Particularly, Australia's most western state is known for its stunning coastline. With expansive stretches of unspoiled beaches and pristine rivers galore, it’s no wonder that there are plenty of adventures on the water awaiting visitors to the west coast.
Here are five unmissable marine adventures waiting for you in Western Australia.
1. Sail around Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island is one of Perth’s biggest tourist attractions, and there is no better way to experience this dazzling ocean paradise than by boat. Head there with an easy ferry ride from Perth CBD or Fremantle. Then, jump on a marine tour with an experienced operator to see firsthand the island’s stunning limestone cliff beaches and spectacular turquoise water teaming with marine life. Snorkel amongst a stunning array of fish and coral, and if you’re lucky enough to be there in April, you might happen upon a humpback or southern right whale making its way up the coast on its annual migration from Antarctica. Stay for a day or book yourself a longer holiday at one of the best island holidays in Australia.
2. Dive on Ningaloo Reef
The world-heritage listed Ningaloo Reef is one of Australia’s most revered diving locations and and one of the most breathtaking places to visit in all of WA. Located off the West Australian coast at Exmouth approximately 1,200 kilometres north of Perth, the reef is one of the world’s most biologically diverse marine environments, with over 250 species of coral, over 500 species of fish and a large population of marine turtles. With its close proximity to the shoreline, the reef is easily accessible, making it a marvelous marine wonderland for snorkellers and divers of all ages and abilities. Take up the opportunity to swim with the reef’s large population of marine turtles (6 of 7 of the world’s marine turtles have been spotted here) or get up close and personal with a whale shark, the world’s largest fish.
3. Learn to surf in Margaret River
Without question, Margaret River is one of Australia’s most popular wine regions. However, what many people may not know is that it is also home to some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches and inviting surf breaks. Make the most of your time between wine tastings and brewery tours by learning how to surf at one of these stunning seaside locations. There are plenty of operators offering one-on-one and group lessons; try the Margaret River Main Break at Surfer’s Point, Injidup Beach, Cowaramup Bay or Smiths Beach.
4. Kayak on Lake Argyle
Located in Australia’s vast and ancient East Kimberley region 70 kilometers from the north-western town of Kununurra, Lake Argyle is one of Australia’s biggest inland waterways its largest permanent reservoir of water. Kayaking is an excellent way to appreciate the lake; take in the dazzling array of colours and views of the ranges edging the water, or explore the numerous islands dotted across the vast expanse of water. If kayaking isn’t your thing, there’s also several operators offering cruise tours of the lake; relax and enjoy a meal or be dazzled by a stunning sunset with a twilight tour.
5. Cruise the Kimberley coast
Australia’s last frontier comprises of ancient terrain as vast and mysterious as it is awe-inspiring. Explore some of the 12,000 kilometres of uninhibited Kimberley coastline by boat; operators in the area offer a variety of cruise options, with some providing helicopter or smaller boat excursions to the more remote aspects of the Kimberley. There are many highlights of a Kimberley coast tour; for example, Montgomery Reef is Australia’s largest inshore reef with strong tidal flows creating hundreds of waterfalls and attracting migratory wading birds, feeding turtles, manta rays, black tipped reef sharks and dugongs. There’s also the spectacular Horizontal Falls, the twin drops of King George Falls and Wandjina and Gwion Gwion Aboriginal rock art to marvel at.
If you're keen to explore the waters of Australia's beautifully wild west, book a great value Virgin Australia fare today and start planning your own marine adventure.