Ningaloo Reef on the beautiful Coral Coast of Western Australia is a world-famous destination for its marine life and, in particular, Whale Shark Tours. Here, you get to swim with the gentle giants of the ocean, the whale sharks. As the biggest fish in the world, these magnificent creatures attract adventurers from all over the globe to the turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef. The whale shark season is from March to August which coincides with the coral spawning and these filter feeders are attracted to the nutrient rich waters of Ningaloo Reef.
Along with whale shark encounters, you can also see humpback whales, manta rays, and a vibrant coral ecosystem that is full of life. Whether you’re swimming, snorkelling or taking a boat tour, Ningaloo’s natural habitat is the ultimate adventure. Let’s check out the top spots for Whale Shark Tours and whale shark sightings:
Exmouth
Exmouth is located on the northwestern tip of Western Australia’s Coral Coast and is a top spot for Ningaloo Reef tour and sightings. From March to August, Whale Shark Tours from Exmouth take you out to the outer reef, where the nutrient-rich turquoise waters are home to these amazing creatures. The biggest fish in the ocean, whale sharks, can grow up to 40 feet long, and swimming alongside them is an incredible experience. Exmouth also has humpback whales, reef sharks and other marine life, such as manta rays.
Kings Ningaloo Reef Tours in Exmouth provides snorkelling gear, wetsuits and experienced guides to ensure a safe and amazing experience for their guests. The crew often includes a marine biologist who will educate guests on the whale shark’s feeding habits and their role as filter feeders in the marine environment. After a day in the water, you can chill out in the beautiful Cape Range National Park, which borders the town and has stunning views and walking trails.
Coral Bay
A bit further south of Exmouth is the peaceful town of Coral Bay another great spot for Whale Shark Tours. Coral Bay’s calm waters are perfect for swimming with whale sharks and a more intimate and relaxed experience than Exmouth. This town also has access to Ningaloo’s coral gardens where you’ll find a multitude of colourful fish, reef sharks and manta rays swimming alongside the coral.
Coral Bay tours, such as Coral Bay Eco Tours, take you on whale shark swim tours that also show you the area’s diverse marine life. These day tours often include snorkelling with manta rays and a visit to Coral Spawn sites. An experienced crew leads the tours, and you have plenty of time in the water, followed by a gourmet buffet lunch on board the boat.
Turquoise Bay
Turquoise Bay is famous for its white sand and turquoise water. It’s a must-see in Ningaloo Marine Park. Here, you can have one of the best snorkelling experiences in the world, where coral reef systems support a huge variety of marine life, from manta rays to whale sharks. While not as busy as other whale shark hot spots, Turquoise Bay is still a top spot for whale shark encounters during the season.
If you want a more personal experience, several tours operate out of Turquoise Bay, snorkeling with fish and exploring the outer reef. The nutrient rich waters here are perfect for whale sharks and manta rays, so it’s a paradise for underwater photographers and marine lovers.
Lighthouse Bay
Lighthouse Bay at the northern end of Ningaloo Reef is another great spot for Whale Shark Tours. Warm waters and close to Exmouth Gulf, Lighthouse Bay is home to manta rays, humpback whales and, of course, whale sharks. Snorkel tours here explore the fringe reef and the deeper waters of Ningaloo Reef, and you’ll have an unforgettable experience swimming with these gentle giants.
With professional guides and licensed operators on board, Whale Shark swim tours from Lighthouse Bay are safe and memorable. Tours also include Gourmet buffet lunches and an option to have an underwater photographer to capture every moment with these amazing creatures.
Osprey Bay
Located in Cape Range National Park, Osprey Bay is a peaceful spot for those who want a more private experience with whale sharks. The bay is also home to humpback whales, blue whales and Bottlenose Dolphins so you may see other marine life. As part of Ningaloo Discovery, tours from Osprey Bay are smaller so you’ll have a more personal experience with the majestic whale shark in their natural habitat.
The reef systems in Osprey Bay are rich in marine life and tours often snorkel through coral gardens and the outer reef. The calm and protected waters here are perfect for all levels of swimmers and the crew prides themselves on providing a highly personal and exceptional whale encounter experience.
Whale Shark Season in Ningaloo Reef: When to Go
Whale shark season in Ningaloo Reef is from March to August, with the peak season being April to July. The whale sharks come to Ningaloo’s nutrient-rich waters after the annual Coral Spawn, so this is the best time to see them. Tours from Exmouth, Coral Bay and other Ningaloo hotspots will guarantee sightings.
Ningaloo Reef: A Marine Heaven
In addition to the whale shark experience of a lifetime, Ningaloo Reef is a haven for all sorts of marine life, manta rays, humpback whales and other beautiful creatures like reef sharks. The reef’s natural environment is fragile so conservation is key to the survival of these magnificent creatures. Ningaloo Reef also has several ocean conservation programs where you can learn about the importance of preserving this marine magic.
Swimming with the gentle giants in the turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef is a must-do on the bucket list. Whether you’re drawn to the gentle giants, stunning coral reefs or the chance to see manta rays and humpback whales, Ningaloo Reef is an experience you won’t forget.
FAQ
What’s the best time to see whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef?
Whale Shark Tours are from March to August, and peak season is from April to July.
Are whale sharks dangerous?
No, whale sharks are filter feeders. They’re harmless to humans, so swimming with these gentle giants is safe.
What other marine life will I see on a whale shark tour?
Manta rays, humpback whales, fish and reef sharks.
What do I need to bring for a whale shark swim tour?
Tours provide snorkelling gear and wetsuits. Bring a towel, sunscreen and an underwater camera.
Are whale shark tours for beginners?
Yes, most tours are for all levels of swimmers, guides are trained, and safety measures are in place for everyone.
