Ningaloo Reef on the Coral Coast of Western Australia is the perfect family holiday destination. Its beautiful beaches, clear waters and coral gardens offer a range of activities for all ages. This article will help you find the best activities around Ningaloo Reef so your family has a great holiday.
Ningaloo Reef and What It’s Famous For
Ningaloo Reef is one of the world’s largest fringing reefs, 260km long. Its shallow water and proximity to shore makes it perfect for families, you can snorkel or swim on the coral reef and see marine life without needing a boat. The reef is famous for its biodiversity, whale sharks and humpback whales are the gentle giants that call it home, making it a bucket list destination. The reef is part of the Ningaloo Marine Park which is known for its marine ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Family Activities in the Area
Families visiting Ningaloo Reef can do a range of activities to suit different interests and ages. Here are some of the top family activities around Ningaloo Reef:
Jurabi Turtle Centre
The Jurabi Turtle Centre near Exmouth is a great place for families to learn about marine conservation. This educational facility shows you the lives of nesting turtles and turtle hatchlings. Interactive exhibits and guided tours are hands on and fun for kids. The centre is all about conservation of these amazing creatures and a great place to learn about the work that goes into protecting their environment.
Glass Bottom Boat Tour
A glass-bottom boat tour is a great way for families to see the underwater world of Ningaloo Reef. From the boat, you can see colourful coral bommies, fish and reef sharks without getting wet. Tours are led by experienced guides who will provide you with lots of information about the reef. Perfect for families who don’t want to be confident swimmers.
Kayak or Stand-Up Paddle Board Hire
For a more hands-on adventure, hire a kayak or stand-up paddle board. Paddling the calm waters of Ningaloo Reef from a kayak or paddle board allows families to get up close to the reef’s marine life and white sandy beaches. Perfect for beginners and a fun way to enjoy the clear waters and coastal views.
Day Trip to Coral Bay
A day trip to Coral Bay is a great option for families to visit another beautiful coastal town on the Coral Coast. Coral Bay has beautiful beaches, great snorkelling and family friendly activities. The Coral Bay Eco Tours have some great options to explore the underwater world, including swimming with the biggest fish, whale sharks. A peaceful day trip for the family.
Yardie Creek and Boat Tour
Yardie Creek is located in Cape Range National Park and is famous for its gorge and wildlife. A boat tour through Yardie Creek Gorge gives families the opportunity to see the rock formations, see wildlife such as black tip reef sharks and enjoy the scenery. The boat tours are educational and scenic so it’s a great family experience.
Ningaloo Visitor Centre and Aquarium
The Ningaloo Visitor Centre and Aquarium in Exmouth is the perfect place to start any family adventure. The aquarium has exhibits on the marine life of the region, including coral and fish. The visitor centre has all the information you need on the local area, activities and conservation. It’s a great place to get information and plan your family’s Ningaloo Reef activities.
Birds Eye View Scenic Flight
For a bird’s eye view of Ningaloo Reef and the surrounding area, consider a scenic flight to Birds Eye View. This exhilarating flight will give you stunning views of the reef, Cape Range National Park and Coral Bay Beach. It’s a great way to see the scale and beauty of the reef and its surroundings.
Snorkel Turquoise Bay
Turquoise Bay is famous for its snorkelling. The shallow waters and coral reefs make it perfect for beginner snorkellers and families. The bay is calm and a great place to see colourful reef fish and coral gardens. It is a must-see for anyone who wants to experience the underwater world of Ningaloo Reef.
Hike or Boat Through Cape Range National Park
Cape Range National Park near Ningaloo Reef has hiking and boating options for families. The park has deep canyons, sand dunes and beautiful beaches. Popular spots are Mandu Mandu Gorge and Paradise Beach. Families can hike or cruise through the park and take in the scenery and wildlife.
Table of Family-Friendly Activities Around Ningaloo Reef
| Activity | Description | Location | Duration | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jurabi Turtle Centre | Learn about local turtle species and conservation efforts. | Near Exmouth | 1-2 hours | All ages |
| Glass Bottom Boat Tour | Observe marine life and coral gardens through a glass-bottomed boat. | Exmouth | 1-2 hours | All ages |
| Kayak/Stand-Up Paddle Board | Paddle through calm waters to explore the reef and spot marine life. | Exmouth | 2-4 hours | All ages |
| Day Trip to Coral Bay | Enjoy snorkelling and beach activities in a charming coastal town. | Coral Bay | Full day | All ages |
| Yardie Creek Boat Tour | Scenic boat tour along the creek, viewing wildlife and rugged cliffs. | Cape Range National Park | 1-2 hours | All ages |
| Ningaloo Visitor Centre & Aquarium | Educational exhibits on marine life, geology, and Indigenous culture. | Exmouth | 1-2 hours | All ages |
| Birds Eye View Scenic Flight | Aerial tour of the reef and surrounding landscapes for stunning views. | Exmouth | 1 hour | All ages |
| Snorkel Turquoise Bay | Explore vibrant coral and marine life in shallow, clear waters. | Turquoise Bay | 1-2 hours | All ages |
| Hike or Cruise Through Cape Range National Park | Discover scenic gorges, beaches, and wildlife through hiking or cruising. | Cape Range National Park | 2-4 hours | All ages |
Conclusion
Ningaloo Reef has plenty of family-friendly activities to suit all interests and ages. From educational visits to conservation centres to boat tours and snorkelling, there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to chill on beautiful beaches, explore coral reefs or go on an adventure, Ningaloo Reef and surrounding areas are the perfect place for a family holiday. Plan your perfect family getaway with exciting Ningaloo Reef tours! Check out our top picks for kid-friendly activities, from coral tours to swimming adventures.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Ningaloo Reef for a family?
April to July is the best time to visit Ningaloo Reef when the weather is good and whale sharks are around. This is perfect for snorkelling and other outdoor activities.
Are there family friendly accommodation near Ningaloo Reef?
Yes, there are family friendly accommodation options including caravan parks, holiday parks and luxury resorts like Ningaloo Reef Resort. There’s something for all budgets and tastes.
What are the safety considerations for snorkelling with kids at Ningaloo Reef?
Supervise kids and wear snorkel vests. Choose calm, shallow water and consider guided snorkelling tours for extra safety.
Can families visit Ningaloo Reef on a budget?
Yes, there are budget options like visiting public beaches and parks, hiking and self guided tours. Staying at caravan parks or camping sites will help with costs.
Are there any local tours for families?
Yes, many local tour operators offer family friendly tours like Coral Bay Eco Tours and Coastal Adventure Tours which are fun and educational for all ages.
