The Ultimate 6-Day Ningaloo Adventure

Arrive in Exmouth, check into your accommodation and take the day to settle into holiday mode. The moment you breathe in the fresh, salty sea air, you’ll feel yourself unwind. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming town and its surrounds on a half-day bus tour or visit the Ningaloo Discovery Centre to kick off your time in Exmouth, where you can discover the region’s stories and enjoy the impressive aquarium.

As the evening approaches, ease into a beverage and a delicious meal at one of Ningaloo’s standout food and beverage spots. Whether you opt for Fish and Chips with a stunner sunset or a pint at a local brew house, we guarantee there is something for everyone, check out our Ningaloo Food and Beverage Guide and take your pick. We recommend keeping the evening low-key because tomorrow’s Whale Shark adventure calls for an early start and plenty of energy after a good night’s rest.

Today is the day. It’s time to tick off the ultimate bucket-list experience, swimming alongside the world’s largest fish. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation early (around 7am) and transferred to the jetty for a short briefing before heading out into crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo Reef. Most tours begin with a warm-up snorkel and morning tea, before venturing offshore in search of the gentle giants, guided by spotter planes in constant contact with the skipper.

When it’s your turn, you’ll slip into the water and paddle alongside the whale shark under the guidance of experienced crew, with photographers on hand to capture the moment.

You’ll return to your accommodation between 4pm and 5pm, leaving the evening free to unwind and reflect on your incredible encounter. After an unforgettable day on the water, a relaxed dinner and an early night will feel well deserved.

From late March, Whale Shark tours also depart from Coral Bay, allowing you to begin your Ningaloo journey here and spend the first few nights soaking up its laid-back coastal charm before heading north to Exmouth. If you’re based in Exmouth, rest assured, Coral Bay still features later in the itinerary.

If you’d prefer to stay dry, there are plenty of ways to experience Ningaloo from above or on the water with no swimming required. Step aboard a glass-bottom boat or enjoy a scenic flight for a unique vantage point of Ningaloo Reef.

After an adrenaline-filled day on the water, slow things right down. Start the day with a good coffee and a hearty breakfast at one of Exmouth’s charming cafes, then stock up on supplies for a day exploring many of the iconic beaches and snorkel spots within Cape Range National Park.

Drift snorkel over colourful coral gardens, spot tropical fish and turtles at, or simply relax on the white sand and let the day unfold at its own pace. Feeling a little more adventurous? Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard or join a guided tour to explore the bay from a different perspective.

After a morning of sun, sand and snorkelling, spend the afternoon discovering the natural beauty of Yardie Creek, where towering red limestone cliffs meet calm, reflective waters. Take a leisurely walk along the Yardie Creek Gorge Trail for breathtaking views or join a guided boat tour through the gorge to spot local wildlife.

As the sun sets and the night sky lights up, head to Exmouth’s Vlamingh Head Lighthouse for an exceptional sunset with panoramic views or take it up a notch and enjoy an evening under the stars on a guided stargazing experience. Exmouth’s remote location means you will witness some of the clearest skies in Australia, perfect for spotting constellations, the Milky Way, and distant galaxies, a magical way to end the day.

Following your relaxing day of beachside bliss, get ready for some adventure. Lace up your hiking shoes and start the day early with an adventure into Cape Range National Park, home to some of Western Australia’s most spectacular trails. Explore rugged limestone gorges, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping vistas of the Ningaloo coastline.

Walks range from easy, scenic trails like Mandu Mandu Gorge and Yardie Creek to more challenging routes such as Shot Hole Canyon. Along the way, you’ll encounter vibrant wildflowers, native wildlife including rock wallabies, and breathtaking landscapes, so don’t forget your camera! Explore our hikes and trails guide for all the essential info, tips, and things you should know before hitting the paths.

If you’re not a confident hiker or you would prefer to be guided by a local, there are tours available that operate in Cape Range National Park including multi-day to half-day trekking tours.

If you’re not keen on a hiking day, check out our 75 Things to Do in Exmouth blog for alternative activities.

Today’s the day to hit the road for a day trip to Coral Bay (or opt for an overnight stay). Don’t have your own vehicle? Don’t worry! Exmouth Bus Charters offer a convenient half-day Coral Bay adventure, making it easy to experience this coastal gem without any hassle.

On your journey to Coral Bay, be sure to make a stop by Bullara Station, a working cattle station offering a warm outback welcome. Sit back, soak up the rustic charm and enjoy a barista-made coffee paired with their famous jam and cream scones, freshly baked on-site.

Once you arrive at Coral Bay, you’ll be greeted by the sparkling turquoise waters so make sure you pack your bathers and a snorkel, because you’ll want to dive in immediately! After a swim and a snorkel, jump on a Quad Bike Tour and experience Coral Bay on a unique self-drive ATV adventure.

When you’re ready to take a break, Coral Bay’s relaxed small-town atmosphere is the perfect place to unwind. Grab a smoothie or an ice cream, stroll along the beachfront, or simply sit back and watch the world go by. As the day draws to a close, make your way back north to Exmouth to enjoy your final evening by the sea. Alternatively, choose to spend your last night in Coral Bay and savour more time in this relaxed and picturesque coastal town.

On your final morning in Ningaloo, take a moment to soak it all in. Whether it’s a peaceful sunrise stroll along the beach, a last coffee overlooking the turquoise waters, a spot of shopping at one of the local boutiques to grab some last-minute souvenirs or simply sitting back and listening to the waves, reflecting on the adventures of the past six days.

From swimming with whale sharks and snorkelling vibrant reefs to exploring rugged gorges and starry nights, Ningaloo leaves memories that linger long after you’ve left.