Ningaloo Reef
Best for: Pristine sand between your toes, out-of-this-world marine life encounters and sleeping under the stars.
If you’re into beaches, snorkelling and marine life, it’s likely you would have heard of Ningaloo Reef (Nyinggulu), located along Australia’s Coral Coast. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of Australia’s best beaches and the world’s largest fringing coral reef—simply step right off the shore or take an easy boat trip further out, and start exploring this otherworldly, marine playground.
In this spectacular part of the world, you can come face-to-face with gentle giants of the sea like humpback whales, whale sharks and manta rays, harmoniously swimming alongside turtles, vividly coloured coral and an incredible variety of fish.
"I use to love walking the beaches during turtle season. It was so cool watching a mama turtle lay her eggs. Our groups would lay down and count the eggs as they came out. It really is a special place and an unforgettable experience."
Tracey, 28—local resident.
LOCAL STORY
"I use to love walking the beaches during turtle season. It was so cool watching a mama turtle lay her eggs. Our groups would lay down and count the eggs as they came out. It really is a special place and an unforgettable experience."
Tracey, 28—local resident
The
Essentials
How To Get There
and Get Around
For an adventurous and memorable stay during your Ningaloo Reef escape, head for Coral Bay or Exmouth. Flights from Perth (Boorloo) get you to nearby Learmonth Airport in two hours and you can now fly directly into Exmouth from Melbourne with Qantas. Once you’ve made it up north, a hire car is your best bet to get around with ease. There are also plenty of organised tours to join, experiences to enjoy and a stack of local knowledge in this stunning region.
Check Out Flights
Hire A Car
When To Visit
There’s something to enjoy all year round at Ningaloo Reef, but the best time to visit is between March and October. For impressive wildlife encounters, visit between March and July to swim with the ocean’s gentle giants, whale sharks and from June to October to frolic with humpback whales.
Where To Eat
Wherever you turn on the Coral Coast there’s an activity encouraging you to move your body and let your mind marvel. The payoff for exerting this fulfilling type of holiday energy is refuelling to do it all over again, and this coastal playground has plenty of local venues to keep you satisfied. From breakfast by the sea to dinner under the stars, here are our top eats on the Coral Coast.
Bamboo Exmouth
Coral Resort Bakery
Ask any local or frequent visitor and they’ll tell you the number one food destination in the Bay is the Coral Resort Bakery. Every single thing is a slice of heaven—the real challenge is limiting your visits to one a day. If we had to choose just one thing to indulge in, it’d be one of their famous pies. Flaky pastry stuffed with moreish home-cooked fillings like cauliflower cheese or chicken curry makes the not-so-humble pie the ultimate post-swim meal. Honourable mentions go to the soft-as-a-cloud white bread and the decadent chocolate-iced doughnuts. It’s good ol’ cash at the bakery, so make sure you’ve stashed some coins.
Sweet Ningaloo
A summer holiday isn’t complete without plenty of swimming, snorkelling and gelato. When you’ve had enough of exploring the reef at the town’s beach, stroll on up to Sweet Ningaloo for real-deal gelato. Made the traditional Italian way with premium, seasonal ingredients, it’s tough to decide on a flavour. Our advice? Sample a few, load up your cone with as many as you can and come back the next day to try their aromatic crepes topped with gelato and syrup. We guarantee it’ll be love at first bite.
The Beach Shack
The name says it all for this seaside snack destination. Set right on Bundegi Beach in Exmouth, you can expect quality coffee and breakfast staples including pancakes, poached eggs and avocado toast all served with spectacular ocean views. After a morning paddle, head back to The Beach Shack for lunch with crispy fish and chips, burgers and more.
Planet Burgers
With adventure-packed days on the Exmouth agenda, keeping your energy high is a must. Planet Burgers understands the assignment, dishing up flavour, freshness and personality with easy meals. From classic burgers and souvlaki to loaded fries, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone.
Owned and operated by two local families, Whalebone Brewing Company is a fun and no-frills setting under the stars serving up craft beers and hearty pizzas. Catch local and travelling artists as they hit the stage with live tunes and kick back for a slow, balmy evening after a long day of exploring.
Whalebone Brewing Co
We love everything about Froth. This micro-brewery and restaurant are open every day pumping artisan craft beer brewed on site. Team a few brews with local bites (we can’t go past the crispy calamari with tartare and lemon perfectly dubbed the ‘Callum Murray’) and chill out to the backdrop of live, atmospheric music. Bliss.
