Top 15 Things to do in Exmouth: Ultimate guide to Ningaloo Reef, Camping and tours

Are you looking for the best things to do in Exmouth? This ultimate guide covers everything you need to know.

From snorkelling straight off the beach at the Ningaloo Reef to swimming with whale sharks, exploring rugged gorges and camping along some of the most remote coastline in Western Australia. Exmouth offers a completely different kind of travel experience.

We spent over six weeks exploring Exmouth and the Ningaloo Coast, and it still didn’t feel like enough. There’s something special about the turquoise water, the dirt roads, and the endless coastline that makes you feel like you’re in another world.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best things to do in Exmouth, plus everything you need to plan your trip. We’ll also cover where to stay, when to visit, and how to structure your time.

➤ If you’re exploring more of the state, make sure to check our full Western Australia Travel Guide for more destinations and road trip inspiration.

Why visit Exmouth, Western Australia?

Exmouth is one of the most unique coastal destinations in Australia, sitting right on the edge of the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef. Unlike the Great Barrier Reef, where you need to take a boat, the Ningaloo Reef is accessible straight from the beach, making it one of the best places in the world for snorkelling.

What makes Exmouth truly special is the combination of rugged outback landscapes and vibrant marine life. In one day, you can explore red rock gorges in Cape Range National Park, snorkel with turtles and reef sharks, and end your day watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

If you’re looking for remote beaches, incredible wildlife encounters, and off-grid camping, Exmouth offers a raw, untouched experience that feels completely different from anywhere else in Australia.

Where is Exmouth located?

Exmouth is located in Western Australia, on the North West Cape, approximately 1,250 kilometres north of Perth. It sits between the Indian Ocean and Cape Range National Park, making it a gateway to the Ningaloo Coast.

The closest major towns are Carnarvon and Karratha. If you’re flying in, you’ll arrive at Learmonth Airport, located just 40 minutes from Exmouth.

Driving to Exmouth is a popular option, especially for road trips along the Coral Coast. From Perth, the drive takes around 12 to 14 hours, depending on stops.

➤ If you are planning a longer trip, you can combine Exmouth with a Coral Coast road trip from Perth. Follow our detailed Perth-to-Exmouth road trip itinerary to plan the full journey.

How to plan your trip to Exmouth

Before diving into the best things to do in Exmouth, here are the key guides you’ll need to plan this trip properly:

• Where to stay? ➞ Read our guide on Camping in Exmouth for the best base options
• Remote beach camping ➞ Explore our Camping at Ningaloo Guide
• National park camping ➞ See our Cape Range National Park camping guide
• Trip planning ➞ Use our 3-5 Day Exmouth Itinerary to structure your visit
• Seasonal timing ➞ Check our best time to visit Exmouth guide

Best things to do in Exmouth

The best things to do in Exmouth revolve around the ocean, but there’s much more to this destination than just snorkelling. From swimming with whale sharks to exploring rugged gorges and remote 4WD tracks, Exmouth offers a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Whether you’re visiting for a few days or staying longer to explore the Ningaloo Coast, this guide covers the absolute must-do experiences, plus a few hidden gems that make this region so special.

1. Swim with Whale sharks 

If there’s one thing you have to tick off while you’re in Exmouth, it’s this one. Swimming with the gentle giants of the ocean is an experience you’ll never forget. Whale shark season runs from March to August. You can try and spot them yourself, but booking a tour is 100% worth it.

Most tours include all the gear, a spotter plane to find the sharks, meals and a snorkelling session on the reef. We did the tour with Ningaloo Discovery, and we absolutely loved it. It’s super busy and full on. As soon as they spot a whale shark, everyone has to get ready to jump in. You’ll most likely go in groups of 10, which can feel like a lot. But as soon as you put your head under water and see that massive whale shark glide past, you forget about everything else. Absolutely breathtaking.

This is one of the top things to do in Exmouth and a major reason why people travel here.

TIP: Book your tour early; they sell out quickly in peak season, and you don’t want to miss out. We booked it six months ahead, and we didn’t regret it. You might get an early bird discount, too! Saves you some money.

➤ Expect to pay between $550 and $750 per person. You can book your experience to swim with whale sharks here.

2. Beach camping at Ningaloo Reef

Camping at Ningaloo is one of the best things to do in Exmouth, especially if you’re looking for a remote beachfront experience.

Practical things to know:

• You’ll need to book a camping permit through Parks WA
• An entry fee or parks pass is required when camping at Cape Range National Park
• When camping at Ningaloo, a chemical toilet is mandatory
• Bring everything with you (drinking water, food and all other supplies)

➤ These sites require a 4WD and full self-sufficiency. Read our full Camping at Ningaloo guide for booking tips, campground breakdowns and what to expect.

3. Explore Cape Range National Park

Cape Range National Park is one of Exmouth’s highlights. Here you’ll find the turquoise ocean, epic snorkelling spots, rugged gorges and incredible hikes. You can easily spend a day or two exploring this national park, it’s one of the best things to do in Exmouth.

