coastline of Muttonbird Island.


  • With binoculars look to the viewing platform on top of Muttonbird Island. There may be people up there who have spotted whales and will be pointing out to sea.
  • Listen for the Whale Bell at The Observatory. When whales are sighted, we will ring!
  • Watch the whale watching boats leaving harbour, they will go straight to where the whales are clustered.
  • Visit wildaboutwhales.com.au to view recent sightings.
  • Each year whales migrate along the NSW coastline heading north to the warm coastal waters of the Coral Sea to mate and give birth from late April to August returning southward from September to November.
  • Book a room at The Observatory with an ocean facing view, you’ll be able to watch out for Humpbacks while you enjoy a morning or afternoon coffee from the comfort of your own private balcony!
  • The most common and easiest to spot is the Humpback.
  • From a series of blows, migrating whales can then submerge anything from a few minutes to 15 minutes.
  • Experienced whale watchers note the arch on a whales back, if they have only a small arch on their back on their last dive they are not diving deep and will surface again shortly. If they have a significant arch they are about to dive deep and wont surface for some time.



So, you (finally) spotted one…Yahoo! Now what to do?


If you spot whales breaching (putting on a good display and not just travelling through) please call reception on 9 and they will ring the Whale Bell alerting other guests to be on the lookout.


Not only will you have a story to talk all over the town about but you can log your sighting on the Wild About Whales app! Logging your sighting into the app will be a buzz for the kids knowing their sighting is helping others see these magical creatures for themselves and helping researchers track the migration of this incredible species.


By The Observatory February 25, 2026
Get ready, Coffs Coast March is set to roar to life with an action-packed weekend that will have motorsport fans, families, and thrill-seekers flocking to the region. From 13–15 March, the Coffs Coast goes full throttle with three epic events: Summer Beach Hop, the Australian Kart Championships, and Freestyle Kings Live. Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast, a classic car lover, or simply looking for an exciting weekend escape by the beach, this is one weekend you won’t want to miss. Summer Beach Hop – Classic Cars Meet Coastal Cool The Summer Beach Hop brings together stunning classic cars, hot rods, and custom builds in a vibrant celebration of automotive culture. Expect polished chrome, roaring engines, and a laid-back coastal vibe as car enthusiasts roll into Coffs Harbour to showcase their pride and joy. With cruising events, displays, and a festival-style atmosphere, it’s a fantastic event for families and visitors to wander through, take photos, and soak up the nostalgia. Australian Kart Championships – High-Speed Racing Action Feel the adrenaline as Australia’s best karters take to the track for the Australian Kart Championships. These rising stars and elite drivers compete in fast-paced, wheel-to-wheel racing that’s thrilling to watch, whether you’re a motorsport fan or a first-time spectator. The event brings competitors and spectators from across the country, creating an electric atmosphere and a huge buzz around the region. Freestyle Kings Live – Extreme Stunts and Live Entertainment For the ultimate adrenaline hit, Freestyle Kings Live delivers jaw-dropping motocross stunts, massive jumps, and heart-stopping tricks performed by world-class riders. Add live music and entertainment, and you’ve got an unforgettable night out for all ages. It’s a high-energy spectacle that perfectly caps off a weekend of speed, style, and excitement. Make It a Weekend Getaway on the Coffs Coast. With world-class events, stunning beaches, great dining, and plenty of family-friendly attractions, this is the perfect time to plan a getaway to the Coffs Coast. Book your accommodation early, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and experience the region at full throttle. Mark your calendar: 13–15 March. Coffs Coast is the place to be for fast cars, fast bikes, and an unforgettable coastal weekend.
By The Observatory December 5, 2025
Christmas is just around the corner and our self-contained apartments, with stunning ocean views, easy access to beautiful beaches are a perfect base for all your coffs coast adventures. We’ve put together five amazing day trips that are perfect for the whole family, or just a relaxing escape for you. Day Trip 1: Chasing Waterfalls - A Scenic Escape to Scouts Falls Just 45 minutes from our apartments, hidden within the lush Sherwood Forest, Scouts Falls is the perfect Christmas holiday adventure. This peaceful spot offers cool freshwater pools, a short rainforest walk, and a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Pack a picnic, bring your swimmers, and spend the day unwinding in nature as you chase one of the Coffs Coast’s most magical waterfalls. Day Trip 2: Culinary Delights - Cheese Making with the Artisan Cheese School For a deliciously different Christmas holiday experience, spend a day learning the art of cheese making at the Artisan Cheese School. Just a short drive from the Jetty, this hands-on workshop teaches you how to craft beautiful cheeses from scratch while sampling fresh local flavours along the way. It’s the perfect slow-paced, creative escape ideal for couples, food lovers, or anyone wanting to try something new during their Coffs Coast getaway. Day Trip 3: Beach Days – Sun, Sand & Simple Summer Magic at Jetty Beach Nothing says Christmas holidays like a long, lazy beach day. Pack an umbrella, plenty of sunscreen, and a picnic basket, then wander down to stunning Jetty Beach, just moments from your apartment. With calm waters, soft sand, and those iconic jetty views, it’s the perfect spot to swim, relax, read a book, or simply soak up the sunshine. Day Trip 4: Trike Tour - Rainforests, Beaches & Pure Adventure Get ready for an unforgettable day of adventure aboard a Boom Mustang Trike. Feel the cool breeze on your face as you cruise through lush rainforests, past pristine beaches , and some of the Coffs Coast’s most breathtaking scenery. This scenic tour is equal parts thrill and relaxation, an exciting way to explore the region from a whole new perspective during your Christmas holiday escape. Day Trip 5: A Day of Adventure at the Big Banana – Fun for All Ages No Christmas holiday on the Coffs Coast is complete without a visit to the iconic Big Banana. Spend the day zooming down water slides, racing on the toboggan track, and experiencing the brand-new roller coaster that winds its way through the banana plantation. Packed with fun for kids and adults alike, it’s the perfect way to add a little thrill and plenty of laughter to your festive getaway. After each day of adventure, come back and relax in our self-contained apartments with stunning ocean views. Just minutes from the best local restaurants and cafes, you can refuel for your next day of exploration, or simply unwind and soak in the sunset over the water. With everything you need right at your doorstep, your Christmas holiday in Coffs Harbour will be unforgettable.