Froth Craft Brewery
Where To Stay
Whether you’re after a luxury eco experience with ocean views or a quintessential camping ground to call home during your Ningaloo Reef adventure, there’s something for all speeds.
Read on for the top stays our Western Australian audience shared for an unforgettable vacay.
Sal Salis is truly a must-do for every wanderluster’s bucket list. This awe-inspiring eco-camp features 15 wilderness tents perched on the shores of Ningaloo Reef, boasting sweeping views of the incredible coastline and surrounding bush. It’s an all-inclusive stay with some of the best food you’ll have in your life—and we mean it. Local seafood, refreshing cocktails and seasonal ingredients are the stars of the show here. You can swim and snorkel directly from the beach in front of the camp as well as use it as your base to explore some of Exmouth’s highlights—think turtle nesting and hatchings, gentle whale shark swims and exploring the world-famous drift snorkel at Turquoise Bay.
Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef
BOOK HERE
Bullara Station (Punurrba) is well worth a spot on your hit list if you can tear yourself away from Ningaloo's turquoise waters. Located inland from the coast, between Coral Bay and Exmouth, Bullara is an authentic outback station experience. With a range of accommodation options available, you’ll find something to suit your style and budget. There’s a traditional Shearer’s Lodge, fully decked out glamping tents, private cottages and powered sites. If pitching a tent is more your vibe, there’s plenty of space to get set up and sleep under a canopy of stars. The highlights? There are multiple: coffee and daily scones from the onsite kitchen, dreamy outdoor bucket showers, spots for gazing at the Milky Way once the sun sets, and barbecue burger nights around the campfire.
Bullara Station
BOOK HERE
BOOK HERE
While you might be hitting Ningaloo Reef for a bit of adventure, there’s nothing wrong with needing a little R&R. If this is you, and you’re in the mood for something luxe, Mantarays is Exmouth’s premium accommodation option. When you’ve ticked off Exmouth’s must-do adventure experiences—maybe a fishing charter or a once-in-a-lifetime swim with whale sharks—this is the place to treat yourself. We recommend starting with a coffee on the balcony overlooking Sunrise Beach before you head down to the hearty buffet breakfast. Not sure what to do next? Lounging by the infinity pool with a page-turner and cocktail in hand is a surefire way to spend an afternoon.
Mantarays
BOOK HERE
BOOK HERE
Rest your head at Warroora Station. Nestled in the outback this family-run cattle station boasts beauty at every turn. With the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef as its western boundary and red desert sands to the east, there’s no shortage of natural wonder here. Roll out your swag or check into one of Warroora Station’s collection of cottages or ocean-view villas—trust us, you’ll never want to leave.
Warroora Station
BOOK HERE
BOOK HERE
Snorkelling Ningaloo Reef—from Exmouth, Coral Bay, or a tiny bay on the way—is what holidays in this part of Western Australia are all about. There’s an array of spots to choose from, each destination serving up something different. Beloved favourites include the drift snorkel at Turquoise Bay near Exmouth and Five Fingers Reef in Coral Bay. Expect coral bursting with vivid colour and rich marine life; keep your eyes peeled for turtles and we guarantee it’ll be one of your best days. These guys are some of the friendliest creatures and they generally let you snorkel alongside them until you’re ready to head back to dry land for a snack and a rest before doing it all over again. To lean into full holiday mode, join an organised dive or snorkel tour and let the local experts guide you through an unforgettable reef experience.
Snorkel The Reef
From March until the end of July, majestic whale sharks can be spotted in the waters of Ningaloo Reef, and believe us when we say jumping into crystal-clear water alongside one of these gentle giants can only be described as an otherworldly experience. The full-day tours include snorkelling stops at kaleidoscopic coral reefs where you’ll be able to admire passing turtles and an abundance of marine life.
If snorkelling is what’s brought you to the area, the resident manta rays of Coral Bay can’t be missed. Spanning up to 7m, these rays are nothing short of captivating. Don your wetsuit and pop on your mask to watch these acrobatic creatures glide across the ocean floor—just remember, a flick of their wings and you’ll be racing to keep up.
