The Ningaloo Reef, located off the coast of Western Australia, is one of the world’s most extraordinary marine ecosystems. Stretching over 300 kilometers, Ningaloo is renowned for its pristine coral reefs, abundant marine life, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re an avid scuba diver, a casual snorkeler, or simply a nature lover, Ningaloo offers an array of unforgettable experiences. Here’s a guide to the top 10 things to do in Ningaloo, from snorkeling to scuba diving and beyond.1. Swim with Whale SharksOne of the most iconic and awe-inspiring activities in Ningaloo is swimming with whale sharks, the gentle giants of the ocean. Each year, between March and July, whale sharks migrate to Ningaloo Reef to feed on plankton, offering visitors the chance to swim alongside these magnificent creatures. Tours depart from Exmouth and Coral Bay, with spotter planes helping to locate the whale sharks so swimmers can have a safe, close-up encounter.Why it’s special: Swimming with the largest fish in the ocean is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and Ningaloo is one of the best places in the world to do it.Best time: March to July.2. Snorkel at Turquoise BayTurquoise Bay, located just outside of Exmouth, is considered one of Australia’s best snorkeling spots. The bay’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs are home to a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles. One of the highlights is the drift snorkel, where you can let the gentle current carry you over the reef, allowing for a relaxing and effortless snorkeling experience.

The Ningaloo Reef is a snorkeling paradise, offering one of the most accessible and vibrant coral reef ecosystems in the world. Stretching over 300 kilometers along the coast of Western Australia, Ningaloo’s clear, shallow waters are teeming with marine life, making it a dream destination for snorkelers of all levels. Whether you’re swimming alongside whale sharks, spotting colorful corals, or encountering sea turtles, Ningaloo Reef promises an unforgettable underwater adventure. Here’s your snorkeler’s guide to exploring the best spots, tips, and what to expect on this stunning reef.Why Snorkel at Ningaloo Reef?Unlike many other famous reefs, Ningaloo’s coral is located just off the shore, meaning you don’t need a boat to access its underwater beauty. The reef’s proximity to the coast allows snorkelers to wade directly from the beach into a thriving marine ecosystem. The warm, calm waters and rich biodiversity make Ningaloo an ideal spot for snorkelers looking for an immersive, yet easily accessible experience.With more than 500 species of fish, 300 species of coral, and a variety of marine megafauna like whale sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles, Ningaloo offers a snorkeling experience like no other.Image © Tourism Western Australia Best Time to Snorkel at Ningaloo ReefSnorkeling is possible year-round at Ningaloo Reef, but the best conditions are during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this time, the water is clear, the weather is calm, and the ocean temperatures are comfortable, making for excellent snorkeling visibility.

The Ningaloo Reef is a snorkeling paradise, offering one of the most accessible and vibrant coral reef ecosystems in the world. Stretching over 300 kilometers along the coast of Western Australia, Ningaloo’s clear, shallow waters are teeming with marine life, making it a dream destination for snorkelers of all levels. Whether you’re swimming alongside whale sharks, spotting colorful corals, or encountering sea turtles, Ningaloo Reef promises an unforgettable underwater adventure. Here’s your snorkeler’s guide to exploring the best spots, tips, and what to expect on this stunning reef.Image © Tourism Western Australia Humpback Whales off the Dampier Peninsula Coast 122566 4Why Snorkel at Ningaloo Reef?Unlike many other famous reefs, Ningaloo’s coral is located just off the shore, meaning you don’t need a boat to access its underwater beauty. The reef’s proximity to the coast allows snorkelers to wade directly from the beach into a thriving marine ecosystem. The warm, calm waters and rich biodiversity make Ningaloo an ideal spot for snorkelers looking for an immersive, yet easily accessible experience.With more than 500 species of fish, 300 species of coral, and a variety of marine megafauna like whale sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles, Ningaloo offers a snorkeling experience like no other.Best Time to Snorkel at Ningaloo ReefSnorkeling is possible year-round at Ningaloo Reef, but the best conditions are during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this time, the water is clear, the weather is calm, and the ocean temperatures are comfortable, making for excellent snorkeling visibility.

Geraldton, a coastal gem in Western Australia, is a prime destination for ocean lovers. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life, it’s no surprise that Geraldton is a hotspot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting out, the underwater world around Geraldton offers a stunning array of spots to explore. From shallow reefs teeming with fish to historic shipwrecks, here’s your guide to the best snorkeling and diving spots near Geraldton.1. Abrolhos Islands: A Diver’s ParadiseThe Houtman Abrolhos Islands are a must-visit for anyone interested in snorkeling and diving. Located about 60 kilometers off the coast of Geraldton, this archipelago of 122 islands is home to some of the most pristine coral reefs in Australia. The shallow lagoons and crystal-clear waters of the Abrolhos are ideal for snorkeling, offering vibrant coral gardens and an abundance of marine life, including colorful tropical fish, turtles, and sea lions.For divers, the Abrolhos Islands are famous for their shipwrecks, most notably the Batavia wreck, which lies in the waters near Beacon Island. Diving at the Batavia site offers a glimpse into both history and marine life, as the wreck is surrounded by coral and a variety of fish species. The Abrolhos Islands offer a diverse range of diving experiences, from shallow coral reefs to deeper wreck dives, making it a must-see for underwater explorers.What we love: The diversity of marine life, the pristine coral reefs, and the opportunity to dive at a historic shipwreck site.Good to know: The islands are only accessible by boat or scenic flight from Geraldton, with snorkeling and diving tours available for day trips or extended stays.

Bunbury, with its stunning coastline and rich marine biodiversity, is a fantastic destination for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. The waters around this coastal city are home to a wide variety of marine life, from colourful fish and playful dolphins to intricate coral formations and fascinating shipwrecks. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, Bunbury offers plenty of opportunities to explore the underwater world. Here’s a guide to the top spots for snorkelling and diving in and around Bunbury.1. Koombana BayKoombana Bay is one of Bunbury’s most popular spots for snorkelling, thanks to its calm, clear waters and abundant marine life. The bay is home to a resident population of bottlenose dolphins, which can often be seen swimming near the shore. While snorkelling, you might be lucky enough to spot these friendly creatures up close, along with schools of fish, rays, and other marine species.The shallow waters of Koombana Bay make it an ideal spot for beginners and families. The bay is also home to the Dolphin Discovery Centre, where you can learn more about the local marine environment and even join a guided snorkelling tour. The centre’s experienced guides can help you get the most out of your snorkelling experience, pointing out the best spots and ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable time in the water.Location: Koombana Dr, Bunbury, WA 6230Image © Tourism Western Australia