Monkey Mia is in the heart of Shark Bay, Western Australia. Where Aussie families come to have fun together. Beautiful beaches with blue water. Dolphins or manta rays to see. Perfect for family road trips or day trips to create memories for mum and dad and the kids.
For the Whole Family
The best thing about Monkey Mia Beach is its cleanliness – the local rangers keep it clean every day so you won’t find any rubbish around. And it’s safe – no steep cliffs or deep water, so even little kids can swim here worry-free. There are wild bottlenose dolphins in this area, so it’s one of the best places in Australia to see them up close. Plus, visitors can feed these gentle giants and do many other activities, such as cruises to see other sea life in the bay and beyond. With minimal environmental impact on the surrounding ecosystems through sustainable tourism practices at Monkey Mia, we think this is a great example of other destinations along Western Australia’s Coral Coast.
How do I get there?
Shark Bay Airport is 20 minutes from Monkey Mia so it’s easy! Once you arrive at the airport, RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort and other accommodation is just a short drive away with Google Maps API integration so you can find them even if you’ve never been here before!
If driving from Perth, then follow the signs onto Indian Ocean Drive, and you’ll get some great views along the way as this road winds past stunning coastal scenery against blue skies and rugged landscapes that are part of what’s known as The Coral Coast – a 1,000km stretch of coastline between Perth and Broome.
When should I visit Monkey Mia?
The best time to visit Monkey Mia is May to October when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. This is when you can see dolphins being fed by rangers and take marine life cruises without the summer heat. School holidays are busy but there are park facilities for family fun so worth considering if you’re planning to visit during this time.
What can we do there?
There’s something for everyone at Monkey Mia, with a wide range of activities suitable for all ages:
Nature Cruises
Nature cruises in Shark Bay allow families to get up close and personal with the unique marine life here. These trips go in-depth into some of the world’s most diverse habitats where dugongs, sea turtles and Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphins live, amongst others, all designed for kids. The calm shallow waters make these cruises perfect and safe for little ones, too, and the guides on these trips have great insights into local marine life and knowledge on the conservation efforts to protect these species, which is educational for kids and adults alike who join these tours. And you can’t help but be in awe of the beauty around you – pristine beaches with crystal clear waters against dramatic cliffs hugging the shores of this bay.
Wula Gura Nyinda Eco Cultural Adventures
Wula Gura Nyinda Eco Cultural Adventures is a travel and tour company that promotes cultural conservation in Shark Bay. The trips are designed to get visitors to the culture, history, and way of life of the people who live around here. They teach you about ancient customs, local stories and people’s connection to the land and sea. And it’s an entertaining way to learn while you’re learning about Monkey Mia’s natural beauty and cultural significance at the same time. You’ll get a better understanding if you interact with guides from the region because they know their heritage.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling is an exciting activity that gets you into the underwater world of Shark Bay National Park. The sea is blue and clear, so you can see for miles and see fish swimming around coral reefs. There are manta rays and other creatures here, so it’s perfect for both beginners and advanced snorkellers, as you can snorkel in shallow waters where these animals live. Most of the time, guided tours are offered, so you’re safe and get an education on marine ecology and conservation status through measures like fishing restrictions so people don’t over-exploit the resource and endanger lives underwater. So you get to have fun while learning about conservation.
Monkey Mia Dolphins
The dolphins at Monkey Mia are the smartest animals in the world, so seeing them is worth every cent you spend! They swim up to the shoreside hotels where many people gather daily to wait for their turn to feed them with fish provided by the authorities but under very strict supervision so as not to harm these beautiful creatures or disturb their natural behaviour too much. Note that feeding sessions are only within certain time frames, so do not overfeed them or become a nuisance when these activities are on. While watching these friendly creatures, visitors get entertained and educated about them too, including socializing skills and playing with each other and others, which can also be a good example for those who want to learn how to communicate with each other even if they come from different cultural backgrounds.
Francois Peron National Park 4WD Tour
Francois Peron National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Australia and it’s best seen by 4WD. The park has red sand dunes, salt flats and stunning coastal views that will blow your mind! This off-road adventure takes you through parts of the reserve that are not accessible any other way, so you can see more wildlife up close and amazing natural scenery in the Shark Bay World Heritage area. The guides are knowledgeable about ecology, history, and conservation efforts within the parks system, so you will have a comprehensive educational experience during your trip here!
Ocean Park & Shark Bay Dive
If you are interested in marine life, then Ocean Park Aquarium should be on your list of places to visit while at Shark Bay because it’s an interactive educational experience for families. The facility has many tanks with different species found around these waters, like sharks, rays and even tropical fish, among others. The park also allows people to participate in dive sessions where you can get up close and personal with some amazing creatures from deep down inside our oceans, so we can learn about the importance of conserving them since each has its own role to play in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem in the water bodies as well. There’s also an emphasis on ocean conservation issues around the world, so this place is perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about marine life and what needs to be done to protect it.
