Humpback Whales in the Kimberley: Everything You Need to Know About Their Migration Through Western Australia

Each year, one of the most remarkable wildlife migrations on Earth takes place along the coast of Western Australia. Between June and October, an estimated 30,000 humpback whales make their way from the icy feeding grounds of Antarctica to the warm, sheltered bays of the Kimberley — making this region one of the best places to witness humpbacks in their natural habitat.

Here’s everything you need to know about the humpback whale migration in the Kimberley, when to visit, and where you’re most likely to see them.

Why Do Humpback Whales Migrate?

Humpback whales are baleen whales that migrate thousands of kilometres each year in search of food and a safe place to breed. During the summer months, they feed in the nutrient-rich waters of the Southern Ocean. But as winter approaches in Antarctica, they head north to breed and give birth in the warmer, calmer waters off the north-west coast of Australia.

The journey is no small feat — it’s a 10,000km round trip, making it one of the longest mammal migrations on the planet.

When Is Whale Season in the Kimberley?

The first sightings of humpbacks usually occur in late May to early June, as the juveniles and adult males begin to arrive. By July and August, the Kimberley coast becomes a hotspot for breeding activity and calving, particularly in and around Camden Sound, which is a designated marine sanctuary.

By September, mothers and calves are frequently seen resting in the bays before beginning their return journey south in October.

What Kind of Whale Behaviour Can You See?

If you’re lucky enough to be in the Kimberley during the migration season, you might witness:

  • Breaching – whales launching themselves clear out of the water

  • Tail slapping – a behaviour used for communication or showing off

  • Pectoral fin displays – waving or slapping the surface with their large fins

  • “Heat runs” – dramatic chases where males compete for a female’s attention

  • Calf play – younger whales practicing their breaching and building strength for the long swim ahead

Because of the sheltered conditions in the Kimberley, these behaviours are often seen close to shore or even from boats cruising the coastline.

Why Is the Kimberley So Important for Humpback Whales?

The Kimberley coastline provides ideal breeding conditions: warm waters, minimal predators, and remote, undeveloped bays where humpbacks can rest and rear their young. Camden Sound, in particular, is one of the most important calving areas for humpbacks in the Southern Hemisphere and was declared a marine park in 2012 to help protect this crucial habitat.

This region plays a vital role in the survival of Australia’s humpback population, which has rebounded in recent decades thanks to conservation efforts following the end of commercial whaling.

How to See Humpback Whales in the Kimberley

While the Kimberley isn’t home to large-scale whale-watching tours like you might find in Exmouth or Hervey Bay, whale sightings here feel raw, spontaneous, and incredibly special.

The best way to experience them is as part of a multi-day expedition cruise along the Kimberley coast — particularly during August and September, when whales are most active and the weather is ideal for cruising.

Spotting Whales With Diversity Charters

At Diversity Charters, we don’t run whale-watching tours. But on our 9 Day Kimberley Adventure Cruises, guests often find themselves eye-to-eye with humpbacks — from the deck of the mothership, while cruising the bays in tinnies, or even from a remote beach as whales pass by offshore.

With just 12 guests on board, our trips offer a front-row seat to the whale migration — without the crowds. It’s part of what makes Kimberley cruising in August and September so unforgettable.

Want to time your trip with the migration?
Check out our August & September 2025 departures now.

9 Day Kimberley Cruises