Swim With Whale Sharks And Manta Rays
The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park is about two hours north of Perth, making it the perfect first stop on your Coral Coast road trip. The naturally occurring limestone structures formed over 25,000 years ago and stand up to 5 metres high. It’s no doubt this is one of the region’s most incredible natural attractions and a spot that’s a regular on the ‘gram.
The National Park is sprawling and home to a huge variety of native animals and bird life. From July to October, wildflowers unique to this area of the world bloom, causing the area to flush with a vibrant palette of earthy colour. We recommend packing the binoculars and indulging in a little pre-trip research on the local flora and fauna as this will go a long way to helping you getting the most out of this naturally diverse destination. To really make the most of this experience, join an organised tour run by passionate locals.
The Pinnacles
The pink lake at Hutt Lagoon, is a natural phenomenon that has to be seen to be believed. The water is an ever-evolving shade of pink, caused by extremely high salinity levels. It’s best to visit the lake on a clear day, around mid-morning or sunset, and while you can drive there from Kalbarri (Wurdimarlu), the ultimate way to see it is from above. Take a scenic flight from Geraldton (Jambinu) and scope out the lake’s mesmerising contrast with the Indian Ocean’s blue waters—it’s the epitome of natural wonder. Depending on what time of day you go, the water ranges from bubble gum pink to soft lilac and sometimes even red. If you get there around sunset, you’ll be able to watch the colours of the lake transform. It’s a truly magical experience.
Hutt Lagoon
On the west side of Exmouth sits Cape Range National Park—a nature lover’s paradise. The rugged landscape is home to more than 50km of phenomenal beaches including Turquoise Bay, voted as Western Australia’s best beach by Trip Advisor’s 2022 Traveller’s Choice Awards. The deep canyons such as Yardie Creek starkly contrast with the beach's blues and whites, and are home to a lively array of wildlife. From July onwards the park comes alive with colour as the wildflower season begins. There is a range of walks and hike trails to explore the Park and you can stop in at Yardie Homestead if you want to make this your base for exploring.
Cape Range National Park
On The Way
To truly experience the scope and natural wonder of Australia’s Coral Coast, there’s no better way than to jump in the car and traverse the dreamy Coral Coast Highway from Perth to Exmouth. With breathtaking national park wonders and plenty of opportunities for marine encounters along the way, it’s the perfect warm up for Ningaloo’s otherworldly offerings.
Find the ultimate roadtrip mapped out here.
Carnarvon
Ningaloo Reef
Monkey Mia
Cape Range National Park
Hutt Lagoon
Shark Bay
While Exmouth might feel a world away from Japan, Bamboo unites the two destinations with its passion for fresh ingredients and a flavourful offering. Located in the heart of Exmouth, head down to enjoy top-quality coffee, freshly squeezed juice, refreshing salads and a fantastic selection of sushi. Perfect for a meal on the go, take your sushi to the nearest seaside vista and enjoy it as you watch another spectacular WA sunset over the horizon.
Shark Bay is an absolute must-do when road-tripping the Coral Coast Highway. The first location in Western Australia to receive UNESCO status in 1991 and a proud World Heritage Area, it is a refuge for thousands of flora and fauna including 12 species of seagrass, 10,000 dugongs, five of Australia's 26 species of endangered mammals and the oldest living fossils on Earth, the Hamelin Pool Stromatolites.
To get up close and personal with some of the area's wildlife, head to Monkey Mia Beach to meet dolphins during feeding time, or head out on a wildlife cruise to see Dugongs in their natural habitat—the area is home to one of the world’s largest and most secure population of this endangered mammal species.
If your ideal holiday involves a little adventure, hop in your 4WD (or go with an eco-tour) and head to Francois Peron National Park to find dramatic cliffs and red desert juxtaposed with white sand beaches and stunning blue waters.
If relaxation is more your speed, throw down a towel at the world-famous Shell Beach that's made up of millions of tiny white shells, enjoy a picnic at Little Lagoon, and soak in the hot tub at Peron Homestead.
Monkey Mia & Shark Bay
CORAL BAY
EXMOUTH
EXMOUTH AND CORAL BAY
BUNDEGI BEACH, EXMOUTH
EXMOUTH
EXMOUTH
EXMOUTH
Cape Range National Park
EXMOUTH
EXMOUTH
CARNARVON
Stay in the heart of Exmouth with self-contained apartments at Exmouth Escape Resort. If you grow tired of wading in those warm Indian Ocean waters and snorkelling on the hunt for turtles (unlikely though possible), you can kick back by the resort’s pool with a drink in hand.
Exmouth Escape Resort
EXMOUTH
BOOK HERE
BOOK HERE
Just over an hour from Exmouth, you can experience full wilderness camping away from the homestead or enjoy the on-site amenities at one of the station’s bush camps. There’s also a cottage and rooms for those a little less adventurous.
Giralia Station Stay
EXMOUTH GULF
BOOK HERE
BOOK HERE
At RAC Holiday Park there are stacks of affordable sites for camping and caravans as well as cabins and chalets so you’re set no matter your style. Great for community vibes, play a game with your fellow guests on the beach volleyball court or enjoy an outdoor meal together at the covered BBQ area.
RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park
EXMOUTH
BOOK HERE
BOOK HERE
and the Coral Coast
The best places to base yourself are Coral Bay or Exmouth (Warnangoora) where you can choose to sit back and enjoy white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, or ignite your adventurous spirit with four-wheel driving, wildlife swims and stunning scenic flights. This is one of the most beautiful places in the world—it's no wonder why people can’t get enough of Ningaloo Reef and the Coral Coast.
Read on for all the best places to play, eat and stay at Ningaloo Reef and the Coral Coast, according to the passionate locals who call it home.
PLAY
STAY
EAT
If you’re into beaches, snorkelling and marine life, it’s likely you would
have heard of the Ningaloo reef/Nyinggulu in Australia’s North-West.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of Australia’s
best beaches and the world’s largest fringing coral reef.
It’s so close to shore, most of the snorkel spots
can be reached by swimming or a short boat
ride from the beach.
In this spectacular part of the world,
you can come face-to-face with gentle
giants of the sea like humpback whales,
whale sharks and manta rays, harmoniously
swimming alongside turtles, vividly coloured
coral and an incredible variety of fish.
The best places to base yourself are Coral Bay or
Exmouth where you can choose to sit back and enjoy
white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, or ignite your
adventurous spirit with four-wheel driving, wildlife swims and
stunning scenic flights. This is one of the most beautiful places
in the world—it's no wonder why people can’t get enough of the
Ningaloo Reef/Nyinggulu and the Coral Coast.
Wherever you turn there’s an activity encouraging you to move your body and let your mind marvel. The payoff for exerting this fulfilling type of holiday energy is refuelling to do it all over again, and this coastal playground has plenty of local venues to keep you satisfied. From breakfast by the sea to dinner under the stars, here are our top eats.
Where To Eat
In this spectacular part of the world,
you can come face-to-face with gentle
giants of the sea like humpback whales,
whale sharks and manta rays, harmoniously
swimming alongside turtles, vividly coloured
coral and an incredible variety of fish.
The best places to base yourself are Coral Bay or
Exmouth where you can choose to sit back and enjoy
white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, or ignite your
adventurous spirit with four-wheel driving, wildlife swims and
stunning scenic flights. This is one of the most beautiful places
in the world—it's no wonder why people can’t get enough of the
Ningaloo Reef/Nyinggulu and the Coral Coast.
If you’re into beaches, snorkelling and marine life, it’s likely you would
have heard of the Ningaloo reef/Nyinggulu in Australia’s North-West.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of Australia’s
best beaches and the world’s largest fringing coral reef.
It’s so close to shore, most of the snorkel spots
can be reached by swimming or a short boat
ride from the beach.
Shark Bay (Gutharraguda) is an absolute must-do when road-tripping the Coral Coast Highway. The first location in Western Australia to receive UNESCO status in 1991 and a proud World Heritage Area, it is a refuge for thousands of flora and fauna including 12 species of seagrass, 10,000 dugongs, five of Australia's 26 species of endangered mammals and the oldest living fossils on Earth, the Hamelin Pool Stromatolites.
To get up close and personal with some of the area's wildlife, head to Monkey Mia Beach to meet friendly and playful dolphins during feeding time, or head out on a wildlife cruise to see dugongs in their natural habitat—the area is home to one of the world’s largest and most secure population of this endangered mammal species.
If your ideal holiday involves a little adventure, hop in your 4WD (or go with an eco-tour) and head to Francois Peron National Park to find dramatic cliffs and red desert juxtaposed with white sand beaches and stunning blue waters.
