best time to travel exmouth

When Is The Best Time To Visit Exmouth? And The Worst Time?

The best time to visit Exmouth is relative, as it depends on what you want to do. But most people consider it to be between March through October (and we agree).

This is mainly because of the incredible weather and beaming marine life – humpback whales and shark whales mostly. But in all honesty, Exmouth is great to visit all year round.

Keep reading to figure out when is the best time for YOU to visit this amazing place.

Bec swimming with turtles in Exmouth, Western Australia

The best time to visit Exmouth is between March and October – here’s why

First and foremost, the weather is great. Exmouth has lovely warm weather during these months, even in winter. It’s sunny but not too hot, and the winds are great for surfing.

Also, the sea temperature is slightly warmer during winter. This makes snorkelling the Ningaloo Reef way more pleasant (if that’s even possible).

The coldest month is July, with an average low temperature is 18.5 Cº and a daily average of 24.5 C°. As for humidity, June has the highest average relative humidity of the year at around 55%. Thankfully, this is the sweet spot for most people.

Finally, this period coincides with the wildflower season, which is between July and October. These are also the best months to spot humpback whales and orcas in the Exmouth waters.

Best months to see marine life in Exmouth

Seeing the marine life from the Ningaloo Reef is one of the big drawcards to Exmouth. But some of them are only to be found at certain times of the year.

So, if you want to see them, you have to plan your trip to Exmouth at the right time of year:

Humpback whales

The best months to spot them are between July through October. There are dozens of tour operators in Exmouth that will get you to them.

Humpback whales migrate from the icy southern oceans to the warmer ones to have their calves. Then, they swim back again to feed in the colder waters over the summer.

Whale sharks

The main season is between March and early August, although some tour operators work up to September. You can see them in Exmouth and Coral Bay, too.

Operators offer tours to swim with these gentle giants, and depending on the package, you can get high-resolution photos and videos to remember it.

Know more: Review of the best Ningaloo whale shark tours .

Manta rays are a stunning sight to behold, and those lucky enough to visit the stunning Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia have an opportunity to view them up close.

You can find them throughout the year. But the best time for manta ray tours is from mid-May through to mid-September when their numbers significantly increase, making them more likely to interact with divers and snorkelers.

During these months, both experienced and novice divers alike can get a closer view of these majestic creatures as they glide gracefully through the water. The sheer size of the mantas makes it difficult not to be awed by them – they can grow up to 7 meters across!

Turtle nesting and hatching

Green turtles and loggerhead turtles nest all along Western Australia’s coasts between December and February while hatching happens between January and March.

You can see them on your own, but we recommend joining a guided Eco-Tour at the Jurabi Turtle Centre. This will increase your chances of observing the turtles while disturbing them as little as possible.

Nesting is best watched during sunset and afterwards, while hatchlings tend to make their way to the ocean during sunrise.

S&C Travel Tip

Is there a worst time to visit Exmouth?

There’s nothing such as a “wrong” time to visit Exmouth, any time of year is good. But the weather in some months may not be as pleasant as others, and you may miss out on some activities.

Take January, for example.

It’s the hottest month, with an average high temperature of 34°C. The UV index is extreme too (+11) and the average humidity is low, but it coincides with the school holidays. This makes it the most popular month for tourists.

The average wind speed is high (around 24 km/h), being the windiest month, so it’s an excellent time for windsurfing. January is right in the middle of turtle season, too.

It’s a great month for deep-sea fishing and kite surfing as well, as the water temperature is great. But, during daylight hours, your risk of heat stroke is high.

So, remember to keep hydrated, wear a hat, and don’t forget sunscreen – more so if you’ll be out in the early afternoon.

Also, January through March is the “rainiest” period.

But by “rainiest” we mean it may rain 2 or 3 days each of these months. Nothing too severe to ruin your trip. And in the unlikely event that the weather gets cloudy during your stay, there are several things you can do in Exmouth if it rains .

November is the least popular month.

The Information Centre in Exmouth says this is partly because many people wait to come during the school holidays in December and January.

Also, many wildlife tours end after October. So, it’ll be hard for you to see as much of the wildlife as you would like, especially if you want to swim with the whale sharks.

However, this lack of popularity also means accommodations may be cheaper than usual.

How to plan for a trip to Exmouth?

Now that you have an idea of the best time for you to visit Exmouth, it’s time to plan the trip. Here are some basics to cover:

Getting to Exmouth

The easiest way is by flying from Perth or Broome to Exmouth. If you want to drive here, it’s a 13-hour drive from Perth, so plan for stopovers.

How long should you stay?

It’s best to have at least a week to explore the reef and all that Exmouth has to offer, including the Cape Range National Park.

This will help: One week in Exmouth (travel plan) .

Make sure you pack all you need.

Exmouth is a small town. It does have plenty of places to eat , tourist shops, grocery stores, and a great bakery. But you won’t find the big department stores here and getting some items in town can be challenging.

If you are going during the holiday season, plan ahead.

Bookings fill quickly for accommodation and popular tours during the busiest tourist seasons – usually December and January. So, plan and book your stay and the must-do tours as soon as possible.

Boating in Exmouth, Western Australia. 4 people in a boat on the reef.

Visiting the Ningaloo Reef is essential to do while you’re in Exmouth. From glass-bottom boats to sailing vessels or even sky diving onto the beach, you’ll find plenty of ways to explore the magnificent coral reef teeming with marine life.

You can see some land and marine animals at any time of the year – manta rays, dolphins, Australian sea lions, dugongs, emus, kangaroos, black-footed rock wallabies, echidnas, and all sorts of birdlife.

Keep reading: When is the best time to visit the Ningaloo Reef?

Did you know?

Exmouth was built in the 1960s because the U.S. government needed somewhere to build communication towers to maintain communications with their submarines in the Cold War.

Before then, no one had bothered too much about this town, as few people lived in the area. There were pastoralists, a shipwreck of a cattle ship (the SS Mildura), and an Indigenous population.

But nowadays, Exmouth is a must-do tourist destination. Apart from the Ningaloo Reef, this town gives access to the beautiful Cape Range National Park.

What is the best month to visit Exmouth?

The best month to visit Exmouth will depend on what you want to do, but we’d say July or August. These two months beam with marine and wildlife and the weather is incredible.

How cold does it get in Exmouth?

July is the coolest month in Exmouth, and the average temperature doesn’t go below 18C°. It won’t snow, but you may need to bring warm clothes.

Does Exmouth have a wet season?

Exmouth doesn’t have a wet season, the weather is mostly tropical.

The bottom line

While it can be pleasant to visit Exmouth at any time of the year, you’ll see more of the famous marine wildlife if you visit the town between March and October. Between July and October, you’ll also see the wildflowers, so try to visit during those months too.

December and January are popular months to visit Exmouth, despite the high winds, due to school holidays. Book ahead if you want to visit during the popular season.

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The Best Exmouth Travel Guide by a Local 2024

Kaya, hello. I’m Wendy, a Perth resident who has visited Exmouth numerous times with my family. In my guide, I provide plenty of useful information and tips to make the most out of your trip to this Coral Coast town.

This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.

Exmouth Location

Exmouth is on Western Australia’s Coral Coast , part of the Pilbara Region, with the Ningaloo Coral Reef offshore.

Perth to Exmouth is about 1,250 km.

How to get to Exmouth WA

There are car hire booths at Perth Airport , but it’s best to pre-book your car rental. To compare Australian car hire prices, Discover Cars is an award-winning car rental comparison website. They offer competitive pricing in over 10,000 locations worldwide and are highly rated. DriveNow is a good resource to compare campervan hire in Western Australia. It includes all the large companies like Britz, Maui, & Jucy as well as smaller ones. Compare Rental Cars Here .

Flights to Exmouth Airport

Qantas operates flights to Exmouth’s Learmonth airport, with a flight time of two hours. The airport is approximately 36 km south of Exmouth.

Exmouth Bus Charters operate a shuttle service from the airport to Exmouth town. Prices as of January 2024 are:

A$45/Adult (or A$80 return), A$35/Pensioner, A$30/Child (15 and under)

Family rate one way (2 Adults and up to 3 Children = A$120)

Exmouth Car Hire

Several rental car companies operate booths in the airport terminal, with most being staffed during scheduled flight arrival periods.

Perth to Exmouth Road Trip

The drive time from Perth to Exmouth is around 12 hours, not counting any stops along the way. Consider breaking up your journey with an overnight stop in Kalbarri or Northampton .

Or, take your time and enjoy the stunning places along the way. Read this Perth to Exmouth Road Trip guide for ideas on where to stop and what to do there.

Exmouth to Coral Bay

Exmouth town to Coral Bay is around 150 km and will take about two hours.

Some people take day trips from Coral Bay to Exmouth (and vice-versa), but that’s a 300 km return journey to the town. If you want to do the drift snorkel in Turquoise Bay, the return trip will be 430 km return!

coastline with green bushes and red roads

What is the Best Time to Visit Exmouth WA?

The best time to visit Exmouth is from autumn to late spring (March to October). This is also the most popular time and when accommodation prices are highest.

Summer temperatures are hot, with a tropical cyclone risk, so it’s an unpopular time to visit.

Rainfall is highest in June , followed by May, March, and February. September to November are the driest months .

Exmouth’s coldest month is July at 24 °C, with the hottest being January when the temperature averages 38°C.

The Indian Ocean is warmest in March when it reaches 29°C and then decreases to 21/22 in August.

You can see the Exmouth weather 7-day forecast on the Bureau of Meteorology .

black and white Pied butcherbird perched on pole

How many days do you need in Exmouth?

Spend at least five days in Exmouth, but seven days allows you to experience most of the activities it has to offer. Or, you can split your time between Coral Bay and Exmouth, like we did.

Exmouth Accommodation

Have you booked accommodation? We use Booking.com for most accommodation bookings as they offer free cancellation on many properties and have a price match guarantee. We book through Stayz (part of VRBO) for private accommodation as we find it is often cheaper than Airbnb. Tip : Accommodation gets booked quickly, especially during the WA school holidays . To avoid disappointment, book early.

Exmouth offers a range of accommodation, including resorts, private rentals, motel-style rooms and camping sites.

Here is my pick of the accommodation in Exmouth WA:

For a detailed breakdown, see this guide on the best accommodation in Exmouth .

TIP : Peak season in Exmouth (usually March to November) will see Exmouth accommodation at capacity and you will find most accommodation is booked up at least a year in advance, especially during school holidays. Therefore, book as soon as possible.

Exmouth Restaurants and Take-Aways

It can be expensive to eat out in Exmouth, but try the woodfired pizzas at the Whalebone Brewing Co . Or visit Whalers Restaurant , in the Exmouth Escape Resort, for delicious food (sit outside).

We didn’t eat at the Froth Craft Brewery in town, but the beers were great and the venue had a fun atmosphere.

If you have kitchen facilities and don’t mind cooking, buy some fish at the Fresh Fish Shack . This family-owned business has some of the freshest and tastiest fish we’ve ever had. It was so good that we bought fish from there three times during our stay in Exmouth.

On our last morning we wanted to find the Exmouth bakery for our tradition of a sausage roll when leaving a place. Ningaloo Bakehouse & Café didn’t disappoint with delicious sausage roll and jam donut

Visit The Social Society for nutritious vegan and vegetarian food, delicious coffee, and healthy fresh pressed juices. You can also buy eco friendly skincare, clothes, and artwork. I love their philosophy and dedication in trying to help save our beautiful planet.

Address: 2/5 Thew Street

people sitting in a cafe in exmouth drinking coffee

Exmouth Travel Tips

Collecting flora and fauna (including shells and corals) is not permitted anywhere in the marine park. This includes most of Exmouth beaches.
Be careful of the coral when diving or snorkelling. Living coral is delicate and, once damaged, it often takes years to grow back, so do not stand on the coral.
Mobile phone reception is good in town but may drop out elsewhere. We found the lighthouse to have the best reception!
If you’re visiting in winter, bring a sharkskin top or wetsuit to keep you warm in the water.
Bring shoes with good grip for hiking.

Exmouth or Coral Bay?

Coral Bay is best if you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday and want to be close to Ningaloo Reef. All accommodation is close to Bill’s Bay, enabling you to snorkel off the beach to the reef. You can read more about it and things to do in Coral Bay here .

Exmouth is great for those that want other things to do, like hiking and surfing. This town has more accommodation choices and places to eat. It also has a younger crowd with backpackers and couples experiencing the van life.

Or do as we did and see them both! Then you can make up your own mind which is best.

Exmouth or Broome?

You can’t make me decide between these two beautiful WA towns! They both offer activities, spectacular scenery, wildlife experiences, and a tropical laid-back vibe. Read our guide on things to do in Broome and see what appeals to you the most. Or you could always return and see the place you missed out on last time!

Is Exmouth Worth Going To: My Thoughts

Exmouth is a long way from Perth but it is absolutely worth going to. In fact, it’s one of the best destinations in Western Australia and should be on your WA bucket list.

Best Time To Visit Exmouth, WA

Ever received a postcard from Exmouth, Western Australia? If so, you’ll know it’s home to azure ocean, fish-filled reefs, iconic Aussie wildlife, rugged mountain ranges, and awe-inspiring canyons.

By all accounts, Exmouth – a spectacular half-day drive from Perth – is a natural wonderland every adventurer should see. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting this jewel of the West Cape Peninsula. Continue reading to find out the best time for visiting Exmouth.

Things To Do in Exmouth

Exmouth is a must-visit for nature lovers. Highlights include:

Snorkelling and Diving in Ningaloo Marine Park

The last thing you’d expect to see meeting the scorched scarlet soil of Cape Range is a vibrant aquamarine reef. But such is the diversity of Exmouth!

Australia’s largest fringing reef, this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its whale sharks, as well as rays, turtles and innumerable fish. Time it right and you might even spot a humpback whale!

Hiking in Cape Range National Park

If exploring some 50,581 hectares of yawning canyons and forbidding mountain ranges sounds like your cup of tea, Cape Range National Park , 45 minutes from Exmouth, is for you.

Here, Charles Knife Edge Walk offers a sure-footed challenge and provides breath-taking views. Be sure to take a camera to snap flora and fauna! Cape Range is home to kangaroos, emus and some 630 plant species, including the iconic Sturt Desert pea.

Note – while a 2-wheeler is fine for getting in and around the park, you’ll want a 4WD if you plan to cross Yardie Creek.

Swimming at Turquoise Bay

Consistently voted WA’s best beach, Turquoise Bay has some of the world’s clearest water. Which is great, because there’s so much to see under the surface!

Snorkel among a rainbow of some 500 fish species, turtles, and squid. But be mindful to visit at high tide to protect the reef and watch for strong currents.

Weather In Exmouth

Exmouth enjoys a fairly comfortable temperate climate year-round. With the hottest time of year being March (averaging 29 degrees) and the coldest being July (lows around 18 degrees). Sunseekers will be happy to know that rainfall isn’t something to worry about here, with September through to December being particularly dry.

Like all of the west coast, Exmouth can get windy. And November to April is cyclone season. Some activities, like surfing and kiteboarding, are better from July to October when gusts make for great waves. Especially at popular Dunes Surf Beach!

When Is Exmouth’s Peak Season?

A tourist magnet, Exmouth does get busy.

January sees the most visitors, with the combo of the summer school holidays’ long warm days luring families. Easter brings another peak, as holidays, good weather, and sharks combine to attract visitors.

Owing to the milder days and calmer weather, winter is popular for campers, so book your accommodation in advance if that’s your plan.

August to November (especially September, when school holidays again see families flock here) is also busy, as majestic humpback whales migrate through the area.

Best Time to Visit Exmouth for Cost

Finding a sweet spot in which to visit Exmouth and also save can be tricky. May tends to see accommodation costs come down, as does cyclone season in the summer, but Exmouth can be a little pricey in general.

You can keep costs low by camping (book well in advance) or staying in self-contained digs. Also consider catching your dinner, and focusing on the area’s many free natural highlights.

Of course, if budget isn’t such an issue, you’ll likely prefer to plan your trip around weather and sightseeing opportunities, anyhow.

Other Considerations

If you’re keen to see humpback whales, go in late winter or early spring. Or if you’re seeking long warm days and balmy nights for a lazy beach escape, head there in February.

And if you love events, Ningaloo Whaleshark Festival is held every year in April, coinciding with the annual visit from its namesake and offers a range of free and fun family-friendly events. You can even swim with the sharks!

Campers, meanwhile, will likely enjoy the winter months best, when it’s not so hot, and dry, nor especially windy.

While there are plenty of DPAW campsites in Cape Range, conditions can be a little unforgiving unless you have a trailer or campervan, so tent-travellers might consider staying at one of the reef-adjacent caravan parks.

For fishing fanatics, there’s not really a bad time, though October is known as ‘Billfish Bonanza’, when tuna and marlin abound.

Wherever you stay, whatever you do, Exmouth is unforgettable.

Make sure you send some postcards (or should that be ‘boastcards’?) from your own exhilarating Exmouth expedition.

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The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Memorable Trip to Exmouth, Devon

Are you dreaming of a memorable trip to the charming coastal town of Exmouth in Devon? Look no further! With its beautiful beaches, stunning natural landscapes, and an array of activities for all ages, Exmouth has something for everyone. To help you plan your perfect getaway, I've put together the ultimate guide to ensure your trip to Exmouth is truly unforgettable. Let's dive in!

1. Choosing the Best Time to Visit

Exmouth is a year-round destination, but the summer months (June to August) offer the warmest weather and are ideal for beach activities. Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time for exploring and outdoor adventures.

2. Getting There

• By Car : Exmouth is easily accessible by car via the M5 motorway. The journey from Exeter takes around 30 minutes.

• By Train : Exmouth has its own train station, with regular services from Exeter and other major cities. The train journey from Exeter to Exmouth takes approximately 25 minutes.

• By Bus : Bus services connect Exmouth to neighboring towns and cities, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option.

3. Finding the Perfect Accommodation

Exmouth offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. From beachfront hotels and cozy bed and breakfasts to self-catering cottages and holiday parks, you'll find the perfect place to call home during your stay.

4. Exploring Exmouth's Beaches and Coastal Beauty

• Exmouth Beach : Relax on the sandy shores of Exmouth Beach, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing dip in the clear waters. Don't miss the stunning views of the Jurassic Coastline from here.

• Orcombe Point : Embark on a scenic coastal walk to Orcombe Point, the western gateway to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Admire the breathtaking views and discover fascinating geological formations.

• Exe Estuary : Take a boat trip or hire a kayak to explore the tranquil Exe Estuary. Marvel at the diverse wildlife and enjoy the serenity of this picturesque waterway.

5. Outdoor Activities and Adventures

• Jurassic Coast Walks : Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a journey along the Jurassic Coast. Discover hidden coves, impressive cliffs, and ancient fossils as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Water Sports : Try your hand at water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or windsurfing. Exmouth's calm waters and favorable wind conditions make it a great destination for beginners and experienced water enthusiasts alike.

• Cycling : Explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Exmouth on two wheels. Follow the Exe Estuary Trail or venture further into the rolling hills of East Devon for a scenic cycling adventure.

6. Discovering Exmouth's Attractions

• Exmouth Museum : Immerse yourself in Exmouth's rich history and heritage at the Exmouth Museum. Learn about the town's maritime past and explore fascinating exhibits that showcase its cultural significance.

• Exmouth Marina : Take a stroll around the vibrant Exmouth Marina and soak in the nautical atmosphere. Watch the boats come and go, dine at waterfront restaurants, and enjoy the charming ambiance.

• Phear Park : Unwind in the peaceful surroundings of Phear Park. This well-maintained park offers lush green spaces, play areas, and tennis courts, providing a perfect retreat for families and nature lovers.

7. Enjoying Local Cuisine and Dining Experiences

• Seafood Delights : Indulge in the freshest seafood caught locally in Exmouth. Sample mouthwatering dishes like freshly shucked oysters, grilled fish, or classic fish and chips from the town's renowned seafood establishments.

• Local Pubs and Cafes : Experience the cozy charm of Exmouth's traditional pubs and cafes. Enjoy a pint of locally brewed ale, savour hearty pub fare, or treat yourself to a Devonshire cream tea.

8. Exploring Beyond Exmouth

• Dartmoor National Park : Embark on a day trip to Dartmoor National Park, where stunning landscapes, rugged tors, and ancient stone circles await. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or horseback riding.

• Exeter : Discover the historic city of Exeter, just a short distance from Exmouth. Explore its ancient cathedral, wander through the charming streets of the Cathedral Quarter, and indulge in shopping and dining experiences.

9. Embracing Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

• Responsible Travel : Help preserve Exmouth's natural beauty by practicing responsible travel. Follow designated walking paths, dispose of waste properly, and respect wildlife habitats and protected areas.

• Support Local : Embrace the local community by supporting independent businesses, artisans, and farmers' markets. By choosing locally sourced products and services, you contribute to the sustainable development of the region.

10. Creating Unforgettable Memories

Capture the beauty of Exmouth and the special moments of your trip through photography and journaling. Cherish the memories and share your experiences with others, inspiring them to embark on their own adventures in Exmouth.

Your Unforgettable Exmouth Adventure Awaits

With its stunning coastline, outdoor activities, rich history, and vibrant local culture, Exmouth offers a memorable experience for every traveler. From beach relaxation to outdoor adventures and exploring the local cuisine, you're sure to create unforgettable memories in this charming coastal town. So, start planning your trip to Exmouth, and get ready for an incredible adventure that will leave you longing to return again and again. Enjoy!

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Ultimate guide to Exmouth

Travel & Touring | WA Destinations

By: Tatum Stafford

Whale sharks, rocky gorges and ‘drift snorkelling’ beaches are just the beginning when it comes to the coastal haven of Exmouth.

A world-famous tourist destination, this eclectic township in the pristine Coral Coast region is a stone’s throw from the iconic Ningaloo Reef, the sweeping Cape Range National Park and a breathtaking amount of marine wildlife encounters that are best explored with a snorkel or dive.

Grab your bathers and hit the road, it’s time to explore all that Exmouth has to offer.

At a glance

Top things to see and do

RELATED: 10 of the best things to do in Exmouth »

Go 'drift snorkelling' at Turquoise Bay

Named for its pristine waters, this idyllic spot is famous for its moderate currents that allow snorkellers to ‘drift’ over colourful gardens of coral and plentiful marine life - including turtles, squid and over 500 species of fish. Entering the water towards the southern end, you’ll be carried to the northern end’s sandbar without having to paddle – just remember to exit the current before reaching the sandbar.

RELATED: 5 of the best snorkelling spots around Exmouth »

Hike through the Cape Range National Park

If you’re eager to try a gorge walk, head for the 3-kilometre loop Mandu Mandu Gorge trail. Beginning along the gorge rim, this rocky trail follows an unmodified route that finishes with a descent into the gorge itself.

If you’d rather head to higher ground, the Badgirrajirra Trail is your best bet. It begins at the Thomas Carter Lookout, which is the highest point in the national park. The moderately difficult 8-kilometre loop trail borders the top of Cape Range, and winds its way through rocky gullies, open bushland and small gorges.

Enjoy the view from Vlamingh Head Lighthouse

The base of this 61-metre tall lighthouse offers some of the best ocean views on the Ningaloo coast. From this spot, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the North West Cape, the Exmouth township, Muiron Islands and of course, the incredible Ningaloo Reef. If you’re lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of the humpback whales that migrate through Exmouth from June to November each year.