Dirk Hartog Island
Dirk Hartog Island is another dimension to your family holiday. This historic island can be reached by ferry and has hiking, fishing and wildlife watching. The beauty of this place is in the landscapes – rugged coastlines, sandy beaches and different ecosystems. And there’s history too – it was the first landing site in Australia for Dutch explorer Dirk Hartog. So for nature lovers and history buffs it’s a great destination.
Shark Bay World Heritage Drive
The Shark Bay World Heritage Drive shows you the natural and geological wonders of this region through a scenic drive. The drive takes in cliffs along the coastlines, salt pans and flats and the bright blue water. Along the way are several lookout points to stop and information boards that tell you about Shark Bay’s history. This is a slow drive, so you have time to take in the views and learn more about the environmental and cultural significance of the World Heritage area in Shark Bay. So, if you want to see different types of landscapes at your own pace, then this is the tour for you.
Quad Bike Tours
For a fun adventure around Monkey Mia and the surrounding area, quad bike tours are the way to go. These trips involve riding four-wheel motorbikes through sand dunes, bushland or coastal tracks. It is not suitable for very young children due to the safety aspects of operating these machines, which require coordination skills, but they can still participate under supervision, so it is great for families with older kids who love excitement during holidays. Local guides lead these tours and, ensure safety is followed at all times, and share knowledge of local ecology & conservation and wildlife habitats along the way. This is a fun activity that combines adrenaline with great views, so you’ll have memories that will last forever.
Steep Point
If you want to see the wild side of the Australian coastline, then Steep Point is a must-see. It’s the most western point on mainland Australia and has views over the ocean and surrounding area, which is perfect for photography or just taking in the natural beauty. The ruggedness of this place and the vastness of the views make it one of those rare landscapes you will never forget in your life. Fishing and picnicking are some of the activities you can do here, but most importantly, just sit back and take it all in because every angle is a different perspective from what you’ve seen before. A trip to Steep Point adds excitement and adventure to any trip and makes the Shark Bay region stand out.
Denham Discovery Trail
Take a leisurely stroll and discover Denham’s charm and history along the Denham Discovery Trail. This walking path is a nice break from more energetic activities and is the entry point to the town’s history. As you meander along the trail, informative signs and displays will tell the story of how this former fishing village became today’s thriving town through the stages of development marked by significant events. The trail has been designed to take you through key sites such as the old jetty, which is a reminder of Denham’s maritime heritage, so no stone is left unturned in telling where we come from.
The Old Pearler Restaurant
Dine at The Old Pearler Restaurant, and you will be taken on a culinary journey through the heart of Denham’s coastal charm. Located in a great spot, the restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for family dining in a casual environment. The menu has many options with a focus on fresh seafood from local waters. Whether you love seafood or want to try something new, this place won’t disappoint – prawns, fish, and calamari are just a few of the dishes they serve here!
Kite Surfing
Monkey Mia is one of the world’s best kite surfing spots due to its ideal conditions for thrill seekers. Consistent wind and flat water means beginners and experts can come all year round. Beginners can learn in shallow water with a gentle breeze, while more experienced riders can do tricks with the stronger wind blowing offshore.
Table: Top Activities in Monkey Mia
| Activity | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Nature Cruises | Explore marine life and enjoy scenic views. | All ages, families |
| Dolphin Feeding | Interact with wild bottlenose dolphins. | Families, kids |
| Snorkelling | Discover underwater beauty and marine life. | Families, adventure seekers |
| 4WD Tours | Explore rugged landscapes and national parks. | Families, adventure seekers |
| Ocean Park Aquarium | Educational experiences and interactive dives. | Families, marine enthusiasts |
| Dirk Hartog Island Trip | Visit a historic island with various activities. | Families, history buffs |
| Quad Bike Tours | Exciting ride through unique landscapes. | Older kids, adults |
| Shark Bay World Heritage Drive | Scenic drive showcasing natural wonders. | All ages, sightseers |
| Kite Surfing | Thrilling water sport with ideal conditions. | Adventure seekers, teens |
Conclusion
You’ll find heaps of family-friendly activities and natural wonders at Monkey Mia. You can have dolphin encounters, nature cruises or cultural Monkey Mia tours. Whether you’re planning a road trip with the family or just need a day off work on the weekend to get out and about in this area, there’s no better choice than Monkey Mia, as it’s fun and relaxing in equal measure. Get here today, and the kids will have memories for life, and everyone will have a great time!
FAQ
What’s the best for families in Monkey Mia?
Monkey Mia has family friendly activities like dolphin feeding, nature cruises, snorkelling or quad bike tours etc. RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort also has great facilities for families.
How do I get to Monkey Mia from Shark Bay Airport?
If you are flying into Shark Bay Airport then it’s about 20 minutes drive to Monkey Mia by car or shuttle services operate between the two.
When can I visit Monkey Mia?
May-October is the best time as the weather is mild enough for outdoor activities and dolphin interactions.
Are there restaurants in Monkey Mia?
Yes! Restaurants nearby include The Old Pearler Restaurant, where you can find local dishes, including fresh seafood.
What else is near Monkey Mia?
Francois Peron National Park, Shark Bay World Heritage Drive, Dirk Hartog Island and Ocean Park Aquarium are all close by so you can explore other sights during your visit.
