Whales, Warm Waters & Winter Sun: What’s New at Emerald Beach and The Beach Havens This Season
I know we bang on about it but there really is something quietly magical about winter at Emerald Beach. While most imagine the coast as a summer affair, we’re here to let you in on a secret: July might just be our favourite time of year.
Despite the season, the water is warmer than you might think. Thanks to the East Australian Current (yes, just like in Finding Nemo), warm tropical waters sweep down the coast, wrapping Emerald Beach in a gentle embrace. In July, the sea is a balmy average of 21°C, often warmer than the morning air itself. It’s no wonder the surfers are still out early. Winter at the beach? Absolutely—especially when the sea itself feels like a soft secret, shared only with those willing to step in.
And the whales! Oh those magnificent ocean giants. From our sun-kissed north-facing deck - we like to call it the best whale-watching lounge on the coast - you can while away whole days tracing the arcs of migrating humpbacks. Yes, that really is a whale blow you’re seeing, close and unmistakable. They pass between Groper Island and the headlands, dancing through the shallows on their journey north. Dammerel and Diggers Headland have become our go-to viewing points, we’ve got you covered with picnic blankets and empty hampers ready to fill with local yums. But truthfully, the magic starts right from the swinging daybed at Haven Oceana. Bring binoculars if you like - or just a good coffee and a little patience.
Speaking of warm things, we’ve added a little winter indulgence to your stay: Snug, wraparound robes perfect for post-bath lounging that feel more like clouds than cloth. Soft, cocooning, and perfect for slow starts or stargazing nights, they’re part of our commitment to thoughtful comfort in every detail.
Big news about local bites. Emerald Beach just welcomed Asian StrEat—already a beloved fixture in Sawtell, and now gracing our little village with its bold flavours and street-food soul. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to order everything. We’re currently obsessed with the garlic butter squid (watch out it’s addictive) and the vegetable kakiage that melts in your mouth. It’s fresh, funky, and exactly what our food scene needed. You can walk there from The Beach Havens—and trust us, you will more than once.
Back at home, the island-dotted horizon and gentle rustle of coastal casuarinas set the tone for days that feel endlessly peaceful. Whether you’re tucked into the hammock with a book, spotting dolphins from the deck, or wrapped in that dreamy robe post-bath, winter here is anything but quiet.
And just when you think the show is over, look up. Our favourite little aerial artists - the spangled drongos - are back for the season, having migrated from as far away as North Queensland, Northern Territory and Papua New Guinea. With tails like inky streamers and a glimmer of iridescent midnight blue, they twist and tumble through the sky in acrobatic delight. If you happen to have a scrap of mince, roast or sausage left over, don’t be surprised if they stage a spontaneous airshow above the deck - twirling, diving, and darting like a tiny feathered circus. It’s cheeky, dazzling, and utterly enchanting. And we promise you - there is no retouching in this shot.
Whether you’re chasing whales, local Asian eats, or just a bit of sun-drenched stillness, there’s something waiting for you at Emerald Beach and The Beach Havens this season. Come see the coast in its quietest, most golden mood, where you can tan up without the burn.