Planning for your next getaway? How about a family getaway that combines adventure, relaxation, and spiritual rejuvenation? ☀️ Western Australia, with its breathtaking natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere, offers an ideal destination for Muslim travellers seeking unforgettable experiences. Among the many treasures that Western Australia holds, Ningaloo Reef on the Coral Coast stands out as a Muslim-friendly haven that promises an enchanting journey for the entire family. In this guide, we will explore why Ningaloo Reef is a must-visit destination, how to get there from Perth, where to stay (from just SGD40!) and much more. Prepare to add Ningaloo Reef to your itinerary! 🐚🌊
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Why visit Ningaloo Reef?
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Nestled on the Coral Coast of Western Australia, Ningaloo Reef is an underwater paradise renowned for its pristine turquoise waters, abundant marine life, and stunning coral formations! This natural wonder stretches over 300 kilometres, providing ample opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and observing vibrant underwater ecosystems with more than 200 species of corals. 😄 If you’re looking for a retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city life, Ningaloo Reef is the perfect coastal getaway for you and your family!
Getting there from Perth
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There are several ways to get to Ningaloo Reef from Perth. The most convenient method is to take a direct flight from Perth to Learmonth Airport, which serves as the gateway to the Ningaloo region. Qantas operates regular flights to Learmonth, making it easily accessible for travellers. Once at Learmonth, you can hire a car or arrange for a transfer to your accommodation to either Exmouth or Coral Bay!
P.S. Coral Bay and Exmouth are 153kms or about 1 ½ hours apart. Exmouth is about a 45-minute drive around the north west cape to the best part of the reef and Coral Bay is located on the reef so you can swim from the beach onto the reef.
Things to do at Ningaloo Reef
1. Snorkelling, diving and swimming
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If you’re a diver or snorkel enthusiast, Ningaloo Reef will definitely excite your adventurous side! Immerse yourself in the mesmerising underwater world of Ningaloo Reef, where you can encounter colourful fish, turtles, and even majestic whale sharks to the region. Even if you’re not the most proficient at the activity, various tour operators provide snorkelling and diving excursions tailored to different skill levels, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience for the whole family! 😎 Glass bottom boat tours from Exmouth or Coral Bay are a great way to experience the reef for those not wanting to get wet. Snorkelling is also available on these tours.
2. Wildlife Encounters
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They say a trip to Western Australia is never truly complete without a sighting of the ocean’s most spectacular creatures! 🐋 Embark on a wildlife adventure by joining a boat tour to spot the big three – dolphins, humpback whales (during migration season), and manta rays. Witnessing these wildlife in their natural habitat is an awe-inspiring experience that will create lasting memories for your family! Not to mention, it’s an educational experience for the kids.
P/S. Another must-do Ningaloo adventure is ‘drift snorkelling’ at Turquoise Bay – relax into the warm current and enjoy the passing parade of sea-life, just metres from the shore. Plus, did you know that Ningaloo is the only place in Australia where you can snorkel with whale sharks? Yes, that’s right! You’ll have this opportunity from March to July, and humpback whales from July to October (peak is during August or September) and manta rays all year round! The best spot for snorkelling with these majestic animals is in Exmouth and Coral Bay.
3. Explore the vast beach
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It’s not an exaggeration to say that Ningaloo Reef boasts pristine sandy beaches that are perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and building sandcastles with your little ones. 🏖️ Known as the jewel of the Coral Coast, the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef is biologically diverse both on land and in the sea! Relax under the warm sun, enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze, and take in the stunning coastal views.
4. Immerse in nature experiences
Get ready for the incredible Cape Range National Park! It's nestled on Exmouth's western side, the gateway to the Coral Coast. Picture-perfect attractions like Yardie Creek and Turquoise Bay await. Covering 50,581 hectares, this paradise is just 45 minutes from Exmouth. Encounter diverse wildlife: birds, emus, euros, and red kangaroos. In winter, the park bursts with over 630 plant species, including the famous red sturt desert pea. Lace up your hiking boots for breathtaking trails at Mandu Mandu Gorge, Shothole Canyon, Charles Knife Canyon, and Yardie Creek Gorge. Nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, this is your call to Cape Range National Park's wonders!
Halal food at Ningaloo Reef
There are currently no halal-certified eateries in Ningaloo Reef. While there are cafes and bakeries overlooking the coast, we recommend you dine at your own discretion! Alternatively, you can bring your own ready-to-eat meals or pack food with you for this trip.
Whalers Restaurant
The people of Australia love their seafood and in order to truly get into the vibe If you love fish and chips, you’ll love Whalers Restaurant! Known for their huge selection of fish (Goldband Snappers/Spanish Mackerel/NZ Hake), you’ll be able to enjoy deliciously fried fish and chips served with a wedge of lemon. They also have a wide range of plant-based dishes so you can enjoy without worry!
Halal status: Seafood menu is available but alcohol may be served
Address: Murat Rd and Welch St, Exmouth WA 6707, Australia
Opening hours: Breakfast: 7:00am - 10:30am, Lunch: 11:30am - 2pm Dinner: from 5pm till late (bookings recommended for dinner)
Accommodations at Ningaloo Reef
Exmouth is a 25 min drive from Learmonth and Coral Bay is 1 ¼ hours from the airport.
Ningaloo Coral Bay Backpackers
This hostel is one of the most affordable on the coast at only SGD40 a night! As you step into your room, you'll be greeted by the refreshing breeze of air conditioning and a shared bathroom that guarantees comfort and convenience. Not to mention, Paradise Beach is just a hop, skip, and a jump away, less than 1 km from your accommodation. How's that for a slice of paradise?
P.S. don't worry about transportation because the nearest airport, Learmonth, is conveniently located just 116 kilometres away. Plus, Ningaloo Coral Bay Backpackers offers a paid airport shuttle service, making your journey a breeze! 🙌🏼
Price: From SGD40
Address: Robinson Street, Coral Bay, Coral Bay, Australia, 6701
Ningaloo Coral Bay
Credit: Ningaloo Coral Bay on Facebook
Whether you’re getting away for a family holiday, backpacking or caravanning along the Ningaloo coast, Ningaloo Coral Bay offers a range of accommodation, as well as powered and unpowered camp sites for your stay at Ningaloo Coral Bay. If you’re travelling with a family, the Family Cabin (fits 6!) is perfect for you. The Bay Houses fit up to 10 guests, great if you’re travelling in a big group. There’s also a budget hostel, catering especially to budget travellers.
Price: From SGD150
Address: Robinson St, Coral Bay WA 6701, Australia
Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia beckons Muslim travellers and their families with its natural wonders and environment. From the vibrant underwater world to the sandy beaches and cultural encounters, Ningaloo Reef offers a harmonious blend of adventure, relaxation, and spiritual rejuvenation. Plan your trip, make the necessary arrangements, and embark on an unforgettable journey that will leave an indelible mark on your family's memories! 😎
This article was brought to you by Tourism Western Australia.
Coral Bay and Exmouth circled in red. The blue highlight is the reef.