Sept is whale-watching season; tours typically depart early morning and last ~2–3 hours — book ahead. If you prefer land-based, head to Narooma headland for likely whale spottings.
Choose adventure on Stockton Beach dunes (tours run daily; cost varies) or a dolphin-spotting cruise from Nelson Bay (1.5–2h). Check operator times and book in advance.
Iconic lighthouse and highest point on the east coast — great for whale/dolphin spotting and sunset; the walk takes ~1–1.5 hours return from the car park.
Popular full-day tours visit Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet or offer reef snorkelling; operators typically run early starts and return late afternoon — book in advance.
Final driving leg through tropical north Queensland; expect coastal and sugarcane scenery and possible stops at Mission Beach or Paronella Park (Paronella open 9am–5pm) if time allows.