Each year, the Victor Harbor region welcomes one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles—the migration of Southern Right Whales to the stunning waters of the Fleurieu Peninsula. The Winter Whale Fest is a month-long celebration dedicated to these majestic marine visitors, offering a memorable opportunity to connect with the ocean, learn from leading conservationists, and immerse yourself in an unforgettable program of cultural, educational, and nature-based experiences.
Throughout June, the festival hosts more than 25 carefully curated events designed to inspire, educate, and entertain. Whether you’re a passionate environmentalist, a family looking for fun-filled activities, or a curious adventurer eager to witness these gentle giants up close, the Winter Whale Fest has something for everyone.
Guided Whale Watching Tours – Join expert guides and marine biologists as they take you to the best vantage points to observe the whales in their natural habitat.
Conservation Talks & Workshops – Engage with thought leaders in marine conservation, learn about the challenges facing our oceans, and discover how we can all play a role in protecting our marine life.
Indigenous Cultural Experiences – Gain insight into the rich cultural history and traditions of the First Nations people, who have long held deep spiritual connections with the whales and the ocean.
Art & Photography Exhibitions – Explore breathtaking artwork and photography capturing the beauty of the ocean and its incredible marine life.
Family-Friendly Activities – From beach treasure hunts to interactive marine science exhibits, there are plenty of engaging experiences for kids of all ages.
The Winter Whale Fest is more than just a celebration; it is a platform for advocacy and action. The festival aligns with South Australia’s strategic goals for sustainable tourism, showcasing the region’s commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible travel. Through partnerships with local businesses, conservation organisations, and cultural groups, the festival strengthens the connection between the community and the natural world.
Beyond the festival, visitors are encouraged to explore the breathtaking coastal landscapes, charming seaside towns, and world-class food and wine experiences that make the Fleurieu Peninsula a premier travel destination. Whether it’s strolling along the iconic Bluff, indulging in fresh seafood at a waterfront café, or exploring the rugged beauty of the Heysen Trail, there’s no shortage of adventure to be had.
The Winter Whale Fest is a must-see event for anyone who loves nature, conservation, and community spirit. Mark your calendar for June and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of South Australia’s coastal wonderland.
For event details, ticketing, visit www.winterwhalefest.com.au
Join us as we celebrate the magic of the whales and our shared commitment to protecting our oceans!
Local artist Matt Turley has brought Victor Harbor’s rich whaling past to life with a striking art installation at The Bluff Boat Ramp carpark, in front of Whaler’s Seaside Dining.
Encircling the historic Whaler’s Well, Turley’s work features three dramatic Corten steel sculptures—a majestic whale, a group of whalers, and a try pot—paying homage to the region’s early European settlement and whaling heritage.
Crafted from layered Corten steel with stainless steel accents, the sculptures play with depth, contrast, and abstraction, inviting viewers to engage with the history in a more immersive way. Rather than direct representations, the abstract forms encourage contemplation of the industry that once thrived along these shores.
Did you know? The Whaler’s Well, around which this installation is centered, was rediscovered in 2017 during excavation work for the carpark. Thought to be linked to the Rosetta Harbor Whaling Station, established in early 1837, the well was carefully restored after archaeological investigations, offering a rare glimpse into Victor Harbor’s early maritime past.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Phasellus hendrerit. Pellentesque aliquet nibh nec urna. In nisi neque, aliquet vel, dapibus id, mattis vel, nisi. Sed pretium, ligula sollicitudin laoreet viverra, tortor libero sodales leo, eget blandit nunc tortor eu nibh. Nullam mollis. Ut justo. Suspendisse potenti.
Sed egestas, ante et vulputate volutpat, eros pede semper est, vitae luctus metus libero eu augue. Morbi purus libero, faucibus adipiscing, commodo quis, gravida id, est. Sed lectus. Praesent elementum hendrerit tortor. Sed semper lorem at felis. Vestibulum volutpat, lacus a ultrices sagittis, mi neque euismod dui, eu pulvinar nunc sapien ornare nisl. Phasellus pede arcu, dapibus eu, fermentum et, dapibus sed, urna.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Kleinigs Hill Lookout is a cultural and artistic gem, offering breathtaking views over the stunning Encounter Bay. More than just a scenic stop, it’s a place of storytelling and connection. Here, you’ll find Kondoli the whale, a powerful symbol of reconciliation with the Ramindjeri and Ngarrindjeri people of Victor Harbor. The striking mosaic-covered sculpture, created by principal artist Lyn Walsh in collaboration with a team of First Nations artists, brings Kondoli’s Dreaming story to life in vibrant color and intricate detail.
