Shark Bay World Heritage Area was Western Australia’s first world heritage listed area and one of only 16 Australia wide that fit all four selection criteria. Shark Bay’s wilderness and natural wonders make for a unique holiday.
As well as the world-renowned affable dolphins of Monkey Mia, the many bays and inlets in the region are ablaze with multicoloured sea life. The turquoise waters are so clear that docile dugongs, manta rays and marine turtles are easy to spot.
Shark Bay is also home to the remarkable Hamelin Pool stromatolites – the oldest and largest living fossils in the world. The mystery surrounding their origin has attracted scientists from across the globe, who have compared the find to that of a zoologist discovering a living dinosaur.
Most visitors are drawn to the Shark Bay World Heritage Area for the chance to befriend some of Monkey Mia’s enchanting bottle-nosed dolphins.
Just a 30 minute drive northeast of Denham – the area’s main town – Monkey Mia is a must for families and nature lovers.
The dolphins are famous for their almost daily ritual of swimming to shore to interact with humans. Seven of them make regular beach visits, with up to 20 others occasionally stopping by to greet a captivated audience.
Visitors may have the opportunity to feed the dolphins under the supervision of a national park ranger.
Shark Bay’s enchanting coastline
Shark Bay is Australia’s largest marine embayment, with more than 1,500 kilometres of meandering coastline.
A mecca for travellers throughout the year, its natural marvels include Zuytdorp Cliffs and the Wooramel Seagrass Bank.
Shell Beach is another extraordinary feature of the area. This vast beach is made up not of sand, but of tiny white seashells that stretch for more than six kilometres and delve 10 metres deep.
Shark Bay is ideal for boating, fishing, snorkelling and diving. With accommodation to suit all budgets and styles, from resorts to caravan parks, discovering the magic of this World Heritage location is a must.
