Ningaloo Reef
Ningaloo Reef: a vast, accessible paradise teeming with whale sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral. Experience unparalleled marine encounters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Whale shark season
Ningaloo Reef
Best Time
Whale shark season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ningaloo Reef: a vast, accessible paradise teeming with whale sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral. Experience unparalleled marine encounters.
"Swimming with my first ever whale shark was simply magical, I ended up crying in my snorkel lol."
Book Whale Shark Tours Early
Tours sell out quickly, especially during peak season (June-July). Book months in advance!
Consider Coral Bay for Reef Access
Coral Bay offers incredible snorkeling directly from the beach, perfect for easy reef access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swim with Whale Sharks
Exmouth & Coral Bay
Encounter the gentle giants of the ocean on an unforgettable guided swim. A truly magical and humbling experience.
Turquoise Bay's Drift
Cape Range National Park
Experience the famous drift snorkel at Turquoise Bay. Let the currents guide you over vibrant coral and abundant fish.
Manta Ray Encounters
Exmouth & Coral Bay
Witness the graceful dance of manta rays. These majestic creatures are a common and awe-inspiring sight.
Humpback Whale Watching
Exmouth & Coral Bay
During migration season, marvel at breaching and playful humpback whales from the boat or shore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Whale Shark Adventure Early
Understand Ningaloo's Vastness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Whale Shark Tours Early
Tours sell out quickly, especially during peak season (June-July). Book months in advance!
Consider Coral Bay for Reef Access
Coral Bay offers incredible snorkeling directly from the beach, perfect for easy reef access.
Pack for Sun Protection
The sun is intense. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a rash guard for all-day protection. :sunwithface:
Bring an Underwater Camera
Capture the magic! Many tours offer underwater camera rentals if you don't have your own. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Whale Shark Tours Early
Tours sell out quickly, especially during peak season (June-July). Book months in advance!
Consider Coral Bay for Reef Access
Coral Bay offers incredible snorkeling directly from the beach, perfect for easy reef access.
Pack for Sun Protection
The sun is intense. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a rash guard for all-day protection. :sunwithface:
Bring an Underwater Camera
Capture the magic! Many tours offer underwater camera rentals if you don't have your own. :camerawithflash:
Respect Marine Life Guidelines
Follow tour operator rules to ensure the safety and well-being of marine animals.
Try Local Seafood
Enjoy fresh catches like wahoo, often prepared on BBQs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the unforgettable wildlife encounters, particularly swimming with whale sharks and manta rays. The professionalism and friendliness of tour operators, especially Kings Ningaloo Reef Tours, are frequently highlighted, along with the delicious food and overall exceptional experience. Some wish the tours lasted longer.
"We went on a tour with Kings Ningaloo Reef Tours as a family and had such an unforgettable day! We were lucky enough to spot a whale shark three times and also saw two manta rays, as well as lots of humpback whales – truly incredible encounters.
The whole crew was absolutely fantastic – super friendly, professional, and always helpful. The lunch was delicious and there were plenty of snacks and drinks throughout the day.
What stood out most was how caring and supportive the staff were. One person in our group was a bit unsure about joining the swims because of the physical effort involved. The team was so patient, encouraging, and gave them the support they needed in the water – even helping with extra flotation and guidance. Thanks to them, they not only joined the swim but also got to see a whale shark up close, which was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
It was the perfect mix of adventure, wildlife, and warm hospitality. We can’t recommend this tour highly enough – definitely 5 out of 5 stars! 🌟"
Jonathan Pott
"An experience and a memory that i will cherish for the rest of my life. Swimming with my first ever whale shark was simply magical, I ended up crying in my snorkel lol.
From the beginning of the day right till the end I had a wonderful time. The bus trip to the boat ramp in the morning was enjoyable and informative on the local area. I enjoyed both the morning and afternoon snorkels in the inner reef, especially the morning one to get comfortable in the water. Swimming with the whale sharks was just absolutely out of this world, and the team at kings really tried to make sure we got the most out of it.
Unfortunately during the middle of our trip there was a medical emergency, but the team at kings handled it with such professionalism and grace that I seriously applaud them. Everyone just worked like a well oiled machine and you could tell this was a team of people who trusted and truly cared for each other, and everyone on board.
I felt extremely safe in the hands of the King's team and would recommend them to anyone thinking about undertaking a whale shark tour, to book with Kings.
What an incredible day, I only wish it lasted longer.
Thanks again for the experience of a lifetime!"
Lost With Soph
"We had the wonderful opportunity to join the whale shark tour at Wednesday 16th of July (thanks to Cheryl the wizard who could book us last minute in🙌).
The whole tour is amazing! We think the crew was fantastic, the best we’ve ever seen on tours. Really enthusiastic, taking care of everybody and be sure everyone was having a good time. Lunch was delicious! We were lucky to have multiple dives with the whale sharks, so so great.
Big plus: they respect nature and having strict guideline’s so the whale sharks don’t get interrupted. Eco friendly:)
Thanks again for this wonderful experience and a big shout out to the crew."
V2
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to fly from Perth to Learmonth Airport (near Exmouth), which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive, which is a long journey of about 12-13 hours, often done as a road trip with overnight stops.
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Exmouth, Coral Bay, and the surrounding national parks. Some tours include transfers.