Take a moment to immerse yourself in the art, tracing the shimmering tiles that reflect the land, sea, and sky. Use the telescope to take in the sweeping views of Granite Island, The Bluff, and the vast waters of Encounter Bay. Whether you’re here for the culture, the art, or the landscape, Kleinigs Hill Lookout is a place to pause, reflect, and appreciate the deep connections between land, people, and story.
The Bluff (Longkuwar), or Rosetta Head, stands 97 metres above sea level and is one of Victor Harbor’s most iconic natural landmarks. Located 4 km southwest of town, it offers spectacular 360-degree views, with Granite Island to the east and the rugged southern coastline stretching beyond.
A one-way scenic loop road provides access for walkers and cyclists. A 600-metre loop walk from the carpark leads to the summit, where visitors can take in panoramic coastal views. From June to October, migrating whales can often be seen offshore.
On the western side of The Bluff lies Petrel Cove, a picturesque spot that marks the starting point of the famous Heysen Trail, one of Australia’s great long-distance walks.
The Ramindjeri people, the Traditional Custodians of this land, called The Bluff “Longkuwar.” They lived in the Victor Harbor area for thousands of years, drawn by the abundant sea life, including whales.
From 1837 to the 1860s, one of the region’s earliest whaling stations operated at the base of The Bluff.
The headland has a history of mining, with copper and gold discovered in the area. The Coolanine Mine was established in 1863 and briefly reopened in 1882 when lead was found, though mining was short-lived. The Bluff itself is a geological wonder, shaped by glaciers, volcanic activity, and shifting sea levels over 500 million years.
With its dramatic coastal scenery, rich Indigenous and European history, and opportunities for whale watching and hiking, The Bluff is one of Victor Harbor’s most memorable destinations.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Phasellus hendrerit. Pellentesque aliquet nibh nec urna. In nisi neque, aliquet vel, dapibus id, mattis vel, nisi. Sed pretium, ligula sollicitudin laoreet viverra, tortor libero sodales leo, eget blandit nunc tortor eu nibh. Nullam mollis. Ut justo. Suspendisse potenti.
Sed egestas, ante et vulputate volutpat, eros pede semper est, vitae luctus metus libero eu augue. Morbi purus libero, faucibus adipiscing, commodo quis, gravida id, est. Sed lectus. Praesent elementum hendrerit tortor. Sed semper lorem at felis. Vestibulum volutpat, lacus a ultrices sagittis, mi neque euismod dui, eu pulvinar nunc sapien ornare nisl. Phasellus pede arcu, dapibus eu, fermentum et, dapibus sed, urna.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Fleurieu Marine Education provides programs that aim to create stewards of the ocean in each young heart.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Phasellus hendrerit. Pellentesque aliquet nibh nec urna. In nisi neque, aliquet vel, dapibus id, mattis vel, nisi. Sed pretium, ligula sollicitudin laoreet viverra, tortor libero sodales leo, eget blandit nunc tortor eu nibh. Nullam mollis. Ut justo. Suspendisse potenti.
Sed egestas, ante et vulputate volutpat, eros pede semper est, vitae luctus metus libero eu augue. Morbi purus libero, faucibus adipiscing, commodo quis, gravida id, est. Sed lectus. Praesent elementum hendrerit tortor. Sed semper lorem at felis. Vestibulum volutpat, lacus a ultrices sagittis, mi neque euismod dui, eu pulvinar nunc sapien ornare nisl. Phasellus pede arcu, dapibus eu, fermentum et, dapibus sed, urna.
The Wild South Coast Way on the HeyÂsen Trail (WSCW) is a fulÂly cusÂtomisÂable, mulÂti-day walkÂing expeÂriÂence between Cape Jervis and VicÂtor HarÂbor on the Fleurieu PeninÂsuÂla, South Australia.Â
Walk the Wild South Coast Way your own way – any day, any direcÂtion, any secÂtion. From day visÂits with short loop walks to the full five-day four-night expeÂriÂence and everyÂthing in between, the WSCW allows walkÂers to choose their own adventure.Â
The walkÂing expeÂriÂence offers some of the state’s most specÂtacÂuÂlar and awe inspirÂing coastal walkÂing imagÂinÂable. The WSCW proÂvides visÂiÂtors a genÂuine sense of wilderÂness, feaÂturÂing remote beachÂes, native bushÂland, rugged cliffs, First Nations’ hisÂtoÂry, breathÂtakÂing visÂtas, deep gulÂlies and a rich diverÂsiÂty of native birds, bush and wildlife, in fact more species than anyÂwhere else on the coast.
