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.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.For those hoping to swim with whale sharks, the season runs from March to July. If you’re visiting for humpback whale encounters, plan your trip between June and November. For sea turtle lovers, nesting season begins in November, with hatchlings appearing between February and April.

Busselton, with its stunning beaches, famous jetty, and laid-back vibe, is one of Western Australia’s most popular coastal destinations. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic escape, or a weekend getaway with friends, this charming town offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all tastes and budgets. From beachfront villas to cosy holiday parks, here’s your guide to the best places to stay in Busselton.1. Four Seasons Holiday Park: Relaxed Coastal CampingFor travellers seeking a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with all the comforts of home, Four Seasons Holiday Park is a fantastic option. Located just a few minutes from the heart of Busselton, this park offers a variety of accommodation options, including powered sites for caravans and campers, as well as comfortable chalets and cabins.One of the highlights of Four Seasons Holiday Park is its proximity to the beach. Guests can enjoy long walks along the Busselton beachfront, fishing, or simply soaking in the sunset over the Indian Ocean. The park’s spacious layout, well-maintained facilities, and on-site amenities like a swimming pool and barbecue areas make it perfect for families and those who love the great outdoors.Why Stay at Four Seasons Holiday Park:Spacious powered sites for caravans and campersCosy chalets and cabins for a comfortable stayFamily-friendly with a swimming pool and BBQ facilitiesA short distance from Busselton’s famous beachesTip: Book ahead during peak seasons as this park fills up quickly due to its great location and family-friendly amenities

Walpole, nestled in the heart of the Walpole-Nornalup National Park in Western Australia, is known for its stunning coastline and secluded beaches. These coastal gems offer pristine sands, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, making them perfect for relaxation, swimming, fishing, and beachcombing. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventurous day exploring coastal landscapes, Walpole’s beaches have something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best beaches in and around Walpole.1. Conspicuous BeachConspicuous Beach is one of the most breathtaking and rugged beaches in the Walpole area. Surrounded by towering sand dunes and rocky cliffs, this beach offers dramatic views of the Southern Ocean. While it’s not typically a swimming beach due to strong currents and waves, it’s an excellent spot for fishing, surfing, and beachcombing. The lookout point provides panoramic views of the beach and cliffs, making it a great place for photography and whale watching during the migration season.Highlights:Stunning coastal views and dramatic cliffsSurfing and fishing opportunitiesGreat lookout point for whale watching (June to October)Tip: The short walk from the car park to the lookout offers a spectacular view of the coastline, so be sure to bring your camera. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.Image © Greg Snell

Kalbarri, located along Western Australia’s stunning Coral Coast, is not only famous for its dramatic cliffs and natural beauty but also for its prime whale-watching opportunities. From June to November, the waters off Kalbarri’s coast become a migratory highway for humpback and southern right whales, making it an ideal destination for whale enthusiasts. Whether you’re hoping to spot a breaching whale from a cliffside lookout or want a closer experience from a boat, here’s your guide to the best times and viewing spots for whale watching in Kalbarri.The Best Time for Whale Watching in KalbarriWhale watching season in Kalbarri typically runs from June to November, coinciding with the annual migration of humpback whales as they travel north from the cold waters of Antarctica to their breeding grounds in warmer waters. During this period, these magnificent creatures can often be seen making their way along the Western Australian coast.The peak season for whale watching is usually between July and October, when whale numbers are at their highest. This is when you’re most likely to see humpback whales breaching, tail-slapping, and even mother-calf pairs as they make their return journey south.What we love: The thrill of seeing humpback whales breach or playfully slap their tails as they pass by Kalbarri’s scenic coastline.Good to know: The calm, clear winter days during the whale migration season offer excellent visibility for spotting these majestic creatures from shore.

Ningaloo Reef is not only a paradise for adventure seekers but also an ideal destination for families looking to connect with nature and enjoy a variety of fun, family-friendly activities. From snorkeling with marine life to exploring national parks and discovering hidden beaches, Ningaloo offers endless opportunities for families to bond and create unforgettable memories. Here’s your guide to the best family-friendly activities in Ningaloo, offering something for everyone, from toddlers to teens.1. Snorkeling at Turquoise BayOne of the most iconic spots in Ningaloo, Turquoise Bay, is perfect for a family day out. With its crystal-clear, calm waters and shallow coral gardens, it offers an ideal environment for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Kids can wade into the water and snorkel right off the beach, exploring vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, rays, and even sea turtles.The Bay Loop is particularly family-friendly, with gentle waters that allow kids to safely swim and snorkel. For older children and teens, the Drift Snorkel provides an exciting experience, where they can let the current carry them over the reef. However, younger children should stick to the calmer waters of the Bay Loop.Why it’s great for families: Shallow, calm waters perfect for kids, easy access to snorkeling directly from the beach, and abundant marine life.Best for: Families with children of all ages, especially those new to snorkeling.

Swimming with whale sharks is one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife encounters you can experience. These gentle giants of the ocean, despite their massive size, are peaceful filter feeders and offer an unforgettable, safe experience for swimmers and snorkelers alike. If you’re planning a trip to swim with these incredible creatures, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this extraordinary adventure.What Are Whale Sharks?Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are the largest fish in the world, growing up to 12 meters (40 feet) in length. Despite their enormous size, these majestic creatures feed primarily on plankton, small fish, and other microscopic organisms, making them completely harmless to humans.Whale sharks are easily recognizable by their distinctive patterns of white spots and stripes, along with their broad, flat heads. These gentle giants are known for their slow, graceful swimming, often cruising near the surface, making them easy to spot and swim alongside.Where Can You Swim with Whale Sharks?The Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks. Each year, between March and July, whale sharks migrate to the warm waters of Ningaloo Reef to feed on plankton and krill, making it one of the most popular spots for this unique wildlife experience.While Ningaloo Reef is one of the premier destinations for swimming with whale sharks, there are a few other locations around the world where you can also encounter them, including: