Discover why Western Australia is a nature lovers’ paradise. Become an Exmouth Explorer and experience the many wonders of the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef. As you journey through the idyllic West Coast you will experience a totally different side to Australia, a region many are yet to discover!
Start your adventure in the most remote capital city of Perth before heading north into the nature lovers’ paradise that is Western Australia. Hike down to the banks of the Murchison River and peek through Nature’s Window into an ancient gorge. For those seeking a unique view over the gorge, there’ll also be an opportunity to test your abseil skills (at guest’s own expense). A visit to the World Heritage Listed region of Shark Bay will leave you in awe of the beauty of nature. Here you can marvel at a beach made entirely of tiny shells, meet the world’s oldest living fossils, the Stromatolites, and witness dolphins playing just offshore at Monkey Mia.
The region is not only home to around 2000 dolphins but also turtles, dugongs, kangaroos, and emus! Be amazed by your visit to the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef, known for its diverse marine life, manta rays, and whale shark visitors! Stay overnight in Coral Bay, a town right by the beach which boasts coral so close to shore you can swim out to view it. Or join a tour in search of whale sharks or manta rays. Whether you choose to join a boat tour or simply relax on the beach, the pristine beaches and turquoise waters here will leave a truly lasting impression.
We follow the road as far north as Exmouth Cape Range National Park, a place where rugged mountains flow almost down to the sea. Stand atop Vlamingh Head at the lighthouse for views over the reef and ranges. In spring, you may even spot the migrating humpback and whalesharks as they go by. Complete your tour of the Cape with a visit to the snorkelling haven of Turquoise Bay. From Exmouth, we make our way back down towards Perth stopping for many comfort breaks and seaside stops. Take this last opportunity for you to solidify new friendships and reflect on your adventure together.
Perth – Pinnacles – Geraldton
Your journey begins in Perth with a morning welcome before heading north along the scenic Coral Coast. Stop at Nambung National Park to wander among the striking limestone formations of the Pinnacles Desert, one of Australia’s most unique landscapes. Continue via coastal towns including Jurien Bay, with the chance to spot sea lions, and the famous Leaning Trees of Greenough. Arrive in Geraldton and enjoy an orientation tour, including the moving HMAS Sydney Memorial overlooking the coast.
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Hospitality Inn Geraldton or similar.
Meals: None
Driving Distance: 440km
Walking Distance: Short easy walks / look out points.
Day 2: Geraldton – Northampton – Kalbarri National Park
Travel to the historic town of Northampton, where you’ll visit a First Nations art gallery and meet local artists. Continue to the vibrant Pink Lake at Hutt Lagoon, a photographer’s dream. In Kalbarri National Park, explore dramatic gorge landscapes including Nature’s Window, Z-Bend, and the spectacular Kalbarri Skywalk, offering sweeping views over the Murchison River.
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Kalbarri Edge Resort or similar.
Meals: B
Driving Distance: 170km
Walking Distance: 5 km / 2 short guided walks. Anyone unable to walk that distance has the option to wait for the group to return.
Day 3: Kalbarri – Shark Bay – Monkey Mia
Start the day with a unique marine experience in Kalbarri, pulling rock lobster pots and learning about this iconic industry—then keep your catch to enjoy later. Journey north into the Shark Bay World Heritage region, stopping at Hamelin Pool to see ancient stromatolites and visiting Shell Beach, formed entirely of tiny white cockle shells. Arrive at Monkey Mia, where you’ll also enjoy an immersive cultural experience with the Nhanda and Malgana people, featuring storytelling, music, and bush tucker.
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort or similar.
Meals: B
Driving Distance: 400km
Walking Distance: Short easy walks / look out points.
Day 4: Monkey Mia – Dolphin Experience & Leisure Time
Begin the day with an unforgettable dolphin encounter at Monkey Mia, guided by Parks & Wildlife experts. Watch bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat and learn about ongoing conservation efforts. The remainder of the day is at leisure – relax on the beach, swim in calm waters, or simply take in the serene coastal setting. Optional sunset cruises offer the chance to spot dugongs, turtles, and other marine life.
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort or similar.
Meals: B
Driving Distance: None
Walking Distance: Short easy walks / look out points.
Day 5: Monkey Mia – Carnarvon – Gascoyne Region
Travel north to Carnarvon, with a stop at the historic Space and Technology Centre, once supporting NASA missions. Gain insight into local Aboriginal culture at the Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage and Cultural Centre before exploring the region’s rich agricultural area along the Gascoyne Food Trail. This evening, enjoy time at leisure to stroll along the waterfront or dine at a local restaurant.
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Hospitality Inns Carnarvon or similar.
Meals: B
Driving Distance: 350kms
Walking Distance: Short easy walks / look out points.
Day 6: Carnarvon – Coral Bay – Exmouth
Arrive at Coral Bay, gateway to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef. Cruise over the reef on a glass-bottom boat and snorkel among vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life. Continue north to Exmouth, stopping at Vlamingh Head Lighthouse for panoramic views over the reef and coastline.
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Ningaloo Lodge Exmouth or similar.
Meals: B
Driving Distance: 490kms
Walking Distance: Short easy walks / look out points.
Day 7: Exmouth – Ningaloo Reef (Free Day & Optional Experiences)
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Exmouth and Ningaloo Reef at your own pace. Choose from a range of optional experiences, including swimming with whale sharks (seasonal), manta rays, or humpback whales, or exploring Cape Range National Park. This flexibility allows you to tailor the day to your interests—whether adventure, wildlife, or relaxation.
Included Activities:
Accommodation: Ningaloo Lodge Exmouth or similar.
Meals: B
Driving Distance: None
Walking Distance: Short easy walks / look out points.
Day 8: Exmouth
After breakfast, your journey comes to an end in Exmouth. Depart with unforgettable memories of Western Australia’s Coral Coast, from ancient landscapes to vibrant marine ecosystems.
Meals: B
Weather
The weather along the West Coast of Australia varies by region and season. In summer, temperatures can reach the high 30s (°C). Winter days are generally mild closer to Perth. Exmouth has a tropical climate with hot, humid summers and warm, dry winters. Coastal areas in between can experience sudden changes, including rainfall and cooler evenings. We recommend checking the average temperatures for the time of year you’ll be travelling and packing accordingly, including sun protection, light layers, and wet weather gear. Tours will proceed in most weather conditions unless otherwise advised by the provider.
General Information
Safe Travel Measures
What to bring
Exclusions
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