Exmouth: Where the Reef Meets the Outback
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Asko Meriläinen
Your travel planner, Entrepreneur
Guest author, Charlotte C., June 2026
Exmouth is one of those rare places that stays with you long after you’ve left. Perched on the remote north-west coast of Western Australia, it offers an unforgettable mix of incredible marine life, rugged landscapes, and laid-back Australian coastal charm.
The best time to visit is between April and October, when the weather is mild and the risk of cyclones has passed. If swimming with whale sharks is on your bucket list, plan your trip between April and July.
Whale sharks are the world’s largest fish, and they are sharks, not whales. And it’s a truly humbling experience to share the water with these gentle giants, and one we’ll never forget. Be sure to book well ahead – accommodation and whale shark tours often sell out six months in advance.
We loved our day with Ningaloo WhaleShark Swim. Their passionate crew, quality equipment, excellent underwater photography, and delicious lunch made for an exceptional experience. As a bonus, we also swam with manta rays and spotted humpback whales and dugongs along the way.
The World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef is the star attraction, and the best part is how easily accessible it is. Turquoise Bay and Oysterstacks, both within Cape Range National Park, offer some of Australia’s best shore-based snorkelling in the world. At Turquoise Bay, take the famous drift snorkel and float effortlessly over vibrant coral gardens, keeping an eye on the signage and exit points as currents can be strong. For Oysterstacks, visit at high tide for the safest and most enjoyable conditions.
Before heading into the national park, stop by the local bakery and stock up on picnic supplies. Their wraps, doughnuts, almond slices and Nutella brownies are legendary, and you’ll be grateful for a cooler bag as there are few food options once you leave town. Sandy Beach is an excellent spot for your picnic lunch and is usually a bit less crowded.
Despite its remote location, Exmouth has a surprisingly impressive dining scene. Enjoy tapas and cocktails at Exhale Exmouth, soak up the relaxed atmosphere at Whalebone Brewing Company, indulge in fresh local seafood at Whalers Restaurant, or satisfy your appetite with the famous ribs at Cadillacs Bar & Grill (come as you are). Many venues also offer excellent gluten-friendly options.
As the day winds down, join the locals at Cape Range Lighthouse to watch the sun sink into the Indian Ocean. Later, look up, the stars are extraordinary. Add in a cruise through Yardie Creek to spot rock wallabies, a hike into the dramatic Mandu Mandu Gorge, or even a scenic flight over Ningaloo Reef, and it’s easy to see why Exmouth captures so many hearts.
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