Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Australia’s most stunning and ecologically significant destinations. Whether you’re drawn to its rich marine life, ancient geological formations, or the pristine beaches, Shark Bay offers a diverse range of activities to suit every traveller. Here are the top 10 things to do in Shark Bay, from exploring its wildlife-rich waters to uncovering the secrets of its unique landscapes.1. Visit Monkey Mia and Meet the DolphinsA trip to Shark Bay isn’t complete without visiting Monkey Mia, world-famous for its daily dolphin interactions. For over 50 years, wild bottlenose dolphins have been visiting the shores of Monkey Mia to interact with humans. Visitors can witness these intelligent animals up close during the morning feeding sessions, managed by rangers to ensure the dolphins maintain their natural behaviours. It’s one of the most ethical and enjoyable wildlife encounters in Australia.Tip: Get there early to secure a good spot and take part in the feeding program. Feeding times typically occur between 7:45 am and noon.Image © Tourism Western Australia2. Explore the Hamelin Pool StromatolitesOne of the most fascinating sites in Shark Bay is the Hamelin Pool stromatolites, Earth’s oldest living organisms. These rock-like structures, formed by ancient cyanobacteria, provide a glimpse into the planet’s primordial past, dating back over 3.5 billion years. Visitors can walk along the boardwalk above these incredible formations and learn about their significance in Earth’s history.

Bunbury, a vibrant coastal city in Western Australia, is not just a great destination for beach lovers and art enthusiasts; it’s also a fantastic place for families. With a range of activities that cater to both kids and parents, Bunbury offers plenty of opportunities for fun, adventure, and quality time together. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, here are some of the best family-friendly activities in Bunbury that everyone will enjoy.1. Dolphin Discovery CentreA visit to the Dolphin Discovery Centre is a must for families visiting Bunbury. Located on the shores of Koombana Bay, this interactive marine conservation and education facility offers a unique opportunity to get up close with Bunbury’s resident bottlenose dolphins. The whole family can enjoy the Dolphin Eco Cruise, a 90-minute boat tour that takes you out into the bay to observe these playful creatures in their natural habitat.For those who prefer to stay on land, the Dolphin Discovery Centre also features an Interaction Zone, where dolphins often come close to shore, providing an exciting chance for kids and parents to see them up close. The centre’s Discovery Aquarium and Interpretive Centre are packed with interactive exhibits that educate visitors about marine life and conservation efforts, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.Location: Lot 556 Koombana Dr, Bunbury, WA 6230Image © Tourism Western Australia

Bunbury, a vibrant coastal city in Western Australia, is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural experiences, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're looking to explore the coastline, unwind in nature, or enjoy the city's lively atmosphere, Bunbury offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveller's needs. From luxury hotels to peaceful campgrounds, these five top-rated accommodations are perfect for anyone looking to make the most of their time in Bunbury. Let’s explore the best places to stay and what makes them stand out.1. Discovery Parks – Bunbury ForeshoreFor those who want to be close to the action while enjoying a peaceful, family-friendly environment, Discovery Parks – Bunbury Foreshore is a fantastic choice. Located right on the beautiful Koombana Bay, this holiday park offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with easy access to both the beach and Bunbury’s bustling town centre.The park features a variety of accommodation options, from luxury cabins to powered caravan sites, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. With its waterfront location, you can enjoy beach walks, swimming, and dolphin spotting just a few steps from your accommodation. The park’s facilities include a swimming pool, BBQ areas, and a children’s playground, ensuring a fun-filled stay for visitors of all ages.Why Stay Here:Beachfront location with stunning views of Koombana Bay.Family-friendly amenities, including a pool and playground.Close proximity to Bunbury's popular attractions like the Dolphin Discovery Centre.Tip: Book a cabin with ocean views for the ultimate coastal experience, and don’t miss out on a sunset stroll along the foreshore.

Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Western Australia, is a biodiversity hotspot that offers visitors a chance to experience some of the world’s most unique and rare species of plants and animals. This stunning coastal region is home to a variety of marine and terrestrial ecosystems, which together create a rich tapestry of life that has evolved to survive in its diverse habitats. Whether you’re exploring its underwater world, hiking through its national parks, or scanning the skies for rare birds, Shark Bay’s flora and fauna provide an unforgettable encounter with nature. Here’s what to look for while exploring the region’s unique wildlife.Marine Life: A World Beneath the SurfaceShark Bay’s marine environment is one of the richest in the world, and the diversity of species found here is a key reason why the region earned its World Heritage status. The area’s extensive seagrass meadows, mangroves, and coral reefs provide a haven for marine life, with dolphins, dugongs, turtles, and an array of fish species calling the bay home.1. Dugongs: The Gentle Giants of Shark BayShark Bay is home to the largest population of dugongs in the world, with an estimated 10,000 dugongs feeding on the extensive seagrass beds. Often called "sea cows" for their slow, grazing behaviour, dugongs are a highlight for many visitors. These gentle giants are elusive but can be spotted on eco-tours and wildlife cruises, especially in areas like Big Lagoon and Monkey Mia.Tip: Book a wildlife cruise from Monkey Mia or Denham for the best chance of seeing dugongs in their natural habitat.Image © Tourism Western Australia

Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers some of the most stunning and serene camping spots in Western Australia. With pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and abundant wildlife, it’s the perfect destination for nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Australia’s west coast. From remote wilderness camping to more accessible sites with basic facilities, Shark Bay’s campgrounds offer a range of experiences. Here’s your guide to the best camping spots in Shark Bay for a coastal stay, where you can relax, explore, and connect with nature.1. Francois Peron National Park: Big Lagoon CampgroundLocated within Francois Peron National Park, the Big Lagoon Campground offers a perfect blend of coastal scenery, wildlife, and outdoor adventure. The campground overlooks Big Lagoon, a series of sheltered, turquoise lagoons surrounded by the park’s famous red cliffs. It’s ideal for those who love water activities such as kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching, with easy access to the calm waters.The campsite itself is basic, offering unpowered sites suitable for both tents and camper trailers. There are no toilets or showers, so it’s best suited for self-sufficient campers who come prepared. However, what the site lacks in amenities, it more than makes up for in stunning views and access to wildlife.Tip: Bring your own drinking water and supplies, as there are no shops nearby. A 4WD vehicle is required to access this site, as the tracks through the park are sandy and rugged.Image © Tourism Western Australia

Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Famous for its crystal-clear waters and diverse ecosystems, Shark Bay offers visitors the chance to encounter an impressive array of marine and terrestrial creatures. From the friendly dolphins at Monkey Mia to the elusive dugongs grazing in seagrass meadows, Shark Bay provides a front-row seat to some of the world’s most fascinating wildlife. Here’s a guide to the must-see wildlife encounters that make Shark Bay a haven for nature lovers.1. The Famous Dolphins of Monkey MiaOne of the most iconic wildlife experiences in Shark Bay is the opportunity to see the dolphins at Monkey Mia. For over 50 years, the wild bottlenose dolphins of Monkey Mia have been visiting the shores to interact with humans, creating one of the world’s most reliable and enjoyable dolphin encounters.At Monkey Mia Reserve, visitors can observe these intelligent animals up close as they come to the shallow waters, often within arm’s reach. The dolphin experience is strictly regulated by park rangers to ensure the welfare of the dolphins. Only a small amount of fish is given to the dolphins to avoid disrupting their natural behaviour. Visitors can attend feeding sessions, which take place in the mornings, to learn about the dolphins’ lives and the ongoing conservation efforts that protect them.With dolphins returning to the shore multiple times a day, Monkey Mia offers a unique opportunity to witness these wild animals in their natural habitat while promoting responsible wildlife interaction.Image © Tourism Western Australia

Swimming with dolphins in Rockingham, Western Australia, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to encounter these intelligent and playful creatures in their natural habitat. Situated just 45 minutes south of Perth, Rockingham is famous for its dolphin population, and several reputable operators offer tours that give visitors the chance to swim alongside these wild animals. Here’s everything you need to know about how to book and what to expect during your dolphin swim adventure in Rockingham.Image © Tourism Western AustraliaHow to Book Your Dolphin SwimBooking a dolphin swim tour in Rockingham is simple, and it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer months from November to April). Here are the main steps to book your tour:1. Choose a Tour OperatorRockingham has several reputable tour companies that offer dolphin swim experiences. One of the most popular operators is Rockingham Wild Encounters, which has been operating dolphin tours for many years and is known for its focus on responsible wildlife interaction.2. Book Online or In-PersonYou can book your dolphin swim online through the operator’s website or by visiting the tour office in Rockingham. Booking online is often the easiest option, as it allows you to secure your spot and receive confirmation via email.

Nestled along the shores of Koombana Bay, the Dolphin Discovery Centre in Bunbury is one of Western Australia’s premier eco-tourism attractions. Offering a unique opportunity to interact with wild dolphins and learn about marine conservation, the centre is a must-visit for families, nature lovers, and anyone interested in the wonders of the ocean. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay in Bunbury, here’s everything you need to know before you go to the Dolphin Discovery Centre.What is the Dolphin Discovery Centre?The Dolphin Discovery Centre is a marine conservation and education facility dedicated to promoting the protection and understanding of Bunbury’s resident bottlenose dolphin population. Located on the stunning Koombana Bay, the centre offers a variety of interactive experiences, including dolphin encounters, eco-cruises, and a discovery aquarium. The centre’s mission is to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of these intelligent marine mammals while supporting conservation efforts to protect their natural habitat.Image © Tourism Western AustraliaBest Time to VisitWhile the Dolphin Discovery Centre is open year-round, the best time to visit for dolphin encounters is during the warmer months, from November to April. During this period, the dolphins are more active and frequently visit the shallow waters of Koombana Bay. Early morning is usually the best time to see dolphins, as they are often most active in the cooler hours of the day.If you’re interested in seeing newborn calves, visiting between October and December is ideal, as this is the peak birthing season for bottlenose dolphins. However, regardless of when you visit, the centre offers a range of activities and exhibits that provide a fun and educational experience for all ages.