Winter Whale Festival | Port Stephens / Nelson Bay
The 2024 Port Stephens Winter Whale Festival has finished and what a show it was! From July 10th to 21st, the 10-day event was themed “Where Whales Meet Wonder” and left attendees with memories of whale sightings and family fun for life. From the car show to the whale puppets, this year’s festival was winter in Port Stephens at its best.
The Majesty of Whales in Port Stephens
Port Stephens is a beautiful coastal town and a whale-watching hotspot. Every year between May and November humpback whales make the long journey (thousands of kilometres!) from Antarctica to our waters.
They travel north along the east coast of Australia, many stopping in warmer waters to breed and calf before continuing on their journey. Port Stephens is in this sweet spot so it’s one of the best places in Australia to see these magnificent creatures as they head to their various calving grounds further north.
But humpbacks aren’t the only whales that visit these waters. Sometimes southern right whales and even dolphins play in the waves.The best way to get up close and personal with these gentle giants? There are heaps of options to watch spectacular displays of pectoral slaps, spy hops, body rolls, and more! Go on whale-watching cruises and feel the spray on your face as you witness a breach or a pod gracefully gliding by. For the landlubbers, there are plenty of stunning headlands and coastal lookouts, like Boat Harbour and Barry Park, where you can keep your eyes peeled for these awesome animals with binoculars in hand. You can check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website for the top whale-watching spots near you.
Port Stephens Winter Whale Festival 2024 Activities
There’s something for everyone at the Winter Whale Festival. Here are a few of the many activities that happened in this exciting event during school holidays:
Inaugural Port Stephens Car Show
(Sunday, July 14th, 9am-2pm)
The Port Stephens Car Show was a winner with car enthusiasts and the general public in attendance. People loved the cars – classic beauties to modern showstoppers, something for everyone to ogle. Families had a day of fun with plenty of activities for the kids so everyone was happy.
Many thanked the organisers for a great show and several hope it becomes an annual event. The community spirit was alive and local businesses would have loved the crowd. All in all, it was a day of sunshine, smiles and sweet motors – a ripper for the region. Can’t wait for next year!
Children’s Yoga Session in the Park
(Thursday, July 18th, 11am)
The FREE children’s yoga session was scheduled to be led by local professional yoga instructor Laurinda Bartley from Port Stephens Kidz Yoga! for children ages 5-10. Unfortunately, due to the amazing Yoga Instructor recovering from illness, the organisers have made the decision to cancel the Kids Yoga class.
Curious Legends Illuminated Whale Puppet Night
(Friday, July 19th, 4:00pm)
The Port Stephens Winter Whale Festival Family Fun Night was a great night for families with the highlight being the puppet show by Curious Legends. Their giant whales, dragonflies, and seagulls puppets had the kids fully engaged and the night was even more special. Despite the wind, the people who attended loved the atmosphere and the organisers for a great night. Some even grabbed a bite at the D’Albora Marina and other nearby food stations. It was a perfect way to start the whale season and bring the community together. Full of creativity, fun, and family time.
Taster Trails
(Saturday, July 20th, from 4pm-7pm)
The Tasters Trail came back to Nelson Bay with a bang and foodies were treated to a night to remember. Attendees got to choose from two trails, the Green and Red. Tickets for both trails were sold out and the ticket-holders got to enjoy a four-course meal at different restaurants and cafes, all within walking distance. The Tasters Trail was a great way for people to explore Nelson Bay’s food scene while giving local businesses a much-needed boost.
Human Whale 2024
(Sunday, July 21st)
The grand finale of the 2024 Port Stephens Winter Whale Festival was nothing short of spectacular, with over 1,164 participants gathering on the beautiful shores of Fingal Bay to form the iconic Human Whale. Despite the breezy weather, spirits were high as attendees worked together to create a giant humpback whale formation, celebrating the majestic creatures that the festival honours.
The event was captured in stunning drone footage and photographs, perfectly showcasing the unity and community spirit that defined the day. The combination of the sunny skies and the vibrant energy of the crowd made for a memorable close to this year’s festival.
Book Your Holiday Destination: Port Stephens
Ready to create memories that will last a lifetime? Book your Port Stephens escape and immerse yourself in the wonder of the next Winter Whale Festival! Witness the awe-inspiring annual migration of humpback whales, soak up the festive atmosphere on a cruise or on land, and enjoy a smorgasbord of family fun.
Nelson Bay Accommodation offers a fantastic range of options to suit any style and budget. From cosy apartments to beachfront havens, you’ll find the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of whale watching and festival adventures.So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your camera, book your accommodation, and get ready to dive into the winter whale magic of Port Stephens!