Running between the fishing town of Cervantes up to the resort town of Exmouth, around 1,100 kilometres of picturesque coastline and inland natural wonders await. From World Heritage-listed reefs and bays to ancient limestone formations and breathtaking gorges, the sublime Coral Coast region of Western Australia is a world away from the everyday. We look at some of the highlights and amazing experiences that will provide you with some assured holiday bragging rights!
Indian Ocean Drive
Starting from Cervantes, venture into the Pinnacles, one of Australia’s most unique and intriguing landscapes, located in Nambung National Park. The mystical, natural limestone pillars were formed thousands of years ago after the sea receded and left deposits of sea shells, and it continues to be one of the state’s most visited sites. This southern gateway to the Coral Coast is packed with scenic coastal towns and an abundance of adventure.
Ningaloo
Visit World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef – the largest fringing reef on Earth. The vibrant Ningaloo Reef is home to colourful corals and a thriving marine life with this unique place often thought of as one of Australia’s best kept secrets. Located only ten metres offshore, it is regarded as one of the best places in the world to swim with the world’s largest fish, the Whale Shark, as these gentle giants migrate through here every year. Humpback Whales also make an appearance here from August to October with many visitors signing up for the opportunity to swim with these majestic mammals.
Shark Bay
Head to Australia’s largest bay, Shark Bay World Heritage Area, for striking natural wonders and diverse and unique flora and fauna. It is also the first location in Western Australia to have achieved UNESCO status thanks to its thriving ecological landscapes. Visit Monkey Mia for one of Australia’s most famous dolphin watching destinations, providing a unique opportunity to watch dolphins in their natural habitat. Another must-do here is, aptly named, Shell Beach, made up of billions of tiny sea shells up to 10 metres deep and over 70 kilometres in length, making for an incredible and picturesque sight to see.
Kalbarri
Explore spectacular 400 million-year-old river gorges, dramatic coastal rock formations and a kaleidoscope of wildflowers in Kalbarri, also known as one of the state’s most spectacular national parks, Kalbarri National Park. The Murchison River flows through this vast and magnificent landscape, carving out the deep gorges and creating a thriving habitat for some of the prettiest wildflower views during the winter months. One of the most iconic attractions here is Nature’s Window, a somewhat perfect natural rock frame of the upstream view of the river and also the location of the Loop Walk. Across from here sits the impressive Kalbarri Skywalk, and as the name suggests, it boasts twin walking platforms projecting 17 metres or 25 metres beyond the gorge rim, around 100 metres above the Murchison River.
Geraldton
As the only city along the Coral Coast, Geraldton is the cosmopolitan piece of the region, full of cafes, restaurants and shopping and very popular with visitors year round due to its laid back coastal vibe and abundant sunshine. Discover the history and heritage of this destination at the moving HMAS Sydney II Memorial and the Museum of Geraldton. For local Indigenous works, visit Yamaji Art, a 100% Aboriginal owned and operated gallery showcasing pieces from artists in Yamaji Country.
Click here for our holidays featuring Western Australia’s stunning Coral Coast or contact one of the Holidays Of Australia team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
Image credit: Tourism Western Australia
