1. Port Phillip Bay, Victoria: Bottlenose dolphins inhabit this large embayment and can often be spotted near the shores of Melbourne.
2. Sydney Harbour, New South Wales: The iconic Sydney Harbour is home to a resident population of bottlenose dolphins, which are frequently seen interacting with boats and swimmers.
3. Moreton Bay, Queensland: Bottlenose dolphins frequent the shallow waters of Moreton Bay, offering excellent opportunities for dolphin watching and interactions.
4. Bay of Islands, Queensland: The Bay of Islands is known for its diverse marine life, and bottlenose dolphins are among the species that can be encountered in this region.
5. Shark Bay, Western Australia: Shark Bay, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a home for bottlenose dolphins, particularly around Monkey Mia, where dolphins are accustomed to human interactions and approach the shores to receive fish from visitors.
6. Spencer Gulf, South Australia: Bottlenose dolphins can be found in the Gulf, particularly near the Port Lincoln area.
7. Port Stephens, New South Wales: The calm waters and sheltered bays of Port Stephens are frequented by bottlenose dolphins.
8. Kimberley Coast, Western Australia: The Kimberley Coast's rugged coastline and pristine waters are home to various marine life, including bottlenose dolphins.
Bottlenose dolphins are generally found in coastal waters, estuaries, and bays around the Australian continent. They have shown preferences for specific habitats based on factors like food availability, shelter, and water temperature.