➤ Cape Range National Park is home to some of the best snorkelling spots in Western Australia. For camping options inside the park, read our Cape Range National Park Camping Guide.

TIP: You’ll need a national park pass to enter. You can buy this online or at the visitor centre.

4. Snorkelling in exmouth and Ningaloo reef

Snorkelling is one of the main reasons people visit Exmouth, and it’s what makes this destination so unique. It was one of our favourite things to do in Exmouth.

The Ningaloo Reef sits just metres from the shoreline, meaning you can walk straight into the water and explore vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, turtles and reef sharks.

Some of the best snorkelling spots in Exmouth are Turquoise Bay, Oyster Stacks and Lakeside. Each location offers something different, from drift snorkelling to calm, shallow reefs that are perfect for beginners.

Conditions vary depending on tides, wind and swell. Always check before heading in. For the best experience, visit early in the morning when the water is calm, visibility is higher and less crowds.

TIP: You’ll need a national park pass to snorkel inside Cape Range National Park.

➤ For a full breakdown of the best locations, read our best snorkelling spots in Exmouth & Ningaloo Reef guide.

5. Hike the gorges

If you feel like you need a break from the water, head to the gorges. Mandu Mandu Gorge is a short but rewarding hike with epic views. Yardie Creek Trail is another must-do. You might spot black-footed rock wallabies and ospreys along the track! To access the hikes, you’ll need a national parks pass. It’s one of those underrated things to do in Exmouth, but absolutely worth it.

6. Have a beer at Whalebone Brewery or Froth Craft Brewery

After a big day of adventuring, nothing beats a cold beer at a local brewery. And Exmouth happens to have two iconic spots that are both worth a visit if you have the time:

– Whalebone Brewery

Famous for its delicious ginger beer and wood-fired pizzas. They do live music too, and it’s such a vibe. They also serve burgers and loaded fries in collaboration with Bullara Station. A must-try if you’re going for the food.

– Froth Craft Brewery

Great for craft beer lovers, great burgers and they often have events and gigs.

We spent a fair few nights at Whalebone Brewery, and met so many other travellers. It’s a great place to meet people, making it one of the best things to do in Exmouth.

Free Things To Do In Exmouth

Now let’s talk about the free stuff, because honestly, some of the best things to do in Exmouth don’t cost a thing.

7. Watch the sunset at Vlamingh Head Lighthouse

For the best sunset view in Exmouth, head to Vlamingh Head lighthouse. The sun sets in the Indian Ocean, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot whales breaching in the distance (seasonal).

Pack a sunset picnic, a cold drink, and enjoy mother nature’s show. It’s simple, free, and truly magical.

8. Surfing at Dunes or Wobiri 

9. Kitesurfing at Sandy Bay

Sandy Bay is a kitesurfer’s paradise. The water is shallow and crystal clear. When the wind picks up, Sandy Bay is the place to be. When there’s no wind, this place is still a great beach for a day out. The white sand and turquoise water make it ideal for a beach day.

10. Whale watching from the beach in the season

From June to November, humpback whales migrate along the Ningaloo Coast as they travel north to warmer waters to breed and give birth. One of the best things about Exmouth is that you don’t need a boat tour to see them. You can often spot them straight from the beach.

Peak whale watching season usually falls between July and October, when numbers are highest and sightings are most consistent. During this time, it’s common to see whales breaching, tail slapping or cruising just offshore.

Some of the best spots for whale watching in Exmouth include Vlamingh Head Lighthouse, Jurabi Point and many of the beaches and campgrounds inside Cape Range National Park. Elevated viewpoints and west-facing beaches give you the best chance of spotting activity, particularly around sunrise and sunset.

We saw a few humpback whales breaching while watching the sunset from camp at Kurrajong Campground. Whale watching never gets old, and it’s one of the best things to do in Exmouth.

TIP: Bring a pair of binoculars.

11. Turtles nesting season at Jurabi point 

If you’re in Exmouth between October and March, don’t miss turtle nesting season along the Ningaloo Coast. This is when female turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs, making it one of the most unique wildlife experiences in Western Australia and one of the best things to do in Exmouth.

Jurabi Turtle Centre, located inside Cape Range National Park, is one of the best places to witness this. The peak nesting period usually runs from November to January, when sightings are more frequent. A few weeks later, between January and March, you may even see hatchlings making their way from the dunes to the ocean. It’s an incredible and emotional experience.

To protect the turtles, access to nesting beaches is managed during the season. You’ll need to follow marked paths, avoid using torches or flash photography, and keep a respectful distance. In some cases, guided tours are available and are the best way to experience this responsibly while learning more about turtle conservation.

12. Charles Knife Canyon

This is one of our favourite things to do in Exmouth. Drive up to the lookout, and you’ll be blown away by the views. Deep canyons carved through the red rock, stretching all the way to the ocean. Go at sunrise or sunset for the best light.

