Monkey Mia hiden gems
Monkey Mia, in the heart of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, is famous for its wild dolphins and turquoise waters. This remote beach on the Coral Coast of Western Australia has so much more to offer than just the dolphins. From beautiful beaches and ancient landforms to unique marine life and cultural experiences, Monkey Mia and the surrounding area are full of hidden treasures to discover. Whether you’re an adventurer or a nature lover, this guide will take you on a journey to find the best of the best.
Francois Peron National Park
Francois Peron National Park is a must-see when visiting Monkey Mia. This park has red cliffs, white sand beaches and blue water. It has lots of activities and natural beauty. The unique landscape where the red earth meets the turquoise water is stunning, and the views are spectacular.
Adventurers can 4WD the park, discover secluded beaches or take a dip in the hot springs at Peron Homestead. The park is a wildlife haven with a diverse range of marine life, including manta rays, sharks, bottlenose dolphins and land animals like kangaroos and emus. For birdwatchers, Francois Peron National Park is home to many bird species, so it’s a great spot for a photography adventure.
Eagle Bluff: A Bird’s-Eye View of Marine Life
Eagle Bluff has one of the most spectacular views on the Coral Coast. This elevated boardwalk allows you to look down into the shallow water and see a wide range of marine life, including manta rays, sharks and even dugongs in their natural habitat. The turquoise water against the rugged coastline is a perfect setting for views and photography.
Eagle Bluff is also a great spot to see the humpback whales migrate along the Coral Coast. During the season you might see them breaching in the distance, it’s an experience you’ll never forget. Whether you’re there for the marine life or just to take in the natural beauty, Eagle Bluff is a must-see.
Shell Beach: A Coastal Wonder
Shell Beach is one of only a few places in the world where the beach is made entirely of tiny white shells. Over 70km long, this natural wonder is a gem of the Shark Bay Marine Park. The shallow water is perfect for a lazy swim, and the hypersaline water means you can float and relax. The pink lakes nearby add to the beauty of the area, making it a one-of-a-kind landscape.
For marine life enthusiasts, Shell Beach has many species that call it home. Whether you’re beach walking, collecting shells or just relaxing, Shell Beach is a one-of-a-kind experience on the Coral Coast.
Dirk Hartog Island: A History Lesson
Dirk Hartog Island is named after the Dutch explorer who arrived in 1616 and is a place of history and beauty. The island is part of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area and has rugged landscapes, beaches and marine life to explore.
By boat or plane is the only way to get to Dirk Hartog Island, a great place to get off the beaten track. The coastline has many hidden snorkelling spots where you can explore coral reefs and marine life, manta rays and dolphins. History buffs can visit the site of Hartog’s landing where a replica of the famous Dirk Hartog plate is on display which marked the first European landing on Australian soil.
Little Lagoon: A Quiet Getaway
Little Lagoon is just a few km from Denham and is a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas. This circular, shallow lagoon is fed by the sea and underground springs, creating a unique environment that supports a wide range of marine life.
The calm water is perfect for swimming, kayaking or just relaxing on the white sandy beach. It’s also a great spot for beach snorkelling with fish and other marine life visible in the clear shallow water. Little Lagoon is a great spot for families or those who just want to unwind in a beautiful natural setting.
Ocean Park Aquarium: A Window into the Marine World
A visit to the Ocean Park Aquarium is a must for anyone who loves marine life. Located near Monkey Mia, this aquarium gives you an up-close look at the diverse marine species of the Shark Bay Marine Park. From wild dolphins to colourful corals and deadly sharks, the aquarium offers educational and interactive experiences for all ages.
The Ocean Park Aquarium also offers wildlife cruises so you can explore the Shark Bay Marine Park and see marine life in its natural habitat. Whether you take a guided tour of the aquarium or go on a cruise, you’ll get a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world of the Coral Coast.
Cape Peron National Park: A Coastal Heaven
Cape Peron National Park is part of the larger Francois Peron National Park and another gem on the Coral Coast. Beautiful beaches, crystal clear water and marine life make it a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
The park has many activities including beach snorkelling, kayaking and wildlife watching. The warm shallow water is perfect for spotting bottlenose dolphins, manta rays and even turtles. Cape Peron is also a great spot for birdwatching with many species of seabirds visiting the area. Whether you’re exploring the coastline or just relaxing on the white sandy beach Cape Peron National Park has something for everyone.
Kalbarri National Park: A Playground
Kalbarri National Park, a few hours south of Monkey Mia, is a must see on your Coral Coast road trip. The park is famous for its dramatic landscapes, Z Bend and Nature’s Window being the most iconic, with views of the Murchison River Gorge. The park has beaches, cliffs and wildlife for the adventure seeker.
Kalbarri National Park is also home to a wide range of marine life, dolphins, whales and sea turtles can often be seen from the coastal lookouts. Whether you hike the gorges, kayak the river or explore the shores, Kalbarri National Park is a must-do for visitors.