Swim with whale sharks

From April to July each year, Exmouth sees hordes of these majestic creatures flock to its shores. They can reach up to a whopping 18 metres in length, are slow-moving, and have an extremely thick, rough skin to protect themselves from other marine life.

On a whale shark swimming tour you’ll have the opportunity to view whale sharks up close, and also snorkel with manta rays, turtles, dolphins and the incredible tropical fish that inhabit Ningaloo Reef.

Image of a woman swimming with a whale shark

Meet some cute locals at the Jurabi Turtle Nesting Centre

A visit to the Jurabi Turtle Nesting Centre is one of the best ways to learn about the lifecycle, threats and nesting process of these fascinating marine animals. The centre runs non-invasive turtle viewing educational sessions, where visitors can view marine turtles nesting in their natural environment.

Go four-wheel driving in Shothole Canyon

The 12-kilometre Shothole Canyon scenic drive is a bucket list item for four-wheel driving enthusiasts in WA. The drive takes you along the floor of the incredible Shothole Canyon gorge, and eventually leads you to a lookout with views of rugged limestone stretching to the Exmouth Gulf.

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Explore Ningaloo Reef on a glass bottom boat

Designed to help you view coral, marine life and the colourful reef from above, these tours offer comprehensive commentary about the diversity, history and beauty of this unique reef.

Paddle through Yardie Creek

Protected by giant red cliffs, Yardie Creek is a unique water system with plenty of opportunities for nature walks, boat tours and wildlife-spotting – but one of the most tranquil ways to explore it is with a kayak. As you make your way up the creek, keep an eye out for wallabies and local sea birds, and take time to get up close to the striking colours of the cliff walls.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Our Camping Life (@ourcampinglife) on Jun 29, 2019 at 9:18pm PDT

Spot humpback whales

Exmouth’s whale-watching season takes place from June to November, and during this time the town’s shores are graced with hordes of humpback whales. In fact, the Exmouth Gulf hosts the highest density of humpback whales in the Southern Hemisphere.

For the chance to spot these magnificent creatures, try the shores of Town Beach, Sunrise Beach or Bundegi Beach. From above, the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse is your best bet.

RELATED: 10 of the best whale-watching spots in WA »

Pay a visit to the Big Prawn

The 4-metre tall fibreglass Big Prawn sculpture is one of Exmouth’s quirkiest attractions. Sitting proudly outside of the Ningaloo Visitor Centre, the prawn was recently donated to the Exmouth Council and represents the region’s thriving population of king and tiger prawns.

RELATED: 10 of WA's best big things »

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Getting around

As the above attractions are spread throughout the town and surrounding areas, you’ll need a car to get around Exmouth. Car hire is available at Learmonth Airport if you’re flying up to Exmouth. There are mountain bikes and motorised scooters available for hire from the town centre if you’d like to explore the coastline on two wheels.

What to pack

Exmouth experiences sweltering temperatures in summer, (sometimes up to 45 degrees celsius), so sunscreen and a hat are a must. If hiking, supportive footwear is recommended, but otherwise light clothing and casual footwear are suitable. If you have specialised snorkelling or diving equipment, bring it with you to avoid hiring gear when you want to explore underwater.

Travelling safely

You’ll only travel on three roads if travelling from Perth to Exmouth: State Route 60, National Route 1 and Minilya-Exmouth Road. The longest stretch of road is an almost eight-hour drive, so be sure to take plenty of breaks to stretch your legs and avoid fatigue. If you’re planning on off-roading or completing four-wheel drive tracks once you arrive in Exmouth, make sure you’re prepared with spare tyres and essential gear in case of a breakdown. Read more long distance driving tips .

Need a place to stay?

RAC members get exclusive discounts at RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park, a perfect base to explore the Coral Coast and North West region.*

Find out more

*Terms and conditions apply. RAC member discount not applicable on already discounted rates. Discounts available on direct bookings only made online or via phone. Visit our Parks & Resorts website for more information.

Last updated September 2020

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Guide to Visiting Ningaloo Reef Exmouth and Cape Range National Park (2024)

Last Updated on 13 March 2024 by Ariana Svenson

The Ningaloo Reef Exmouth is one of the most spectacular marine areas in the world; it is fringed by the rich red colors of the incredible Cape Range National Park. When we first visited Exmouth it got a little confusing. For example, which areas should be referred to as Ningaloo Coast – and which parts are Cape Range National Park? Both of these activities are often listed as “things to do in Exmouth’ but I think are more correctly covered as one guide as it distinguishes that they are actually quite some distance from Exmouth and they are both spectacular natural attractions. So, if you are planning to visit Ningaloo Reef, here are our top things to do in Ningaloo Reef and at Cape Range National Park.

When visiting Cape Range National Park and the Ningaloo Coast, no doubt you will be visiting Exmouth WA as well. Make sure to read Best Things to do in Exmouth WA (2024) for great insider information. We realize that things change all the time, and so it’s really important to us that we provide the most up to date information possible! That’s why we go through our pages annually making sure they are as current as possible. As always, if you notice something that’s not quite right, please let us know in the comments!

The word ‘ Ningaloo ‘ is an Aboriginal word that means a ‘promontory’ which is a headland of elevated land (or the Northwest Capes!) Yinikutira, also recorded as the Jinigudira , are the traditional Aboriginal owners of the Country along the Ningaloo Coast around the Exmouth Peninsula in Western Australia now referred to as the Cape Range National Park We respect and pay tribute to our First Nations people, the custodians of this beautiful land in which we live and love. We believe that through acknowledgement and learning together we can heal country. Contents Show Why is the Ningaloo Reef WA Special? Why is the Cape Range National Park Special? Things to do around Cape Range National Park – Close to Exmouth Vlamingh Head Lighthouse View the Shipwreck of SS Mildura Jarabi Turtle Centre Tantabiddi Boat Ramp Attractions within Cape Range National Park Milyering Visitor Centre Mandu Mandu Gorge The Beaches and Snorkeling in Ningaloo Marine Park Important Safety Information about Ningaloo Reef Turquoise Bay Ningaloo Reef Osprey Bay Oyster Stacks Lakeside Beach Yardie Creek Boat Tours, Exmouth Cape Range National Park Attractions on the Other Side of Exmouth Camping at Ningaloo What about Ningaloo Station Camping? What about Camping on Warroora Station? What Do I need to Pack for Ningaloo Reef Exmouth? What is the Weather like at Cape Range National Park? How to get to Ningaloo Reef from Perth? Perth to Ningaloo Reef Drive Perth to Exmouth – Flying to Ningaloo Reef The Verdict – The Best of Cape Range National Park and the Ningaloo Coast Disclosure: Through my site there are links to affiliates, which means that I might receive commission if you buy something after clicking them. This costs you no more, and you definitely don’t pay extra. However, I do get a small amount which contributes to the upkeep of this blog. Thanks so much for all of your support. We hope you have a ball in Western Australia!

Why is the Ningaloo Reef WA Special?

Ningaloo Reef Exmouth is not only Australia’s largest fringing coral reef, but it is also a World Heritage Site. Ningaloo Reef spans the Ningaloo Coast and, in some parts, lies only a few hundred meters from the beach.

When thinking of fantastic reef systems in Australia, of course most people think of the Great Barrier Reef. Even though the Great Barrier Reef is stunning, Ningaloo Reef should also be thought of in similar regard. Unlike parts of the Great Barrier Reef that are suffering from bleaching, Ningaloo is thriving.

If you are interested in reading more about the Great Barrier Reef, check out our Great Barrier Reef Facts and Amazing Great Barrier Reef Tours & Tips for Snorkeling Cairns .

Also, if you want to really dive into all the things that make Ningaloo Reef Exmouth amazing we have a post for you as well. Facts about Ningaloo Reef is packed with information.

Why is the Cape Range National Park Special?

Cape Range National Park occupies the west side of the Northwest Cape peninsula. Cape Range has it all from spectacular limestone ranges, amazing canyons, and 60 kilometers of gorgeous Western Australia beaches like Turquoise Bay.

Situated 51 kilometers from the nearest town of Exmouth Western Australia, this translates to roughly a 45-minute drive. The drive is surely worth it to see the breathtaking landscape, vast array of birds, and other local wildlife like red kangaroos, echidnas, and emus. Not to mention that Cape Range National Park is the gateway to Ningaloo Marine Park. Ningaloo Reef is situated right off the coast.

Things to do around Cape Range National Park – Close to Exmouth

Vlamingh Head Lighthouse

Located 17km from Exmouth, Vlamingh Head Lighthouse on the Ningaloo Coast is a must-see attraction. It offers panoramic views over Lighthouse Bay. At certain times of the year Humpback Whales may be spotted on their southern migration and it is one of only a few areas in Australia where you can view both the sunrise and sunset.

Watching sunset from the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse is definitely one our favourite things to do in Cape Range National Park.

View the Shipwreck of SS Mildura

Resting 80 metres from the shore, what remains of the shipwrecked SS Mildura can be viewed from the Lighthouse Bay coast.

The SS Mildura was a cattle steamer that was shipwrecked during the 1907 cyclone. There is some good interpretative information in the carpark, not just about the wreck but also about the Harold Holt Communications Station.

Jarabi Turtle Centre

Turtle lovers take note, from about January through April if you visit the beach after sundown you may be able to see tiny turtle hatchlings as they head off to the ocean.

If you are visiting outside those months, you can visit the Jarabi Turtle Centre year-round to learn about the turtles that call Ningaloo Reef WA home. Learn about the Green, Loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles that live off the shores of the Ningaloo Coast.

The Jarabi Turtle Centre is free to visit. They also have a paid 3–4-hour nighttime tour where you can witness turtle hatchlings when in season. Please check the Jarabi Turtle Centre website for more information.

kids walking along exmouth ningaloo reef

Tantabiddi Boat Ramp

The Tantabiddi Boat Ramp is located approximately 3km before the entrance to Cape Range National Park.

If you are doing any Ningaloo Reef tours, the Tantabiddi Boat Ramp is where you tour will depart from. Whether it is a Ningaloo Reef snorkeling tour, swimming with Whale Sharks, taking a glass bottom boat out to visit Ningaloo Reef, or any other Ningaloo Coast tour, this is the place you will start from.

Interested in different Ningaloo Reef tours? Check out our recommendations below.

western australia wild flower tour, wildflower drive, wildflowers of Australia

Coral Coast Wildflowers

While Australia’s coral coast wildflowers are not as famous as other places on the West Coast, they still make a pretty spectacular show; and one we enjoyed very much. From the moment we arrived at Learmonth airport, the coastal plan around Exmouth was filled with the cheerful yellows of the spring wattles, and my personal favourite, the lavender purple mulla mulla.

Around Vlamingh Head Lighthouse and the Harold E Holt Communication station towers on the North West Cape there were copious mulla mulla. (My road stop photo shoot doubled as I took pictures of the imposing towers and the flowers at the same time!

As you head further into the Cape Range National Park, along the road to Turquoise Bay and Yardie Creek we saw lots of Red Sturt Desert Peas, mulla mulla, wattles and also the purple Portaluca. Here around Exmouth the Sturt Desert Peas’ bulbous centres are deep red or maroon, not black like other places. (At least that is what we were told!)

We didn’t see a lot of wildflowers on the Yardie Creek Trail or the Mandu Mandu canyon walk, but we might have been too early in the season. We did see some buttercup yellow hibbertia and a whole family of rock wallabies.

Our family loved our stay at Bullara Station (link) and this was one of our best options for wildflower spotting while in the Ningaloo and Cape Range area. .

Attractions within Cape Range National Park

people at entrance of cape range national park

Milyering Visitor Centre

We highly recommend making Milyering Visitor Centre your first stop when visiting the Ningaloo Coast area. The friendly staff is also a wealth of knowledge about Ningaloo Reef and the Cape Range National Park area. This includes advising what roads are suitable for you to drive on should you not be visiting in a 4WD vehicle.

And, if you plan on doing some Ningaloo Reef snorkeling, they can give you information about tides and currents. Also, there is a shop that has a great selection of snorkeling gear should you need to pick up anything last minute. Don’t forget reef friendly sunscreen!

We highly recommend purchasing a National Parks pass when visiting Cape Range National Park! The combined parks pass make much better value for money, especially if you will be visiting any other national parks in Australia. If you are a local like we are, an annual National Parks Pass is a truly amazing investment. I find it encourages us to go places.

If you are a visitor to Western Australia (lucky you) then I would highly recommend buying a Holiday Park Pass. You can read more information about the Holiday Park Pass here . WA Holiday Park Pass Unlimited entry to all parks for up to 4 (four) weeks. 5 Day Holiday Park Pass Unlimited entry to all parks for up to 5 (five) days. 2 Week Holiday Park pass Unlimited entry to all parks for up to 2 (two) weeks.

Mandu Mandu Gorge

Hiking the Mandu Mandu Gorge is an amazing experience! It offers incredible views of the Mandu Mandu Gorge Canyon, and from the rim Ningaloo National Park and the Ningaloo Coastline out across the stunning Indian Ocean. You also have a chance to see local wildlife along the way like the Rock Wallaby.

It is a 3km return walk, with the starting point located about 14km south of the discovery centre. Make sure you wear good walking shoes or hiking boots as you will be walking on uneven pebbles for most of the walk.

The Beaches and Snorkeling in Ningaloo Marine Park

Ningaloo Marine Park spans the Ningaloo Coast up the Northwest Cape. Since Ningaloo Reef is Australia’s largest fringing reef, Ningaloo Reef snorkeling opportunities abound. Also being one of the world’s largest coral reefs means there are many species of coral, fish, and marine life to take in.

The benefit of it being a fringing reef is that you can snorkeling right from the shore. However, you may also want to book a snorkeling tour, see our recommendations below.

Important Safety Information about Ningaloo Reef

Most places around Ningaloo Reef Exmouth, including the popular Turquoise Bay and Oyster Stacks, can experience very strong currents and/or large ocean swells. Always read the posted signs and make a visit to the discovery centre to inquire about conditions before getting in the water.

Never, ever snorkel or swim alone. Please know your level of snorkeling experience and always make sure you have a partner with you. Also, be aware of large waves that may push you into the rocky shoreline.

Appropriate footwear must be worn! The Ningaloo Coast beaches are covered with broken coral, shells, and sharp slippery rocks. Make sure you take precautions.

Turquoise Bay Ningaloo Reef

Perhaps the most popular, and stunning, beaches along the Ningaloo Coast is Turquoise Bay. It gets its name from the stunningly blue turquoise waters that meet the white sand beach. Don’t just take our word for it. It was rated the 2 nd best beach in the South Pacific and the 6 th best beach in the world overall!

Besides being stunningly beautiful, it is a great spot for snorkeling as the Ningaloo Reef Exmouth is located just meters offshore. This protected area is great for spotting all kinds of marine life like turtles, reef sharks, vibrant fish, and different coral formations. The Ningaloo Reef Exmouth, and Turquoise Bay in particular, is a favorite among many divers and snorkelers.

However, be warned! Turquoise Bay is a drift snorkeling spot. This means that you will get in the water and one end of the beach and be carried by the strong current to the other end. This is not the place to learn to snorkel. If you are not a confident swimmer and experienced snorkeler, try Lakeside Beach instead.

Located approximately 15 mins south of Turquoise Bay, is Osprey Bay. Osprey Bay is another visually stunning, paradise-like beach. With calmer waters, it is great for stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling and even a relaxing swim.

There is even a government operated campground. Depending on the time of the year, the campground can be full. Make sure to make your reservations on-line in advance.

Oyster Stacks

Not as picture perfect as Turquoise Bay, or Osprey Bay the Oyster Stacks offer some great snorkeling opportunities. This area is a marine sanctuary zone, and the Oyster Stacks are five little islands that emerge from the water of the reef.

This is the narrow section of lagoon. Because of that, the Oyster Stacks area has a high concentration of marine life. However, with Oyster stacks being the narrowest section of lagoon along the Ningaloo Coast you should only snorkel during high tide. There has to be sufficient water over the reef. The best place to check the tide tables is by visiting Milyering Discovery Centre .

Lakeside Beach

Lakeside Beach is listed as being one of the best areas for snorkeling for families in the Ningaloo Reef WA area. Unfortunately for us, the roads were closed due to heavy rain and we never got to snorkel at Lakeside.

In addition, if you are travelling with little kids, there are still some barriers to an easy snorkel. To get to the snorkeling zone from the carpark it is 400 metres walk south along the beach to the marked entry point. You then snorkel out in a northerly direction for 150 metres before returning to your original entry point. 150 metres swimming is still quite substantial for a small child!

Because this is a sanctuary zone fishing is not allowed in this area which makes for plenty of large reef fish to see.

Yardie Creek Boat Tours, Exmouth

Unless you have a 4WD vehicle, Yardie Creek is the farthest you can travel. However, Yardie Creek Gorge is a must-visit place in Cape Range National Park. It is quite literally one of the most popular things to do in Exmouth.

You can visit the ancient gorge by taking one of the Yardie Creek boat tours (see below for recommendations). Stand in awe of the limestone cliffs and watch out for local wildlife. The Yardie Creek boat cruises are a great opportunity to learn about the region’s history and to get right in the Yardie Creek Gorge.

If you don’t have time for any Yardie Creek tours, at least check out the Yardie Gorge Trail. It runs along the cliffs giving you spectacular views down into the gorge. If you wish to stay overnight, check out the Yardie Creek Campground.

Cape Range National Park Attractions on the Other Side of Exmouth

Because these two attractions are accessed from the road that goes into Exmouth from Cape Range, it is recommended that you visit these two attractions separate from the rest of the park.

Charles Knife Canyon – An enjoyable, winding canyon drive that starts just south of Exmouth to the other side of the peninsula from Cape Range.
Shothole Canyon – Popular canyon drive but is only recommended for 4WD vehicles as it is a deserted Outback road.

Camping at Ningaloo

There are many Cape Range campsites up and down the Ningaloo coast. For many people a trip to Cape Range National Park or Ningaloo means a camping holiday.

We didn’t do any camping at Ningaloo, but these are the main campgrounds in the area. We’ve got good friends who camp at Osprey Bay each year and rave about it.

Yardie Creek
North Kurrajong
North Mandu

If you are interested in a guided trekking and Cape Range National Park camping experience check here .

What about Ningaloo Station Camping?

Ningaloo Station Camping is located south of Yardie Creek and not able to be accessed from the northern side of Cape Range National Park. There are 5 designated camp sites at Ningaloo Station (Ningaloo Coast). All campsites have zero amenities. However, there are recently installed dump points. You must bring your own portable toilet to camp at Ningaloo Station Campground.

Don’t let zero amenities detour you from camping Ningaloo Station. This is one of the most popular camping places around. Bookings can be made up to 180 days in advance on the Park Stay WA website .

What about Camping on Warroora Station?

Located about 1 hour south of Coral Bay, this cattle station is a unique and ideal place to explore Ningaloo Reef. You can reach Warroora Station in a 2WD vehicle but if you want to access the beach you must have a 4WD vehicle.

As this is a nature-based campground there is no power. However, the sites are spacious each with their own fire pit. There is also a basic camp kitchen, shower, and toilet facilities.

What Do I need to Pack for Ningaloo Reef Exmouth?

If you were going on a camping trip to Cape Range National Park, you would need a full list of camping gear. However, these are some of the things that we would pack to visit Ningaloo Reef.

Kids Thermal Rashies
Wetsuits For Kids
Kids Beach Essentials

What is the Weather like at Cape Range National Park?

The average temperature at Cape Range National Park is 25 Celsius. The hottest weather occurring in November through about March each year.

It is located in an arid climate with little rainfall. Literally, some months see zero days of rain. The wettest month June, only averages about 3 days of rain all month long. Make sure to pack your reef safe sunscreen!

How to get to Ningaloo Reef from Perth?

As with most destinations, there are two main ways that travelers make their way to Exmouth WA and Ningaloo Reef from Perth. You can fly in or make the drive. What you choose really depends on where you are coming from and how much time you want to spend traveling to Ningaloo and Cape Range.

Perth to Ningaloo Reef Drive

The drive from Perth to Exmouth, the nearest city to Ningaloo, is a long one. Even with minimal stops, it takes about two full days of driving. However, at a total distance 1270km, why not make it into a Perth to Exmouth roadtrip?

We have broken down the main stops along the way and their drive time here:

Perth to Geraldton (414 km – 4.5 hours)
Geraldton to Kalbarri (154 km – 1.45 hours)
Kalbarri to Monkey Mia (400 km – 4.5 hours)
Shark Bay to Carnarvon (325 km – 3.15hrs)
Carnarvon to Exmouth (363 km – 3.40hrs)

Also note, the first section of the drive we have covered in our post The Ultimate Perth to Kalbarri Road Trip Itinerary . We recommend you give it a read for ideas of what to see along the way. Also, read our An Awesome Bullara Station Stay Experience! for a unique accommodation experience just south of Exmouth.

Perth to Exmouth – Flying to Ningaloo Reef

If time is of the essence, or roadtrips are not your cup of tea, then flying makes sense. Flight time from Perth to Exmouth is about 1.5 hours.

There are many different Perth to Exmouth flights each day. The closest airport to Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range is Learmonth Airport located 36 kms south of Exmouth. We recommend checking online for the flight deals and schedules.

The Verdict – The Best of Cape Range National Park and the Ningaloo Coast

We loved our time amongst the red dirt of the Cape Range National Park, and truly there is nothing like the turquoise waters of the Ningaloo Coast. What a truly divine place to spend time!!

We hope that this comprehensive guide has helped you to carefully plan your time visiting Ningaloo Reef Exmouth and understanding the distances you need to cover to all the different snorkeling spots. Especially remember that even though gorgeous Turquoise Bay Ningaloo is picture perfect, it is not for learner swimmers. We hope you enjoy the Ningaloo Reef WA as much as we did!

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Guide to Visiting Ningaloo Reef Exmouth and Cape Range National Park

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21 Best Things To Do In Exmouth, WA (2023 Guide)

Christopher Aiello
May 16, 2023

Look no further to create your bucket-list itinerary of the best things to do in Exmouth than our ultimate travel guide!

It may surprise you that Western Australia occupies roughly one third of the entire continent of Australia; yet some of Australia’s top attractions and incredible marine life co-exist in the tiny north western corner in Exmouth WA.

Many tourists forget about travelling to Exmouth mainly due to its distance from the larger cities of Melbourne and Sydney, but to miss exploring the coral coast and all its intricacies is to almost ignore half of the country!

Everything from swimming with whale sharks, snorkelling Ningaloo reef, incredible surfing spots and stunning turquoise waters, there are a ton of activities in Exmouth that every traveler to Australia should experience.

Where is Exmouth WA

This distant land is located on Western Australia’s coral coast, which stretches just north of the capital city of Perth through to Exmouth.

Geographically speaking it is almost the western most point of mainland Australia only being beaten by Dirk Hartog island below it.

How to get to Exmouth

If travelling from Perth then take the Coral coast highway north until you reach the Minilya-Exmouth road turn off.

The 1250 km drive along the Coral Coast highway is easy enough and passes through spectacular natural landscapes and national parks, including Cape range national park and the Ningaloo coast along the Indian Ocean.

A great way of getting around is to hire a can and make the journey yourself. You get to see the countryside and choose to stop at any point you want. Road trips are a fantastic way to see the state.

EXPLORE MORE >> Unveil Australia’s best with our ultimate guide to must-do experiences

You have to fly into Perth if you want to experience the best things to do in Exmouth and the good news is that it’s a short 2 hour flight time.