13. Off-shore fishing

Exmouth is a fishing mecca. Even if you don’t have a boat, make friends with someone who has one, or join a fishing charter and try to catch some serious fish. Maccydave’s Kayak Fishing Adventures is a great option if you want to try something different. You can go fishing from a kayak, and you’re guaranteed to catch a huge Spanish Mackerel.

14. Take the 4WD tracks

If you’re travelling with a 4WD, you’re going to love this one. Exmouth has some great off-road tracks. Drive to the old whaling station near South Lefroy, or check out Shothole Canyon that takes you through a stunning landscape that feels completely untouched.

Always check road conditions before you go.

15. Beach Day – Hang out & chill

Honestly, one of the best things to do in Exmouth is…absolutely nothing! Grab a book, find a quiet stretch of beach and just soak up the beauty of this incredible place.

Best beaches in Exmouth

Exmouth is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Western Australia, many of which are located inside Cape Range National Park. The combination of white sand, turquoise water and direct access to the Ningaloo Reef makes these beaches truly unique.

Some of the best beaches in Exmouth are:

Turquoise Bay

One of the most famous beaches in Western Australia, known for its drift snorkel along the reef.

Oyster Stacks

Incredible snorkelling spot with crystal-clear water, best visited at high-tide.

Sandy Bay

Perfect for kitesurfing or relaxing beach days.

Osprey Bay

A quieter option with beautiful views and great access to the reef.

Dunes Beach

Great for surfing or watching the surf.

Jurabi Coastal Park

Watch turtles mating at Jurabi Coastal Park. The best time to watch them mating is September-October.

Where to stay in Exmouth

Choosing where to stay is one of the most important decisions when planning your trip.

• Stay in town ➞ Read our camping in Exmouth guide for comfort and convenience
• Stay in nature ➞ See our Cape Range National Park camping guide
• Go remote ➞ Explore camping at Ningaloo options

Exmouth itinerary: How many days do you need?

While it’s possible to see the highlights and cover the best things to do in Exmouth in a couple of days, we strongly recommend spending at least 3 to 5 days here to properly experience the region.

With 2 days, you’ll be rushing between snorkelling spots and missing out on the more remote areas. With 3 to 5 days, you can explore Cape Range National Park, relax on beaches, go snorkelling and potentially join a tour like swimming with whale sharks.

If you have more time, staying a week allows you to slow down and experience Exmouth properly, including beach camping along the Ningaloo Coast.

➤ Use our 3-5 Day Exmouth itinerary to plan your trip day-by-day.

Best time to visit Exmouth

The best time to visit Exmouth depends on what you want to experience. Whale shark season, fishing, snorkelling conditions and weather all vary throughout the year.

➤ For a full breakdown, read our best time to visit Exmouth guide.

Getting around Exmouth

Getting around Exmouth is easiest with your own vehicle, especially if you plan to explore Cape Range National Park and the Ningaloo Coast. Many of the best beaches and snorkelling spots are spread out, and public transport options are limited.

A 2WD vehicle is enough to access most areas in town and the sealed roads within Cape Range National Park. However, if you’re planning to explore more remote locations or go beach camping along the Ningaloo, a 4WD is essential.

Is Exmouth worth visiting?

Absolutely! It’s one of the few places in the world where you can snorkel directly from the beach and encounter turtles, reef sharks and vibrant coral reefs within minutes.

Beyond the ocean, Exmouth also offers incredible hiking, 4WD adventures and some of the most scenic coast drives in Western Australia.

While it requires a bit more effort to get here compared to other destinations, that’s exactly what keeps it special. Fewer crowds, more space, and a true sense of adventure make Exmouth one of the best places to visit in Western Australia.

How much does a trip to Exmouth cost?

The cost of visiting Exmouth can vary depending on your travel style, but here’s a rough breakdown to help you plan:

Accommodation:

• Campgrounds: $15 – $40 per night
• Caravan Parks: $30 – $70 per night
• Hotels and stays: $150 – $400+ per night

Tours:

• Whale shark tours: $450 – $650 per person
• Sunset or snorkelling tours: $150 – $350 per person
• Fishing charters: $200 – $400 per person

Park fees

A Cape Range National Park entry fee or WA parks pass is required.

Fuel & Food

Fuel prices are generally higher than in major cities due to the more remote location. Groceries are available in Exmouth, but prices can also be slightly higher than average.

Overall, Exmouth is not the cheapest destination in Western Australia, but the experiences you get here are absolutely worth it. Mix both paid and free things to do in Exmouth for the best experience.

Plan your Exmouth Trip

Planning your trip to Exmouth doesn’t have to be complicated. If you want to make the most of your time here, start with these detailed guides to help you plan your route, choose where to stay and time your visit properly.

➤ Or explore all our Western Australia Travel Guides to help plan your trip.

Essential Tips for visiting Exmouth

Keep these essential tips in mind:

• Book tours early, especially during whale shark season
• Bring all supplies if you’re planning to go beach camping at the Ningaloo
• Always check the current and tides before snorkelling
• Fuel up in town before heading into Cape Range National Park
• Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance from marine life

Things to do in Exmouth FAQs

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