Cape Range National Park: A Desert Sanctuary
Cape Range National Park, near Exmouth on the Coral Coast, is another secret gem that combines desert and marine landscapes. The park’s rugged terrain is home to kangaroos, emus and many bird species.
The park’s coastline has beaches, including the famous Turquoise Bay, where you can snorkel over coral reefs and see marine life. The park also has Yardie Creek, a beautiful gorge where you can take a boat tour and see black-footed rock wallabies. Cape Range National Park is a must-see when driving along the Coral Coast.
Nambung National Park: The Pinnacles
Nambung National Park, home of the famous Pinnacles Desert is a must see on any Coral Coast road trip. The park’s otherworldly landscape of thousands of limestone pillars is a one of a kind experience for visitors.
In addition to the Pinnacles the park has beaches and coastal scenery. The warm, shallow waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and fishing. Nambung National Park is also a great spot for wildlife watching, as it has many bird species and other animals in the area. Whether you hike on the Pinnacles or relax on the beach, Nambung National Park is a one-of-a-kind experience.
Wave Rock: A Natural Wonder
Wave Rock, in the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia is one of the state’s most famous natural attractions. This massive wave shaped rock is 15m high and 110m long and is a must see for anyone interested in geology or natural history.
In addition to Wave Rock, the area has other unique rock formations, Hippo’s Yawn and The Humps, worth exploring. The region is also rich in Aboriginal culture, with ancient rock paintings and other cultural sites nearby. Whether you’re there to see the rock formations or to learn about the Indigenous culture, Wave Rock is a must-do.
Rottnest Island: A Beachy Heaven
Rottnest Island is off the coast of Perth and is loved by locals and tourists alike. The island is famous for its beaches, blue water and marine life, including the quokkas, which are often called the happiest animals on Earth.
Rottnest Island has plenty of activities, including swimming, snorkelling, and cycling. The island’s beaches and spots are perfect for a day trip or a longer stay. Whether you’re exploring the island or just chilling on the white sand beaches, Rottnest Island is the perfect escape from the city.
Margaret River: A Foodie and Nature’s Heaven
Margaret River is in the southwestern corner of Western Australia and is famous for its world-class wineries, beautiful beaches and forests. The region has plenty of activities, wine tasting, gourmet food, surfing and hiking.
The beaches of Margaret River are some of the best in the world, white sand and crystal clear water perfect for swimming and surfing. The region is also home to dolphins, whales and kangaroos so it’s a nature lover’s paradise. Whether you’re here for the food, the wine or the natural beauty Margaret River is a must see.
Karijini National Park: A Tough One
Karijini National Park is in the Pilbara region of Western Australia and is famous for its rugged landscapes, deep gorges and waterfalls. The park has plenty of activities, such as hiking, swimming, and camping.
Karijini’s gorges, Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge and Knox Gorge are some of the toughest and most rewarding hikes in the state. The park’s natural pools, Fortescue Falls and Fern Pool are a great place to cool off and perfect for a swim. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just want to see the natural beauty of the Pilbara Karijini National Park, it is an adventure not to be missed.
Shark Bay Marine Park: A World Heritage Site
Shark Bay Marine Park is part of the larger Shark Bay World Heritage Area and is a marine lover’s heaven. The park is home to a wide range of marine life, including dolphins, dugongs, manta rays and sharks.
The park’s warm shallow water is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving, and it has vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life to see. Shark Bay Marine Park also has wildlife cruises where you can see the park’s natural beauty and marine life in their own habitat. Whether you’re swimming with dolphins or just chilling on the beach, Shark Bay Marine Park is a must-see.
Conclusion
Monkey Mia and the surrounding area have so much natural beauty, marine life and experiences. From the wild dolphins of Monkey Mia Beach to the stunning landscapes of Francois Peron National Park and the historic treasures of Dirk Hartog Island, this place is a treasure trove of secrets waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re on a road Monkey Mia Tours along the Coral Coast or looking for a peaceful escape in nature, Monkey Mia and the surrounding area are the perfect place to have an adventure. So get in your car, get on the road and discover this amazing place.
FAQ
What happens during dolphin feeding at Monkey Mia?
You can get up close and personal with the famous bottlenose dolphins at Monkey Mia Beach, where they come in for a feed in the shallows. It’s magic to see these wild dolphins in their natural environment.
How do I get to Francois Peron National Park from Monkey Mia?
Francois Peron National Park is a short drive from Monkey Mia but a 4WD is recommended to get to the red cliffs and white beaches. About 30 minutes from Monkey Mia.
Are there any entry fees for these places?
Some places like Francois Peron National Park and Ocean Park Aquarium have an entry fee. Check ahead for pricing and any extra costs for tours and activities.
What other parks to visit in WA?
As well as Francois Peron National Park, visit Cape Range National Park, Kalbarri National Park and Nambung National Park for more landscapes and marine life.
Can I do a scenic flight over Shark Bay World Heritage Area?
Yes, scenic flights over the Shark Bay World Heritage Area are available to see the beaches, turquoise water and unique landscape of the area, including Dirk Hartog Island and Steep Point.