Qantas airlines have JUST launched their brand new Melbourne to Exmouth direct flights for around $300 AUD one way per person which is great news for locals living on the eastern coast of Australia.

Best time of year to visit Exmouth WA

March through to April is hands down the best time of year to travel to Exmouth for a number of reasons.

The weather is generally warm with average temperatures of about 32C° and both Ningaloo Reef and the entire coral coast play host to a myriad of incredible wildlife like the whale shark, humpback whales and manta rays.

How long do you need to spend in Exmouth

We could generalise and say 1-2 weeks but it really depends on your budget and your willingness to move around.

Considering the distance needed to travel to Western Australia in the first place it seems wise enough to us to make the most of it and spend minimum 2 weeks here.

That way you can plan on different Exmouth day trips and ensure you cover all of the incredible things to do in Exmouth.

21 Top Things to do in Exmouth

Now that you have an idea of this top tourist destination in WA, we’ve collated all of the very best activities on the internet to give you the best itinerary for your time away

Swim with Whale Sharks at Ningaloo Reef

The largest fish in the ocean calls Ningaloo marine park home between the warmer months of June to October on their migratory path to Antarctica, and it’s here where you can book a tour to swim with whale sharks.

Few other places in the world offer whale shark swim experiences and right here in Ningaloo Reef is one such place and you can book it right here on GetYourGuide

With such tight rules and regulations on tour operators to provide ethical and responsible marine life encounters, rest assured these guys are respectful in their service.

Other marine life such as manta rays, reef sharks, humpback whales and sea turtles are all locals to the marine park here so you wont be disappointed.

Most companies provide lunch on board, a spotter plane above to search for the whale sharks and up to 9 hours on the sea.

Visit the Jurabi turtle centre in Exmouth

One of the best Exmouth nature activities can be found here on the north west cape at the Jurabi turtle centre exmouth. This educational and interactive centre gives guest a guided turtle viewing experience on some of the most threatened turtle species in the world, including their nesting habits.

A popular place for Hawksbill, Loggerhead and Green Turtles, nesting season is from December though March and if you’re lucky enough to see nesting turtles or baby turtles hatching up close it’s one of the most exciting things to do in Exmouth.

Location: Jurabi turtle centre, Yardie Creek rd, Cape range national park

Price : Free entry into the Jurabi turtle centre, standard entry fees apply for Cape range national park.

Go on a hike through Cape Range national park

Covering over 50,000 hectares of land on the western cape of the north west cape, and over 60 km of pristine beaches, if you’re wondering what to do in Exmouth WA that doesn’t involve snorkelling then this is it.

Cape range national park is a unique geological environment with plants and animals like the Black-footed rock wallaby and the green bird flower being entirely endemic to this region alone.

Other wildlife like Dingoes, emus, echidnas, lizards and kangaroos all frequent this region of Western Australia also and make for incredible wildlife photography.

There’s also plenty of hikes to attempt here like the 3km return Mandu Mandu Gorge trail, the 1.2km return Yardie nature trail and Y ardie Gorge Trail there is something for everyone.

This section of Cape Range national park has some of the most underrated and loved beaches in all of Western Australia, so while you’re here also check out Charles Knife Edge walk to Charles Knife Canyon for the 3.5km.

Things to remember:

– Entry fee into Cape Range national park is $15AUD/day

-Temperatures can get close to 45°C , bring lots of water

-Consider a personal location beacon for added safety if you wander off trail or get lost.

For updated park closures and restrictions closer to the date check out Milyering Discovery centre on Yardie creek road.

Whale watching tours on Ningaloo Reef

One of the most incredible things to do in Exmouth and indeed in all of the animal kingdom is to swim with Humpback whales, or simply join a whale watching tour.

Humpback whales have some of the most magnificent migratory patterns in the world, using both the eastern and western coasts of Australia as migration and breeding routes.

Very few places in Australia offer the opportunity to swim with Humpback whales but these tour groups offer both a swim and watching options.

When your trained staff deem it safe to swim, guests enter the water 7 at a time wit 2 crew members in the water, giving the whales plenty of room, l etting them come to you if they choose.

This is the best eco-friendly tour option for swimming with Humpback whales!

Vlamingh head lighthouse views

The view from Vlamingh head lighthouse is just incredible and unique due to the fact that it overlooks one of the most dangerous stretches of coast in the world, and one of the few points where you can see both sunrise and sunset.

Only accessed via Yardie Creek road, the SS Mildura wreck lies north east of lighthouse Bay and if you can, stay till after sunset for dramatic views of the starry sky and the milky way, a this is a dark sky reserve there is next to no light pollution (other than the lighthouse itself)

While you’re down here we found it fairly practical to make the journey from the lighthouse to spectacular beaches like Turquoise bay, Jim’s beach and Mauritius beach.

Entry : free

Snorkelling Ningaloo Reef

Whenever you talk about diving or snorkelling along Ningaloo reef theres the ‘Big 3’ wildlife encounters you HAVE TO TRY!

The reef is one of the largest fringing coral reefs in the world with 2 main areas you can explore for incredible Exmouth attractions waiting for you.

Exmouth and Coral bay stretch over 230km along the incredible Ningaloo reef and contain over 220 species of coral and over 500 species of marine life.

One eco-friendly option is to join a 1 hour glass bottom boat tour with the resident Manta Rays and both morning tea and lunch included.

If you prefer to stay dry then this 1-2 hour glass bottomed boat tour is perfect for viewing colourful fish and coral.

Time: 6 hours

Food: Lunch provided

Visit the SS Mildura shipwreck

Best viewed from the air or the top of the lighthouse, the SS Mildura was a cattle steamer wrecked during a cyclone in 1907.

A lot of the hull was salvaged and used for spare parts and renovations however it was used as bombing practice during World war ii and now serves as an intriguing diving site in the waters off the northern tip of the North West Cape.

SS Mildura wreck lies only 80 metres off the coast but its best viewed at low tide.

Join a tour of Navy Pier

Globally recognised as one of the Top 10 shore dives in the world, spending a day at Navy Pier on the eastern side of North West Cape has to be top of your Exmouth things to do list!

The Navy Pier is a a part of a working Australian Navy facility called the Harold so your only option to explore the hidden aquatic life is by joining a guided scuba diving tour.

What makes Exmouth Western Australia so fascinating for both locals and tourists from all over the world is the convenience of having coral reef so accessible at almost any part of the coast.

Literally walk to the edge of the coral coast and you’re in the second largest coral reef system in Australia.

Grey Nurse Sharks, Giant Queensland groupers, reef sharks and turtles are all visible on dives to this magical pier.

Harold E Holt Naval communications station

If you fancy a change of pace and keen to learn history of Australia’s Naval defence system then the Harold Holt naval communications station is a great alternative Exmouth activity to try.

It serves jointly under both the Australian Defence Force and the United States military and transmits frequencies to naval vessels and submarines in the Pacific and Indian oceans.

It is the largest and most powerful radio transmitter station in the entire southern hemisphere and whilst there is no paid tour option available there is still public access to the surrounding grounds where you can learn about the role it played during World War 2.

Drive along Yardie Creek road to Murat Road and just after the turn off for Bundegi Beach and the beach shack is the entrance.

Price : free entry

Take a scenic flight over Ningaloo Reef

Nothing quite beats being up in the air in a plane looking down at the fascinating landscape of Ningaloo marine park and Cape Range national park at most times of the year but especially during whale shark season.

For one of the best things to do in Exmouth we seriously recommend flying with the legends at Ningaloo Aviation who specialise in both whale shark and Humpback whale spotting.

Both fixed winged aircrafts called the ‘Wingaloo’ and ‘Krill Seeker’ fly high above the reef and offer customers a 60 minute Ningaloo explorer flight or a sunset flight for $540AUD.

There’s an alternate option that involves a day trip over the Kalbarri national park, a scenic flight over the Murchison River and visiting a scenic Pink lake.

See the Oyster stacks

If you’re wondering what to do in Exmouth WA then the Oyster stacks should be on your list.

Snorkel from the shore at high tide, these are quite literally Oysters stacked onto the colourful reef, protected as a sanctuary zone under Ningaloo marine park.

An abundance of fish and coral can be found here, and whilst its pretty and ay seem delicious you cannot take these Oysters home.

To get here, follow Yardie Creek road north along the western coast and you will find a small car park in between Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef safari camp and Turquoise bay.

Ningaloo Reef aquarium and discovery centre

Looking for awesome family friendly things to do in Exmouth? Make sure you don’t miss out on the Ningaloo Reef aquarium and discovery centre based in town.

This is also the Ningaloo Visitor centre if you have further tourist questions when you’re in town.

This popular attraction showcases the unique aquatic life found along the worlds largest fringing coral reef with interactive displays and educational exhibits where guests can use a touch tank for a hands-on experience with sea cucumbers and starfish.

This place is a must for anybody interested in the fascinating underwater world of Western Australia.

To skip the line and be the first through the door you can purchase your ticket here for less than $20AUD

Yardie Creek Boat tour

A highlight of our things to do in Exmouth itinerary is the Yardie Creek boat tours that take visitors through the red limestone creek at the southern end of Cape Range national park.

Visitors here can embark on a 1 hour eco-friendly tour beginning at the Yardie Creek jetty learning about the local flora and fauna and biodiversity.

With options to be dropped off and visit Turquoise bay, you can book your adventures through Yardie creek boat tours here.

Go for a hike along the Yardie creek nature walk for a 40 minute 1.2km return hike or the Yardie Gorge trail for 2km.

To get here, if your’e already up the northern end then travel back down the western coast till you get to the Yardie creek campground and car park.

If you’re coming from Exmouth, the route is much the same you just have to travel right around the cape as there is no road through the national park that travels east to west.

Go for a swim at Town Beach

Right outside the heart of Exmouth town on the eastern coast is Town beach, a popular spot for yachting and jet-skis, with a yacht club right on the foreshore.

If you have a 4 wheel drive then it’s perfectly safe to drive your car on the sand and park up with a picnic and shade for day.

The southern corner is Sunrise beach just in front of MantaRays Ningaloo beach resort and the Exmouth Marina.

Exmouth Western Australia is a beautiful place to set yourself up for a week or two while you explore this part of the world.

All beaches along the eastern coast of the Cape is considered part of the Exmouth Gulf, an inlet of the Indian ocean where fishing, swimming and snorkelling are very popular.

Explore Exmouth’s best breweries

Make a day of brewery-hopping to Exmouth’s best breweries, the first of which should be Froth craft brewery .

This award winning, family run micro brewery also doubles as a live music event and caters to all taste buds serving up local produce at its finest.

Whalebone brewery is another fantastic option for a well-earned beer at the end of the day spent surfing, sun-bathing and exploring the town.

Serving locally produced beer and pizzas it’s less than 5 minutes from the town centre, there’s a really nice outdoor dining and patio thats perfect for a hot summer day, and when the sun goes down the fairy lights turn on and create a very chilled vibe.

Beach hop Exmouth’s BEST beaches

Australia can be very overwhelming when it comes to picking the best beaches, and (un) fortunately Western Australia doesn’t make it any easier!

Narrow it down further and Ningaloo Reef and the entire Coral Coast is simply overpopulated with incredible beaches and epic national parks to visit.

Your number one beach to bathe at when visiting Exmouth is Turquoise bay that has the most intense turquoise blue water you have ever seen!

Next is Osprey bay on the west coast of Ningaloo Reef, it also sits next to one of the best campgrounds in Cape Range national park. This is the best place to bring a kayak or Stand up paddle board.

They have even placed public moorings out on the reef so you can hook your vessel on and go for a snorkel.

Dunes beach is the ultimate surf beach on the Ningaloo coast and a top choice amongst local surfers. The best swells here are between July and October which also coincides loosely with whale watching and whale shark seasons.

Last but not least is Sandy Bay where the whole family can spend a day at this awesome Exmouth beach. It may not have quite the same coral reefs as other beaches but it’s sandy bottom means its safe and family friendly.

Alternative day trips near Exmouth

Whilst there’s no shortage of incredible day trips in Exmouth, if you want to get further down the coast and explore even more then read on for more!

Day trips to Coral bay

Coral Bay is still technically considered a part of the Ningaloo Reef so it has some of the amazing experience you can get closer to Exmouth, but if you don’t feel up to the drive past Cape Range national park then this is for you.

In such a small space there is so much to do, like kayaking or SUPing on the reef with Ningaloo kayak adventures, visiting paradise beach and Bills bay for a swim.

Bills Bay shark sanctuary

Within Bills Bay is a protected sanctuary called Skeleton Bay where the largest recorded congregation of reef sharks anywhere in the whole Ningaloo Reef.

Between September and March you can view the black tip, white tip and grey tip reef sharks and various other lemon shark species from the shore only, as the local government try to minimise our interaction with them to protect them.

Where to stay in Exmouth

Just like you would expect, Exmouth has a range of accommodation options to suit every type of budget, and you can be sure that there are incredible reef side resorts waiting to be stayed at!

On the contrary there are still cheaper alternatives like backpackers lodges, campgrounds and hotels.

With ever increasing flight routes being made available all over the country, this popular Western Australian destination is filling up well ahead of time.

The best eco-retreat in Exmouth – Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef

Whats not to love about being mere metres away from the worlds largest fringing coral reef, camping on the shores of the Dunes of Cape Range national park in a glamping style tent? Not much..

With a surprise gin bar on the sand and top local chefs serving quality local food it’s hard to look past this unique type of accommodation in Exmouth Western Australia.

16 off grid tents all but 50 metres from the Ningaloo Reef, theres a minimum stay of two nights and prices start at around $2200/night.

It is by far one of the most expensive accommodation options but..how many people can say they slept on the Ningaloo Reef?

5% of their revenue generated here goes directly back into the parks and wildlife services for Cape Range national park and they have an outstanding sustainability profile you can check out here.

Best mid-range accommodation – Exmouth escape resort

Located in Exmouth town itself with a rage of both 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and Deluxe Villa style rooms, this is more than just accommodation.

This all in one resort has both a pool on site, convenient car hire, a restaurant serving delicious local food and even a boat wash down service, the rooms here are very well priced offering modern furnishes, gourmet kitchen appliances, a master bedroom and en-suite with full laundry service.

This a great place for couples and small families with 2 children to enjoy the on site ammenities, or walk to Town beach 600m away.

Additional luxury resort – Manta Rays Ningaloo Resort

The best 4 star luxury hotel in Exmouth sits literally on the foreshore of Town beach.

There’s a large outdoor pool on site with a total of 68 rooms, less than 5 km from the Exmouth city centre.

This family friendly resort in Exmouth also has a the Manta Rays bar and Brasserie for local dining options.

Best budget accommodation in Exmouth – RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park

If you prefer to splurge on activities and go cheaper on sleeping then booking a night or two here is a great way to do that.

One bedroom cabins, bunk bed units and even powered/unpowered tent sites is what RAC does well.

Choose to have either a shared or private bathroom with the option for cheaper shared cooking facilities or basic cook stove tops with fridges and freezers included.

This way you can save money on buying out and cook your own meals.

Best places to eat in Exmouth Western Australia

With no shortage of local seafood and great coffee, we’ve compiled a short list of our favourite coffee spots and restaurants you simply have to try

Whalers Restaurant

For a relaxed and peaceful evening for dining head to Whalers Restaurant for stunning indoor and outdoor garden settings overlooking beautiful swimming pools.

Whalers is right inside Exmouth Escape Resort so if you stay here this can be your go to, or head here before a an evening walk along Town Beach, Western Australia.

Whalebone Brewery – a local favourite (and ours)

We mentioned this place before for their beer, but there oven baked pizzas combined with outdoor live music and craft beers on tap, this place melts our hearts.

A hard day spent exploring Ningaloo marine park or swimming with whale sharks this is one of the best places to eat in Exmouth.

Best vegan restaurant – The social society

These guys have the best coffee & vegan breakfast in town right on Thew st. For us it’s a no brainer because of the friendly, chill vibe and amazing staff, it has both free internet wifi and the owners’s ethos are all about treading lightly on the earth.

A place where you can get wholesome, vegan and vegetarian food – and when you’re done why not try one of their yoga classes, bees wax making session or a sustainability workshop.

Best places to grab a coffee

The beach shack.

Right on Bundegi beach, this little known shack on the foreshore serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a mean cup of coffee.

We’re obsessed with coffee, so any excuse to grab a cup is good enough for us, but perfect after a day snorkelling the foreshore along Exmouth Gulf or after the Navy Pier scuba diving activity.

Adrift cafe

Simple, rustic and authentic food is the name of the game here with head chef Matt being a north west cape local for the past 10 years.

Grab a coffee to go, or sit and enjoy a seaside breakfast.

Disclosure: We use affiliate links to monetize our content. We may receive a commission on products or services that you purchase through clicking on links within this blog.

Chris & Laura

Australian and Canadian freelance photographers & storytellers addicted to travel, inspiring you to travel the world.

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Getting There

› Turquoise Bay

› Coral Bay

› Cape Range National Park

› Ningaloo Reef Marine Park

› Outback West Australia

Best time to visit Exmouth

The best time to visit Exmouth and the North West Cape region is from May to September when the days are warm, sunny and good for a range of outdoor activities.

Exmouth weather

Exmouth and the North West Cape region of Western Australia experience a hot desert climate with sunny, clear blue skies, and little to no rainfall year-round.

Winter is mild and pleasant with daytime high temperatures around 25°C (77°F). Summer, from December to February, is hot and humid with temperatures rising to 37°C (98°F).

What is the best month to visit Exmouth? May through September are the best months to visit Exmouth – the weather is pleasantly warm and sunny, with clear blue skies and little to no rain.

Which is the hottest month in Exmouth? The hottest month in Exmouth is usually January, with an average high temperature of 38°C (100°F) with very high heat and humidity, and a low of 23°C (73°F)

However, on the hottest days of the month, the temperature may climb above 40°C (104°F).

The hot season lasts from late-November through March, with an average daily high temperature above 34°C (93°F).

Which is the coldest month in Exmouth? The coldest month in Exmouth is July, with an average high temperature of 24°C (75°F), falling to 11°C (51°F) at night.

The cool season lasts from late-May to mid-August, with an average daily high temperature below 26°C (78°F).

Which is the sunniest month in Exmouth? The sunniest month in Exmouth is October with more than 12 hours of bright sunshine daily – that's around 94% of daylight hours.

October through December is the sunniest time of year.

What is the humidity in Exmouth? Exmouth experiences significant seasonal variation in humidity, with approximate average relative humidity calculated at between 42% – 64% over the course of the year.

What do the humidity conditions feel like in Exmouth? We derive the humidity comfort level – what conditions feel like – from the dew point temperature, which measures moisture content in the atmosphere: a higher dew point feels more humid, while a lower dew point feels drier.

Meteorologists agree that dew point temperature is a more consistant indication of 'absolute humidity' than relative humidity, which fluctuates with temperature.

The average annual dew point in Exmouth is 14°C (57°F), and varies over the course of the year from comfortable at 9°C (48°F) to muggy at 19°C (66°F).

The more humid time of year in Exmouth is from early-December to early-May, when you can expect the comfort level to be muggy at least 18% of the time.

The month with the most muggy days in Exmouth is February, with around 19 days that are muggy or worse.

June through November is generally comfortable, with less than three days in any month that are humid.

When is the sea warmest in Exmouth ? The sea is usually at its warmest in Exmouth in March and April when the water temperature reaches 28°C (82°F), which is very pleasant for swimming and diving.

The time of year with warmer water lasts from late-January to early-May, with an average temperature above 27°C (80°F).

The month of the year in Exmouth with the coolest water is September, with an average temperature of 23°C (73°F), which is still warm enough for swimming.

The time of year with cooler water lasts from mid-July to early-November, with an average temperature below 24°C (75°F).

Which month has the most rain in Exmouth? June usually has the most rain with an average of 46mm (2in), with around three days in June with some rainfall.

There is no specific wet and dry season in Exmouth: From mid-January to mid-July, there's a greater than 8% chance of a given day being a wet day, and usually with some monsoonal showers from January to April.

The drier season lasts from mid-July to mid-January. August to December is usually dry.

What are the windiest months in Exmouth? Mid-September through to January are the windiest months in Exmouth, with November the windiest month of the year, with an average hourly wind speed of 25 kilometres per hour (15.5 mph; 13.5 knots).

February to early-September experiences less wind. The calmest month of the year in Exmouth is June, with an average hourly wind speed of 15 kilometres per hour (9 mph; 8 knots).

The predominant average hourly wind direction around Exmouth is from the south throughout the year.

Is there a risk of a tropical storm in Exmouth? The risk of a tropical storm in Exmouth is greatest between December and March, with the greatest possibility of a cyclone in February.

Exmouth Weather Averages

Holiday seasons.

High season: April to October; Low season: November to March.

Exmouth weather by month

Note : Meteorological data for Exmouth is based on weather statistics gathered for the 30-year period 1991 to 2020, and is sourced by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) from the closest weather station at Learmonth Airport, which is located 36km (22mi) south of Exmouth. This station is deemed sufficiently nearby to be relied upon as the primary source for historical climate records, although weather conditions in Exmouth may vary slightly.

Advice on the best time to visit a particular destination is based on average local weather statistics, when the weather conditions are generally better than at other times of the year. We consider high and low temperatures, risk of rain (and thunderstorms, etc.), amount of sunshine and sea temperature. For general outdoor activities we favour clear, rainless days with a temperature range between 18°C (64°F) and 27°C (80°F); and for hot-weather activities we favour clear, rainless days with a temperature range between 24°C (75°F) and 32°C (89°F). Often, the best times to visit correspond to high season and therefore involve higher prices.

More about Exmouth…

Latest update: Best time to visit Exmouth, WA: 4 April, 2024

Disclaimer : The information on this site is provided as is, without any assurances as to its accuracy or suitability for any purpose. Weather data and conditions at any given location and time are unpredictable and variable. We assume no responsibility and can not be held legally responsible for any decisions made on the basis of the information presented on this site.

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19 best things to do in Exmouth, Devon (by a local)

There are plenty of fun things to do in Exmouth, from enjoying the beach to exploring the Triassic cliffs! I live in the town; here’s my guide to the wide range of attractions in Exmouth.

With the red sandstone cliffs of the UNESCO Jurassic Coast rising from the golden beach on one side and the vivacious Exe Estuary, a popular bird-watching spot, on the other, there’s so much to love about Exmouth.

The fifth-largest town and oldest coastal resort in Devon, here you can take a cruise around the estuary or up the coastline, try out watersports, relax on the beach, learn about its history, take a hike on the moor, or visit one of the most interesting National Trust properties, A La Ronde!

Exmouth’s also the starting point of the Jurassic Coast, England’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Plus, it’s an ideal spot to explore the East Devon region.

I’m an Exmouth local – after spending a lot of my childhood visiting family in the town, my partner and I decided to buy our first property here.

We know all of Exmouth’s best attractions and some local spots that tourists might miss; and I’ve put them all together in this comprehensive guide.

So, here are the best things to do in Exmouth – there’s something for everyone!

Table of Contents

The Best Things to Do in Exmouth

The best things to do in Exmouth include lazing on the beach, going on boat trips with Stuart Line Cruises, watersports, hiking the South West Coast Path and a range of indoor attractions (perfect if the weather’s not so kind).

Enjoy the Seafront

Exmouth beach, with light cloud coverage, the sea at one end and boats on the sand.

Wondering what to do in Exmouth?

