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.

Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is not only renowned for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife but also for its commitment to sustainability. Exploring Shark Bay through eco-tours allows visitors to enjoy its natural beauty while ensuring the preservation of its fragile ecosystems. Whether you’re looking to interact with marine life, experience untouched landscapes, or learn about conservation efforts, Shark Bay’s eco-tours offer the perfect way to discover this extraordinary region. Here’s a guide to the best eco-tours that provide sustainable ways to explore Shark Bay.1. Monkey Mia Dolphin Experience: Ethical Wildlife EncountersThe Monkey Mia Dolphin Experience is one of Shark Bay’s most iconic eco-tourism activities. Famous for its wild dolphin interactions, Monkey Mia offers a responsible and educational way to encounter dolphins in their natural habitat. The dolphins have been visiting the shores of Monkey Mia for decades, creating one of the world’s most trusted wildlife experiences.This tour is strictly regulated to ensure the dolphins’ welfare. Visitors can witness the dolphins swimming close to shore during the controlled feeding sessions in the mornings. Park rangers oversee the experience, ensuring that the dolphins are not overfed and remain independent hunters. The limited feeding times ensure that the dolphins continue their natural behaviours while offering visitors a memorable and ethical encounter.Image © Tourism Western Australia2. Dugong Spotting Tours: Exploring Shark Bay’s Seagrass MeadowsShark Bay is home to the world’s largest population of dugongs, with over 10,000 dugongs grazing in the region’s extensive seagrass meadows. Dugong spotting tours are one of the best ways to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat, all while learning about the conservation efforts protecting them.

The picturesque town of Walpole is nestled within the heart of Western Australia’s Walpole-Nornalup National Park and the greater Walpole Wilderness Area. Known for its pristine rivers, estuaries, and coastal beauty, the region offers a wide range of canoeing and kayaking adventures. Whether you're paddling through tranquil waters surrounded by towering karri trees or exploring the sheltered inlets and estuaries along the Southern Ocean, Walpole is a paddler’s paradise.Here’s a guide to the best canoeing and kayaking adventures in Walpole, with tips on where to paddle and what to expect.1. Nornalup Inlet: Paddle Through Pristine WatersThe Nornalup Inlet is a large, sheltered body of water surrounded by the lush forests of Walpole-Nornalup National Park. It's the ideal spot for both beginners and experienced paddlers to explore the tranquil waters while taking in stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. The inlet is fed by the Frankland and Deep Rivers, and you can paddle upstream or explore the many creeks and channels that snake through the forested landscape.Paddlers can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife, including black swans, pelicans, and fish. The inlet is also a great spot for a peaceful picnic on the banks, and its calm waters make it perfect for those looking for a relaxing day on the water.Highlights:

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

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore the stunning waters of the Ningaloo Reef up close, offering a unique perspective on its vibrant marine life and pristine coastline. With calm, crystal-clear waters, Ningaloo is an ideal destination for kayaking, whether you’re looking to paddle along the coast, explore hidden coves, or get up close to the coral gardens and marine creatures. Here’s your guide to the best kayaking routes in Ningaloo and some useful tips for making the most of your adventure.Why Kayak in Ningaloo?Ningaloo Reef is a fringing reef, which means it runs close to the shore, allowing kayakers easy access to its underwater treasures. Kayaking provides a peaceful and eco-friendly way to explore the reef’s diverse marine life, from colorful fish and sea turtles to manta rays and reef sharks. Plus, many of Ningaloo’s best snorkeling spots are only accessible by kayak, making it a great way to combine kayaking with snorkeling.The calm waters and sheltered bays of Ningaloo make kayaking accessible for people of all skill levels, whether you’re an experienced paddler or a beginner looking for a relaxed adventure.Image © Tourism Western Australia Best Kayaking Routes in Ningaloo1. Lakeside to Turquoise BayOne of the most scenic and rewarding kayaking routes in Ningaloo is the paddle from Lakeside to Turquoise Bay, located within Cape Range National Park. This route allows kayakers to explore the pristine coastline while stopping at some of the best snorkeling spots along the reef.

Denmark, located along Western Australia’s Great Southern coast, is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. From kayaking on tranquil rivers and hiking through towering forests to exploring the rugged coastline, Denmark’s natural beauty invites you to step outside and discover its wild landscapes. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a peaceful day in nature, here’s your guide to the best outdoor activities in Denmark.1. Kayaking on the Denmark River and Wilson InletOne of the best ways to experience Denmark’s serene natural beauty is by kayaking along the Denmark River and into the Wilson Inlet. The calm, glassy waters provide the perfect setting for a relaxing paddle, surrounded by lush bushland and abundant birdlife. The inlet, where the river meets the Southern Ocean, offers expansive views and the chance to spot dolphins, pelicans, and black swans gliding across the water.For those seeking a bit more adventure, paddling further into the inlet will take you toward Ocean Beach, where the meeting of the river and ocean provides a dramatic change in scenery. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker, Denmark’s waterways offer something for everyone.Tip: Kayak rentals are available in Denmark, and guided tours offer a chance to learn more about the region’s ecology and wildlife.Location: Denmark River and Wilson Inlet, Denmark, WA 6333

Stretching over 650 kilometers through the heart of the Kimberley, the Ord River is one of Western Australia’s most significant and stunning waterways. From its beginnings near the massive Lake Argyle to its journey through the East Kimberley’s rugged landscapes, the Ord River offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you’re cruising its waters, paddling along its peaceful stretches, or spotting wildlife along the banks, here’s your guide to experiencing the Ord River in all its beauty.1. River Cruises: A Scenic Journey Through the KimberleyOne of the most popular ways to explore the Ord River is by taking a scenic boat cruise. River cruises offer a relaxed way to take in the breathtaking landscapes while learning about the area’s history, ecology, and wildlife from knowledgeable guides. As you glide along the calm waters, you’ll pass through towering red cliffs, dense tropical vegetation, and peaceful wetlands, all while keeping an eye out for wildlife like freshwater crocodiles, wallabies, and a wide variety of bird species.Many cruises include stops at picturesque lookouts or secluded spots where you can stretch your legs, take photos, and even enjoy a dip in the river’s refreshing waters. Some of the most popular cruises are the Ord River Sunset Cruises, which offer the magical experience of watching the sun set over the river, painting the landscape with vibrant colors.What we love: The serene experience of cruising through the Kimberley’s wild landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife up close.Good to know: Most cruises depart from Lake Argyle or Kununurra, and it’s best to book in advance, especially during the dry season (April to October), when tours are in high demand.