Uncover the Best of the West: Top 10 Snorkel Spots in Western Australia

by Catalin Andries on May 13, 2024

© Photo by Kgbo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Western Australia's coastline is a treasure trove for snorkelling enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of marine habitats and breathtaking underwater landscapes. From vibrant coral reefs to fascinating marine life, there's no shortage of adventure waiting beneath the waves. Grab your snorkel mask and get ready to explore the top 10 places to snorkel in Western Australia, brought to you by Ninja Shark Australia.

Ningaloo Reef

© Photo by Shiyam ElkCloner, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Ningaloo Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site renowned for its pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkel alongside majestic manta rays, playful dolphins, and colorful reef fish. Don't miss the chance to swim with the ocean's gentle giants, the whale sharks, during the annual migration season.

Approximately 13 hours north of Perth lies the charming coastal town of Exmouth, your portal to an underwater wonderland. If you prefer to fly, the journey from Perth to Exmouth takes around two hours.

Between March and August, the reef becomes a haven for majestic whale sharks, granting you the extraordinary chance to encounter and swim alongside these gentle giants. As if that weren't enough, from August to October, graceful humpback whales grace these waters as they make their annual migration.

Rottnest Island

© Photo by Hesperian, CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Rottnest Island beckons as a snorkeler's haven, boasting sprawling coral reefs and a rich tapestry of marine wonders. Delight in over 400 diverse fish species that call these azure waters home, while unparalleled visibility promises unforgettable underwater exploration. Encounter an array of captivating creatures, from playful dolphins and graceful turtles to elusive octopuses and majestic lobsters, all amidst vibrant schools of fish that dance beneath the surface.

Just a short ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island boasts crystal-clear waters teeming with marine biodiversity. Explore the island's numerous snorkelling spots, including The Basin and Parakeet Bay, where you'll encounter vibrant coral gardens and friendly quokkas on land.

Coral Bay

© Photo by W. Bulach, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Coral Bay is a snorkeler's paradise, offering easy access to the fringing coral reef right from the beach. Slip on your Ninja Shark snorkel mask and wade into the turquoise waters to discover an underwater wonderland inhabited by colorful corals, tropical fish, and graceful sea turtles.

The underwater world teems with mesmerizing marine creatures – watch as vibrant reef fish flit among the coral as you glide along. Yet, the true stars of the show are the graceful manta rays, majestic humpback whales, and gentle whale sharks.