Coral Bay Western Australia
This is the perfect location for people of all ages seeking relaxation, adventure or simply something completely different. With both marine and land wildlife, the town has so much to offer. It's a tourism settlement so hustle and bustle of city life is happily absent.
At a Glance
As the name suggests, there is great snorkelling on the pristine coral reefs, walkable from the beach.
The best way to book Coral Bay
Where is Coral Bay?
Coral Bay is 1200 kilometres north of Perth.
Coral Bay is situated in the northern area of Australia's Coral Coast tourist region. Coral Bay faces west to the Indian Ocean and is on a protected bay from which the town takes its name. Coral Bay is at the southern end of the Ningaloo Coral Reef on a remote stretch of coastline. One of the best ways to get to Coral Bay is hiring a car from Perth Airport, or flying to Learmonth Airport - approximately 90 minutes drive north of Coral Bay.
Things to see in Coral Bay
Ningaloo Coral Reef
Western Australia's largest coral reef can be walked to from the beaches of Coral Bay! Home to over 250 species of coral and 520 species of fish and also Dolphins, Manta Rays and Whale Sharks. White, sandy beaches typify the coastline fringing the reef, an attraction not to be missed.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Snorkelling
At Coral Bay the Ningaloo Reef extends to the shore, which is called a fringed reef, one of only a few in the world. This allows very easy access from the beach and there is always a new experience to be discovered. Several tours depart daily to sight Turtles, Manta Rays and Dugongs.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Beaches
A noticable feature when arriving in Coral Bay is the contrast between the lush, green landscape and the white, sandy beaches that extend as far as the eye can see. The entire bay is captured by these pristine and uncrowded beaches, something many people will love to experience.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Fishing
Coral Bay has been a destination for keen fishermen for many years. Beach fishing in and around Coral Bay is fun and easy to get to. For those who prefer to be out on the ocean, several boats operate fishing charters to locations where you may catch Groper, Trout and Red Emperor.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
What's the weather like?
Coral Bay has a warm and generally dry, Tropical climate. Rainfall occurs more towards the Summer months although there is no official 'Wet Season'. In Summer (December to February), the average maximum temperature is 38°C with an average minimum temperature of 18°C. In Winter (June to August), the average maximum temperature is 25°C with an average minimum temperature of 10°C.
Tropical Cyclones are a prevalent part of this region between December and April. It is essential that you understand the steps and the procedures in place for Tropical Cyclones when entering this beautiful part of the world.
Get to know Coral Bay's history
The coastline surrounding Coral Bay was originally chartered by the Dutch in the 1600s, although the presence of the Ningaloo Reef prevented landfall in the area. Due to the lack of rainfall and the general remoteness of the area, the region remained largely unsettled until the 20th century.
Existing only as a small outpost until the 1950s, the last four decades has seen Coral Bay increase in popularity as a tourist destination with the spread of reputation. The town also has a small side industry of fishing. People here simply enjoy the lifestyle. The town is named after the beautiful bay it resides on.
Looking for visitor and tourist information, maps and brochures, booking assistance and local expert tips in Coral Bay? Check out the Ningaloo Visitor Centre!