- Where is Australia's Coral Coast?
- Is there a fee to get into the national parks?
- What are the Pinnacles?
- Where can I see wildflowers?
- Can I swim with the dolphins at Monkey Mia?
- Are Whale Sharks and Manta Rays dangerous?
- Do I need a licence for fishing in Australia's Coral Coast?
- What is the difference between Ningaloo Reef and the Great Barrier Reef?
Q: Where is Australia's Coral Coast?
A: Australia’s Coral Coast in Western Australia starts 2 1/2 hours drive north of Perth at Cervantes and follows the beautiful Indian Ocean coastline as far north as Exmouth. Australia's Coral Coast is a region full of natural attractions,coastal, marine and outdoor activities.
There are various options, for getting to Australia's Coral Coast. You can fly with Skywest Airlines, Jump on a coach, catch a tour with one of the many tour operators of the area, or hire a car and drive. Australia's Coral Coast has sealed highways up the coast which make for perfect driving conditions. See Safe driving tips for more information.
Australia's Coral Coast region, provides ideal weather every day of the year with a Mediterranean climate in the south bordering on Sub Tropical in the north.
Q: Is there a fee to get into the national parks?
A: In some national parks of Western Australia Entrance Fees and Day Fees apply, if you are planning on visiting a number of parks it may be beneficial to purchase a national parks pass.
For more information visit the Nature Base website.
Q: What are the Pinnacles?
A: The Pinnacles are natural limestone pillars that reach up to 3 metres tall and are made from ancient shells. The Pinnacles are found in the Nambung National Park, in the town of Cervantes.
Q: When can I see wildflowers?
A: Australia's Coral Coast is wildflower country all year round, however displays are at their best from June to November when inland areas explode into a carpet of brilliant colour as wildflowers blanket the region.
Australia's Coral Coast has produced a Wildflower Map to help with the planning of your wildflower itinerary. The Wildflower Map is available through the RAC's website.
Q: Can I swim with the dolphins at Monkey Mia?
A: The dolphins of Monkey Mia are protected by the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC). The Dolphins come to the beach three times a day to feed. There are DEC Rangers that feed the dolphins and they will choose a member of the crowd to help feed them.
Throughout the day the dolphins like to hunt for fish in this area and if you are swimming in the beach there is a chance one may swim by you, however it is not recommended to pat or touch the dolphins as they are wild animals.
Q: Are Whale Sharks and Manta Rays dangerous?
A: Both Whale Sharks and Manta Rays are filter feeders, feeding on krill and plankton. The Manta Ray, has no barb in it's tail unlike the Sting Ray. The Manta Ray has a wing span of up to 4 metres in width, while the Whale Sharks can grow up to 19 metres in length. Tours are available to swim with these majestic creatures and depart daily from Coral Bay and Exmouth (whale Sharks seasonal).
Both these graceful creatures swim close to the surface so only snorkelling tours are available, you should be a confident swimmer to participate in these tours. Most tour companies offer snorkelling equipment and wetsuit if needed.
Q: Do I need a licence for fishing in Australia's Coral Coast?
A: In all of Western Australia a fishing licence is required for the following:
- Rock Lobster
- Abalone
- Marron
- South-West Freshwater Angling
- Net Fishing
The West Australian Department of Fisheries also enforces a limit to the quantity of finfish recreational fishers can keep. This is for conservation purposes.
Each Person may have a maximum of:
- 20kg of fillets or pieces of fish
- or: 10kg of fillets or pieces of fish
- or: two days' bag limit of whole fish
For more detailed information visit the Department of Fisheries Website.
Q: What is the difference between Ningaloo Reef and the Great Barrier Reef?
A: The Ningaloo Reef is similar to the Great Barrier Reef in the experiences and activities it offers, but that is where the similarities end. The Ningaloo Reef is a fringing reef system and is within metres from the shore, you can literally walk to the reef. (The Great Barrier Reef is only accessible by boat or plane). The Ningaloo Reef is a snorkeller's and Diver's paradise as it encompasses 260kms of coastline and consists of 250 species of coral and is home to an array of marine life.
