Ningaloo Reef is not only a world-class destination for marine wildlife and adventure but also a hub for eco-conscious travel. With its rich biodiversity and fragile ecosystems, the Ningaloo region has embraced sustainable tourism practices, offering eco-friendly accommodations that allow visitors to experience the beauty of the reef while minimizing their environmental impact. Whether you’re looking for a luxury eco-retreat or a more rustic, off-the-grid experience, there are plenty of options to suit your needs. Here’s a guide to the best eco-friendly accommodations in Ningaloo.
1. Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef: Luxury Eco-Tents by the Beach
For those seeking an unforgettable, luxury eco-experience, Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef offers a blend of luxury and sustainability just steps from the beach. This eco-lodge features 15 wilderness tents, each carefully designed to blend into the natural landscape. Set within the Cape Range National Park, the tents offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean and are located just a short walk from the Ningaloo Reef’s coral gardens.
Sal Salis operates on sustainable principles, with solar-powered energy, composting toilets, and a focus on water conservation. The lodge limits its impact on the environment while still providing a high-end glamping experience. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals prepared with local produce, guided snorkeling, and wildlife tours, all while knowing their stay is supporting conservation efforts in the area.
What we love: The perfect balance of luxury and sustainability, combined with direct access to the Ningaloo Reef.
Eco-friendly features: Solar power, composting toilets, locally sourced produce, and water-saving initiatives.
Best for: Couples and travelers seeking an immersive, eco-luxury experience.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
2. Wilderness Island: Remote Eco-Retreat
Located off the coast of Exmouth, Wilderness Island offers a secluded, eco-friendly getaway for those who truly want to disconnect from the modern world. This private island is all about simplicity, nature, and sustainability. Accommodations are basic yet comfortable, with a focus on off-grid living and minimal environmental impact.
Wilderness Island is completely solar-powered, and guests are encouraged to embrace a slower pace of life, enjoying activities such as fishing, birdwatching, and exploring the surrounding natural beauty. The island’s isolation and commitment to sustainable living make it a perfect choice for eco-conscious travelers looking to escape into nature.
What we love: The feeling of total seclusion and the opportunity to reconnect with nature in a truly off-grid setting.
Eco-friendly features: Solar power, minimal infrastructure, focus on sustainable living.
Best for: Nature lovers and those seeking an off-the-beaten-path eco-retreat.
3. Exmouth Escape Resort: Eco-Conscious Family Getaway
For families or larger groups looking for an eco-friendly stay, Exmouth Escape Resort offers a more spacious option while still focusing on sustainability. Located just minutes from Ningaloo Marine Park, the resort offers a range of self-contained villas that are designed with the environment in mind.
Exmouth Escape Resort uses solar power, energy-efficient lighting, and water-saving fixtures to minimize its environmental footprint. The resort also participates in local conservation initiatives, including beach cleanups and wildlife protection programs. With comfortable accommodations, a pool, and easy access to Ningaloo’s top attractions, this resort is a great option for eco-conscious families.
What we love: Spacious accommodations with eco-friendly features, perfect for families and groups.
Eco-friendly features: Solar power, water-saving devices, participation in local conservation efforts.
Best for: Families and groups looking for eco-conscious, self-contained accommodations near Ningaloo Reef.
4. Bullara Station Stay: Eco-Friendly Farm Experience
For a unique and authentic Australian outback experience, Bullara Station Stay offers eco-conscious travelers a chance to stay on a working cattle station located between Exmouth and Coral Bay. The station provides a range of eco-friendly accommodations, including safari tents, cottages, and camping options. The owners are committed to sustainable farming practices, and guests are encouraged to learn about life on the station and the importance of living in harmony with nature.
Bullara Station Stay emphasizes water conservation, waste reduction, and using local, farm-sourced products in their on-site café. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want to experience the rugged beauty of the outback while maintaining eco-friendly principles.
What we love: The authentic outback experience combined with sustainable farming and eco-friendly accommodations.
Eco-friendly features: Sustainable farming practices, water conservation, waste reduction, locally sourced food.
Best for: Eco-conscious travelers seeking a rustic, farmstay experience.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
5. Ningaloo Coral Bay Bayview: Sustainable Beachfront Stay
Located in Coral Bay, Ningaloo Coral Bay Bayview offers eco-conscious beachfront accommodation with an emphasis on sustainability. The resort offers a range of accommodations, including cabins, villas, and camping, all set within walking distance of Ningaloo Reef.
The resort focuses on minimizing its environmental impact by implementing energy-efficient practices, including solar power, waste reduction, and water-saving initiatives. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking, with the reef just a few steps from their accommodations.
What we love: The easy access to the reef and the eco-friendly amenities, making it a great choice for beach lovers.
Eco-friendly features: Solar power, energy-efficient practices, water conservation efforts.
Best for: Beachgoers looking for sustainable accommodation with direct access to Ningaloo Reef.
6. Osprey Bay Campground: Eco-Friendly Camping in Cape Range National Park
For those who love camping and want to minimize their environmental impact, Osprey Bay Campground in Cape Range National Park is an excellent eco-friendly option. Located just steps from the beach, this basic campground offers stunning views of the coastline and easy access to the reef’s snorkeling and swimming spots.
Osprey Bay is a simple, off-the-grid campground, with no power or water supply, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers who prefer to camp in harmony with nature. The campground encourages visitors to adopt a leave-no-trace approach, ensuring the park’s pristine condition is maintained.
What we love: The simplicity of camping in a beautiful, natural setting with minimal impact on the environment.
Eco-friendly features: Off-grid, no power or water supply, leave-no-trace principles.
Best for: Eco-conscious campers seeking a back-to-nature experience.
7. Ningaloo Lighthouse Holiday Park: Eco-Conscious Adventure Base
Ningaloo Lighthouse Holiday Park, located at Vlamingh Head near Exmouth, offers a range of eco-friendly accommodations, including cabins, caravan sites, and camping spots. The park is committed to sustainability, with solar-powered amenities, recycling programs, and energy-efficient lighting throughout the property.
Ningaloo Lighthouse Holiday Park is a great base for exploring the Ningaloo Reef, with easy access to snorkeling, diving, and hiking. The park’s proximity to Lighthouse Bay and Mandu Mandu Gorge also provides fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures.
What we love: The eco-friendly initiatives combined with a prime location near Ningaloo’s top attractions.
Eco-friendly features: Solar power, recycling programs, energy-efficient practices.
Best for: Adventurers looking for a sustainable base to explore Ningaloo Reef.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Final Thoughts
Ningaloo Reef offers a variety of eco-friendly accommodations that allow you to experience the beauty of this World Heritage-listed region while minimizing your environmental impact. Whether you’re looking for a luxury eco-lodge, a remote island retreat, or a rustic camping experience, Ningaloo has something for every eco-conscious traveler. By choosing these sustainable accommodations, you’re helping to protect the fragile ecosystems of Ningaloo Reef for future generations while enjoying one of the most beautiful marine environments in the world.