Go Coral Bay

Welcome to paradise. Situated 1132km north of Perth and bathed in tropical sun all year round, Coral Bay is a tiny, unique settlement on the Outback Coast. Perched right on a gorgeous beach and sweeping bay; this is the place where you can experience the fantastic Ningaloo Reef close up.

It's mega chilled-out here. The town is small, the locals relaxed and everything is within walking or swimming distance.

And you can have a world-class diving experience for the cost of snorkel hire; just grab the gear, walk off the beach, dip your head in and you're in the midst of a new world, populated by incredibly colourful fish, turtles and rays.

Activities in Coral Bay

There are heaps of fun activities available including quad biking, trekking, diving, scenic flights, coral viewing and wildlife spotting. The local charter operators will take you swimming with manta rays and dolphins can be seen from tour vessels all year round. You can experience the turtle hatching season between November-March but make yourself aware of the strict code of conduct that must be adhered to – do not use lights or approach the turtles. These turtles are listed as threatened and vulnerable to extinction. Visitors need to do the right thing during turtle season as this is a delicate stage of the life cycle where only one in every thousand survive to maturity. You can obtain the code of conduct from the Exmouth Visitor Centre.

Snorkel with the Whales

After the coral spawns, one week after the first full-moon in March, planet Earth's biggest fish, the harmless whale shark, come to visit. Snorkel with these amazing creatures, which can reach 18-metres in length, but are usually seen at about 5 -9 metres; it is a life-changing experience to swim with something so big. Generally the whale shark season is April to June/early July.

Humpback whales are usually around between August to November, and there's numerous tours and charters to take you out to see them. Or, you could just lay on the beach - this is the joy of Coral Bay, which is fast becoming a must-stop for independent travellers. The simple outdoor lifestyle, set against the stunning backdrop of Ningaloo Reef and surrounding waters is highly appealing, and the purpose built Ningaloo Club offers superior Backpacker accommodation practically on the beach.