Most people head to the seafront first. This bustling two miles of beach should be your first point of call on your trip to Exmouth.

As well as the golden sandy beach, you’ll find amusement arcades and kids’ playgrounds, and plenty of beachside pubs, restaurants, bars, and ice cream stalls.

Some of my favourite walks in Exmouth are along its seafront, but it’s also a great place to spend a day relaxing and enjoying Great British seaside culture.

Check out the Victorian buildings as you walk – Exmouth was Devon’s first beach town, and these houses built up as the tourism industry grew!

Take a walking tour!

Group of people on a walking tour in Exmouth

Take in views of the sea from The Beacon, discover Exmouth’s most famous residents, learn about how it became Devon’s first seaside destination and hear tales of smugglers and pirates…

Exmouth walking tours is a tour company started by myself and my partner – and I’ll be your tour guide!

Our walking tours traverse the most important and historical parts of Exmouth town centre.

On the way, I detail stories of smugglers, information about the first Georgian tourists, pirates, significant Tudors who called the town home and Devon’s World War Two history, along with plenty of local information about where to eat and what activities to try while you’re in town.

The best way to see any town is through a local’s eyes, and my tours can offer just that.

Tours run Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays throughout the summer.

For more information and to book tickets, check out the Exmouth Tours website!

Go on a boat trip with Stuart Line Cruises

Yellow, blue and red Stuart Line Cruises boat on the bright blue water sailing to the estuary

Locals and tourists alike adore Stuart Line Cruises; they’re an asset to Exmouth.

Offering a range of cruises along the coastline or up the Exe Estuary with al-fresco and covered areas and full commentary, this is one of the best ways to see the town from another angle.

I’ve done the Exe Estuary cruise, which points out places of interest along the river, and the Jurassic Coast cruise, which looks at the Triassic rock and guides the most interesting geological features.

The orange cliffs and brilliantly blue sea are so gorgeous that on a clear day, you could think you’re somewhere in the Mediterranean like Paphos, Cyprus !

Fancy an even more quintessentially Devonshire experience? Order a cream tea, complete with fruity jam and lashings of decadent clotted cream!

You can see the full schedule on the Stuart Line Cruises website.

Exmouth Museum

If you’re keen to learn about the rich history of East Devon, or if you are looking for things to do in Exmouth in the rain, the Exmouth Museum in the town centre is a great point of call.

Costing just £1.50 for entry, the museum details the social and geographical history of the town. It is located just off the High Street.

Go Hiking on Woodbury Common

The beautiful Bystock Pools close to the town of Exmouth

Most people come to Exmouth for the beaches, but few know that there’s a large common area located to the north of the town that’s perfect for hiking.

Here, you’ll find miles of trails – perfect for a morning’s hike; they pass through woodland, lakes and around quarries.

To reach Woodbury Common, drive to the Brixington area of Exmouth and up St John’s Road (Google Maps location).

There’s a lovely churchyard here (my grandparents were both laid to rest there, so I visit quite a lot!) and eventually, you’ll reach the glimmering Bystock Pools. Follow trails up from here, and you’re on Woodbury Common!

If you keep walking, you’ll reach Woodbury Castle; or, just stick around the common and enjoy birdwatching and the far-reaching views of the coastline.

Explore the Estuary

Most tourists in Exmouth stick to the coastline, but there’s a whole estuary to explore too!

The end of the River Exe is ideal for walking, cycling or jogging, as there’s a mostly-flat trail that runs alongside it (all the way up to Exeter!).

The estuary is famous for its birdlife – in particular, it’s one of the best places in the country to see Avocets (our train line was named “the Avocet Line” as a tribute to this!).

I’m not a twitcher, but I love the glorious vistas over the water, often punctuated by the train running down the other side and with a backdrop of the Haldon Hills.

You can access the estuary by walking past the station and taking the footpath that branches to the left, or by walking north away from the gym (along the river), where there’s another footpath. This is my favourite sunset spot in town!

Sunset from a trail over the Exe Estuary, with the trail, water and sky in shot

On the estuary, you’ll find the quaint village of Lympstone and the historic town of Topsham.

It makes for a wonderful hike or a popular cycle route – or you can explore the estuary by car, train or bus.

Take A Boat to the Other Side of the Estuary

And once you’ve explored the east bank of the estuary – head west, to see what’s on the other side!

In summer, you can take the ferry to Starcross, a charming little village, and head south to Dawlish Warren or north to Powderham Castle.

Dawlish Warren is a popular seaside settlement and nature reserve, with gorgeous beaches (one of which is blue-flag) and rock formations, and the historic Powderham Castle is the seat of the Earl of Devon – it’s open for visitors to look around.

Dawlish is also a quick journey on the train, which is famous for its black swans – you can check out the best things to do in Dawlish here .

If you want to drive to the other side of the estuary, it’s about a 50 minute drive from Exmouth to Dawlish Warren, with plenty of stops on the way.

Excape: Exmouth Escape Rooms

“Our rooms are known for being tricky”, the owner of Excape advised me when I met her at a Visit Exmouth event a few months ago.

If you’re up for a challenge and want to do an indoor activity, head down to Excape, an escape room complex with Einstein and Sherlock Holmes-themed games.

Solve puzzles, find clues and answer riddles to ultimately escape the room or series of rooms within the allotted time.

Set in Exmouth town centre, this is the ideal activity for the evening or a rainy day.

Do some water sports

Girl standing on Exmouth beach after swimming in the sea

Exmouth is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, with stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and windsurfing all possible from the shore.

The combination of relatively calm sea water (it’s part of the sheltered Lyme Bay) and the current of the Exe Estuary makes it a haven for all water sports fans.

If you don’t have your own gear, head down to Sideshore , a community-owned watersports centre right on the beachfront where you can rent or buy virtually all watersports gear under the sun, seek advice about the best spots to visit for each particular sport or even embark on a lesson.

This area is also home to Mickey’s Beach Bar and Grill , a beachside restaurant with unbeatable vistas looking out over the sea. It is pricier than restaurants in Exmouth town centre (more on those below) – but you are paying for the view!

Mickey's Beach Bar, standing by the sands at Exmouth

You can’t really surf in Exmouth – I’ve seen surfers on the waves a couple of times, but they usually aren’t large enough. If you’re looking for surf beaches in Devon, check out Woolacombe or Westward Ho! in the north.

One of the National Trust’s quirkiest properties, A La Ronde is a 16-sided house that was once occupied by two spinster sisters.

The sisters travelled the world, collecting souvenirs from far-flung countries – and nowadays, you can step into A La Ronde and admire their exhibitions!

It’s a bit different from National Trust’s stately homes, but it’s an interesting place to visit – particularly if you’re keen on unusual architecture or travel – and it’s less than 10 minute drive from Exmouth Beach.

If you’re a National Trust member, you can enter free. Click here to read my full review of National Trust membership.

See the Geoneedle

One of the main reasons I’m baffled that Exmouth doesn’t have more tourism is that it literally sits at the start (or end) of the Jurassic Coast, the UK’s only natural UNESCO site.

Thie World Heritage Site boasts 250 million years (the official number is 185 million, but the cliffs around Exmouth are older!) of the earth’s history; as you explore the 95 miles of coastline, you’ll traverse through layers from the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.

It’s the only place in the world where you can see rocks from all three eras in one place.

The area around Exmouth is the oldest – the red sandstone rocks here date back to when the world was one supercontinent, Pangea, and Devon was much closer to the tropics than it is now – the cliffs were part of an inland desert.

You can see these cliffs by climbing to the geoneedle at Orcombe Point , which is at the top of the cliffs located at the Eastern end of the beach.

It was unveiled in 2002 by the then-Prince Charles and is made of seven stones that are found along the coastline.

It’s a beautiful walk to reach the Geoneedle; from the top, take in the beaches and rolling countryside around the town!

Hike to Budleigh Salterton

From the Geoneedle, it’s possible to hike a segment of the South West Coast Path to Budleigh Salterton, the next beachside town.

This is a fairly easy walk (for South West Coast Path standards) that runs through the Haven Devon Cliffs Park and then leads to a solitary path, travelling over cliff edges and through (what we think is) temperate rainforest before descending into the pleasant town of Budleigh.

Budleigh Salterton is a smaller town with a pebbled beach. It isn’t quite as popular as Exmouth due to its lack of sand – but the pebbles are impressively round and there’s a variety of lovely cafes to relax in after your hike.

It’s also close to a few of the other best attractions in the area!

See my full guide to the Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton walk here.

Visit Otterton and its mill

Just up the River Otter from Budleigh Salterton, Otterton is home to a thousand-year-old mill , as well as various quaint thatched-roof cottages.

The mill is open to visitors year-round and has some ‘milling nights’ that help people see exactly how corn has been milled here throughout the ages.

If you’re really lucky, you might see beavers in the River Otter by the mill.

They appeared here after not being seen in the wild in the UK for 500 years – nobody’s sure how they got there, but they are making efforts to conserve them now.

You can learn about all of this history on a guided Beaver Walk – click here for more information about these.

Visit East Budleigh

East Budleigh is a quintessentially British village inland from Budleigh Salterton.

It’s home to thatched-roof cottages, quiet country roads, and a lovely village atmosphere.

It’s famous for being the birthplace of Sir Walter Raleigh, and you can visit his statue here as well as drink in the pub named after him.

There’s also a designated pew for the Raleigh family in the local church. It’s worth including visiting East Budleigh on a trip to Otterton, Budleigh Salterton, or after walking across the moors from Exmouth.

While East Budleigh is famed for being the birthplace of Sir Walter Raleigh, his house was actually Hayes Barton , which is 1.3 miles from the village.

It’s not open to the public at the moment, but if you’re interested, you can hike or drive along the lane to see the house from the outside.

Lily Farm Vineyard

Also close to Budleigh (around a half-hour walk) is Lily Farm Vineyard in Knole.

This is a boutique vineyard, growing grapes which make several award-winning wines.

The couple who run the vineyard got into vine-growing by accident, but the patch is prime for producing grapes for wine – and their impressive portfolio of delicious wines shows this.

You can take a tour around the vineyard, learning about its history and the grape-growing process as you go, then head to the tasting room to try some of the beverages!

We’ve hiked from Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton on the coast path and then inland towards Knole before, to enjoy a tour and then take a taxi back to Exmouth afterwards (I always use AJ Taxis ).

You could also hike on the cycle trail from Exmouth to Budleigh Salterton, which isn’t quite as stunning but still very pleasant – and is flatter and shorter!

If you aren’t free when tours are on, you could also visit just to sit outside and enjoy a glass of their wine.

Hike to Otterton and Ladram Bay

If you are into long-distance hiking, my partner and I cobbled together a 30 km hike taking in the moorland and South West Coast Path.

It’s not waymarked (we made it up of different routes) but I wrote about it in a full blog post here: Otterton to Exmouth loop hike.

It involves starting in the town and heading up to the moors.

After visiting East Budleigh and Otterton, it drops down into Ladram Bay and then traverses the Jurassic Coast to Budleigh Salterton. Then, it reaches Exmouth Beach.

It’s a wonderful way to see some more of the Jurassic Coast and East Devon’s inland villages!

Visit Crealy Adventure Park

I used to visit Crealy Adventure Park with my gran when I was a child, and I was delighted to see that it was still open when I moved here!

Covering over 100 acres of Devon countryside, Crealy offers a variety of rides, attractions, and entertainment options suitable for children of all ages.

The park has a range of thrilling roller coasters, including the Twister and the Maximus (which is based on Exeter’s Roman Heritage!) as well as more gentle rides like the Flying Machine and the Safari Express, which are suitable for younger children.

There’s also an adventure zone, with 75,000 square feet of soft play – ideal for rainy days (they market themselves as the best thing to do in Devon in the rain with family!).

The park hosts numerous events throughout the year, including seasonal celebrations like Halloween and Christmas-themed events – so if you’re visiting Exmouth in the autumn or winter, look out for those!

It’s a 20 minute drive from Exmouth to Crealy, which is situated near the village of Clyst St Mary.

See the animals at the World of Country Life

Situated by Sandy Bay on the town’s outskirts (walkable from Exmouth Beach if you’re in the mood for a hike!), World of Country Life is a farm that offers visitors an insight into traditional farming methods and rural life.

One of the main attractions at World of Country Life is the animal park, which is home to a variety of farm animals including cows, sheep, goats, pigs, and chickens. Here, you can get up close and personal with the animals and even have the opportunity to feed them.

There’s a calendar of daily activities ; check it out before you head here to ensure that you visit at the right time.

The park also has a range of vintage vehicles and and Farmer Lee’s Food Barn, where you can fuel up after exploring the area. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Exmouth with kids!

Grab a Krispies fish and chips and eat them on the beach!

Chips (serve with lashings of vinegar!) from Krispies in Exmouth

It’s impossible to write a travel guide to Exmouth without mentioning Krispies .

An award-winning fish and chip shop (it won the National Fish and Chip Awards in 2008!) that sits on Exeter Road, Krispies are famous for being “the home of the battered chip”; they double batter their chip shop chips to make a deliciously crunchy snack.

My partner loves the fishcakes here (they unfortunately don’t serve plant-based fish), and they also make a wonderful homemade tartare sauce.

They’re not right by the beachfront, but it’s worth the trip to grab these then head back down to the coast to enjoy them.

Just watch out for the seagulls when you do – they aren’t too advantageous in Exmouth, but my partner did have his snickers ice cream snatched out his hand the other day by one!

Best restaurants in Exmouth

As mentioned above, the best restaurants in Exmouth aren’t on the beach; instead, walk towards the town centre to find a variety of eateries offering a range of mouthwatering dishes!

I’ve personally visited all of these Exmouth restaurants – here are a few of my favourites!

This is the best restaurant in Exmouth to enjoy relaxed dining and a few cocktails in a fun atmosphere.

It’s at its finest in the summer when you can eat outside; but their tapas plates, with plenty of options for veggies and meat-eaters alike, are delicious any time of year.

Their halloumi fries are my particular vice!

Spoken also put on a few events throughout the year – they hosted a fun paella party last summer, and offer all you can eat pancakes on shrove Tuesday!

Exmouth’s AA-Rosette winning restaurant, Saveur is the finest dining experience in town.

Come here for an intimate meal or a gastronomical experience; the menu is small, but there should be something for every taste.

The menu changes seasonally, but I loved their truffle and mushroom gnocchi.

Just one note about Saveur; like many other upscale restaurants, the portions are quite small.

Another favourite in Exmouth, Vino 32 is a wine bar and Asian fusion restaurant.

The chef is from Hong Kong, and serves up spectacular dishes like beef or veggie rendang or halloumi teriyaki noodles.

And, because it’s a wine bar, you can bet that you’ll find the perfect pairing for your dinner! This is our go-to restaurant to take any guests to.

It’s only a small place, so booking is essential.

The Chronicle

Set in the location of Exmouth’s old newspaper office, The Chronicle is somewhere to go if you’re feeling hungry!

The waitress told me “we’re not known for our small portions” when I visited, and I wholeheartedly agree!

Popular for its steaks, this 1930s-themed eatery also has an extensive veggie menu.

I enjoyed mushroom stroganoff on our recent visit!

Namaste Himalaya

This Nepalese restaurant has quickly become our go-to for South Asian food in Exmouth.

It serves rich curries from Nepal and India, with options for meat-eaters or vegetarians.

And don’t forget the momos – these delectable dumplings are filled with vegetables or meat, and served with an incredible spicy sauce – my mouth’s watering just thinking about it!

Where to stay in Exmouth

Exmouth isn’t packed with hotels – many tourists stay at the nearby Haven Park – but it has a Premier Inn, along with a few friendly guesthouses and apartment rentals.

Or, check out the Lympstone Manor Hotel for a luxe accommodation experience.

Here are a few hotels I recommend in particular:

The Royal Beacon Hotel

Located just a short walk from the beach, on The Beacon road which is set above the main beach area, the Royal Beacon Hotel stands as a historic landmark in Exmouth.

It dates back to 1810 and offers well-furnished rooms with stunning vistas of the Jurassic Coast.

Rooms have comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms – and a full English is served every morning!

Click here to read more about the hotel.

The Imperial

Looking out over the seafront, The Imperial is a historic hotel with gorgeous gardens. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with TVs and en-suite bathrooms.

Click here to read more about it.

Beachcomber Holiday Apartment

If you’re looking for a self-catering option, check out Beachcomber Holiday Apartment .

The spacious apartment encompasses two bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen, and it’s mere steps from the beach!

Lympstone Manor Hotel

Step into luxury at the Lympstone Manor Hotel .

Set in Lympstone, a short distance from Exmouth, here you’ll find opulent en-suite rooms, some with gorgeous estuary views.

The hotel also boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant (run by local celebrity chef Micheal Caines) and a winery!

How to get to Exmouth

Exmouth beach with a bit of cloud coverage

It’s easy to get to Exmouth from cities like London, Bristol and Birmingham by car, bus or train.

Driving: Take the A303 or M5 to Exeter, and then follow country roads to reach Exmouth. Journey time from London is around 3.5 hours.
Bus : National Express buses connect various cities around the UK to Exeter; from here you can jump on the number 57 bus to Exmouth.
Train: Exeter St David’s railway station has direct links to London, Bristol, Birmingham, Plymouth and a range of other cities; from here, you can take a 30-minute train to Exmouth train station.

Here’s my full blog post about how to get to Exmouth .

FAQs about visiting Exmouth

What is exmouth famous for.

Exmouth is most famous for its long sandy beach, beautiful coastline, and range of watersports to try out. It’s also known for being the gateway to the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stretches for 95 miles along the coast of East Devon and Dorset.

How many days do you need in Exmouth?

2-3 days in Exmouth should give you enough time to explore the beach and visit any local attractions, of interest – although, if you want to spend longer exploring East Devon, you could of course spend a lot longer here!

Is Exmouth Devon worth visiting?

Whether you want to delve into its history of go kite surfing or learn about the town’s history, there’s so much to do in Devon – plus, it’s a beautiful beach town that’s well worth the trip!

What does Exmouth have to offer?

A long sandy beach, the vibrant Exe Estuary, a range of watersports, interesting history at the Exmouth Museum, the A La Ronde National Trust property, the start of the Jurassic Coast and the South West Coast Path to name but a few!

What should I do with a week in Exmouth?

You could spend 2-3 days seeing the main attractions of Exmouth and then taking some time to explore East Devon, visiting Budleigh Salterton, East Budleigh, Sidmouth, Beer and Branscombe. Tackle the South West Coast Path on either side, or day trip to Exeter!

What is the best month to visit Exmouth?

The best time to visit Exmouth is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is at its liveliest. It doesn’t get as crowded in Exmouth as other places in the South West, but July and August are the busiest months by far – visit in June or September to enjoy summer with less crowds!

Is Exmouth UK expensive?

The tourist-centered parts of Exmouth can be pricey, but the more local eateries and bars are very budget-friendly when compared to places like Bristol and London – head to the town centre to find these!. While it’s not a super cheap beach holiday, it’s also a lot more budget-friendly than the south east (and it’s better, too!).

Can you swim in the ocean in Exmouth?

Yes, I sum until November last year! To be as safe as possible, swim near the lifeguard station, when the lifeguards are on duty. There are some not safe swimming areas, but these are always marked with flags – take note of these before heading out into the water, or ask a lifeguard if you’re not sure.

The Best Exmouth Attractions

Lovely sunset at a sandy Exmouth beach, Devon

Whether you want to check out the Triassic red sandstone cliffs soaring into the sky, take some watersports gear out onto the sea, or are visiting with family and are looking for kid-friendly attractions, the seaside town of Exmouth delivers.

Visit Exmouth, check out this range of things to do, and you’ll be just as awe-struck as I am – and maybe be plotting a move here too!

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We just did a long weekend in Exmouth thanks to your post and we loved it!! Thanks for putting this together, I’m so glad I came across it!

I’m glad it helped! Love sharing information about my hometown!

15 BEST Things To Do In Exmouth, Australia (2024 GUIDE)

Here is your complete guide to 15 BEST Things To Do In Exmouth WA to help you plan your itinerary ahead of time !

Exmouth Australia is a small town located a short 1.5-hour flight north of Perth in Western Australia. For such a small town, there is an awful lot on offer for all types of travelers!

Acting as a gateway to Ningaloo Marine Park, Exmouth WA is an ocean lover’s paradise and awaits those wanting to get out on the water and explore what this World Heritage-listed marine park has to offer!

Keep on reading to discover all there is to know about Exmouth WA, including how to get here, the best time to visit, where to stay in Exmouth Australia, and what to expect when you arrive.

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Table of Contents

QUICK ANSWERS: THINGS TO DO IN EXMOUTH WA

Here are some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions by first-time visitors.

WHERE IS EXMOUTH LOCATED?

As I mentioned above, Exmouth is located in Western Australia. It’s a small charming town that resides on the West Cape Peninsula and is the gateway to the Ningaloo Marine Park.

With several different bays on the peninsula, it’s located at the very northeast corner of the West Cape Peninsula.

Click here to see the location on Google Maps.

HOW TO GET TO EXMOUTH WA ?

This part of Western Australia is pretty remote, with the most popular way of access being a car.

From State Highway 1, follow Minilya-Exmouth Road all the way to the end of the peninsula. On approach to Exmouth, this road turns into Murat Road and is the main road through the town.

If you’re heading north from Perth , the drive will take you about two days. If you’re heading south from Broome , this drive will take you one full day.

Need a rental car? Discover Cars is the company I always book with and I highly recommend them. They have many different categories of cars and the cheapest rates.

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You can also find flights to Exmouth from Perth with a flight time of around 1 hour and 45 minutes.

BEST TIME TO VISIT EXMOUTH WESTERN AUSTRALIA?

With year-round activities on offer, there are few restrictions on when is best to visit.

In regards to the weather, bear in mind during the summer months (December – February) it will be incredibly hot, dry weather so packing sunscreen and sun-smart clothing is essential.

If you’re wanting to make use of the incredible marine park and explore some of the most vibrant waters, then the best months to visit are between November and March.

This is when the sea life is most active with humpbacks and turtles visiting around this time of year.

15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN EXMOUTH

Now that you know a little about Exmouth Western Australia, how to get here, and the best time to visit, it’s time to get to the fun stuff!

So, without further ado, here is a complete list of the 15 Best Things To Do In Exmouth Western Australia during your visit.

SWIM WITH WHALE SHARKS AT NINGALOO MARINE PARK

Ningaloo Marine Park is one of Australia’s largest and most accessible fringing reefs. It’s also one of the largest reefs in the world.

Ningaloo Marine Park is definitely one of the top things to do in Exmouth, covering over 600,000 hectares and including over 300 species of coral and 500 species of fish.

The incredible sea giant – the whale shark – is amongst many amazing species that call Ningaloo Marine Park, home.

Manta rays, turtles, fish, and humpback whales are also some of the wonderful creatures which draw so many people to Ningaloo Marine Park.

It’s here at Ningaloo where you’ll be able to book a tour to swim with the incredible whale sharks .

You’ll enjoy a full-day tour on a Catamaran, diving/snorkeling in several locations, and learning all about the amazing sea life below.

Once you’re done, you’ll surely have built up a big appetite. Fear not as lunch will be provided onboard for you to enjoy on the way back to shore.

BEST EXMOUTH WHALE SHARK TOUR

Swim with Humpback Whales Ningaloo Reef 3 Islands Whale

You can’t skip a swim with whale sharks during your stay and the best tour is the 3-Island Whale Shark Dive !

