Between May and October, Port Elliot’s rugged coastline transforms into a front-row seat for one of nature’s most majestic shows: the annual migration of Southern Right Whales. As you stand on the cliffs overlooking the churning Southern Ocean, expect to catch moments when these giants breach or tail-slap, their immense bodies briefly casting shadows before slipping back into the water’s push and pull. The headlands here dare you to get close but remind you to respect the fierce wildness of the sea.

Port Elliot’s whale watching season aligns perfectly with cooler, clearer days. Trails from Horseshoe Bay to the Bluff offer excellent vantage points and fresh coastal air that sharpens your senses. The walking routes are around 2 to 3 kilometers long, with modest elevation gains of roughly 80 meters, composed of well-maintained tracks mixed with rocky outcrops. The paths wind through patches of coastal heath that the salty wind energizes, keeping your mind alert and your legs moving.

For those planning the trip, timing your visit to the early morning or late afternoon optimizes your chances of spotting whales actively moving against the tide. Wear sturdy shoes that grip the often uneven terrain, and pack water and a windbreaker—the ocean breeze can turn from gentle persuasion to brisk challenge quickly. Bring binoculars to extend your reach into the vast seascape where whales play their centuries-old games. Prepare for variability: the ocean does not perform on schedule, but its raw power is a constant.

Locals often speak of the Bluff as a lesser-known viewpoint, where quieter crowds mean more intimate moments with passing pods. From here, you might also catch glimpses of dolphins slicing through waves or sea birds riding thermal drafts. The experience is not just about witnessing whales but tuning in to the full cast of marine life that keeps this coastline fiercely alive.

Whether you’re a casual observer or a seasoned adventurer, Port Elliot offers a balance of accessibility and anticipation. The landscape welcomes exploration and reminds you that you’re part of a dynamic ecosystem—one where every lookout and gust of wind carries the story of persistence and survival. Your encounter with the migrating whales is an invitation to appreciate nature’s scale and pace—measured, deliberate, and wildly free.