Dolphin Watching

A visit to Mandurah
wouldn’t be complete
without the sighting
of at least 1 dolphin.

The Mandurah dolphins that inhabit the Peel-Harvey Estuary and adjacent coastal waters are Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins. They are highly social creatures that can often be found traveling in groups of 5 – 15 dolphins or even higher.

Our Mandurah Dolphins

The Mandurah dolphins that inhabit the Peel-Harvey Estuary and adjacent coastal waters are Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins. They are highly social creatures that can often be found traveling in groups of 5 – 15 dolphins or even higher. Females have large networks of female friends, whilst males form such strong bonds with one another that “alliances” can last a lifetime. Juveniles spend several years with their family learning everything from social etiquette to vital hunting skills. Mandurah’s inland waterways offer protection for birthing and an abundance of fish for feeding, making this area an ideal playground for dolphins.

Best way to watch dolphins

Whilst you can see dolphins in Mandurah all year round, the best time for dolphin watching is between September and May.

A dolphin cruise is a great way to see these friendly creatures and enjoy a scenic tour. The friendly, playful dolphins often surf on the wake of the boat, sometimes stopping to take a good look at the people on board!

You can hire a waterbike from Mandjar Bay and pedal your way through the waterways on your quest to spot a dolphin.

Or hire a boat, kayak or canoe and seek them out for yourself. It’s truly magical when they suddenly pop up right next to you to join you on your very own water adventure.

Best locations for dolphins spotting in Mandurah

You can spot Mandurah’s dolphins playing in the estuary, boat harbour, Serpentine and Murray River and in the Indian Ocean.

Whether you are on or by the water, it will be hard to miss our friendly locals. The Dawesville Cut, Mandjar Bay, Mandurah Estuary and Mandurah Ocean Marina are considered particularly good spots to see dolphins.

Header image by: Bruce Ellis

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