It includes drinks, lunch, snorkeling equipment, and an experienced guide!

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VISIT TURQUOISE BAY – BEST THINGS TO DO IN EXMOUTH AUSTRALIA

Turquoise Bay quite literally gets its name from the breathtaking waters surrounding the bay.

With stunning blue waters and chalky white sands, Turquoise Bay has well and truly earned its spot on the list of Exmouth things to do.

Rated the second-best beach in the south pacific and number six in the world, it would be a crime to miss out on this beautiful destination located in Exmouth Western Australia.

Accessible all year, Turquoise Bay makes for the perfect snorkel location and is a favorite among many divers.

To get here, you’re looking at about a 60-kilometer drive into the Cape Range National Park.

GO HIKING AT CAPE RANGE NATIONAL PARK

Talking of Cape Range National Park, this brings me to the next thing on this Exmouth things to do list.

This National Park is home to more than 50, 000 hectares of rugged mountain ranges, pristine beaches, and breathtaking canyons.

Whether it’s a specific location within the National Park you’re looking for or whether it’s an entire day you want to see away, Cape Range National Park is not to be missed.

There are several different activities in Cape Range National Park, from hikes to wildflower walks, lazing on a beach, or diving in the ocean – a mecca for the outdoor explorer!

If you are going to visit, then please be mindful of the wildlife. With 600 species of flowers and over 100 species of birds, this is the home and habitat to so much wildlife.

BEST CAPE RANGE NATIONAL PARK

Cape Range National Park Full-Day Trekking Adventure

Make the most of your time during your visit with this incredible Cape Range Full-Day Trekking Trip !

It includes lunch and snacks, a fun group to share the day with, and an experienced guide!

WATCH THE SUNRISE AT CHARLES KNIFE CANYON

21 kilometers south of the main town, Charles Knife Canyon Gorge is a breathtaking land formation that can only be truly appreciated by driving up to them.

If you don’t have access to your own car, then you can book yourself onto the Ningaloo Safari Tours and they’ll show you around the incredible Charles Knife Canyon.

The range is 320 meters above sea level, 13km long, and 20km wide… that’s just 1 km short of a half marathon!

With Razor-backed ridges, partly paved part gravel roads, and insane 360-degree views, Charles Knife Canyon is not to be missed.

As you ascend, you’ll be treated to downward views of the multicolored gorges and stunning views of the gulf and Ningaloo Reef.

As if this place couldn’t get any better, try visiting early morning to catch the sunrise, it’s pretty spectacular!

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CHECK OUT OSPREY BAY

Osprey Bay is another picture-perfect bay situated in the Cape Range National Park.

This quiet, peaceful bay is popular for swimmers, snorkelers, and kayakers who are looking for a chilled-out afternoon on the water.

With calm, shallower waters, Osprey Bay is the perfect location for beginners on the water as the tides are very calm and the shallower waters make it a little easier.

If you’re looking for a good camping spot, then this is the one. With a campsite lining the shores of the bay, you can pitch up here and enjoy some of the most undisturbed views of the coastline.

With only 44 campsites, you better get in there quickly, and it’s simply one of the best answers to what to do in Exmouth!

BEST OSPREY BAY TOUR

Lagoon Explorer - Ningaloo Reef Full-Day Kayaking and Snorkeling Adventure

Make the most of your time at Osprey Bay with this incredible Ningaloo Reef Full-Day Kayaking Tour !

It includes national park fees, lunch, kayak rental, and an experienced guide!

VISIT HAROLD E HOLT NAVAL COMMUNICATION STATION

Harold E Holt Naval Communication Station is located onshore from the SS Mildura wreck.

The communication station is home to Tower Zero, one of the largest towers in the southern hemisphere.

Here you can learn all about the important role the naval station played in World War II, marvel at the interactive displays, and be taught about how the base was responsible for passing messages between Australia and the United States command centers, their ships, and submarines.

The Harold E Holt Naval Communication Station is located just 6 kilometers north of town and is well worth the trip.

Have you got travel insurance for your trip?!

We all know accidents can happen and having Heymondo Insurance will save you thousands of dollars if something goes wrong.

Heymondo offers low-cost Travel Insurance to keep you covered on all your adventures.

STAY AT MANTARAYS BEACH RESORT

Fancying a little luxury? Why not treat yourself to a stay in the Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort ?!

It’s the only resort on Sunrise Beach and acts as the gateway to Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park.

Boasting 68 deluxe developments split between hotel rooms and 2-3 bedroom, self-contained units, Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort Exmouth has a certified gold-plated restaurant, bar, and lounge with a resort-style swimming pool and gym .

Whether it be a family holiday, a couples retreat, or even your wedding, Mantarays Beach Resort is one of the best places to stay in Exmouth .

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BOOK A YARDIE CREEK BOAT TOUR

A highlight of the Cape Range National Park is Yardie Creek, one of the most popular Exmouth attractions.

Go bushwalking or boating and marvel at the rare native animals in the park.

The ancient gorge has deep blue water and bright red rocks, making this quite spectacular to observe.

Book yourself onto one of the Yardie Creek Boat Tours and take the trip right down into the gorge. Pack your camera as you’re in for some pretty breathtaking views.

Didn’t fancy heading out onto the water? Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon relaxing on the edge of the gorge and enjoy the amazing scenery that surrounds you.

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SEE TURTLES HATCHING AT JURABI TURTLE CENTRE

Watching turtles hatch right in front of your eyes is surely something you’d only imagine happening in documentaries, right?

Well no, here at Jurabi Turtle Centre you can experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for yourself.

With hatching season being between November and March each year, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at nature forming right in front of you.

Jurabi Turtle Centre Exmouth has spent years ensuring the safe hatching of these turtles and allowing people to come down and experience it for themselves.

MUST READ: 21 BEST TRAVEL ACCESSORIES FOR ANY TRIP

Entry to JTC is free, although the cost for the nighttime tour is around $25. Costs are variant on the time of year and availability, so it’s advisable to check online to obtain this information.

There will be a 3-4 hour tour, including the witnessing of turtles hatching and an educational presentation on the history of the center.

With three of the world’s seven marine turtles nesting on these beaches each year, you’re in for a pretty spectacular time.

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GO SWIMMING AT TOWN BEACH

With the coastline offering a wide variety of beaches, Town Beach definitely has to be the most accessible beach and the closest to town… hence the name.

Park up in town or even drive your 4×4 down onto the sand. Town Beach is a perfectly safe place to swim, even in high tide with the children.

Spend an afternoon enjoying the hustle and bustle of Town Beach, soaking up the sun and splashing around in the water.

Then take a trip into town to freshen up, grab something to eat, and recuperate after a day in the sun.

Town Beach is also popular among windsurfers, jet skis, and boaters, with a Yacht Club located right on the shore.

Finished in the water? Take a stroll along the shore at low tide and comb the beach for all its hidden treasures.

TASTE THE BEER AT FROTH CRAFT BREWERY

All these activities can be hard work so why not quench your thirst and take a little beer-tasting trip to Froth Craft Brewery ?!

Froth Brewery is an award-winning, family-run restaurant, micro-brewery, and live music venue.

Home to a kitchen serving incredible local produce and a bar pouring some of the best craft beer you’ll ever try, which has been brewed on-site, you’ll be a fool to skip out.

Whether it’s the beer that’s taking your fancy or you’re feeling a little hungry from the day in the sun, you’ll find it all here.

Not that you need to be convinced anymore but head over to their website and check out their long list of awards.

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THE NAVY PIER

Best described as an aquarium without glass, The Navy Pier is definitely one of the top Exmouth attractions… not only for divers!

Yes, it’s been rated one of the top 10 shore dives in the world because of the vast sea life but it’s also just a beautiful location to visit.

The jetty itself protrudes out into the ocean, giving the non-divers a chance to have just a little taste of what’s below.

This makes for a great evening walk, a photographer’s paradise, or even just something pleasant for those who are waiting for friends or returning from their dive.

I mean come on, the turquoise water surrounding the pier isn’t to be missed.

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VISIT THE WRECK OF SS MILDURA

Fancy getting a little bit of history into your trip? Then be sure to visit the wreck of SS Mildura.

This is an interesting sight that can be seen from the shores of the beautiful Lighthouse Bay. Most of the remains have been salvaged but the majority of the wreck still remains.

It’s one thing to see a picture of a shipwreck but to actually get up close and personal with one, is something else.

Again, if you’re an avid diver then this makes for a great diving location as the wreck has provided a home to many species of fish.

SEE THE OYSTER STACKS

Next up on the list of Western Australia Exmouth things to do is the Oyster Stacks. This one is only for those who have a keen interest in diving or are strong at swimming.

Oyster Stacks are five islets that protrude from the reef at Ningaloo Marine Park. They’re given the name Oyster Stacks because they’re quite literally covered in oysters.

As I said, this is something for those who are confident in the water and have experience diving.

Oyster Stacks should only be snorkeled at high tide when there is plenty of water covering the reef. Oyster Stacks is also a sanctuary zone so it’s important to look but not take.

WATCH THE SUNSET AT VLAMING HEAD LIGHTHOUSE

Last but not least on this list of best things to do in Exmouth WA is a visit to Vlaming Head Lighthouse!

Located just 17km north of the town, Vlaming Head Lighthouse is easily accessible by a tar-sealed road and when you reach the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Cape Range National Park, Lighthouse Bay, and the Exmouth township.

It’s the perfect location to end a day of adventures whilst watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean!

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WHERE TO STAY IN EXMOUTH AUSTRALIA

There are dozens of accommodation options to choose from in town so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See below for a list of accommodations in Exmouth that I personally recommend:

LUXURY: MANTARAYS RESORT

MID-RANGE: NINGALOO LODGE EXMOUTH

BUDGET: POTSHOT HOTEL RESORT

FOR MORE OPTIONS, SEE MY EXMOUTH ACCOMMODATION GUIDE

Things to know before you go.

Now that we’ve uncovered all the best attractions in Exmouth Australia, let’s discuss some essentials that you should know before coming.

WHAT IS EXMOUTH AUSTRALIA FAMOUS FOR?

One of the main draws is its proximity to the Ningaloo Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most stunning coral reefs.

Snorkeling and diving tours allow visitors to swim alongside colorful fish, sea turtles, and even whale sharks during their seasonal migration.

In addition to its aquatic attractions, it’s home to the ruggedly beautiful Cape Range National Park, a nature wonderland with hiking trails, spectacular vistas, and even a chance to spot kangaroos and wallabies.

HOW LONG TO STAY IN EXMOUTH?

When planning a trip, I highly recommend spending at least 3 days to have the best experience.

During this time, you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Ningaloo Reef and its surrounding landscapes.

But if you really want to experience everything, I suggest extending your stay to 5 – 7 days.

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BEST RESTAURANTS IN EXMOUTH WA

Out of all the best restaurants in Exmouth WA, these are those I highly recommend for a meal:

The BBQ Father
Exhale Exmouth
Whalers Restaurant
Planet Burgers Exmouth

All have excellent food, as well great service, and a good location. I’m confident you’ll enjoy a meal at one of the best restaurants in Exmouth listed above!

EXMOUTH VS BROOME

While Exmouth town offers visitors an opportunity to explore coral reefs teeming with aquatic life, Broome, on the other hand, is full of history and culture.

Its red dirt roads and ocean sunsets create a perfect backdrop that will stay with you forever.

Both destinations offer an extraordinary experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

BEST TOURS IN EXMOUTH AUSTRALIA

What to pack for exmouth.

Other than knowing Exmouth what to do, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you when visiting Western Australia.

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

More Australia Travel Guides

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Click the button below to view all articles related to Australia!

FINAL THOUGHTS – WHAT TO DO IN EXMOUTH WA

As you can tell, for such a small town, this place really has it all. Being surrounded by water, it’s an ocean-lovers paradise but if you’re not one for water, there is still plenty to do.

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions about what to do in Exmouth WA, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

Click here to find out how you can support the site organically .

Many thanks!

This trip was in association with Tourism WA and Backyard Bandits.

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Responsible Guide to Visiting Exmouth, Western Australia

This post was first published in 2019 but has been updated in 2020 with the most recent information about visiting Exmouth, Australia

Exmouth Australia (WA) is a town not many people have heard of. While it is not on the country’s main tourist trail, it is a hidden gem that is definitely worth a visit.

*This post may contain affiliate links, as a result, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) on any bookings/purchases you make through the links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read our full disclosure

Located about a 13-hour drive north from Perth, Exmouth Australia is a small town that is best known for its resorts and marine parks. With lots of things to do in Exmouth WA and unique Ningaloo Reef accommodation, staying here is half the fun.

Pair this with some awesome nature to be discovered , and Exmouth Australia becomes a perfect getaway destination for any eco-conscious traveler.

Traveling Soon? Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

Exmouth Western Australia is located on the tip of a small peninsula jutting out into the Indian Ocean. This makes it the perfect base for visiting top things to do near Exmouth such as Cape Range National Park and the Ningaloo Reef. It may be a small town, but Exmouth Australia has a lot to offer to those who are willing to venture off the beaten track!

Best Time to Visit Exmouth Australia

The region of Western Australia can see some pretty extreme weather and Exmouth is no exception. Although its climate is generally warm and dry throughout the entire year , peak temperatures are experienced in the dry season from August to December.

Moreover, there is a risk of tropical cyclones during this time in Exmouth, Western Australia. So, most people choose to visit during the Australian winter which spans June to August.

The wet season is in May and June.

Whatever you do, exercise caution while outside enjoying Exmouth activities at any time of year. It is not uncommon to see temperatures about 50°C, especially in the dry season.

However, the climate is not the only thing to be considered when deciding when to visit Exmouth, Australia. Most visitors come for Exmouth diving or snorkelling with the hopes of seeing some ocean life on the reef. So important to know the migration patterns of these animals ahead of time.

The most famous marine life is the population of whale sharks , Exmouth hosts from March to June.
If you’re more interested in seeing manta rays and humpback whales, try visiting Exmouth between June and November.

Whichever time you decide to visit, check in to the Exmouth Visitor Centre and they will inform you which marine life is making its seasonal stop just off of the Exmouth beaches.

Things to do in Exmouth Western Australia

Visit cape range national park.

Cape Range National Park is a massive park filled with rocky outcrops, austere gorges, rugged plains, and stunning coastline in Exmouth, Western Australia . The landscape is mostly composed of a limestone plateau and is the only one of its kind on the North West Coast making it and Yardie Creek one of the top Exmouth things to do and visit.

Responsible Guide to Visiting Exmouth Australia

The park can be explored via one of the many roads or hiking trails that crisscross the landscape. Along your way, keep an eye out for wallabies, kangaroos, and emus.

Make sure to stay on the marked tracks, practice Leave No Trace Principles , and hire a local guide or partake in Exmouth tours to help support the local community.

Don’t Miss Yardie Creek

The most popular place to visit within Cape Range National Park is Yardie Creek, a small but flowing waterbody sandwiched between two sheer cliffs . This resulting gorge at Yardie Creek is the park’s most well-known landmark.

Explore the Exmouth Ningaloo Reef

The Ningaloo Reef , a UNESCO World Heritage Site , hides just beneath the ocean surface right off the western coast of Cape Range National Park and Exmouth beach. For many, a visit to the Ningaloo Reef is a highlight of a visit to Exmouth and an opportunity to experience incredible nature on the Coral Coast.

Most people spend time in Turquoise Bay with its pristine waters and white sand beaches . If swimming directly off-shore, just be aware of strong currents that can pull you out to sea if you’re not careful.

While in the water, make sure to protect the ecosystem – never touch any of the marine flora or fauna on the Ningaloo Reef.

Scuba Dive and Snorkel

While the Exmouth beaches are great, nothing compares to getting in the water to dive Ningaloo Reef and exploring beneath the surface.

On the reef, you’ll be able to see over 500 species of fish and some 250 types of coral. It is called the Coral Coast after all! If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot some larger pelagic sea life such as whales and dolphins on the Exmouth Ningaloo Reef.

You’ll need to book a tour to get farther out into the Ningaloo reef to scuba dive or snorkel. Some of the best locations are Turquoise Bay for snorkelling, and Marion Island and Lighthouse Bay for diving.

This full day diving and snorkelling tour takes guests to Marion Island where you will visit two Ningaloo Reef dive sites and you will be provided lunch. It’s suitable for all levels of divers and snorkelers so it’s perfect if you have a mixed group.

Enjoy a Sunset Cruise

Another great way to experience the beauty of the ocean without getting in the water is to take a cruise at the most magical time of the day – sunset. Book a cruise with a responsible eco-certified company like Ocean Eco Adventures , and then simply relax and enjoy.

Or combine whale watching and a sunset cruise. This 2 hour tour , takes you out to sea to see these magnificent creatures and provides refreshments and platters for the trip.

Places to Stay in Exmouth, WA

There are some really cool eco-conscious hotels in Exmouth, WA as well as Exmouth luxury accommodation. Some are located in the town itself and some on the fringes of the national park.

You can find everything from homey guest houses to five-star accommodation in Exmouth. Also available are luxury Exmouth camping and Turquoise Bay Exmouth accommodation. Here are a few that we recommend.

Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef: As far as Exmouth hotels go, Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef in Cape Range National Park is not only a contender for the most luxurious Ningaloo Reef resort but also one of the most eco-friendly options you could find for Exmouth, WA accommodation. This eco-luxury Exmouth camping site is operated under the Parks and Wildlife Service of Western Australia. It has 15 glamping tents and a long list of eco credentials including almost 100% solar power and local sourcing of all materials used on the property. The camping tents themselves are all raised above the ground as to not damage any of the area’s wildlife.

YHA Exmouth: When choosing where to stay in Exmouth, Australia, for budget travelers, YHA Exmouth offers a great option. We love that the YHA hostel network is committed to sustainability in their hostels. This accommodation Exmouth has both private and dorm rooms. Also, there are three swimming pools and is located in town close to the Exmouth tourist information centre. They also arrange for Exmouth tourism activities on-site which make planning your trip easy.
RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park: The RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park is one of the best places to stay, Exmouth . They have Australia Exmouth accommodation for every type of traveler. The grounds have unpowered and powered sites for caravans and campers, as well as cabins, bungalows, and dormitories for rent. This Exmouth caravan park has made small steps towards sustainability. Plus, it has lots of communal facilities and is located in the center of town. It is a great place to base yourself while exploring the area.

Where to Eat and Drink in Exmouth

When eating out in Exmouth WA, the best way to eat sustainably is to make sure all the food is locally sourced. In this corner of the world, that could only mean one thing – seafood. Here are some of the best seafood restaurants in Exmouth Australia.

Whalers Restaurant

Whalers Restaurant is one of the top restaurants in Exmouth, WA, and it isn’t hard to see why. Here, you can sit outside overlooking the Exmouth Escape Resort, listen to some live music, and enjoy almost every kind of seafood imaginable cooked to your liking.

Nemo’s Restaurant

Located right at the Exmouth WA marina, Nemo’s Restaurant offers locally caught seafood i n a casual café setting. It is also vegetarian-friendly.

Mantaray’s Restaurant

This upscale restaurant specializes in local seafood and produce. With a bit of a French influence, Mantaray’s offers beautiful views of the gulf to enjoy while dining.

Adrift Café

The Adrift Café has an extensive menu for each meal of the day that features plenty of yummy vegetarian options. The food is fresh and locally sourced.

Exmouth Markets

The Exmouth Markets located in the Exmouth town centre take place at various times throughout the year. Stop by for some homemade goods and tasty snacks!

How to Get to Exmouth Australia?

Perth to Exmouth is a 13-hour drive and a must-see stop on any Perth to Broome road trip . Although people with less time tend to fly into Exmouth airport.

The flight from Exmouth to Perth Western Australia is less than 2 hours. Get a window seat if you can, this stretch of Coral Coast is stunning from the sky!

Have you ever visited Western Australia? Share your tips for visiting below!

About the author.

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Best Time to Visit Exmouth

The remote resort town of Exmouth is best visited from April to September, which falls across the Australian autumn and winter. During this time of year days are warm and dry with very little rain. By visiting at this time of year you will also avoid the extreme heat of summer and the high winds that occur throughout the spring and the summer months. The autumn and winter is also a great time to see the local marine life with migrating humpback whales and whale shark visiting the area during this time. While a visit to Exmouth is possible year round, there’s no denying the best time to visit Exmouth is during the autumn and winter.

Where is Exmouth?

Exmouth is located near the tip of Western Australia’s North West Cape. Located on the northeastern coastline, the town is far from the closest major towns and cities. The town of Carnarvon lies 365 km to the south by road, Geraldton is 834 km away and the State Capital, Perth is 1254 km away. Locations to the east aren’t any closer, with Broome 1372 km away and Darwin a massive 3173 km away by road.

Best Time to Visit Exmouth for Good Weather

Sizzling Exmouth is a great destination for year-round good weather. Located north of the Tropic of Capricorn, it enjoys a tropical climate. This means you can expect good weather throughout the year. However, you’ll need to choose the best time for you to visit based on your tolerance to rainfall, the temperature, and the ever-present wind.

There’s no distinct wet and dry season in Exmouth, although the first half of the year tends to be wetter with the occasional monsoonal shower, while the second half of the year is drier. In reality, there’s very little difference in rainfall between the two periods. This limited rainfall compares very favorably with Broome and Darwin’s wet seasons, which result in significant rainfall.

Temperature

Temperatures in Exmouth are considerably higher than in much of Western Australia. Daily temperatures regularly exceed 30 °C from the start of the Australian spring in September to the end of autumn in May. During summer, the mercury will regularly hit 40 °C or higher. While it’s cooler over the winter, the temperature is often in the mid-twenties.

Wind and Humidity

The biggest complaints about the climate in western and northern Australia are often focused on the high winds and high humidity. Humidity tends to be less of an issue for Exmouth due to the low rainfall. This means the town benefits from hot weather throughout the year, but humidity remains consistent and relatively low. The high wind, on the other hand, can be considered to be Exmouth’s Achilles heel. These blow persistently from September through January, although they tend to ease from February through until the end of August.

Month-by-Month Weather

The table below shows the maximum and minimum temperature by month and the average number of days of rain.

Exmouth by Season

Situated north of the Tropic of Capricorn, Exmouth doesn’t have a four-season cycle. However, to make it easier to break down the different times to visit, we’ve used the Australian seasons to describe the conditions at different times of the year.

The spring months are the driest and some of the hottest months in Exmouth. They are also some of the windiest, which tends to deter many visitors. The spring is generally the quietest season in Exmouth, which means you can get some good deals on flights and accommodation. You’ll also enjoy the beaches and national parks without many other visitors.

The summer months are the hottest, wettest, windiest, and some of the busiest in Exmouth. This is especially true across December and January, when the main Australian school holidays fall. It’s best to avoid this period if possible because costs are higher, there are also bigger crowds, and the heat can be oppressive. On a more positive note, it is the best time to see Loggerhead Turtles, which tend to nest at the start of the summer, with their eggs hatching at the end of the summer.

Aerial view of Cape Range National park and the Ningaloo Marine Park, Exmouth, Western Australia

The autumn season sees temperatures fall back from the summer highs. The winds also ease at this time of year, which makes a marked difference to your experience on the beach and in the water. The calmer seas make for better diving and snorkeling conditions. The autumn is also the best time to see other sea life, with migrating humpback whales and whale sharks best seen at this time. The better weather and wildlife attractions make this a popular time to visit, so expect to pay peak season rates. This is especially true over the Easter holiday period.