Each day of the walk delivÂers a new expeÂriÂence and chalÂlenge, startÂing with views across to KanÂgaÂroo Island before the full nature expeÂriÂence begins, encourÂagÂing the walkÂer to ​‘tune in’ to nature and ​‘tune out’ of stress.
Â
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Phasellus hendrerit. Pellentesque aliquet nibh nec urna. In nisi neque, aliquet vel, dapibus id, mattis vel, nisi. Sed pretium, ligula sollicitudin laoreet viverra, tortor libero sodales leo, eget blandit nunc tortor eu nibh. Nullam mollis. Ut justo. Suspendisse potenti.
Sed egestas, ante et vulputate volutpat, eros pede semper est, vitae luctus metus libero eu augue. Morbi purus libero, faucibus adipiscing, commodo quis, gravida id, est. Sed lectus. Praesent elementum hendrerit tortor. Sed semper lorem at felis. Vestibulum volutpat, lacus a ultrices sagittis, mi neque euismod dui, eu pulvinar nunc sapien ornare nisl. Phasellus pede arcu, dapibus eu, fermentum et, dapibus sed, urna.
A dog and child friendly walk, the Heritage Trail encompasses Victor Harbor’s spectacular coastline from Kent Reserve to Kings Beach Road, where it joins up with the Heysen Trail.
Also known as Kings Head Hike, the trail highlights cultural, environmental and historical points of interest. Explore the beaches and headlands between Petrel Cove and Kings Beach. Watch out for dolphins and whales off shore. Understand the landscape, geology and European and Aboriginal history through the interpretive signage along the trail. Explore the Bluff by walking the 800m Rosetta Trail to the top of the Bluff.
Length: | 5.8km linear |
Difficulty: | Easy to moderate walk |
Terrain: | Undulating |
Start/Finish: | The Bluff (Rosetta Head) Victor Harbor |
Finish/Finish: | Kings Beach |
Extend this walk by starting in central Victor Harbor, or Kent Reserve near central Victor Harbor, or walk further along the Heysen Trail to Waitpinga Cliffs. The trail sections between Waitpinga and Victor Harbor are especially scenic, much loved by walkers and photographers, with terrain varying from steep rugged cliff faces to sandy surf beaches. From Kings Beach Road, walkers can take the Heysen Trail south west to Cape Jervis (67km – 3-5 days), or head north along the Trail to the Flinders Ranges (1200km, 50-60 days). Medium fitness is required and you need to take adequate supplies of water and wear appropriate clothing.
View the trail map below, download the Heritage Trail map , or visit the Victor Harbor Information Centre or Council office to collect a map. For more detailed information please refer to the Heysen Trail booklet which is available for purchase from the Victor Harbor Visitor Information Centre or visit the Heysen trial website:
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Phasellus hendrerit. Pellentesque aliquet nibh nec urna. In nisi neque, aliquet vel, dapibus id, mattis vel, nisi. Sed pretium, ligula sollicitudin laoreet viverra, tortor libero sodales leo, eget blandit nunc tortor eu nibh. Nullam mollis. Ut justo. Suspendisse potenti.
Sed egestas, ante et vulputate volutpat, eros pede semper est, vitae luctus metus libero eu augue. Morbi purus libero, faucibus adipiscing, commodo quis, gravida id, est. Sed lectus. Praesent elementum hendrerit tortor. Sed semper lorem at felis. Vestibulum volutpat, lacus a ultrices sagittis, mi neque euismod dui, eu pulvinar nunc sapien ornare nisl. Phasellus pede arcu, dapibus eu, fermentum et, dapibus sed, urna.
Located within the Historic Railway Goods in the heart of Victor Harbor, the South Australian Whale Centre is situated in the basement of the newly opened Victor Harbor Visitor Centre.
Originally opened in 1994, the South Australian Whale Centre has since evolved and in 2021, it merged with the Visitor Centre. Now a museum, visitors can learn, experience and play in Victor Harbor’s marine hub.
Visitors can experience the natural wonders of the deep, explore the world heritage listed railway building, and gain further knowledge about Victor Harbor’s marine treasures. Offering displays and interactive exhibits, as well as education programs, the museum is a must on your next visit to the Fleurieu Peninsula.
School, coach and tour groups are welcome. For whale sighting information between May and October follow South Australian Whale Centre on socials or visit the website for details.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Phasellus hendrerit. Pellentesque aliquet nibh nec urna. In nisi neque, aliquet vel, dapibus id, mattis vel, nisi. Sed pretium, ligula sollicitudin laoreet viverra, tortor libero sodales leo, eget blandit nunc tortor eu nibh. Nullam mollis. Ut justo. Suspendisse potenti.
Sed egestas, ante et vulputate volutpat, eros pede semper est, vitae luctus metus libero eu augue. Morbi purus libero, faucibus adipiscing, commodo quis, gravida id, est. Sed lectus. Praesent elementum hendrerit tortor. Sed semper lorem at felis. Vestibulum volutpat, lacus a ultrices sagittis, mi neque euismod dui, eu pulvinar nunc sapien ornare nisl. Phasellus pede arcu, dapibus eu, fermentum et, dapibus sed, urna.
Kula-Tind-Jeri or Kool Tours is an authentic tribal experience through Southern SA. We are the original inhabitants of the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island.
We bring the ways of the ancient into a new world to allow visitors to experience a day in the life of our people.
Our whole company comprises local Indigenous peoples, who have a host of various experiences and knowledges and who are willing to guide you through the eyes of the old ways.
Our Country awaits to be shared in a cultural setting.
Come along with us and gain an understanding of the history and knowledge of the local Tribes of southern South Australia.
Tours
Deep Listening
Port Elliot (Ratalang) Tour
Walking on Country: Yundi Tour
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Phasellus hendrerit. Pellentesque aliquet nibh nec urna. In nisi neque, aliquet vel, dapibus id, mattis vel, nisi. Sed pretium, ligula sollicitudin laoreet viverra, tortor libero sodales leo, eget blandit nunc tortor eu nibh. Nullam mollis. Ut justo. Suspendisse potenti.
Sed egestas, ante et vulputate volutpat, eros pede semper est, vitae luctus metus libero eu augue. Morbi purus libero, faucibus adipiscing, commodo quis, gravida id, est. Sed lectus. Praesent elementum hendrerit tortor. Sed semper lorem at felis. Vestibulum volutpat, lacus a ultrices sagittis, mi neque euismod dui, eu pulvinar nunc sapien ornare nisl. Phasellus pede arcu, dapibus eu, fermentum et, dapibus sed, urna.
This walking trail takes you on a journey around Granite Island Recreation Park. Granite Island is around 62 acres and is one of the most recognised ecological attractions in Victor Harbor due to its unusual granite formations with crashing white waves, elevated views, flora and fauna, and walking trails that provide outstanding panoramic coastal views.
Length: | 9km loop |
Time: | 45 minutes |
Grade: | Grade 1, Easy Walk |
Terrain: | Undulating with some stairs |
Start: | Victor Harbor Information Centre |
View the trail map below or download the Kaiki Trail map.Â
Points of Interest
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Phasellus hendrerit. Pellentesque aliquet nibh nec urna. In nisi neque, aliquet vel, dapibus id, mattis vel, nisi. Sed pretium, ligula sollicitudin laoreet viverra, tortor libero sodales leo, eget blandit nunc tortor eu nibh. Nullam mollis. Ut justo. Suspendisse potenti.
Sed egestas, ante et vulputate volutpat, eros pede semper est, vitae luctus metus libero eu augue. Morbi purus libero, faucibus adipiscing, commodo quis, gravida id, est. Sed lectus. Praesent elementum hendrerit tortor. Sed semper lorem at felis. Vestibulum volutpat, lacus a ultrices sagittis, mi neque euismod dui, eu pulvinar nunc sapien ornare nisl. Phasellus pede arcu, dapibus eu, fermentum et, dapibus sed, urna.
Acknowledgment Of Country
Visit Victor Harbor acknowledge that the Ngarrindjeri and Ramindjeri people are the Traditional Owners of our beautiful lands and surrounding waters. We recognise and respect the cultural connections the past, present and future Traditional Custodians have. We are committed to working with the Ngarrindjeri and Ramindjeri people, supporting their role as custodians of their lands and helping ensure the future prosperity and cultural enrichment of the community.
This website was produced and managed by the City of Victor Harbor.
Select your desired option below to share a direct link to this page.
Your friends or family will thank you later.