Ningaloo Reef and the North West Cape of Western Australia

Off the beaten path.  That would probably be my key description for a holiday destination such as the North West Cape of Western Australia.  Not a lot of glitz and glamour of a fast paced city rat race, which is just how I like my trips.  (Of course, a bit of dazzle every now and again doesn't go astray).  To be honest, it's not the easiest nor most convenient of places to get to, but then, nothing worthwhile comes easy, right?  To put this area into perspective, have a look at the Ningaloo Reef Travel Destination Map.  With this as your key destination, you should fly into Exmouth (Learmonth Airport).  Qantas, Skywest and Virgin Blue all service Learmonth from Perth, so you do have a few different options.  

Here's a link to some info about Ningaloo Reef Australia Hotels, so that you can read up a bit before you actually search hotels in Exmouth.  As I normally do, this is another place where I'd strongly recommend booking your hotel in advance.  You have plenty of options to try, from upscale resorts to budget lodges, to unique eco accommodation.  Once you get there, there's plenty to keep you occupied.  One of the main attractions if you're travelling between March and June is to swim with the Whale Sharks (sounds a bit scary, but it really isn't). 

Snorkeling with the Whale Sharks

The entire region is home to a wide variety of wildlife and sea life.  It's on the winter migratory routes of humpback whales, dugongs, dolphins and manta rays.  In addition, the beaches in the area are an important nesting ground for turtles.  Thanks to great conservation efforts and relatively small populations, the beaches are pristine and the flora and fauna are prolific.

Snorkeling at the reef

If you're thinking to yourself, "do I want to go to the beach in the wintertime?", then it bears mentioning that the winters in this area are typically warm and dry, with average temperatures of 25 C (75 F).  Summers are usually hot and dry with an average temperature of 38 C (100 F).  To use an old Australian phrase, don't forget to Slip-Slop-Slap!  (Slip on a shirt, Slop on sunscreen and Slap on a hat).

Still, if you'd rather travel during the southern springtime, then you'll be treated to a spectacular display of wildflowers in September and October. 

So, no matter what time of year, just GO!  You won't regret it!

For a bit more history and geography of the region, check out the Travel Destination Ningaloo Reef page on our website.