The winter period is considerably cooler than the rest of the year, but the days remain warm and the winds low. Humidity is at its highest this time of the year, but it’s welcome, given the lower temperatures. The nights can be cool, as can conditions out on the water. However, you can see whale sharks and humpback whales at this time. While the water may be cooler, it’s the best time for hiking and exploring the national parks on land. It also remains a popular time to visit, particularly for campers who flock to the area given the cooler weather elsewhere in the country. The wildflower season falls across the winter months, bringing an explosion of colour to the area.

In Summary - Best Time to Visit Exmouth

While there are excellent conditions throughout the year, autumn and winter are the best times to visit Exmouth. Here’s why:

Days are generally warm and dry but cooler than during the scorching summer months
The winds ease, creating much better conditions for snorkeling and diving
You can see migrating humpback whales and whale sharks
The colorful wildflower season falls across the winter months

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The Ultimate Exmouth Travel Guide: Turtle Hatching Edition

Imagine the wonder of witnessing a rare and awe-inspiring natural spectacle: tiny turtles emerging from their sandy nests, guided by moonlight as they make their way to the ocean for the first time. An event that even Sir David Attenborough would bat an eyelid at. This magical experience awaits you in Exmouth, where four of the world's seven known turtle species gather to nest and hatch each year. Join us as we guide you through this unforgettable eco-adventure and provide insights into the world of these incredible marine creatures

The significance of the ningaloo reef & turtle hatching exmouth, best time and place to witness turtle hatching, hatching etiquette, nesting etiquette.

Stages of turtle development

Nesting Behaviours and site selection

Challenges faced by turtle hatchlings, conservation efforts and expertise, the wonders of the ningaloo coast.

Significance of the Ningaloo Reef & Turtle Hatching Exmouth

When is turtle nesting season? From November to March, pregnant female turtles make their way to the beach to lay their eggs, drawn by the summer heat that incubates the eggs in the sand. Each female typically makes up to three trips to shore to lay all her eggs during this period. It takes around 45-70 days for the eggs to hatch, and although some eggs hatch as late as April, most will hatch early on in the season.

This makes February and March the best time to visit Exmouth, if you want to experience both the nesting and hatching spectacles. Most commonly, turtle hatchlings will arrive at the surface and make their way to the ocean at night, when conditions are cooler and safer.

Best Time and Place to Witness Turtle Hatching

Turtle Watching Code

While there are multiple guided tours on offer with experienced professionals, it is very possible to come across hatching or nesting turtles on your own. However, you must know a few things if you do.

Do not use torches: Hatchlings rely on the moonlight to guide them to the sea. Light from a torch, phone, or flash photography can disorient the hatchlings, which can mean they're unable to find the water and will sadly die. If you're a nesting season aficionado or just want to make sure you don't miss a thing, you can use a low-glow, turtle-safe red torch. Please be discreet and follow the appropriate instructions.
Stand back and don't move too suddenly: While you may want to get as close as possible to these adorable creatures, it's essential to give them enough space to make their trip in peace. Getting too close, or moving too fast can scare the hatchlings and stop them from emerging from their nest and making it to the ocean. Stay at least 1 meter away from the nest and try not to disturb it in any way.
Do not intervene: The baby turtles must be allowed to make their way from the nest to the ocean, without human assistance. The hatchlings map out their journey from nest to the ocean, allowing them to return when they are ready to lay their eggs. This journey also lets them exercise their flippers and lungs before entering the water, giving them the strength to swim once they get there.
Do not use torches: Once again, it's crucial not to use artificial lights during nesting season. Light will discourage the turtles from nesting and may force them to return to the sea before laying their eggs.
Move slowly, quietly, and stay low : Sudden movements might spook a turtle and prevent it from laying its eggs. If a turtle detects you, remember: STOP, DROP & ROCK. Stop immediately, slowly drop down low, and stay as still as a rock. Be as quiet and stay as low as you can to reduce the chance of detection or intervention.
Keep the right distance : Understand the stages of turtle nesting and the appropriate distances. See The Department of Parks and Wildlife’s Turtle Watching Code of Conduct below to learn more about the right distances.

Turtle-watching code of conduct

Credit: The Department of Parks & Wildlife

The Life Cycle of Turtles and Their Nesting Habits

Turtle nesting in Exmouth, Western Australia, is an enthralling natural phenomenon. These marine reptiles undergo a remarkable life cycle and display unique nesting habits crucial to their survival.

Stages of turtle development:

From hatchling to adulthood, turtles undergo an incredible transformation as they navigate the challenges of the marine environment. Eggs: Female turtles lay their eggs in a sandy nest, where they incubate for 45-70 days.

Hatchlings: Newly hatched turtles embark on a perilous journey towards the sea.
Lost years: Young turtles drift in ocean currents, growing and developing in unknown locations.
Adulthood: Mature turtles settle in feeding grounds, eventually migrating back to their natal beach to reproduce.

From predators to environmental obstacles, hatchlings must overcome numerous hurdles to reach adulthood. Predators: Birds, crabs, and marine animals prey on vulnerable hatchlings.

Light pollution: Coastal development can disorient hatchlings, leading them away from the sea.
Climate change: Rising temperatures impact the sex ratio of turtle populations throughout the breeding season.
Plastic pollution: Turtles can mistake plastic debris for food, resulting in ingestion and potential harm.

It's estimated that less than 1% of hatchlings will survive until adulthood, meaning over 900,000 hatchlings won't make it. This makes it imperative that all conservation efforts are made. Each species of turtle found in Exmouth is protected under the Endangered Species Act. By following the guidelines and etiquette mentioned above, you can play a vital role in supporting these conservation efforts.

The unique opportunity to witness turtle hatching season in Exmouth, Western Australia is an experience you'll cherish for a lifetime. By participating in responsible and sustainable tourism, you can help protect these endangered species and preserve their habitat for future generations. To experience the magic of the Ningaloo Coast and for the chance to see loggerhead turtles, flatback turtles, green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles, join the passionate team at Three Islands Whale Shark Dive. Book an unforgettable Ningaloo Reef tour today for a once-in-a-lifetime underwater experience.

For more information and reservations, contact Three Islands Whale Shark Dive at +61 1800 138 501 . Don't miss out on the chance to explore the breathtaking marine life of the Ningaloo Coast, including the mesmerizing whale sharks of Ningaloo

Brittney Billington

A woman with short hair and a cap smiling in front of green foliage.

Assistant Manager at Three Islands Whale Shark Dive

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The Best Time to Visit Exmouth, WT, Australia for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Exmouth for ideal weather are

May 14th to September 30th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Exmouth Travel Guide

Temperature.

Perceived Temperature
Rain and snow
Humidity and wind
The busiest and least popular months
Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Exmouth Travel Info

Weather in exmouth.

Average temperatures in Exmouth vary somewhat. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a very low chance of rain throughout the year. The area is somewhat temperate — in the 59th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Exmouth, the hottest months are February, January, and then March. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early February where highs are regularly around 101.7°F (38.7°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 75.1°F (23.9°C) at night.

Exmouth Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Exmouth temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Exmouth Perceived Temperature (F)

Exmouth perceived temperature (c), average exmouth temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Exmouth are October, November, and then September. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around late February and early March. For example, on the week of February 26th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in early to mid February with an average of 1 days of significant precipitation the week of February 12th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Exmouth.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Exmouth (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Exmouth has some comfortably humid months, and slightly dry months in the opposite season. The least humid month is October (36.2% relative humidity), and the most humid month is June (54.2%).

Wind in Exmouth is usually moderate . The windiest month is January, followed by December and November. January’s average wind speed of around 11.6 knots (13.3 MPH or 21.4 KPH) is considered “a moderate breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early to mid January where average top sustained speeds reach 19.3 knots, which is considered a fresh breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Exmouth.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to exmouth.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are no travel advisories or warnings for Australia; exercise normal security precautions. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 30, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Exmouth, WT, Australia is January, followed by December and September. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Exmouth in November. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall exmouth travel experience by season, fall (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 99.2°F (37.3°C) and 80.1°F (26.7°C) with colder temperatures in the later months. Rain is rare with roughly 1 days of significant precipitation per month. Fall is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Winter (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are comfortable. These months see moderate precipitation with 1 to 2 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the slowest season for tourism in Exmouth, so lodging and other accommodations may cost less than usual.

Spring (September through November)

Spring daily highs range from 96.9°F (36.1°C) and 84.5°F (29.2°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a trivial amount: approximately 0 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Summer (December through February)

Weather is somewhat warm this time of year in Exmouth to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 101.7°F (38.7°C) and 94.5°F (34.7°C). On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: 1 to 3 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.

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18 Epic Things to do in Exmouth, Western Australia

With warm weather year round, stunning beaches and world-class snorkelling, Exmouth is the perfect destination for those seeking some winter sun. Located along Western Australia’s coral coast, the town may be small but there are so many awesome things to do in Exmouth, you certainly won’t be bored!

The biggest draw to Exmouth is whale shark season which occurs from April – July when they can be seen migrating along Australia’s west coast. Besides whale sharks, you’ll also get the chance to swim with manta rays , humpback whales, sea turtles, and so much more! Exmouth is the gateway to the UNESCO listed Ningaloo Reef which makes it the ultimate destination for ocean lovers.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing poolside holiday or an action packed adventure, Exmouth has something to suit everyone. It also makes a great stop on your road trip along the coral coast. Follow our Perth to Exmouth road trip itinerary to ensure you don’t miss any highlights.

Read on to discover the 18 absolute best things to do in Exmouth that you can’t miss during your stay!

Best Things to do in Exmouth - Visit Turquoise Bay

The incredibly beautiful Turquoise Bay

Table of Contents

18 Epic Things to do in Exmouth WA

Swim with whale sharks.

Swimming alongside the largest fish in the ocean is hands down the most popular thing to do in Exmouth! It’s certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget. During the months of March – July, you’ll have the chance to get up close to these majestic giants on a guided whale shark tour .

The tour company uses a spotter plane to locate the whale sharks and guarantee that you will see one on your day trip. If by chance you get unlucky and don’t see one, you’ll get to join another tour for free.

If you’re not planning to stay in Exmouth long enough to do another tour, a refund will be provided. This only applies if you book your tour from March – June.

This full day trip includes pick up and drop off from your accommodation in Exmouth, lunch on board the boat, snorkel equipment, live commentary by Marine Biologists.

It’s best to secure your spot before you arrive in Exmouth, these tours fill up quickly during whale shark season! To avoid disappointment, book your whale shark swimming experience online at the link below.

►Find tour prices and availability here◄

Swimming with whale sharks is one of the best things to do on in Exmouth, WA

Swimming with whale sharks is such a magical experience

Turquoise Bay

Spending a day at the stunning Turquoise Bay was one of the highlights of my time in Exmouth. With crystal clear water and soft white sand, this beach is truly breath-taking and it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best beaches in Western Australia .

Besides the beautiful scenery, the best part about Turquoise Bay is the coral reef that can be found only metres from the shore. Don’t forget to bring your snorkelling gear and GoPro!

This is a protected area where you can spot an abundance of marine life. Come face to face with turtles, reef sharks, colourful fish, vibrant coral formations and much more.

Keep in mind that Turquoise Bay is classified as a drift snorkelling spot. That means you will jump in at one end of the beach and be carried across to the other end by a strong current.

If you’re not a confident swimmer/snorkeller, this is not the best place to learn. For beginners and families, the calm waters of Lakeside Beach provide a safer environment to try snorkelling for the first time.

Paradise – Turquoise Bay

Drive for about 15 mins down the coast from Turquoise Bay and you’ll arrive at another paradise beach which is popular for swimming and snorkelling. The calm turquoise waters of Osprey Bay are ideal for a relaxing swim, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkelling.

There is a government operated campground with fantastic coastal views offering the perfect location for secluded beach camping. It gets quite popular during the high season so it’s a good idea to book your campsite online in advance. The road to this campground is unsealed but it can be accessed with a 2WD vehicle.

Sunset Whale Watching Tour

From June – October each year, humpback whales can be spotted migrating along WA’s coast. This 2-hour boat cruise will give you a front row seat to watching these playful whales while sipping a glass of champagne at sunset. Keep an eye out for other wildlife as you’ll likely see dolphins, turtles, and more.

Humpback whale sightings are seasonal and are not guaranteed. Dolphins, turtles and other wildlife can be seen throughout the year. The boat tour includes champagne, plenty of snacks and coffee/tea. Bring your own drinks on board if you think you’ll want more than one.

If you want to get even closer to these majestic whales, then check out this ‘ swimming with humpback whales experience ‘ which is offered through the same tour company.

►Find tour prices and availability for the Sunset Whale Watching Tour◄

Spot breaching humpback whales

Snorkelling at the Ningaloo Marine Park

The Ningaloo Marine Park runs along the coast of the North West Cape and has no shortage of epic snorkelling spots. The Ningaloo Reef is Australia’s largest fringing reef and one of the world’s largest coral reefs, home to an incredibly diverse species of coral and fish.

Whether you prefer to snorkel from the shore of a beautiful beach or book an organised snorkelling tour, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time. Here are a few of the most popular beach snorkelling spots near Exmouth:

Oyster Stacks
Lakeside Beach

If you’d prefer booking a day trip with an experienced guide who knows all the best spots, check out this half day snorkelling tour . This small group tour takes you to some of the best coral gardens by high-speed boat. You’ll get to swim with turtles, dolphins, reef sharks, stingrays and more.

Snorkelling with turtles

Turtle Hatching Tour

The magical experience of witnessing turtles hatching and nesting on the beach is something most people only dream of. If you happen to visit Exmouth between the months of December – March, you can book a guided tour to see it happen with your own eyes! This is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Exmouth and an absolute must if you’re visiting during this time of year.

The Jurabi Turtle Centre offers educational tours where you’ll learn everything about the turtles nesting and hatching process. You’ll have the opportunity to watch the turtles make their way up the beach to lay their eggs. You might also see turtle hatchlings leave their nest and scramble toward the ocean.

When you book this tour through the Jurabi Turtle Centre, you are directly supporting the conservation of marine turtle populations. Enquiries and bookings for this experience can be made by visiting or contacting the Ningaloo Visitor Centre .

A sea turtle swimming on the Ningaloo Reef in Coral Bay WA

Yardie Creek Boat Cruise

Cape Range National Park is home to some spectacular gorges and canyons. A great way to see this stunning scenery is by booking a boat cruise through Yardie Creek. The creek runs through an ancient gorge and opens up at the Ningaloo Reef. Head to the official Yardie Creek Boat Cruise website to book your tour online.

Admire the tall limestone cliffs rising up around you on this relaxing 1-hour cruise. Keep an eye out for some local wildlife as you may see rock wallabies, ospreys, and other sea birds who live in the small caves on the cliffs. The boat cruise will also provide a fascinating commentary about the region’s history and the animals who live there.

Another great way to experience the beauty of Yardie Creek is to follow the Yardie Gorge Trail that runs along the top of the cliffs. Epic views can be seen looking down through the gorge from several vantage points along the trail. Stay a while longer and book yourself a campsite at the Yardie Creek Campground .

Take a boat cruise through the gorge at Yardie Creek

Grab a Craft Beer at a Local Brewery

Exmouth is home to two popular breweries serving delicious locally produced craft beer. What better way to round off a full day of adventures than kicking back with a cold pint and a pizza?

Check out Froth micro-brewery in the Exmouth town centre. With laid-back vibes, a great menu and live music, this is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day.

Whalebone Brewing Co. is another great option for those who love to sip their craft beer accompanied by a freshly made wood fired pizza.

Remote Beach Camping

If you have a 4WD vehicle, this is the perfect spot to put it to use. Imagine waking up only steps from the stunning turquoise waters of the Ningaloo Coast. There are many beautiful remote campgrounds located right on the beach. Here are a few of the best in the area:

Winderabandi
North Lefroy
Point Billie
South Lefroy Bay

Booking your campsite should be done in advance, especially during the high-season (April – October) when they tend to book out quickly. Prices start from $8 per night and they can be booked online at the official WA Parks and Wildlife website .

Due to unsealed roads and soft sand, you can only access these remote campgrounds with a 4WD.

Cape Range National Park, Exmouth, Western Australia

Discover your own slice of paradise on this endless coastline – Aerial view of Cape Range National Park and the Ningaloo Marine Park

Stay in a Luxury Safari Tent on The Beach

If you still want the experience of remote beach camping with less of the hassle and a bit more luxury, then this is for you. At Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef you can sleep under the stars and wake up with the ocean at your doorstep.

This unique glamping-style safari camp is located within the white sand dunes of Cape Range National Park. Camp in luxury near a secluded beach with all the comforts of a hotel.

Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef features 15 safari tents only 1 minute from the beach, each one has a private eco-bathroom and a comfortable bed. There is a chef on-site that prepares delicious meals using only fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

What could be better than dining near the beach while watching the sun sink below the horizon?!

►Book your stay at the incredible Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef◄

Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef - Where to stay in Exmouth

Camp under the stars at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef

Take a Scuba Diving Course

What better place to get scuba certified than surrounded by the beauty of the Ningaloo Reef? If scuba diving is something you’ve always wanted to learn, you certainly won’t regret doing it here!

Getting your Open Water Diver certification takes 3 days and can be booked through Dive Ningaloo . If you don’t have the time to commit to a course but still want to try scuba diving, you can book a Discover Scuba Diving session. An experienced guide will show you the ropes and give you a great intro to diving.

If you’re already certified and interested in booking a diving day trip on the Ningaloo Reef, check out this popular full day scuba diving boat trip . It includes 2 dive sites, all diving gear, buffet lunch, snacks and drinks, experienced guide, and hotel pick up/drop off.

A scuba diver explores the Ningaloo Reef in Exmouth, WA

Explore the colourful Ningaloo Reef

Vlamingh Head Lighthouse

You can’t visit Exmouth without a trip to the iconic Vlamingh Head Lighthouse. Perched on a hilltop, this historic lighthouse provides stunning panoramic views over the North West Cape, Indian Ocean and Ningaloo Reef. If you’re lucky you might even spot a few humpback whales!

Take a walk around the lighthouse to learn about its 100 years of history from a number of displays. It’s only a 15 minute drive north of Exmouth town centre and it’s a fantastic spot to watch the sunset over the ocean.

Vlamingh Head Lighthouse - Exmouth Western Australia

Charles Knife Canyon Gorge

Follow the winding road off the main highway into Exmouth that leads you up into this spectacular gorge. The road into the gorge is sealed and accessible with a 2WD. However, it turns to gravel part of the way up and gets quite steep in certain areas.

There are plenty of spots to pull over, leave the car and continue to the viewpoint by foot. This is well worth it as the view looking through the massive gorge toward the Exmouth Gulf is truly breath-taking!

Driving into the Charles Knife Canyon Gorge should be high on your list of things to do in Exmouth. If you don’t have your own car while visiting, you can book a trip into the gorge with Ningaloo Safari Tours .

Charles Knife Canyon Gorge, Exmouth Attractions

Shothole Canyon

Another great Exmouth attraction and worth checking out if you have a 4WD vehicle. Access to the Shothole Canyon is via a 12km rugged, unsealed road. The scenery is beautiful as the road winds along the floor of the gorge, through the steep canyon walls.

Once you reach the end of the drive, there is a short hike from the carpark which brings you to a scenic lookout. Follow the steep, narrow steps for 100m until you reach the epic view looking back through the canyon walls toward the Exmouth Gulf.

Day Trip to Coral Bay

Coral Bay is an easy 1.5 hour drive from Exmouth and makes an excellent place to spend the day. If you have some extra time to spare during your visit to Exmouth, taking a day trip to Coral Bay will be a great addition to your holiday.

There are many great things to do in Coral Bay but here are a few highlights:

Glass Bottom Boat Cruise – Book a 1-hr boat cruise to admire the beautiful corals and marine life without getting wet.
Manta Ray Swim – Swim with manta rays on this full day boat trip from Coral Bay.
Quad Bike Tour – From sunset tours to snorkelling with turtles, choose one of these popular quad bike adventures.
Shark Nursery Beach – From the main beach in Coral Bay, take a 20 minute walk over to the neighbouring bay to see hundreds of reef sharks and stingrays swimming around the shallow water. The best time of year to see them is September – March.

Exploring the shark nursery beach in Coral Bay

Reef sharks in Coral Bay Western Australia

Tons of little reef sharks swimming around the bay at the protected Shark Nursery

Ningaloo Centre Aquarium

The perfect intro to the Exmouth region is a visit to the Ningaloo Centre Aquarium. Learn all about the region’s history and unique marine life that inhabit the Ningaloo Reef. You’ll find interactive displays and tanks of fish making it a great activity for the whole family.

The Aquarium can be found by visiting the Ningaloo Centre which is also home to the Exmouth Visitor Centre. You can book your ticket to the Ningaloo Aquarium online before you go or buy it when you get there.

Tickets: $19/adults, $14/children, $60/family

SS Mildura Shipwreck

Wrecked during a cyclone in the early 20th century, this fascinating piece of history can be seen from the lovely shores of Lighthouse Bay. The SS Mildura was shipwrecked about 80 metres from the shore and some of its remains were used for bombing practice in World War II.

The best time to view it from the shore is during low tide. Don’t forget your scuba diving gear, this wreck is home to an abundance of fish providing great diving or snorkelling opportunities for those who are keen.

Best Things to do in Exmouth - SS Mildura Shipwreck

Fly Over the Ningaloo Reef

If you’re into unique experiences, why not fly a microlight over the Ningaloo Reef?! Spot whale sharks and marvel at the contrasting landscapes of Cape Range National Park from a two-seater open air plane.

Birds Eye View in Exmouth offers the incredible experience to fly a microlight under the careful watch of a flight instructor. You’ll get the choice of booking 30, 60 and 90 minute trial flights. The flying route changes depending on which flight option you select, visit their website for more info.

Whale shark sightings are dependant on the season but you might also see humpback whales, turtles, dolphins, and manta rays as you cruise through the skies.

Find more info about prices and booking your flight from their official website .

How to get from Perth to Exmouth

Road Trip – The Perth to Exmouth drive is a very popular route for road tripping. From the ancient gorges of Kalbarri to the stunning landscapes of Shark Bay , there are so many amazing natural landmarks to be seen along the west coast.

I would recommend allowing at least 10 days to complete the journey. Check out our Perth to Exmouth road trip itinerary to help you plan your trip and maximise your time.

Fly – The quickest and easiest way to get from Perth to Exmouth is to book a flight. If you’re looking for a short getaway to catch some winter sun, this will be the most efficient way to get there.

Qantas offers regular flights between Perth and Exmouth (Learmonth Airport). Depending on the time of year, flights typically start at around $150. Check the Qantas website to search for and book your flight to Exmouth.

Admire the incredible landscapes of Shark Bay on a Perth to Exmouth road trip

Best Time to Visit Exmouth

When Perth and the southwest begin to cool down from April – September, this is the ideal time to head up north to catch some sun. This is when the weather in Exmouth is perfectly warm and sunny. It also happens to be the best time to go if you’re hoping to swim with whale sharks!

How Long to Spend in Exmouth

From soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach to swimming with the biggest fish in the ocean, there are so many awesome things to do in Exmouth! You certainly won’t be bored if you choose to stay for five days to one week.

Where to Stay in Exmouth

RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park – This budget friendly accommodation caters to all types of travellers, offering a range of options from campsites to deluxe cabins. With 3 pools, BBQ and kitchen facilities, and a convenience store on-site, this is a great option for families. It’s only a 10 minute walk to the local shops and restaurants.

