Day 8 · Sep 14

Torndirrup & the Whales

Albany, Western Australia

Southern Right Whales close to the granite cliffs of Torndirrup National Park.

The story

Why it's special

Torndirrup National Park wraps the southern side of King George Sound in a wall of granite cliffs, blowholes and wave-carved bridges. From May to October, southern right whales and humpbacks shelter in the bay so close to the cliffs you can hear them breathe.

History & background

Albany was Australia's last operating whaling station — closed in 1978 — and is now home to the Historic Whaling Station museum, a confronting and moving record of an industry the town has since reinvented as a global whale-watching destination.

What to expect

A loop around the park covers The Gap (a viewing platform suspended over a 40m cliff drop), the Natural Bridge, Salmon Holes and Stony Hill. Allow at least half a day; bring a windproof layer — the Southern Ocean is rarely calm.

Wildlife & nature

Southern right whales (with calves), humpbacks, occasional blue whales, New Zealand fur seals on the rocks, and a constant aerial show of albatross, gannets and sea eagles.

Cultural significance

Menang Noongar people have lived around the Sound for tens of thousands of years. The Bibbulmun Track ends nearby, and several cultural tours run from Albany.

Gallery

Through the lens

Best experiences

Photographer's guide

Best photography spots

Sunrise

Stony Hill summit for granite-and-ocean panoramas.

Sunset

Misery Beach (recently named Australia's best beach) for golden cliffs.

Scenic viewpoints

Hidden gems

Travel tips

Never stand on the rocks below The Gap — king waves are real and lethal.
Bring binoculars; whales are often further out than you expect.
The wind on these cliffs is serious — a hat strap is not optional.
Book a whale-watching cruise in advance during peak season (Jun–Oct).

Fun facts

Misery Beach was named Australia's best beach in 2022.
Southern right whales were so named because they were the 'right' whale to hunt — they float when killed.
Albany's whaling station processed up to 850 whales a year at its peak.

On the map