Why visit Shark Bay, Western Australia?

By Michelle Gilmore
January 14, 2019
Beaches & Coasts, Bucket List, Destinations, Family Friendly Fun, Fishing, Immerse Yourself In Nature, National Parks, Routes & Road Trips, Sights, Things to do, Western Australia, Wildlife

Shark Bay World Heritage Area is situated on the Western Australian Coast, it is actually two bays – and it is area you do not want to miss.

Situated north of Kalbarri, and south of Carnarvon on the beautiful WA coastline, all of these favourites are accessible with a conventional vehicle:

Wild dolphins at Monkey Mia

Monkey Mia, probably what we knew the area best for, before our visit. We wanted to check it out and compare it to our very own Tin Can Bay – also known for feeding wild dolphins. It is best to arrive early and entrance fees apply.

The visitor centre was excellent, and gave the kids a great insight into the bottlenose dolphins. It was super busy, note that only a few people are selected to feed the dolphins.

Stromatolites at Hamelin Pool

Take the 200m boardwalk to see “living rocks”. Stromatolites are best viewed on low tide. These early lifeforms are one of the best examples in the world. There is also the history of the Telegraph Station Museum.

Shell Beach

Off Shark Bay Road, 44km from Denham you HAVE to stop and see a whole beach made of tiny Fragum cockle shells.

I read deposits may be up to 10m deep! Since the water here is twice as salty as the ocean, predators can’t survive – so there are amazing amounts of this single species.

Eagle Bluff

Eagle Bluff has fantastic views. Below the boardwalk are full of life – sharks, rays, turtles, fish and the occasional dugong in the shallow waters.There’s also two small limestone islands where seabirds breed. Bring your binoculars.

Denham is where we made our base, but you’ll find loads of camps: WA 465-483 in CAMPS 10, and six parks in CARAVAN PARKS 5 (see Map 168).

If you have a 4WD you can also visit Francios Peron and Dirk Hartog Island National Parks. We have audited the area for CAMPS 10, so you will find more sites around this area. Be prepared to book ahead and note – the barge fees are expensive!

Find out more about budget and free camping sites, or caravan parks throughout Australia – take advantage of our 15% discount by entering the following coupon at the checkout: directcaw9.