Wildlife Encounters in Geraldton: What to See and Where

Geraldton, located on the stunning Coral Coast of Western Australia, is more than just a beautiful coastal city; it's a gateway to incredible wildlife encounters. From marine life in the pristine waters to birdwatching on nearby islands, the region offers an abundance of opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you’re exploring Geraldton’s beaches or venturing further offshore, here’s your guide to the best wildlife encounters in and around Geraldton.

1. Sea Lions at the Abrolhos Islands

Image © Australia's Coral Coast

The Abrolhos Islands, located just off the coast of Geraldton, are home to a thriving population of Australian sea lions, one of the region’s most playful and inquisitive marine animals. A visit to these islands offers a chance to see these beautiful creatures up close, either from the beach or while snorkeling in the surrounding waters.

The sea lions are often seen basking on the beaches or frolicking in the shallows, and they’re known for their friendly nature. If you’re lucky, they might even join you for a swim, making the Abrolhos Islands one of the best spots for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

What we love: The opportunity to swim with friendly sea lions in a pristine, natural environment.

Good to know: The Abrolhos Islands are accessible via boat or scenic flight, and guided tours are available for wildlife enthusiasts.

Location: Abrolhos Islands, off the coast of Geraldton, WA

2. Dolphins at Champion Bay

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Dolphins are frequently spotted around Champion Bay, making it a popular spot for visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of these intelligent and playful animals. The shallow, clear waters of Champion Bay are perfect for dolphin sightings, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

You can often see dolphins swimming close to shore or following boats as they move through the bay. For an even closer experience, consider taking a boat tour or kayak out into the bay, where you might encounter dolphins as they ride the waves or hunt for fish.

What we love: The regular sightings of dolphins right in Geraldton’s bay, offering an easy and accessible wildlife encounter.

Good to know: Dolphin-watching tours are available, but you can often spot them from the shore, especially around the Geraldton Marina.

Location: Champion Bay, Geraldton Foreshore, WA 6530

3. Birdwatching at Chapman River Regional Park

Geraldton is home to a diverse range of bird species, and one of the best places for birdwatching is the Chapman River Regional Park. This natural area is a haven for birdlife, offering a peaceful environment where birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, from the colorful rainbow bee-eater to the majestic Australian kestrel.

The park’s walking trails follow the course of the Chapman River, providing plenty of opportunities to spot both migratory and resident birds. Birdwatching enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s tranquil setting and the chance to see a wide range of species in their natural habitat.

What we love: The variety of bird species and the serene, natural surroundings that make this a perfect spot for birdwatching.

Good to know: The park is easily accessible from Geraldton, and the best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon when bird activity is at its peak.

Location: Chapman River Regional Park, Geraldton, WA 6530

4. Turtles at the Abrolhos Islands

Image © Tourism Western Australia

The Abrolhos Islands aren’t just home to sea lions—they’re also a critical nesting ground for green sea turtles. These beautiful creatures can be seen swimming in the waters around the islands, particularly during the summer months when they come ashore to lay their eggs. Snorkeling or diving in the shallow waters around the islands gives you a chance to see turtles gracefully gliding through the water.

During the nesting season (typically between November and February), you may be lucky enough to witness turtles making their way up the beaches to lay their eggs, offering a rare and magical wildlife encounter.

What we love: The chance to see green sea turtles both underwater and on land, especially during nesting season.

Good to know: Remember to follow wildlife guidelines, especially during the nesting season, to protect the turtles and their habitats.

Location: Abrolhos Islands, off the coast of Geraldton, WA

5. Whales Along the Whales 

Image © Tourism Western Australia

Every year, between June and November, the waters off Geraldton’s coast become a migration route for humpback whales as they travel north to warmer waters to breed and give birth. Whale watching is one of the most exciting wildlife experiences in Geraldton, and you can often spot these majestic creatures from the shore or on a dedicated whale-watching tour.

Humpback whales are known for their acrobatic displays, and seeing them breach and tail-slap is a truly awe-inspiring experience. The best time to see them is during their migration, with boat tours offering the chance to get up close to these gentle giants.

What we love: The spectacular sight of humpback whales breaching and migrating along the Coral Coast.

Good to know: Whale watching tours depart from Geraldton during the migration season, and sightings from shore are also possible.

Location: Coral Coast, off the coast of Geraldton, WA

6. Sea Birds at the Abrolhos Islands

The Abrolhos Islands are also a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to a variety of seabirds that nest in the area year-round. The islands provide important breeding grounds for species like white-bellied sea eagles, terns, and frigatebirds, making it a great spot for birdwatching. In fact, the Abrolhos is one of the few places where you can see the rare lesser noddy, a small seabird that nests in large colonies on the islands.

A visit to the Abrolhos Islands provides an incredible opportunity to observe these seabirds in their natural habitat, whether you’re walking along the shores or taking a boat tour around the islands.

What we love: The variety of seabirds and the opportunity to see rare species in a pristine and protected environment.

Good to know: Birdwatching tours are available for those interested in learning more about the species that call the Abrolhos Islands home.

Location: Abrolhos Islands, off the coast of Geraldton, WA

7. Australian Sea Lions at Seal Rock

Image © Tourism Western Australia

For a more accessible wildlife encounter, head to Seal Rock, located just south of Geraldton. This spot is known for its resident colony of Australian sea lions, which can often be seen lounging on the rocks or swimming in the waters nearby. The sea lions are used to human visitors and are known for their playful behavior, making Seal Rock a great spot for close-up encounters.

Bring your binoculars or a camera with a good zoom lens, as the sea lions can sometimes be spotted from a distance. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them swimming or playing in the surf.

What we love: The playful nature of the sea lions and the chance to observe them in their natural habitat, just a short drive from Geraldton.

Good to know: Seal Rock is easily accessible by car, and it’s best to visit during low tide for better viewing.

Location: Seal Rock, South of Geraldton, WA 6530

Final Thoughts

Geraldton is a treasure trove of wildlife experiences, offering visitors the chance to connect with nature both on land and in the sea. Whether you're swimming with sea lions at the Abrolhos Islands, watching dolphins play in Champion Bay, or spotting migrating whales along the coast, there’s no shortage of incredible wildlife encounters in this stunning region.

So, grab your binoculars, snorkel gear, or camera, and get ready to discover the diverse wildlife that calls Geraldton home!