Ningaloo Reef has been hailed as one of the best diving and snorkeling spots of the world because of its pristine condition. It’s easy to understand why once you see the multitude of colourful marine life that calls the Reef home.
Swimming with the world’s largest fish, the whale shark, is just one of the awesome experiences available along Western Australia’s coast. You can swim with these amazing creatures when they pass by each year, drawn to the reef to feed on krill. Whale sharks can grow up to 18 metres in length – you’ll feel like a minnow but luckily these creatures only eat plankton! Whale shark tours operate out of Coral Bay or Exmouth from April until June.
Here at Ningaloo Reef, the Indian Ocean is teeming with marine life including humpback whales, dolphins, turtles, dugongs and colourful tropical fish by the thousands. There’s also the chance to swim with graceful manta rays, or snorkel over the reef. No overcrowded pontoons here – it’s just you, a mask and fins, and the most amazing marine life you’re ever likely to see.
Flights to nearby Learmonth airport operate from Perth but driving to both towns is easy with quality roads including the Brand and North West Coastal Highways offering plenty of caravanning and roadhouse stops.
Coral Bay is the southern gateway to the Ningaloo Reef and offers an idyllic family holiday. The calm sandy beaches are perfect for swimming, while just 20 metres from shore lies the reef. Snorkelling equipment is available for hire from nearby dive shops, or there are glass bottom boats operating daily tours. Snorkelling and scuba diving cruises to the outer reef are also available. Beach fishing areas are easy to get to, while deep sea and game fishing charters are available. Coral Bay relies heavily on tourism and offers all levels of accommodation from caravan and camping to resort style apartments overlooking the beach.
Just 150km to the north is the larger town of Exmouth, a great base from which to explore the nearby marine and land based natural attractions. As the northern gateway to the Ningaloo Marine Park, Exmouth boasts diving and snorkelling conditions that have been rated amongst the world’s best. Like Coral Bay, there are plenty of snorkelling, diving and fishing tours available, as well as many calm and sheltered swimming beaches.
To the south of the town is the amazing Cape Range National Park where you can experience spectacular gorges, spring time wildflowers and amazing wildlife. There are four wheel drive tours available from Exmouth or the adventurous can camp or stay in unique safari style accommodation. Entry and camping fees apply.
Ningaloo Reef Travel Packages
If you'd like to book a trip to Ningaloo Reef, contact Discover West Holidays who will book all your travel arrangements. Simply email them at surf@discoverwest.com, or visit their website.
