Located in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shark Bay in Western Australia, Monkey Mia is a nature lover’s paradise with a range of eco-tours and experiences for those who love wildlife, marine conservation and the great outdoors. Surrounded by turquoise water, white sandy beaches and a kaleidoscope of marine life, Monkey Mia invites you to get up close and personal with nature and help protect it. Whether you’re swimming with dolphins, hiking over sand dunes or sailing across the calm waters of Shark Bay Marine Park, every moment in this peaceful corner of the Coral Coast is magic.
Dolphin Experiences
The most popular attraction in Monkey Mia, the dolphin experience, is a must-see for everyone. Every morning, the common bottlenose dolphins swim into shore, where visitors gather to get up close and personal. Managed by experienced rangers at the Monkey Mia Reserve, the interactions are about responsible dolphin feeding so we don’t disrupt their natural behaviour. Seeing these friendly dolphins in their natural habitat is an educational and enriching experience and shows the success of conservation in Shark Bay.
Wildlife Cruises and Marine Safaris in Shark Bay Marine Park
Take a marine safari through the crystal clear waters of Shark Bay Marine Park and spot manta rays, dugongs and turtles. Cruises depart regularly and take you to some of Shark Bay’s most iconic locations, including Steep Point, Eagle Bluff and Dirk Hartog Island. These safaris showcase the region’s marine life and educate passengers about conservation. Passengers often get to see Bottlenose dolphins playing in the boat’s wake, adding to the fun of these tours. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or an adventure seeker, a wildlife cruise is a window into the amazing ecosystems that make Shark Bay so special.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
For a more intimate and eco-friendly experience, kayaking and paddleboarding are the way to go through Shark Bay’s shallow waters. Paddle silently along the coastline and see coral reefs, foreshore birds and maybe even a dugong or two. Paddling across the turquoise water is peaceful and immersive and allows you to see up close the delicate ecosystems that make this region so special. Tours are available for all skill levels, and you can go on guided trips that focus on the conservation of this fragile marine environment. For those who want to get up close and personal with nature, kayaking is the way to connect with Shark Bay.
Wula Gura Nyinda Indigenous Cultural Tours
Wula Gura Nyinda tours will connect you with the cultural heritage of the traditional owners of the region. Led by Indigenous guides, these eco-tours will give you insight into traditional ways of sustainable living, bush tucker and the cultural significance of the Shark Bay landscape. You will be encouraged to get out into the natural environment and learn about the deep connection between the Indigenous people and the land. You will walk on sacred paths, hear ancient stories and participate in activities such as spear throwing or traditional fishing techniques, all while promoting sustainable tourism practices. Experience the beauty of Monkey Mia from Perth with Wula Gura Nyinda eco-tours. Engage with Indigenous culture, learn about bush tucker, and participate in traditional activities in a stunning natural setting.
Francois Peron National Park
Just north of Monkey Mia Francois Peron National Park is a vast wilderness where red sand cliffs meet the turquoise waters of Shark Bay. Visitors can take a guided 4WD tour and explore the park’s unique landscapes, sand dunes, coastal lookouts and pristine beaches. The park is a wildlife haven with kangaroos, emus, and many bird species that are calling it home. Whether you walk the Wulyibidi Yaninyina Trail or explore the coastal dunes, Francois Peron National Park is where you can experience the raw beauty of Western Australia.
Hamelin Pool and the Stromatolites
One of Shark Bay’s natural wonders is Hamelin Pool, home to some of the oldest living things on Earth – stromatolites. These living fossils will give you an insight into the history of life on the planet, dating back over 3.5 billion years. A visit to Hamelin Pool is a chance to walk along boardwalks above these ancient structures and learn about their importance in the evolution of life. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the area is protected so future generations can see these natural wonders.
Ocean Park Aquarium and Conservation Education
For those interested in marine conservation, Ocean Park Aquarium is an interactive and educational experience. You can see a variety of marine species from Shark Bay, including sharks, turtles and fish. The aquarium’s focus on conservation and sustainability is evident throughout the exhibits. Guided tours will explain the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and what we need to do to protect them. Located near Denham Beach, Ocean Park Aquarium is a great place for families to learn about Shark Bay’s marine life and conservation efforts.
Camping and Stargazing
For an intimate experience in Shark Bay’s natural environment, camping at Monkey Mia Conservation Park is the perfect way to get up close to the beaches and coastal dunes. At night, with no light pollution in this remote area, it’s a stargazing paradise. As the sun sets over the turquoise waters, the sky will fill with stars. For a truly eco-friendly experience, camp in the park and enjoy Monkey Mia by day and the universe by night.
Eco-Fishing Charters
If you love fishing, Shark Bay has options for you. Guided fishing charters are all about responsible fishing so you can fish and not harm the environment. Catch fresh snapper or coral trout and fish in a sustainable way. The guides will also teach you all about marine conservation and protecting Shark Bay’s biodiversity for the future.
Dirk Hartog Island
Located in Shark Bay, Dirk Hartog Island is full of history and eco-adventures. From guided 4WD tours to snorkelling in secluded bays, the island is for nature lovers who want to see unspoilt landscapes. Visit Cape Inscription, where Dutch explorer Dirk Hartog first set foot on Australian soil in 1616, and enjoy the views of the Coral Coast. The island’s isolation and diverse ecosystems make it a birdwatcher’s and photographer’s paradise and a peaceful retreat in nature.
Kalbarri National Park
A few hours from Shark Bay, Kalbarri National Park is famous for its river gorges and coastal cliffs. A visit to Kalbarri is a great add-on to your Monkey Mia trip, with more hiking, wildlife and photography opportunities. The park is also home to many bird and native wildlife species so perfect for eco-tourists who want to see more of Western Australia’s natural beauty.
Eco-Friendly Accommodation
Stay at RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort and you’ll have eco-friendly accommodation options right on the beach. The resort is all about sustainability, you can interact with dolphins, lounge by the pool and enjoy the surroundings knowing you’re part of a tourism model that will protect Shark Bay for future generations. You can also purchase eco-friendly souvenirs from the gift shop.
Monkey Mia and the surrounding Shark Bay area have eco-tours and experiences for nature lovers, families and adventure seekers. From dolphin interactions and kayaking to Indigenous cultural tours and Hamelin Pool, every experience is about showcasing Western Australia and protecting its unique environments. By choosing eco-friendly tours and accommodation, you can have an amazing time in Monkey Mia and support the conservation of its natural beauty for the future.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Shark Bay for eco-tours?
May to October is the best time to visit when the weather is cooler. Wildlife is more active, and outdoor activities like kayaking, bushwalking and dolphin spotting are at their best.
How can I make my Monkey Mia trip eco-friendly?
Choose eco-tour operators, keep wildlife at a distance, don’t use single use plastics and support local conservation efforts like beach clean ups and sustainable fishing practices.
Can I see dolphins every day at Monkey Mia?
Yes, Monkey Mia is famous for daily dolphin interactions where wild dolphins come in every morning. However, the interactions are managed to minimize the impact on the dolphin’s natural behaviour.
Are there Indigenous cultural experiences in Shark Bay?
Yes, Wula Gura Nyinda offer cultural eco-tours where visitors can connect with the traditional owners of the land and learn about sustainable living, bush tucker and the cultural significance of Shark Bay.
What to bring for eco-tours?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, eco-friendly insect repellent, reusable water bottle and a camera to capture the scenery and wildlife. If you’re doing marine tours, don’t forget your swimwear and towel!