Ningaloo Lodge Exmouth – Conveniently located within the Exmouth town centre, Ningaloo Lodge offers comfortable air-conditioned rooms and features a pool, BBQ facilities, and a games room. An airport shuttle is also available to book.

Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort – A luxury beachfront resort featuring an infinity pool, restaurant & bar, gym, and ocean views from your private balcony. Mantarays is the best choice if you’re seeking some extra comfort and relaxation during your time in Exmouth.

►Find more accommodation options in Exmouth◄

Turquoise Bay - Perth to Exmouth Road Trip

Swimming with the fish in Turquoise Bay

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18 best Things To Do in Exmouth

Welcome and thank you for visiting this article. before you start reading, you need to know that some of the links on my website are affiliate links of which i receive a small commission from the sale of certain items, but the price remains the same for you..

Exmouth is a beautiful coastal town in Western Australia located next to the Ningaloo Reef, which makes it the perfect destination for your beach holiday. There is plenty to do in this vibrant community, from exploring the natural wonders of the Ningaloo Reef to enjoying some locally crafted beers.

Many places are within driving distance of the town, making it the perfect base for a holiday full of activities. However, for a real outdoor experience, I recommend staying at the Cape Range National Park, where you can snorkel along the reef or do some beautiful hikes.

During my trip around australia, I stayed in exmouth about 10 days and put together a list of the 18 best things to do in Exmouth that can help with planning your trip.

READ ALSO: From Perth to Broome: the best road trip in Western Australia in 3 weeks

How to get to Exmouth?

From perth to exmouth.

Exmouth is located about 1200 kilometers north of Perth and the best way to get from there is by car. It is one of the most beautiful road trips I’ve done as you will pass some amazing sights like Kalbarri National Park, Hutt Lagoon (Pink Lake), Shark Bay, and Coral Bay.

There are many rental companies in Perth where you can get a campervan or even a 4WD to explore the beauty of the Coral Coast.

READ ALSO: 11 amazing things to do in Shark Bay, Western Australia

Flights from Perth to Exmouth (Learmonth)

There are a number of flights to Learmonth airport, which is located just south of Exmouth. However, the airport is a small airport and only offers a few flights each day. So, if you’re looking to fly into Exmouth, be sure to check the availability of flights before booking your trip.

The flight from Perth to Exmouth is about 2 hours.

Bus Services From Perth To Exmouth

If you’re not interested in driving, there are a number of bus services that offer trips from Perth to Exmouth. The trip takes around 24 hours, and the buses stop in a number of towns along the way, including Geraldton, Carnarvon, and Coral Bay.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Exmouth?

The best time to visit Exmouth is during the winter months (April – September), as this is the peak season for whale migration and tourism. However, you can visit Exmouth also during the summer months if you want to skip the crowds.

Just keep in mind that it can be very hot during these months and other will be some very strong winds. My last trip was in mid-summer (January), and I faced temperatures of 48 degrees Celsius during the day.

So, it’s all about taking what the weather throws at you and making the most of it. And don’t forget to pack a beach umbrella or gazebo to stay protected from the sun!

Exmouth - Vlaming Head Lighthouse60- BLOGPOST

Entrance Fee for Cape Range National Park

Like most of the National Parks in Western Australia, you’ll need to pay an entry fee to visit the Cape Range National Park. The fee is AU$ 15/vehicle and does not include your camping spot.

An Annual National Park pass is more convenient if you decide to explore more national parks in Western Australia. This Park Pass costs only AU$ 120 and is valid for up to one year and covers most of the parks in WA.

BOOK: Buy your WA Annual Park Pass at the DPAW website

Accommodation In Exmouth?

There are a number of options for accommodation in Exmouth, including camping grounds, backpacker hostels, and hotels. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, as the town can be quite busy during peak season.

For a more adventurous holiday, I recommend camping in the Cape Range National Park right in front of the Ningaloo Reef.

TIP: Don’t forget to book a camping spot and your National Park Pass if you go camping in Cape Range National Park

The Cape Range National Park is located 70km out of town and offers a range of hiking trails and camping grounds. In my opinion, you can stay here at some of the most beautiful camping spots in Australia.

Prices are AU$ 11 per person/night

This caravan park is located just a few minutes from Town Beach and offers camping and accommodation options, including cabins and villas.

The park is also home to a number of facilities, including a swimming pool, a kids playground, and a BBQ area.

Prices start from AU$ 40 per night for an unpowered campsite

If you’re looking for a unique accommodation option, be sure to check out Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef. This is a luxury safari camp located on the beachfront and offers a range of activities, including whale watching, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Besides, the camp is home to a number of different animal species, including kangaroos, emus, and wallabies.

Prices start from AU$ 3500 for 2 nights

How Many Days Do You Need In Exmouth?

Most people spend around 3-4 days in Exmouth. This gives you enough time to explore a bit of the town and the Ningaloo Reef. Although, I preferred to travel slowly and relax on the beaches of the National Park.

If you’re interested in doing some hiking or outdoor activities, be sure to add an extra day or two to your trip. I stayed 2 times here for 5 days each time and still, there are more places to discover.

Keep in mind to book your accommodation in advance during the winter months as many families will travel from Perth to Exmouth because of the school holidays.

Exmouth - Turquoise Bay photoshoot couple 39- BLOGPOST

Extra tips For Visiting Exmouth

Use the free showers at town beach.

If you’re visiting during the summer, be sure to take a trip to Town Beach. Not only is it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, but it also features free showers, which come in handy after a day spent at the beach.

Free Drinking Water And Clean Toilets At The Ningaloo Aquarium And Discovery Centre:

The Ningaloo Aquarium and Discovery Centre offer free drinking water and clean toilets, making them a great spot to stop for a break while touring the area.

Free Wifi at the Milyering Visitor Centre:

The Milyering Visitor Centre offers free Wifi, making it a great spot to catch up on emails or check the latest news. Also, the center has a range of information about the area, making it a great place to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

Bring Enough Drinking Water:

Be sure to bring enough drinking water with you, especially if you’re planning on staying at one of the campsites in the Cape Range National Park as there is no drinking water available.

TIP: There is drinking water available next to the visitor center in town and a bore water tap is available across the road at Neds Campground

Make Sure You Have An Beach Umbrella Or Gazebo:

The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to bring an umbrella or gazebo with you. This will help protect you from the sun and sand and will come in handy if you plan on spending time outdoors.

Bring Snorkelling Gear:

The waters off the coast of Exmouth are some of the best in the world for snorkeling. If you’re interested in exploring the area’s marine life, be sure to bring your snorkeling gear with you.

TIP: float along the reef at ‘The Drift’ in Turquoise Bay

Visit During Whale Season:

If you’re interested in seeing whales, be sure to visit during whale season. The town is located close to the Ningaloo Reef, one of the best spots in the world for whale watching and spotting other amazing creatures in the ocean.

Exmouth - Turquoise Bay photoshoot Nao15- BLOGPOST

17 Fantastic things to do in Exmouth

Go on a humpback whale tour.

The waters off the coast of Exmouth are home to a large population of humpback whales. Between June and November each year, these magnificent creatures migrate north to the warmer waters around Indonesia. This makes it the perfect time to go on a whale-watching tour.

Many tour operators in Exmouth offer whale watching tours, so you can get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. The view of these gentle giants breaching the surface is an unforgettable experience. Also, keep an eye out for dolphins, sharks, and other amazing wildlife.

I joined a tour with Ningaloo Discovery and paid about AU$ 350 , which was excellent as they have a photographer on board and if you don’t see any whales, they give you your money back or you can book another tour.

TIP: Join a Humpback whale tour on the first days of your holiday in Exmouth. In case you don’t see any or due to bad weather, you can join another tour in the next few days for free.

BOOK: Join a Humpback Whale Tour in Exmouth

Exmouth - Humpback Whale Tour Ningaloo Discovery104- BLOGPOST

Snorkel At “The Drift” In Turquoise Bay

Turquoise Bay is one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in Western Australia. The clear, blue waters and abundance of marine life make it a snorkellers’ paradise. The Bay is located just a few minutes from Exmouth town center, making it easy to get to.

Just Park your car on the beach and wade into the water. Be sure to keep an eye out for turtles, dugongs, and dolphins.

TIP: Bring your snorkel gear and drive to the parking area of “the Drift”

Swim With Manta Rays In The Ningaloo Reef

Manta rays are one of the most beautiful and graceful creatures in the ocean. These gentle giants can often be seen swimming near the water’s surface, making them perfect for swimming with.

The Ningaloo Reef is a Marine Park located just off the coast of Exmouth. It is world-renowned for its population of manta rays and offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world.

With a Whale Shark tour, you can spot these beautiful creatures while snorkeling and most tour operators have a professional photographer on board, so no worries about taking a GoPro or underwater case for your camera.

BOOK : A whale shark tour to spot some Manta Rays

Stay At Some Of The Best Bush Camps In Australia

If you’re looking for a remote and peaceful bush camp to stay at, then look no further than Exmouth. Many camping spots are located in front of the beaches in the Cape Range National Park.

Most sites are accessible for caravans and RVs but with a 4WD you can explore a bit more off-the-beaten-path areas in the national park. I stayed at Osprey Bay and Kurrajong, which were the most beautiful campground in Australia

The campsites can be booked through the DPAW Website and cost about AU$ 11 per person/night.

Exmouth - Kurrajong Campground18- BLOGPOST

Visit The Jurabi Turtle Centre And Try To Spot Nestling Turtle Turquoise Bay

The Jurabi Turtle Centre is a non-profit organisation set up to promote the conservation of marine turtles. The centre offers visitors the opportunity to learn about these amazing creatures and their ecology.

The best time to visit Exmouth for turtles is in summer when you have a good chance of seeing baby turtles making their way to the sea.

Find Turtles Nests On Hunter Beach

Hunter beach is a beautiful, secluded beach located just North of Exmouth. It’s a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and turtle spotting. The beach is home to a large population of turtles and is often used as a nesting ground.

The locals in Exmouth told me that this is one of the best places to spot baby turtles during summer. There were a lot of turtle nests and crawling tracks on the beach, so, If you’re lucky, you may be able to see some of the turtles making their way to the sea.

Exmouth - Hunter Beach turtle nest4- BLOGPOST

Go For A Hike Or Boat Ride At Yardie Creek

Yardie Creek is a beautiful, rugged gorge located in the south of the Cape Range National Park. The area is a popular spot for hiking and offers some of the best views in the area.

There is small hiking that goes along the Yardie Creek with some spectacular views. The best time to go for a hike is around sunset or sunrise. The creek can also be explored by boat, with many tour operators offering trips up and down the creek.

BOOK: It is recommended to book a boat tour at Yardie Creek in advance during the high season

Try To Spot Some Wildlife Like Rock-Wallabies And Emus

One of the best things about Exmouth is the abundance of wildlife seen in the area. The town is located in the heart of the Cape Range National Park, which is home to various animals, including rock wallabies, emus, and kangaroos.

Be sure to take a drive or walk through the park to see if you can spot any of these creatures.

Watch The Sunset Or Spot Wales At The Flaminghead Lighthouse

The Flaminghead Lighthouse is a beautiful, historic lighthouse located on the north end of Exmouth. It offers visitors some of the best views in the area, including stunning sunsets and a view of Wales (the only place in Australia where you can see it).

The lighthouse is open to the public and popular for tourists and locals alike.

Exmouth - Vlaming Head Lighthouse7- BLOGPOST

Get Information In The Visitor Center (Free Wifi)

If you’re looking for information on what to do in and around Exmouth, the Visitor Center is the place to go. The center offers a wealth of information on the local area, including maps, brochures, and advice from the locals.

They also offer free wifi so you can stay connected while you’re in town.

Enjoy Some Local Taste At The Breweries

Exmouth is home to two local breweries, namely the Froth brewery and Whalebone brewery . Both breweries offer a range of local beers, ciders, and spirits. Make sure you try their tasting plates as it is on AU$ 26 to taste 6-7 of their best beers.

In addition, the breweries are both located in great spots, with the Froth brewery in the middle of the town of Exmouth and the Whalebone brewery set in a beautiful garden. So be sure to check them out if you’re looking for some local flavor.

Wander around the small shops in town

Exmouth has a small town with some nice clothing shops, a cafe, 2 IGA supermarkets, a camping shop, and a liquor store. The town is not very big but it has a nice coastal vibe where you can do some afternoon shopping or have a morning coffee.

Also many tours in the Ningaloo Reef can be booked in town.

Have a BBQ in Federation Park

The Federation Park is a large park located in the heart of Exmouth. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with plenty of grassy areas for picnics, BBQs, and games of cricket or football.

The park also features a playground, skatepark, and splash pool, making it the perfect spot for a day out with the family. Furthermore, the park is free to enter, making it a great option for budget-minded travelers.

Picnic at Town beach

Town Beach is the main beach in Exmouth and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics. The beach is located in the town center and is within walking distance of most hotels and caravan parks.

It’s also one of the best beaches in town to do kayaking, jetskiing, or paddleboarding, so it’s a great place to people watch and soak up some sun.

Explore Charles Knife Canyon With Sunrise Or Sunset

The Charles knife canyon is a beautiful, rugged canyon located just outside Exmouth. It’s a popular spot for hikers and can be explored with or without a guide.

The canyon offers some of the best views in the area, with opportunities to see sunrise and sunset. It’s also home to various wildlife, including eagles, kangaroos, and wallabies.

BOOK: Join a tour of the Ningaloo Safari Tours and have an excellent day exploring the beauty of Exmouth with Dave.

Cape Range NP - Charles Knife Edge walk Sunrise17- BLOGPOST

Admire The Underwater Life At The Ningaloo Aquarium

The Ningaloo Aquarium is a small aquarium located in the town of Exmouth. It’s home to a range of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and turtles. The aquarium offers a range of exhibits and displays and a gift shop and cafe.

It’s a great place to learn more about the area’s marine life and get some close-ups of some of the locals.

INFO: Find here more information about the Ningaloo Aquarium

Visit The Mildura Wreck

The Mildura wreck is a shipwreck located just off the coast North of Exmouth. It’s a popular spot for divers and snorkellers and offers some of the best diving in the area.

The wreck is well-preserved and is home to a variety of marine life, including coral, fish, and sea urchins. Be sure to check it out if you’re looking for an underwater adventure.

Cape Range NP - Mildura Wreck2- BLOGPOST

Discover The Murals Of Exmouth

Exmouth is home to a number of beautiful murals, which can be found throughout the town center. The murals depict the local history and folklore scenes and are a great way to learn more about the town and its people.

They’re also a great spot for taking photos, so be sure to snap some shots while you’re in town.

Exmouth is a beautiful town located in the North-West of Western Australia and offers a range of activities and attractions, including the Ningaloo Reef and Whale Shark Encounter.

Additionally, the town is surrounded by the Cape Range National Park, which offers a range of hiking trails and camping grounds. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, as the town can be quite busy during peak season.

Do you have any other tips or advice for visitors looking to explore Exmouth? If so, be sure to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoy your stay in Exmouth!

Cape Range NP - Charles Knife Edge walk Sunrise21- BLOGPOST

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Explore Exmouth with my favorite travel apps

To plan my adventures, I use these FREE websites and apps as they provide the best information, the best deals, and they are user-friendly.

Skyscanner – Flight deals
Booking.com – Hotels and accommodation
TourRadar – Group trips
TripAdvisor – Reviews and activities
HostelWorld – Hostels
GetYourGuide – Activities and excursions
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Omio – Transport
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PICTURES AND EDITING

All the pictures on this page are made and owned by me. If you are interested in some pictures to use for your magazine, website, blog, or any other purpose, just send me an email and we’ll figure it out.

Do you like the edits? My Presets will be online soon so you can edit your pictures in just one click!

The camera gear I used for this trip

I never go out without my camera and many people ask me which gear I use. So to make it quite easy, I listed all the gear I used for this trip below.

Most of the time, I travel with the Sony A7III and the Sony 24-105mm/f4 as my primary lens but depending on the location, I change to another setup. However, I love the Tamron 17-28 to shoot in the big cities.

SONY 24-105mm/f4
TAMRON 17-28mm/f2.8
TAMRON 70-180mm/f2.8
SIGMA 24mm/1.4
DJI MAVIC PRO 2
WANDRD PRVKE TRAVEL BAG

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The Best 10 Day Itinerary From Perth to Beautiful Exmouth

The best way to experience the amazing coastline along the road north to Exmouth is to take a road trip with overnight stops along the way. Of course, this itinerary can be done in reverse if travelling from Exmouth to Perth. The distance from Perth to Exmouth is just over 1,200 km long. The drive from Perth to Exmouth non-stop takes 13 hours. You can also take a flight to Exmouth which are available with Qantas. But make sure to organise car hire for your arrival into Exmouth as there is limited transport options. The flight time is only 2 hours. This 10 day itinerary is only one way. You would need to add additional days to get back to Perth or fly back from Exmouth to Perth.

The Best Time To visit Exmouth

The best time to drive from Perth to Exmouth is between April – October. The temperatures will be warm, even during the Western Australia winter, with calmer winds than the gusty summer months. The school holiday period over July will be the busiest time of the year in Coral Bay and Exmouth – advance bookings are required. through out the rest of the year it is still advised to book in advance as things to book out quickly. Whale Sharks will be migrating in the area, with whale shark swims from April to July.

Accommodation and Camping

A popular option is to do the Perth to Exmouth trip in a caravan or Hire a Campervan . The itinerary I suggest below is suitable for a Perth to Exmouth camping trip. To hire a campervan it will cost around $110 per day as of July 2023). Free camping is fairly limited in Western Australia other than roadside overnight stops. You will need to book at Caravan Parks or the WA Parks-run bush camps. These campgrounds are around $22per night for 2 people and have less facilities than caravan parks (no showers or power, and usually a long drop toilet). To find free camps (and paid camps), download the WikiCamps app – it is well worth the small one-off fee. You can also take this road trip in a normal 2WD car, and stay in accommodation along the way.

Example Perth To Exmouth 10 Day Itinerary

Perth to Jurien Bay (~2.5 hours) 1 night
Jurien Bay to Kalbarri (~4 hours) 2 nights
Kalbarri to Shark Bay (~4 hours) 2 nights
Shark Bay to Coral bay (~5.5 hours) 2 nights
Coral Bay to Exmouth (~ 1.5 hours) 3 nights

This is a rough Itinerary where the options are endless to make the road trip your own. Optional stops could be to extend this road trip, you could spend a few nights exploring Quobba Station and Red Bluff near Carnarvon.

Day 1- Perth To Jurien Bay

Set off early from Perth. Your first stop on your road trip to Exmouth Lancelin Sand Dunes, which is 1.5 hours from Perth. Spend a few hours exploring the dunes and you can even go sandboarding!. From the kiosk you can hire 4WD quad bikes and buggies to drive out onto the dunes. Prices start from $60 for 30 min solo hire. Two people can fit on the quad bike too, with hire prices from $80 for a duo. After a lunch stop continue on the coastal highway north to the Pinnacles Desert.

The Pinnacles

The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park. Is a unique attraction of towering limestone pinnacles rising from a desert. A National Park entrance fee of $12 per vehicle is payable. At the Pinnacles you can either drive the 4.5km loop track, or park at the Discovery Centre and take the signposted walking trail. If driving, there are pull over bays to get out and explore by foot too.

Continue on to the small coastal town of Jurien Bay where you will be spending the night. There is a range of accommodation and dining options in Jurien Bay. There is also low cost camping at Sandy Cape $20 per night it is located 20 minutes outside of Jurien Bay. Optional: Add an extra night here to spend a day at Jurien Bay. You can swim with the seals, Head out to Lesueur National park and walk one of the walking trails. Or ride along the Turquoise way cycle Path 14 kilometer track that extends from Jurien Bay to Hill River.

Day 2 to 4- Jurien Bay to Kalbarri

The drive to Kalbarri is around 4 hours. From Jurien Bay you have the option to add on an extra night and stay at Lake Indoon which is a beautiful low cost campground by the lake located about 20km inland from the coast. There is also Stockyard Gully Caves which are worth seeing if you have a 4WD vehicle. If you don’t you could easily spent the night here or even the morning exploring the lake which is accessible with a 2WD.

Hutt lagoon

After exploring Jurien Bay in the morning, it’s time to get back on the road heading towards Kalbarri. You’ll pass through the seaside city of Geraldton on the way. This is one of the last major towns, so it’s a good idea to grab anything you need from the major supermarkets here. You could easily spend a couple days in Geraldton if Time allows. Click Here To see the places to visit. The main attraction on the drive to Kalbarri is the insta famous pink lake of Hutt Lagoon. The strawberry pink waters are a sight you must see for yourself!. Another Option would be to stay one night at Lucky Bay Campground which is located around 30km from the Hutt lagoon just before Kalbarri. The campground is $15 per night and you pay when you arrive.

You will Spend 2 nights in Kalbarri, If you didn’t have time to have an extra night at Lucky Bay Campground. You could spend one night at Lucky Bay and one night at Murchison Homestead in Kalbarri. Kalbarri is a small town with incredible coastal cliffs and beautiful beaches. One of the main attractions is the National Park with its unique gorges and scenic hiking trails. Spend your first day in Kalbarri exploring some of the attractions near town. Top Places Too see: -Kalbarri Coatline- Natural Bridge and Island Rock, Eagle Gore, Mushroom Rock and Red Bluff Lookout. -Kalbarri National Park inland- Kalbarri Skywalk, Natures window and the loop trail, z Bend Lookout and Hawkes Lookout. – The Blue Holes To see the full Blog on the top place to see in Kalbarri Click Here.

Day 4 to 6-Kalbarri to Shark Bay

This day includes a four hour drive to reach Shark Bay. Shark Bay is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Area, and said to be one of the worlds greatest wilderness treasures. On the way into Denham stop off at Shell Beach. There is no sand on this beach, instead there are billions of tiny shells which make up the shoreline at Shell Beach. Next stop at Eagle Bluff Lookout, its worth a visit to the Eagle Bluff Lookout and boardwalk. Perched high up on a ridge, this 400 metre boardwalk offers stunning views to the clear waters below.

Spend The Day In Denham

First stop at Little Lagoon is 5 minutes from Denham, and 2WD accessible. This large stretch of water is very calm, and ideal for swimming. You might have heard of Big Lagoon, which is actually found within the National Park (4WDs only). Next take a day tour or spend a couple of nights in Francois National Park. The park is 2WD to the Peron Homestead where there is a artesian Bore Tub which is great to head to in the afternoon when the sun is going down or early morning. If you want to explore the rest of the park and you don’t have a High Clearance 4WD you can take a tour. The tour will take you to Cape Peron and Skip jack Point. Click Here for Tour Prices which start from $209 per person. Click Here for the best places to visit in Denham.

Accommodation

There are 4 campgrounds accessible by 2WD along unsealed roads. Fowlers camp, Eagle Bluff and whalebone campground. It is $15 per night and you must be fully self contained. To buy a permit, contact the Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery & Visitor Centre in person or via the telephone (9948 1590) to pay via credit card. Make sure to call as soon as the information center opens at 9am as there is only 4 permits given out per day per campground. Permits are for 24 hours and restricted to one night only at any of the four campsites. For example if you stay at Eagle Bluff one night, you cannot stay at Fowlers camp the following night. The campgrounds are regularly checked by the rangers so make sure you display your permit number.

