Ningaloo Reef

Ningaloo Reef is said to be Western Australia's answer to the Great Barrier Reef, and what an answer it is. But its the differences between the two that make Ningaloo stand out, as well as the similarities. Stretching for 260 kilometres up the North West Cape, the reef sits very close to the shore, meaning you are able to walk straight from the beach onto the coral. The sheltered shallow waters between the reef and the beach are crystal clear, and the white sand beneath shines through the bright blue, giving the beaches an incandescent quality. Beautiful weather, dazzling scenery and an astounding concentration of marine life make the Ningaloo Reef the ultimate holiday. The fact that its wonders are within swimming distance of the shore make it all the more appealing.

Ningaloo Reef, which is a protected Marine Park, has become a mecca for snorkellers and scuba divers keen to experience its underwater delights. There is nothing more soothing than gliding through these waters lazily taking in some of the 220 coral species and 500 fish species present here. Surrounded by thousands of tropical fish and all the colours of the rainbow this underwater world can entertain and surprise you all day long. The smooth waters and the shallow depths mean that anyone can enjoy snorkelling here, no matter how young or old you are. Even if you are simply wading through the shallows, the colourful fish swim and feed around your feet. For those who do not want to get wet at all, a semi submersible submarine in Exmouth does tours around the reef, and through its clear floors the coral gardens and the fish are clearly visible. This is perfect for photography opportunities, and the expert commentary going on the whole time will educate you about the marine environment.

Scuba divers are often attracted here for the opportunity to dive with the amazing whale sharks in the deeper parts of the reef between the months of March and June. These gentle giants grow up to fourteen metres in length, and because of their strictly plankton diet are safe to swim with. Their presence attracts thousands of smaller fish, making a dive with these creatures a diverse and moving experience. The whale sharks are important to the locals here, who organise an annual Ningaloo Reef Whaleshark Festival that uses live music and performing arts to highlight the areas relationship with the whale shark. Another common sight in these waters are the giant turtles that come to nest on the beach between November and February. Green, Loggerhead and Hawkesville turtles are often seen making their way through the shallows and amongst the coral gardens.

The multitude of life under the surface in Ningaloo means that the fishing is second to none. Fishing from the shore is easy and fun, as well as being safe for the younger children. But its in the deeper waters where the real challenges are to be met, where the monsters are lurking. There are lots of species to be caught including Red Emperors, gropers, North West Snapper, mackerel and tuna.

Exmouth is the town where most people visiting the reef base themselves. Situated 1270 kilometres north of Perth, any drive to Exmouth is going to be a long one. There is an airport in the town that caters to domestic flights so this is probably the easier option for visiting the region. Pick up a hirecar at the airport and you will be able to explore the region more fully. Mobility is essential, because in this expansive part of the country the distances between any two points is normally fairly large!

Another favourite destination is Coral Bay, situated about 120 kilometres south of Exmouth. Situated twelve kilometres off the main road, many bypass this in favour of Exmouth. It is a smaller and quieter town, and the access to the reef here is better than in Exmouth. As a destination Coral Bay is very nature oriented. Dont come here expecting shops and nightclubs, come here expecting to be blown away by the rugged terrain of the Australian outback and the crisp blue waters and white beaches of the ocean. The marine life is just as spectacular, with the whale sharks migration also bringing them within site of the shore. Coral Bay is just as equipped as Exmouth to deal with tourists, with all the usual forms of charters operating.

Gavin Wyatt is a journalist with a passion for travel. originally from Zambia he has traveled around the world to end up on the sunny shores of Australia. For more of his articles visit West Australian Car Hire