Ningaloo Marine Park
Ningaloo Marine Park protects a large portion of Ningaloo Reef, the largest fringing coral reef in Australia, and nestled along the western side of Northwest Cape. It contains a huge diversity of fish (500 species) corals (over 200 species) molluscs (600 species) and many other marine species. Coral reefs protect coastlines and, as the tropical rainforests of the ocean, are home to thousands of other species.
The area is also famous for its abundant large marine fauna such as whale sharks, humpback whales, manta rays, turtles and dugong. Whale sharks are the world’s largest living fish with mature adults growing more than 12 metres long.
The marine park has a series of zones including Sanctuary zones which are “look but don’t take” areas managed solely for nature conservation and low-impact tourism. They are important as refuge areas for marine life as well as helping to replenish adjacent areas.
The Milyering Visitor Centre provides all sorts of information on Cape Range and Ningaloo including both residential reef inhabitants and those that visit on a regular basis. Whale sharks, whales, manta rays and turtles frequent the marine park and displays in the visitor centre describe their interesting biology and habits and how we can share the reef safely with them.
The area is very significant to the Gnulli people. The area has a long history of occupancy by Indigenous communities and traditional use of the marine environment continues. Maritime heritage, panoramic seascapes and wilderness experiences are all inherent values of Ningaloo Marine Park.
Campgrounds are located adjacent to beaches along the coast. From here, it is often a short swim out to spectacular coral gardens. Accidents have happened so visitors need to be competent swimmers to enjoy the reef areas and are reminded to read all warning signs. Recreational fishing, snorkelling, swimming, wind surfing and surfing are all popular activities for visitors to the park.