Day 6 to 8- Denham to Coral Bay

Prepare for a long 6 hr drive to arrive at Coral Bay with a few cool sights to see along the way. Carnarvon is a great place to stop for lunch and break up the long drive. A spot that has become well known on Instagram over the years is the ‘ Carnarvon Cactus Garden’. It’s a nice spot to pull over, stretch your legs and take some cool photos. There is no cost to enter, it’s located in the front garden of one of the local fruit plantations. Optional: If you had a spare night on your way you could stop past Wooramel Station. It is $40 per night and they have great meals at the café, live music and Artesian Bore Baths. Make sure to book in advance if you do want to stay here.

Coral Bay is an absolute paradise destination and home to one of the world’s largest and most beautiful coral gardens, the Ningaloo Reef. You can spend the day relaxing on the pristine white sand beach while jumping in to snorkel with turtles, sharks and colourful fish. Make sure to head out to five fingers reef which is located about 5km from coral bay. If you don’t have a 4WD head to the coral Bay boat ramp and you can walk to the reef along the beach it is 3km each way. There is two caravan parks in Coral Bay. Ningaloo Coral Bay Bayview and People’s Park.

Day 8 to 10-Exmouth

Getting from Coral Bay to Exmouth is an easy 1.5 hr drive, it’s definitely worth a stop at the jaw-dropping Charles Knife Canyon Gorge along the way. Located within the beautiful Cape Range National Park, this gorge is particularly spectacular with the Exmouth Gulf as a backdrop. The entrance to the gorge is just off the main road that you will be following to Exmouth, so it’s easy to find. The 11km winding road leading into the gorge is paved at the beginning but turns to gravel on the way up. You can also access Shot Hole Canyon from the Charles knife canyon the trail is 6km return out to the lookout and back. After spending the morning exploring both the canyons. Continue into Exmouth to stock up on food and supplies before making your way to your campsite of choice.

Beach Camping- There are many beach campsites along the Ningaloo Coast on the other side of the peninsula from Exmouth town. Some of these camp sites are quite remote and are only accessible with a 4WD. For a complete list of campsites and a map showing where each one is located, check out the WA parks Website and to book your campground it’s best to book in advance. Wild camping at these locations costs $22 per night for 2 people.

Yardie Homestead

Located on the opposite side of the peninsula from Exmouth, this is a great spot to base yourself if you plan to hang out at Turquoise Bay or any of the other beautiful beaches along the Ningaloo Coast. We stayed here for a few nights. The park was clean, has toilets and showers, a shared cooking area and a restaurant. The homestead books out very quickly and months in advance so make sure you book ahead of time. Caravan camping sites which come with power and water taps is $50 per night (July 2023).

Exmouth has warm weather year round, stunning beaches and beautiful snorkeling. The biggest draw is whale shark season which occurs from April – July when they can be seen migrating along Australia’s west coast. Best places to Visit in Exmouth: -Vlamingh Head Lighthouse at sunset -Yardie Creek Rim Gorge Track- The Yardie Nature Trail/Yardie Creek Gorge is a 2km two-part trail that starts with a 1.25km, class 2 trail to the first lookout. The Yardie Gorge Trail takes you high above Yardie Creek with views over the gorge and Ningaloo Reef. -Osprey bay, Turquoise Bay, Oyster Stacks (Tide Depending), Lakeside Snorkel. -Mandu Mandu Creek Trail- Is a 3km walking trail that allows access into this dry terrain. -Mildura wreck

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Weather and Seasons in Exmouth

Western Australia

Best Time To Visit Exmouth

The best times to visit Exmouth from May to September. The climate of Exmouth is pretty moderate with warm summers and chilled winters. It rains throughout the year in Exmouth.

Winter (December - March): The temperature of the city ranges from 4 degree Celsius to 11 degree Celsius.
Spring (April - May): The temperature of the city ranges from 6 degree Celsius to 16 degree Celsius.
Summer (June - September): The temperature of the city ranges from 11 degree Celsius to 20 degree Celsius.
Autumn (October - November): The temperature of the city ranges from 15 degree Celsius to 7 degree Celsius.
30℉ 0℉

Highest temperature in Exmouth is recorded as 107.6℉ in January, March and December.

Lowest temperature in Exmouth is recorded as 41℉ in July.

Most humid month in Exmouth is February.

Least humid month in Exmouth is December.

Everyday : 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM

Everyday : 24-hrs

Everyday : 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Travel Guides
Western Australia

Your Guide to Exmouth, West Australia

Table of Contents

A Little History

The area of Exmouth is well known to Europeans’, specifically the Dutch as early as the 17th Century. During World War II a huge airport was built. In 1963 the Learmonth RAAF Base was established via a naval town serving the US Naval Communication Station. The US Navy left in the early 1990s, today part of the old naval base is still used by the Australian Navy. The town is now purely driven by tourism with deep sea fishing, the Ningaloo reef and Wildlife being the main attractions.

How to Get There

Exmouth is located on the North West Cape of Western Australia. It is roughly 1250 km from Perth CBD, 770 km from Port Hedland or 2345k from Kununurra. There are several ways you can get to this small resort town either via, flying, driving or a bus.

You can fly from Perth to Learmonth Airport, which is a 30 min drive out of Exmouth. Flights will cost you roughly $150-200 AUD one wa y. Qantas is the only company that offers flights to Learmonth. The shire of Exmouth runs a shuttle bus from Learmonth Airport to Exmouth with Exmouth Bus Charter. Shuttle bus prices are $40AUD per adult, $30 AUD per senior, $20AUD per child or $100AUD per family (2 adults and 2 children). You can choose a drop off point at either Exmouth Township, Lighthouse Caravan Park or Exmouth Aerodrome.

Driving is the most popular way to get to Exmouth, however if you choose to drive you should expect a full or 2 day drive from Perth. If you enjoy driving long distances non stop like myself, it will take you roughly 13-14 hrs from Perth. If you are not cable or comfortable with driving long distances, I recommend stopping for a night in Carnarvon or at Overlander Roadhouse. I highly recommend you drive to Exmouth if possible as there are alot of places that require a car to access. If you cannot drive, I recommend looking into renting a vehicle.

Integrity Coach Lines has a bus service which runs from Perth tourist stop to Exmouth. This bus will cost you roughly $250 AUD one way and will take about 18 hours. The buses have comfortable chairs, a bathroom and air-conditioning. They also make multiple stops along the way for food and snacks.

Best Time to Visit

Exmouth is a beautiful destination all year round, however due to its location it can bring in hot and humid weather or tropical storms. Planning your holiday in the correct months can make a massive difference to how enjoyable your holiday will be. I recommend visiting between April-May for the best weather conditions.

Summer months (December to February): The weather is hot, with an average maximum temperature of 37 C and minimum of 20 C. It is usually humid and windy during this time. I have visited Exmouth during December and haven’t had any problems with the weather, except it getting very windy in the afternoons.

Autumn Months (March to May) : The weather is hot and can become very humid in the evenings. I highly recommend you have air-conditioning if visiting during this time, especially if you are staying in Exmouth Township. During this time the winds tend to be lower, making it the best time to enjoy the beautiful waters of the Ningaloo Reef. It’s also the best time for fishing and swimming with Whale Sharks.

Winter Months (June to August): The cooler months with average temperatures from 24 C during the day and 11 C at nighttime.

Spring Months (September to November): Can be very windy and very humid. It’s still a beautiful time to visit but I’d recommend air conditioning and if you are a fisherman, this wouldn’t be the best months to visit.

Accommodation

There are plenty of places to stay in and around Exmouth, your choice will purely depend on what type of traveller you are and how long you plan on staying. I have listed some recommendations below for different types of travellers.

Budget Travellers/Campers

Cape Range National Park Camping: Campsites are $15 per night, and there are several locations to choose from. I recommend Osprey Bay as it has some of the best views from each individual campsite (only a short walk to an amazing beach for snorkelling). These campsite book out very quickly in peak periods so I recommend booking as far in advance as possible. The campsites are equipped with bathrooms and some have BBQ’s.
Exmouth YHA: A mixed dorm room with costs $35 AUD per night, where as a queen with ensuite will cost $90 AUD. Each room has aircon and the backpackers is located on the grounds of the Potshot Hotel. I have stayed here once and the rooms as well kept, and their is a pool to keep you cool in the Exmouth heat.

Mid Range Travellers

RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park: Offering a range of accommodation from cabins, motel rooms, powered and unpowered campsites. This is a great choice for families. Or people who want a comfortable place to spend their time in Exmouth without breaking the bank. If you choose to camp here, keep in mind that there is limited shade on the camping grounds. It’s best to bring your own. On my most recent trip I stayed in the 2 bedroom cabin (my dad wanted some luxury). It was very nice and spacious, would be great for a family or couples!

High Range Travellers

Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort : Located on Sunrise Beach, servicing 68 rooms from hotels rooms, to bungalows and self contained apartments. Expect to pay $300 AUD per night and up for accommodation.

Luxury Travellers

Sal Sails Ningaloo Reef: A range of eco-luxe safari tents, situated right on the Ningaloo Reefs doorstep. If I had the budget, I would absolutely love to stay here. It’s the perfect location and they offer a range of lux experiences. If you are looking to treat yourself, then this is the place for you. However it will set you back about $1.5K AUD a night.

What to See and Do

There are an abundance of things to do in Exmouth, and if you are a water body then this is definitely somewhere to add to your bucket list. As Exmouth is the gateway to the Ningaloo Coast, there are many options including swimming, snorkelling, diving, fishing and wildlife encounters. I recommend spending at least 3 days in Exmouth to see everything.

National Park

Cape Range National Park is located a short drive from the town of Exmouth and is stunning. Here you will find gorges, beaches and cheap camping. This is one of the highlights when visiting Exmouth. You will need to buy a day pass to enter the National park, which will cost you $15AUD per day.

Charles Knife Canyon: My favourite place in Exmouth. Located 30 minutes from the town, and amazing for sunrise or sunset! You won’t need a 4WD to access the view points, the roads are windy and steep in some sections. The views from the top of the gorges are incredible and it’s hard to believe that this is in Western Australia. It reminds me of a tiny Grand Canyon. Definitely add this one to your list!
Yardie Creek: Located on the western side of the National Park, right at the southern end. It’s the only permanent water source in the National Park, and is worth a visit.

Best Beaches

As there are way too many beautiful beaches around Exmouth, I am just going to list my three favourites.

Osprey Bay: A beautiful protected strip of coastline, with amazing snorkelling, camping (best campgrounds!) and fishing opportunities.
Turquoise Bay: Voted as one of the best beaches in Australia, and for good reason. This beach is amazing for two reasons. One side of the bay has a current which runs horizontal to the shore and amazing snorkelling. One this side you can jump into the water and let the current take you on a snorkelling adventure! Just be careful as the current can get very strong, always swim with caution. On the other side of the bay, it is a lot calmer. Here is great for beach bumming and swimming, but also has great snorkelling.
Oyster Stacks: Great for snorkelling at high tide only. You will most likely see lots of turtles here!

Four Wheel Driving

There are a handful of four wheel driving tracks in and around Exmouth, if you are looking for a bit of adventure.

Coral Bay to Exmouth Via Coast Road: This track runs along the coast, stopping at some beautiful beaches and campsites. The track is very sandy and soft in some areas, but is pretty much your typical coastal 4WD track. The track runs up to the southern side of Yardie Creek, which can become impassable if it is flowing. It’s best to check tide times and water levels prior to taking on this track, as if it is impassable, there is no way around it except to turn back to way you came.
Shothole Canyon: A 24km return drive through the canyons of the Cape Range National Park. This track is pretty easy and doesn’t require a change of tyre pressure. I would not recommend you try this with anything but a 4WD, as the track is bumpy and rocky. It does cross a lot of creeks, which would be impassable in the winter months. Also be careful of those river stones, you can get bogged in them! Once you reach the end of the track, there is a small walk to a beautiful view point. There is a picnic table and bathroom at the end of the track, however, i’m not really sure why you would want to have a picnic here. Waaaaaay to hot and humid!

Wildlife Encounters

I have not personally done any wildlife encounters in Exmouth so I don’t have any recommendations. Its best to do your own research as there are several companies that operate out of Exmouth for each tour.

Humpback Whales: June to October.
Whale Sharks: March to September.
Turtles: All year round.
Manta Rays: All year round.

Exmouth has some of the best fishing in Western Australia, along this stretch of coastline you could catch: emperors, tuna, mackerel, trevally, cod and much more. If you don’t have a boat, you can book a fishing charter. There are a few companies that operate out of Exmouth, so it’s best to do your own research to find one that suits your budget. Not into boats? There are plenty of beach fishing and crabbing opportunities.

Yardie Creek: There are two hiking trails at Yardie Creek, each offering impressive views. Yardie Creek is worth a visit if you are around the Exmouth area, you can also book a boat cruise.
Charles Knife Edge Walk: I’ve never been able to find this trailhead myself, but have heard it is amazing! The trail takes you along the ridge of the gorges, it’s not for the faint hearted. I believe you can find the trail on alltrails.
Badjirrajirra Walk trail: A class 4, 6 km return hike. This transverses the top of Cape Range, winding through gorges, gullies and open bushland. It is best to complete this hike in early morning as temperatures can reach up to 50 degrees Celsius in the gorges.

Other Attractions

Lighthouse: An impressive view point with a bit of history. It’s a great place to park up for sunrise or sunset.
Mildura Wreck: A cattle steamer that wrecked in 1907 during a cyclone. Most of the remains were salvaged, however part of the ship still lays of the northern point of the North West Cape. It makes for some great drone shots.

Looking for a Perth to Exmouth road trip itinerary? You can check out my 3 week road trip here .

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beckkyhamilton

Hi beautiful people, my name is Beck! Thank you for dropping by. I’m an Australian travel blogger and amateur photographer, who loves a bit of a solo adventure. I’m currently working in Australia while travelling as much as I can manage!

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Solar Eclipse 2024

Meet the Eclipse Chasers Traveling Thousands of Miles for the Astronomical Event

A mong ancient civilizations who regarded solar eclipses as an evil omen , the sight of the cosmic phenomenon would have been cause for despair. But for many enthusiasts traveling thousands of miles to see the upcoming solar eclipse on April 8, the opposite is true.

“I'm not in any way religious at all. But [the eclipse is] almost as close to a religious moment as I think you can get,” says Sarah Marwick, a 51-year-old doctor based in the U.K. “It makes you feel enormous and tiny at the same time.”

Marwick—who has seen six eclipses in the last 25 years in the Arctic Circle, China, France, Libya, the U.S., and Zimbabwe—is an eclipse chaser, or umbraphile. The neologism cannot be found in the Merriam-Webster dictionary, but the word, meaning shadow lover, is used to describe the people who flock across the globe for a chance to see the moon obscure the sun. Eclipses happen anywhere from four to seven times a year, according to NASA . But solar eclipses are a much rarer phenomenon to see than lunar eclipses because they are only visible from a small area of the Earth each time they occur.

“If it's 10 seconds or several minutes, it doesn’t matter. It's always too short for you,” says Tunç Tezel, a 46-year-old civil engineer from Turkey who has seen 13 solar eclipses and three lunar eclipses since 1999. He is traveling more than 6,000 miles from Istanbul to Houston this April. “The light comes back, and then you start to think, ‘When's the next one? Where's the next one? I think I need to see another one.’”

For many, the obsession with eclipses began in childhood. “Growing up in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, one of the big things that I remember seeing were the two great comets we had,” says 35-year-old Aditya Madhavan, who has been chasing eclipses since he saw the “great American solar eclipse” in 2017. Others credit science teachers who inspired their love of space. But for most, the eclipse bug bit soon after they saw their first.

Read More : How Astrologists Are Preparing for the 2024 Solar Eclipse

It’s hard to say how many people identify as an umbraphile. On Facebook, a public solar eclipse chasing group has nearly 21,000 members—an increase of about 13% since March. Not all of them are enthusiasts—some join to advertise their product or offer accommodations to see the eclipse—but filmmaker Nelson Quan, a member, says he noticed an explosion in interest after the 2017 eclipse. “Because these eclipses are in these narrow paths and certain places in the world, you kind of meet the same people,” says Quan, who directed a documentary about eclipse chasing called Chasing Shadows .

In 2023, for instance, some 20,000 people traveled to Exmouth, Australia for the eclipse. That town had a population of 2,800. “Take a place like Australia. You think, ‘Australia is a big country?’ Well, yes, it is. But when the eclipse only hits the tip of it in Exmouth, it becomes a very small country,” says Mandie Adams, a 59-year-old landlord working in real estate.

Quan says the first online umbraphile community he remembers was a group on Yahoo called “the solar eclipse mailing list,” which included leaders of the previous generation of eclipse chasers, like astrophysicist Fred Espenak, otherwise known as “Mr. Eclipse;” cartographer Michael Zeiler, creator of GreatAmericanEclipse.com; and Xavier Jubier, the mastermind behind an interactive Google Maps site that details the timing and phases of an eclipse.

Now that the community has grown , amateurs and newly-identifying eclipse chasers are using online platforms to share lodging plans, ask for tips, and recount tales of past trips abroad. Of the ten eclipse chasers TIME spoke to for this story, two traveled only in the U.S. for the 2017 eclipse and for this year’s astronomical event, six are traveling from other countries to see the April 8 eclipse in the U.S., and many already had plans to see the next total solar eclipse in 2026, with the most popular destination being Spain. “We are trying to do anything we can to see these eclipses as long as it's possible,” says Tezel, a moderator of the Facebook group. “Maybe we are a bit more dedicated or a bit crazy. You decide.”

The most significant barrier to becoming an eclipse chaser might be the cost. Atlanta-based Madhavan paid $14,000 to travel to Antarctica via ship for an eclipse in 2021—and wasn’t able to see that eclipse due to cloud cover . The eclipse tourism industry is gaining traction. This year, Delta Air Lines is marketing flights for eclipse chasers to see the event from the sky and a $1.5 billion economic boom is expected to impact states in the 115-mile wide path of totality.

Read More : Why These Passengers Are Flying up to 30 Hours to See Four Minutes of the Eclipse

Olivier Steiger, 65, says he strategically plans his eclipse trips to save costs. To maximize his time for his buck, Steiger plans on spotting other natural phenomena on this trip: he’s going to follow the northern lights for a few nights before heading to the U.S. for the eclipse, and hopefully do some storm chasing and see a tornado in Texas afterwards. Steiger says it's cheaper to travel within Europe, and he can usually spot deals depending on where he wants to go. For this trip, he is driving down from Switzerland to Milan to take a cheaper flight to Iceland, before flying to Denver and then driving down south.

Marwick, a mother to two children, says the cost of traveling with her family dictates her destination, accommodations, and length of time away from work. “If you've got a family, there's a difference between taking a flight to Toronto that costs $400, or one that's, you know, going to be $3,000 to Texas, and much longer time,” she says.

Read More : Helpful Tips for Planning Your Solar Eclipse Trip

Being frugal has allowed Adams, based in England, to backpack through Chicago, Nashville, Austin, and Fort Worth during the four weeks leading up to the eclipse. “I don't go for luxuries back home. I don't go out and buy handbags and expensive clothes,” she says. “I want my money to be for experiences like the eclipse.”

For many umbraphiles, traveling for an eclipse will be their one extended vacation of the year. “It kind of is an excuse for us to get out of the country and go to places that maybe we wouldn't have been before,” says Madhavan. Tunzel, who has a copy of the Fifty Year Canon of Solar Eclipses, which has maps of eclipse paths through 2035, jokingly refers to his catalog as his vacation planner.

This year, Madhavan is traveling to Torreon, Mexico for the first time, but has also gone to countries like Australia in 2023 for an eclipse that only lasted for around a minute. “We traveled halfway around the world for [about] 56 seconds of totality, which makes it sound really crazy,” he says, “but the sun itself and the phenomena that we saw around this eclipse were just beautiful.”

That moment is never guaranteed, but the anticipation is worth it. “It's like a calling,” says Tezel. “We drop everything, meet… that eclipse happens, and then we go back to what we are doing in our normal lives.” And then the cycle begins again.

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World-renowned Devon pub named one of UK's best to travel for

The Telegraph has listed three South West pubs out of 10 across the UK as the best to visit

05:00, 13 APR 2024

The Bridge Inn in Topsham is a stunning pub

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A Devon pub has been recognised among the best British pubs worth travelling to. Making it to the top 10 of the Telegraph's travel list , The Bridge Inn in Topsham near Exeter has international fame after it was visited by the late Queen in 1998.

Travel writer, Will Hawkes listed three South West pubs out of 10 across the UK as the best to visit including the Rashleigh Arms in Cornwall and The Fleece Inn in Gloucestershire .

However, The Bridge Inn is remarkably one of a few pubs around the country to have updated its listed status to further protect its historic interior. William John Gibbings from Clyst St. George, moved into the Inn in 1897, and the family has been running the establishment ever since.

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The pub retains many of its historic features including a panelled corridor, rare historic glazed advertising, a stone fireplace and a hatch through which drinks are fetched. The Bridge Inn's landlady, Caroline Cheffers-Heard, previously told DevonLive that the pub’s “lost in time” feel is part of its appeal.

She said: “My great-grandfather came here in 1897 and the interior has remained unchanged ever since. I have no plans to change it, so we will carry on exactly as we were. But it’s good to have the recognition.

"It’s hard work to maintain a building of this age. We’re very fortunate we have a vast range of customers from young to old and all walks of life. We’re a very basic beer pub and there are very few of those left. We’re known for real ale and always will be.”

Hawkes reviewed The Bridge Inn stating that "time stands still" at this "unspoilt" British pub. He said: "At the Bridge Inn , time stands still – or at least it appears to. This is one of Britain’s most unspoilt pubs, built in the 17th century, a pub since the 18th and in the hands of the same family for more than 100 years.

"The interior, with its roaring fires and wheelback chairs, dates largely from the 19th century. So remarkable is it that the late Queen, not noted as a pub-goer, popped in during a visit to the area in 1998."

The Queen was pictured at The Bridge Inn holding a bottle of special anniversary ale with Caroline and her father, Norman, in the background. The Queen, who declined a drink, was presented with Branscombe Vale Brewery's 101 Anniversary Ale which was specially brewed for the occasion. She said she would give the bottles to Prince Philip.

Hawkes continued: " East Devon can be a delightfully sleepy place. This is the western end of the Jurassic Coast, as timeless as it comes, even if great chunks occasionally fall off the red sandstone cliffs into the sea. Seaside towns like Budleigh Salterton and Sidmouth , all pebbly beaches and ice-cream cones, are as charming as the Bridge."

The Bridge Inn currently has a 4.7 rating on Google reviews. One visitor said: "Fantastic pub. One of the best in the country. Great beer and food. Friendly staff and one of the most outstanding interiors you'll find."

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When Is The Best Time To Visit Exmouth? And The Worst Time?

Table of Contents

The best time to visit Exmouth is between March and October – here’s why

Best months to see marine life in Exmouth

Humpback whales

Whale sharks

Turtle nesting and hatching

Is there a worst time to visit Exmouth?

Take January, for example.

Also, January through March is the “rainiest” period.

November is the least popular month.

How to plan for a trip to Exmouth?

Getting to Exmouth

How long should you stay?

Make sure you pack all you need.

If you are going during the holiday season, plan ahead.

Did you know?

What is the best month to visit Exmouth?

How cold does it get in Exmouth?

Does Exmouth have a wet season?

The bottom line

Our Essential Travel Toolkit

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