# Australia's Coral Coast Guide | Ningaloo Reef, Whale Sharks & Exmouth
Canonical: https://bookfromowner.com.au/guides/wa/coral-coast/
Type: DestinationGuide
Location: Australia's Coral Coast, Western Australia, Western Australia
Last updated: 2026-06-01

> A guide to Australia's Coral Coast — the World Heritage Ningaloo Reef, whale sharks from mid-March to early August, white beaches, and the twin bases of Exmouth and Coral Bay.

## Quick Answer
- Best for: Whale sharks, snorkelling & remote beaches
- Price range: $180–$550/night
- Vibe: Wild reef coast
- Distance: ~1,270 km / fly to Learmonth from Perth

## Featured Properties
- Ningaloo Caravan and Holiday Resort: 4/5 (960 reviews)
  Book direct: https://exmouthresort.net.au/
  Ningaloo Caravan and Holiday Resort — Australia's Coral Coast
- Ningaloo Reef Holidays: 4.7/5 (286 reviews)
  Book direct: https://maps.google.com/?cid=12070328675976154902&g_mp=Cidnb29nbGUubWFwcy5wbGFjZXMudjEuUGxhY2VzLlNlYXJjaFRleHQQAhgEIAA
  Ningaloo Reef Holidays — Australia's Coral Coast
- Ningaloo Lodge Exmouth: 4.3/5 (231 reviews)
  Book direct: http://www.ningaloolodge.com.au/
  Ningaloo Lodge Exmouth — Australia's Coral Coast

## FAQ
Q: Where is Australia's Coral Coast?
A: Along Western Australia's mid-west shore, centred on Ningaloo Reef. Exmouth, the main base, is about 1,270 km north of Perth — roughly a 13-hour drive or a 2-hour direct flight to Learmonth Airport.

Q: When is the whale shark season?
A: Mid-March to early August, peaking April to July. Tours leave from Exmouth; operators use spotter planes to locate the animals and guarantee a swim or re-book you.

Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: April to August: the dry season, whale shark window, manta ray peak, and comfortable temperatures (20–28°C). Avoid December to February — extreme heat (40°C+) and cyclone risk.

Q: Is the Coral Coast good for families?
A: Yes, with caveats. Turquoise Bay and Coral Bay have calm, shallow water for confident young snorkellers; the whale shark tours have age minimums (typically 10–12 years). The remote logistics — long drives, limited services — suit families who travel self-sufficiently and like adventure over resort.

## At a Glance
- State: Western Australia (Mid-West Gascoyne)
- Hub town: Exmouth + Coral Bay
- Known for: Ningaloo Reef (World Heritage), whale sharks, manta rays, Turquoise Bay, Cape Range NP
- Whale shark season: Mid-March to early August
- Getting there: Fly to Learmonth Airport (LEA), ~2 hrs from Perth; or drive 1,270 km via North West Coastal Hwy
- Best season: April–August: dry season, whale sharks, manta rays; avoid December–February (extreme heat, cyclone risk)