On this weeklong journey through Australia's West Coral Coast, adventure through the beaches of Exmouth and then to the capital of Western Australia—Perth. In Exmouth, snorkel through Ningaloo Reef, and go swimming with whale sharks. Then, explore the canyons of Cape Range National Park and cruise along Yardie Creek. Next, fly to Perth for a nighttime walking tour of the bar and restaurant scene, followed by a trip to Rottnest Island for a self-guided biking and snorkeling tour. The journey winds down with a free day in Perth to continue discovering landmarks and hidden gems alike.

Highlights

  • Swim with whale sharks and snorkel around Ningaloo Reef
  • Tour the stunning gorges of Cape Range National Park
  • Embark on a walking food and beverage tour of Perth at night
  • Visit Rottnest Island for a self-guided biking and snorkeling tour

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Exmouth Exmouth
Day 2 Swim with Whale Sharks Exmouth
Day 3 Cape Range National Park Tour Exmouth
Day 4 Fly to Perth & Nighttime Walking Tour Perth
Day 5 Rottnest Island, Bike and Snorkel Day Trip Perth
Day 6 Free Day in Perth Perth
Day 7 Depart Perth  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Exmouth

Welcome to Exmouth!
Welcome to Exmouth!

Today, fly from Perth to Exmouth, which is located on the Coral Coast of Western Australia. Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodations on Ningaloo Reef. Your central home base is ideal for exploration of both the reef itself as well as Cape Range National Park.

Once checked in, relax and explore the beach. The afternoon and evening are at your leisure to enjoy.

Day 2: Swim with Whale Sharks

Go swimming with whale sharks
Go swimming with whale sharks

Today, prepare to meet the iconic species of Exmouth—the whale shark. The day begins on a boat cruising into the lagoon to snorkel the reef, with morning tea provided. Then, head outside the reef and begin the whale shark adventure. After swimming with these magnificent creatures, enjoy lunch on the boat, and head back to the reef for an afternoon snorkel session. Then, return to the resort, and enjoy the evening in your own time. 

Day 3: Cape Range National Park Tour

Cruise through Yardie Creek
Cruise through Yardie Creek

This morning, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation to take you to Cape Range National Park. Stroll through Shot Hole Canyon, along the gravel gorge floor, and ascend to the top of Cape Range at Charles Knife Gorge. Then, enjoy morning tea and cake, accompanied by beautiful views of the Exmouth Gulf. Next, go off-road on deserted outback tracks with expert guides to help you discover the rare and diverse plants and animals of Cape Range. As you travel through the national park, keep an eye out for native wildlife, including red kangaroos, euros, and emus.

Next, your guide will prepare a picnic lunch while you enjoy a refreshing swim in the turquoise lagoon at Osprey Bay. Then, depart for Yardie Creek for an exclusive boat tour.  Peer out at the grandeur of Yardie Creek Gorge while navigating the tranquil waters through the red limestone cliffs. After the boat tour, head to Ningaloo Marine Park to enjoy the waters of Turquoise Bay. This crystal-clear bay provides the perfect environment to snorkel and swim on the Ningaloo Reef—with all gear supplied.

As an end to the day, stop by the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse to snap a few commemorative photos. Once back at the resort, the evening is at your leisure.

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Day 4: Fly to Perth & Nighttime Walking Tour

Perth
Perth

Today, fly from Exmouth back to Perth. Meet your guide at Perth Town Hall tonight to embark on an after-hours walking tour. Enjoy an evening journey through Perth's burgeoning food and beverage scene. Experience local hangs on foot, and eat and imbibe as you discover the bars and restaurants within the city center—in heritage buildings and laneways—and other off-the-beaten-path watering holes.

In between venues, stroll sections of the city and discover other landmarks, thriving street art, and more. Absorb some of the fun histories of the city as you wind your way through the town.

Day 5: Rottnest Island, Bike & Snorkel Day Trip

Rottnest Island
Rottnest Island

Today, take a scenic ferry ride over to Rottnest Island. Then, pick up your bike and snorkeling gear, and explore at your own pace. Discover hidden corners, picnic spots, and quiet beaches. Look for wildlife—but watch out for the cute quokkas. While snorkeling among the warm waters, take note of the pristine coral and the many schools of colorful fish all around. Get to know Rottnest's underwater marine life up-close and personal. Following your adventure, return to your hotel and enjoy the evening on your own.

Day 6: Free Day in Perth

Kings Park
Kings Park

Today includes a day of leisure to discover more of Perth at your own pace. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, sits where the Swan River meets the southwest coast. Sandy beaches line its suburbs, and the huge riverside Kings Park and Botanic Garden on Mount Eliza offer sweeping views of the city. The Perth Cultural Centre houses the state ballet and opera companies and occupies its central precinct, including a theatre, library, and the Art Gallery of Western Australia.

Continue your free day into the night, and indulge in a nice farewell dinner to celebrate your last night in Australia.

Day 7: Depart Perth

Farewell, Australia!
Farewell, Australia!

In the morning, take some time to reflect on your trip to Australia before transferring to the airport for your departure flight home. Safe Travels!

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Map

Map of West Coral Coast: From Exmouth to Perth - 7 Days
Map of West Coral Coast: From Exmouth to Perth - 7 Days