Ningaloo Marine Park
Ningaloo Marine Park, Western Australia protects Australia's largest and most accessible fringing reef the Ningaloo Reef.
Ningaloo Marine Park Western Australia stretches from Bundegi Reef in the Exmouth Gulf, around North West Cape to Amherst Point 260 kilometres to the south. The park extends 10 nautical miles seaward and encompasses over 5,000 square kilometres of ocean. The shallow lagoons formed by the reef, and the deeper offshore waters create a diverse array of habitats for a multitude of colourful corals and more than 500 species of fish. Many other creatures are found in the Park, including whale sharks - the world's largest fish, turtles, dugongs, dolphins and humpback whales. Ningaloo Marine Park provides an excellent opportunity to fish (outside sanctuary zones), swim, snorkel, dive, observe marine life and relax on the beach.
Ningaloo Marine Park acess points include several concrete boat ramps at Bundegi Beach, Tantabiddi, Exmouth Marina and Coral Bay. Unsealed boat launch areas are available at various locations.
Ningaloo Marine Park has been divided into management zones to reflect the distribution of natural resources and separate conflicting recreational uses.
- Sanctuary zones are 'no take' zones, offering special protection to all organisms, plants and animals - including fish, corals and shells which must not be disturbed or removed.
- Recreation zones provide for recreational uses that are consistent with conservation of the environment.
- General use zones provide for both recreational and commercial uses.
There are a number of Ningaloo Reef snorkel sites that can be reached by conventional vehicle. A number of other sites can only be reached by four wheel drive. For information on the variety of Ningaloo Reef land and sea tours on offer search for a Ningaloo Reef tour or contact the Exmouth Visitor Centre.
Fishing in the Ningaloo Marine Park is permitted in general use and recreational use zones in accordance with fishing regulations. No fishing is permitted in sanctuary zones. Make sure you grab a copy of the fishing guide for Ningaloo Marine Park before wetting a line available from the Department of Environment and Conservation and Fisheries WA offices.
For more information on Ningaloo Reef water activities, visit our dedicated diving and snorkelling pages.
Check out the video clip of the Ningaloo Reef below - you'll be amazed!