Yes, the drive between Exmouth and Coral Bay is about an hour. Many tours operate from both locations, and some offer transfers between them.
A 4WD is not essential for most main attractions and tours, but it can be beneficial for accessing some more remote beaches or campsites within Cape Range National Park.
Learmonth Airport (LEA) is the closest to Exmouth and Coral Bay, located about 35-40 minutes from Exmouth.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Whale shark tours typically range from AUD $350 to $500 per person, depending on the operator and inclusions. It's a significant investment but considered worth it by many.
Absolutely! Whale shark tours are extremely popular and book up months in advance, especially during peak season (June-July).
There are no entry fees for swimming in Ningaloo Marine Park itself. However, there are park entry fees for Cape Range National Park if you plan to drive in and visit spots like Turquoise Bay.
Most tours include boat travel, snorkeling gear, wetsuits, a buffet lunch, snacks, drinks, and often a photographer. Some offer free repeat tours if you don't see a whale shark.
Yes, you can snorkel directly from the shore at many locations, especially in Coral Bay and at Turquoise Bay. However, for whale sharks and manta rays, a guided boat tour is necessary.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Ningaloo is famous for whale sharks, manta rays, humpback whales (seasonal), turtles, reef sharks, and over 500 species of fish.
The most popular way is on a guided boat tour from Exmouth or Coral Bay. You'll swim alongside them with experienced guides.
Yes, whale sharks are gentle giants and pose no threat to humans. Tour operators have strict guidelines to ensure safe and respectful interactions.
Turquoise Bay offers a unique drift snorkel experience. You enter the water at the southern end and let the current carry you over the reef.
Humpback whales migrate along the coast from July to November, with peak sightings often in September and October.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Both towns have a good selection of restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Exmouth offers more variety, while Coral Bay has a few options, often associated with resorts.
Yes, fishing is popular, and some visitors enjoy catching and cooking their own wahoo or other local species.
Lunch on whale shark tours is usually a generous buffet with fresh salads, meats, and often seafood. Snacks and drinks are also provided throughout the day.
Most restaurants in Exmouth and Coral Bay can cater to dietary requirements if informed in advance. Tour operators also usually accommodate dietary needs.
Freshly caught seafood is a highlight. Try local fish like wahoo, often prepared simply on the BBQ for a true taste of the region.
📸 📸 Photography
A good underwater camera or action camera (like a GoPro) is ideal for capturing marine life. A waterproof phone case is a budget-friendly option.
Yes, many spots like Turquoise Bay offer stunning scenery and opportunities for shore-based photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Many tour operators have onboard photographers and offer photo packages for purchase, capturing your swim with the whale sharks.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds. Glassy mornings can provide incredible reflections on the water.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of marine life and avoid using flash directly on animals. Follow guide instructions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for tours that offer shorter durations or have specific family packages. Cape Range National Park provides easy access to stunning beaches and picnic spots, making day trips enjoyable. Remember to pack plenty of sun protection and snacks, as facilities can be spread out.
💰 Budget Travelers
Shore-based snorkeling at Coral Bay and Turquoise Bay is free once you're there, offering incredible marine life encounters without the tour price tag. Road-tripping from Perth, while long, can be more economical than flying if you have the time.
💑 Couples
Consider a private charter or a smaller, more intimate tour for a special occasion. Enjoying a fresh seafood BBQ on the beach after a day of exploring adds to the idyllic experience.
🌊 Adventure Seekers
Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing are popular activities. Explore the rugged landscapes of Cape Range National Park by hiking or taking a scenic drive.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Whale Shark Encounters
+1Many visitors describe the experience as life-changing, with some even moved to tears by the sheer scale and beauty of the animals. The tours often include multiple swims, allowing ample opportunity to observe these creatures. Some operators even offer repeat tours if you're unlucky enough not to spot a whale shark on your first attempt, showcasing their commitment to guest satisfaction and the natural phenomenon.
Beyond whale sharks, the waters around Ningaloo are teeming with life. Manta rays are also a common and spectacular sight, known for their graceful movements. Humpback whales migrate through these waters from July to November, offering incredible breaching and playful displays. The sheer abundance and diversity of marine life make Ningaloo a premier destination for ocean lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
+2Exploring Ningaloo's Accessible Reef
Turquoise Bay, located within Cape Range National Park near Exmouth, is another must-visit for shore-based exploration. It's renowned for its 'drift' snorkel. You enter the water at the southern end and let the natural current gently carry you northwards over the coral bommies and schools of fish. This allows you to cover a good distance and see a variety of species without expending too much energy.
While shore-based snorkeling is excellent, boat tours open up even more possibilities, taking you to deeper waters and more remote sections of the reef. These tours are essential for encounters with larger pelagics like whale sharks and manta rays, but for a taste of Ningaloo's underwater world, simply stepping off the beach is an unforgettable experience.
The Ningaloo Coastline and Beyond
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, activities like squid fishing are popular, offering a chance to connect with the local lifestyle and enjoy the coastal environment.
Whether you're camping under the stars, enjoying a sunset BBQ with fresh catch, or simply soaking in the vastness of the Australian coastline, the Ningaloo region offers a complete coastal escape. The sense of remoteness and natural beauty is a significant draw for many visitors seeking an authentic Australian adventure.
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