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Western Australia's Coral Coast

The Coral Coast region of WA, offers some great opportunities for amazing experiences and interactions with Western Australia's wild life. Swim with whale sharks (April - July), watch manta rays, Dugongs, Humpback Whales (June - September), Sea Lions and Turtles swim by or meet the dolphins at Monkey Mia, the choice is yours. Spend some time exploring the world famous Ningaloo Reef, Australia's largest fringing Coral reef system stretching some 260km's from Coral bay to Exmouth, in many cases the reef is never more than a short walk from one of the many pristine beaches. Other notable attractions include the eerie Pinnacles Desert, Kalbarri National Park (Natures Window) and some of the best Wild Flowers found anywhere in the world (August - September). There really is something for everyone!

The north west coastline of Western Australia is vast, uncluttered and unique.

Nothing quite prepares the visitor for the huge stretches of beautiful sandy beaches, the clean fresh turquoise ocean or the dramatic red ochre' coastline. Sunsets over the endless Indian Ocean have an intensity unmatched anywhere else and for star gazers, the clean warm air provides a truly memorable panorama of the heavens.

Volumes have been written about the north west and we would encourage prospective visitors to read and learn as much as possible prior to and during any trip. Below however is a summary of some intesting places to visit plus some comments on 'things to do'.

Exmouth

Exmouth was founded in 1967 and is approximately 1270 kilometres north from Perth, the WA State capital. Originally settled as a support Town for service men and women at the Harold E Holt Naval Communication Station, the Town has grown into a thriving community of some 2,500 people.

Ideally set to provide a sound base for exploring the area, Exmouth has a number of tourist attractions. Notably these include the Cape Range National Park; Ningaloo Marine Park which provides fabulous fishing,  beautiful beaches, superb deep water harbour and spectacular gorges.

The Aquafest is a significant local event held in September each year drawing visitors from across Australia and overseas.

Fishing

Some of the best fishing in the world is available year round in and around Exmouth with the Leeuwin Current providing the ideal habitat for over 500 species of fish. These include the giant Coral Trout, Spanish Mackerel, Red Emperor and the famous local delicacy 'Snapper'. Game Fishing flourishes in the waters being home to the giant Marlin and Sailfish. For recreational fishermen young or old, Exmouth is a superb location for heavy or light tackle with numerous fishing spots dotted along the coastline. For more information refer to the Conservation and Land Management site (CALM) or www.natiurebase.net

Diving/Snorkelling.

The vast healthy and clean Ningaloo Reef runs along the coastline for some 260 kilometres parallel to the imposing cliffs of the Cape Range Peninsula.

Huge varieties of coral, believed to be in excess of 250 make up the reef which uniquely, can be accessed by a short 20 m stroll into the ocean direct from the beach. Such easy access makes the reef accessible by all visitors young and old. All that is needed is a mask, ideally some flippers and an inquisitive outlook.

The waters are warm throughout the year and visibility is excellent. Local Dive companies provide various levels of diving experiences from short boat trips to coral outcrops to the more adventurous expedition where visitors can swim with giant Whale Sharks that follow the coast. Dugongs, Mantra Rays,  Turtles and large Cod Fish can be seen up close and personal.

Cool Spots

Coral Bay is a small but lively settlement located within the Shire of Carnarvon some 1000 kilometres north of Perth. A wide selection of accommodation is provided from fully serviced camp sites to modern hotel units. Ningaloo Reef can be easily accessed from the beach where snorkelling, scuba diving and swimming is available all year round. Visitors (aside from the humans!) include Humpback Whales, Dugongs, Mantra Rays, Turtles and Bottle Nosed Dolphins. Truly paradise.

Turquoise Bay.

Appropriately named, this crystal clear lagoon offers world class sandy beaches, diving and snorkelling or simply lazing about soaking up the sun.

Surfers Beach.

Only 17 kilometres south of Exmouth, this beach provides the ideal sub-tropical 'break'. By far the best spot for surfers on the north west coast.

Charles Knife Canyon.

A truly 'outback setting' pioneers Charles Knife and his colleague, Jack King set about forming an access road into the vast Cape Ranges where an exploratory drilling rig was established. Whilst no mining operations exist today, the formed gravel road allows visitors exceptional views across the Exmouth region.

Yardie Creek.

Either by boat or by foot Yardie Creek is a truly awesome eco experience. Rock Wallabies are abundant as are the majestic giant Ospreys which soar above the landscape on rising currents of warm air.

Milyering Visitors Station.

Situated within the Cape Range and constructed of 'rammed earth' and powered by solar panels, this centre is the ideal spot to learn more about the north west region of WA. Interactive video shows and literature provide the visitor with everything to make a visit to Exmouth and beyond with a lifetime of memories and experiences.