An underwater Eden with an incredible diversity of marine life, this World Heritage area protects the Ningaloo reef, Australia’s largest fringing reef. Easily accessible from the dazzling white sandy beaches in some places only 500 meters from the surf. The Baiyungu, Thalanyji and Yinikurura people have responsibilities for sea country in the marine park. They were coastal dwelling people who have had strong connections to Nyinggulu and the Thanardi for over 30,000 years. Traditional owners and Parks and Wildlife Service are on a journey to jointly manage the Thanardi Country through the development of the Nyinggulu Joint Management Body.
Ningaloo Marine Park is located 1200 kilometres north of Perth and off of Western Australia’s North West Cape. For a quick trip from Perth, we recommend flying into Exmouth. Sections of the park are 4wd access only and others are 2wd accessible.
Ningaloo Reef is home to more than 300 species of coral and 500 species of fish and marine life including the spectacular whale sharks, orcas, humpback whales, dugongs, manta rays, turtles, and dolphins. It is one of the best places in the world to snorkel with many of the famous snorkel sites located straight off the beach. Oyster Stacks and Turquoise Bay can be easily accessed from Cape Range National Park. The Coral Coast is home to 2 of the 7 Australian Hope Hotspots, global locations considered to be critical to the health of the ocean.
From mid-March to the end of July, a dip into the turquoise waters could bring you a once in a lifetime experience, it is one of the few places in the world where you can view the biggest fish in the sea – the glorious whale shark. A whale shark swim is an absolute must!
Swimming with a Whale Shark - Image By Tourism WA
Sail the hues of the sunset on a catamaran with Sail Ningaloo. You can avoid getting wet with Coral Bay Ecotours who have a glass-bottom boat, or enjoy the beautiful scenic vistas from the air with Birds Eye View Ningaloo upon a microlight. There truly is something for everyone!
Region: - Coral Coast
Nearest town: - Coral Bay, 500m
Established: - 1987
Area: - 2435km2
Highlights: - Ningaloo Reef, Ningaloo Coastline, Whale Sharks
Experiences: - Swimming, Snorkelling, Boating, Canoeing/ Kayaking, Diving