If relaxation is more your speed, throw down a towel at the world-famous Shell Beach, made up of millions of tiny white shells, enjoy a picnic at Little Lagoon, and soak in the hot tub at Peron Homestead.
Where To Play
Brimming with natural wonder and breathtaking wildlife experiences, the Coral Coast has an extensive range of activities bound to captivate your entire mind and body. From an underwater wonderland to rugged landscapes, here are the best adventures to embark on along Ningaloo Reef.
If you’re into beaches, snorkelling and marine life, it’s likely you would
have heard of the Ningaloo reef/ Nyinggulu in Australia’s North-West.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of Australia’s
best beaches and the world’s largest fringing coral reef.
It’s so close to shore, most of the snorkel spots
can be reached by swimming or a short boat
ride from the beach.
In this spectacular part of the world,
you can come face-to-face with gentle
giants of the sea like humpback whales,
whale sharks and manta rays, harmoniously
swimming alongside turtles, vividly coloured
coral and an incredible variety of fish.
The best places to base yourself are Coral Bay
or Exmouth where you can choose to sit back and
enjoy white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, or
ignite your adventurous spirit with four-wheel driving,
wildlife swims and stunning scenic flights. This is one of
the most beautiful places in the world—it's no wonder why
people can’t get enough of the Ningaloo Reef and the Coral Coast.
40-150km from Exmouth
Distance from Perth: 1200km
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800km from Perth
190km from Perth
Distance from Perth: 1080km
Price: $$$
Distance from Perth: 515km
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1200km from Perth
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75km from Exmouth
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188km from Exmouth
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515km from Perth
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“It’s just breathtaking. Exmouth is a gorgeous little town with an amazing local feel and just a quick drive you will reach Ningaloo Reef and discover the amazing underwater world that is just on our doorstep.” — Grace, WA local
“Exmouth is the place to snorkel and see the most beautiful marine life. The amount of opportunities to see dolphins, turtles, whales and beautiful fish is endless.” — Holly, WA local
“Swimming with the whale sharks! A feeling I’ve never experienced before and will likely never forget. That place is pure magic.” — Eloise, WA local
“Yardie is merely 7km from the entrance of Cape Range National Park. Its magnificent gorges walking trails and beaches are a must-see when travelling to Exmouth! Make sure you go snorkelling and enjoy the unique landscape of the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Coast and Reef.”
— Matilda, WA local
“Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef in the Cape Range National Park is unbeatable. You wake up to stunning ocean views, get to enjoy fresh local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this unique location. It's a true bucket list experience!” — Mikaela, WA local
“The Safari Tents are next-level glamping.” — Emma, WA local
“The atmosphere and the pizza are just absolutely unmatched.” — Jessica, WA local
“Shark Bay is a must! There’s amazing marine life, snorkelling and diving, idyllic beaches, incredible wildlife on the land, hectic scenery, and the most amazing sunsets.” — Emily, WA local
“The towering limestone pillars that rise out of the sand create an otherworldly landscape that is both eerie and beautiful.” — Sam, WA local
“Viewing the calm, pink pastel waters of Hutt Lagoon will make you feel like you’ve been transported into a David Hockney painting! A simply unforgettable coastline…”
— Andrew, WA local
Carnarvon
190km from Perth
$$$
This palm-fringed coastal oasis is nestled at the halfway point between Shark Bay and Coral Bay. Visit between the months of May and October for an abundance of fresh prawns, scallops, crab and local fish, fresh from the town’s own fishing fleet. Tropical flavours abound with fresh bananas, mangoes, papaya, carambola melons and grapes from bountiful local harvests. With plenty of local fare to fuel your tank, the region offers a stack of adventure experiences including surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing, snorkelling and swimming spots, all dotted along a beautifully rugged stretch of coastline. Take in the Coral Coast from the air with a helicopter tour departing from Carnarvon Airport and glide over the Indian Ocean, visit secluded beaches and spot an array of local wildlife.
PLAY
STAY
EAT
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The Pinnacles
ON The Way
67km from Exmouth
891km from Perth
$$$—$$$
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Urban List acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work, live, and play. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and acknowledge this always was and always will be Aboriginal land.
Perth
Geraldton
Kalbarri
Coral Bay
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Coral Coast Highway
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