Ningaloo Whale Sharks: When to Go and How to Book

If you have ever dreamed of slipping into clear, warm water beside the biggest fish in the sea, Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia is where that dream becomes real. Whale sharks congregate here each year in large numbers, drawn by one of the most reliable coral spawning events on the planet. The result is an extraordinary, ethical, and well-managed wildlife encounter that is accessible to snorkellers of all experience levels. This guide covers the best time to visit, how to book a tour, what to expect on the day, and tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Ningaloo is a World Heritage listed reef that hugs the coastline for 260 kilometers. It is one of the few places where you can step from shore to coral gardens in minutes. Add in manta rays, humpback whales, turtles, and turquoise lagoons, and you have an Australian marine safari that rivals anywhere in the world. If you are ready to turn an item on your wish list into a story you will tell for years, read on.

Why Ningaloo is One of the Best Places on Earth to Swim With Whale Sharks

Whale sharks migrate to Ningaloo every year following a predictable food chain triggered by the mass coral spawn in March and April. This makes sightings frequent and sustainable.

• High reliability: During the peak months, reputable operators enjoy very high sighting rates. Many offer a free repeat tour or partial refund if you do not swim with a whale shark.
• Ethical interactions: Tours follow strict government regulations with limited group sizes, minimum distances, and no touching policy to protect the animals.
• Accessibility: You do not need to be a diver. All interactions are snorkel only, in open blue water outside the fringing reef. Operators provide guides and flotation.
• Pristine setting: Ningaloo’s shallow reef means you can pair your whale shark day with easy shore snorkels at sites like Turquoise Bay and Oyster Stacks.
• Small coastal hubs: Base yourself in Exmouth at the northern end or Coral Bay further south. Each has licensed operators, accommodation, and restaurants.

When to Go: Seasonality and Best Months

The Ningaloo whale shark season typically runs from mid March to late July, with peak conditions in April, May, and June. Weather, water temperature, and wildlife activity all matter, so choose timing based on your priorities.

Month by Month Overview

• March: Start of the season. Coral spawning usually occurs mid to late March, fueling plankton blooms that lure whale sharks. Water is warmest, often 26 to 28 C. There can be some residual tropical weather, but tours are operating and first encounters can be spectacular.

• April: One of the best months. Whale shark numbers increase and the weather settles. Days are warm, seas generally calmer, visibility strong. Western Australia school holidays often fall in April, so book far in advance.

• May: Peak season. Sightings are reliable, temperatures are ideal, crowds are well managed by limited licenses. Expect excellent conditions for both blue water swims and reef snorkels.

• June: Still excellent for whale sharks. Water a little cooler, around 23 to 25 C, with very good visibility. Tour availability can be tight during school holidays so plan ahead.

• July: Late season for whale sharks with good chances early in the month. You also begin to see humpback whales migrating past the reef. Some operators offer humpback whale watching or swim tours from July onward.

• August to October: Traditional whale shark season tapers off, but humpback whale swim tours are in full swing. Manta rays, turtles, and reef life are present year round. If whale sharks are your priority, aim for April to June.

Weather and Water Conditions

• Water temperature: 23 to 28 C through the season. Most guests are comfortable in a provided short wetsuit or rash guard.
• Visibility: Typically 10 to 30 meters. Peak months often bring the clearest water offshore.
• Wind and sea state: Afternoon breezes are common, so many tours aim to be on the water early. If you are prone to seasickness, choose a morning tour and take preventative medication as recommended by your pharmacist.

School Holidays and Demand

Ningaloo is remote and capacity is capped by licensing. April and June school holidays are very popular. Book flights, accommodation, car hire, and your whale shark tour several months in advance for those periods. Outside of holidays you will still want lead time, especially for premium operators and photo packages.

Exmouth vs Coral Bay: Which Base Should You Choose

Both towns sit on the Ningaloo Coast and both offer outstanding whale shark tours. Your choice depends on where you want to stay and what style of trip you prefer.

Exmouth

• Access: Fly into Learmonth Airport, a 30 minute drive from Exmouth. Several weekly services operate from Perth.
• Tours: Most boats launch from Tantabiddi Boat Ramp on the western side, a 40 to 45 minute drive from town with hotel pickups available.
• Vibe: Larger than Coral Bay with more accommodation choices, restaurants, supermarkets, and services. Great base for exploring Cape Range National Park.
• Shore snorkels: Turquoise Bay, Oyster Stacks, Lakeside, and Oyster Bridge are standouts.

Coral Bay

• Access: A 1.5 hour drive south of Exmouth or a direct drive from Perth along the Coral Coast Highway. No commercial airport in town.
• Tours: Depart from Bills Bay or the local marina. The reef drop-off is close, so boat time to the blue water is often shorter.
• Vibe: Small, laid-back village with a sheltered bay that is perfect for families. Fewer dining options than Exmouth, but everything you need is within walking distance.
• Shore snorkels: Bills Bay, Five Fingers Reef, and the drift snorkel at Paradise Beach.

You cannot go wrong with either base. If time allows, split your stay between both to sample different sections of the reef.

How to Book a Ningaloo Whale Shark Tour

Booking early is the single best way to secure the date and operator you want. Here is a step-by-step plan.

1. Lock in Your Dates

• Choose a 4 to 7 day window between April and June for maximum reliability.
• Avoid arriving on the same day you plan to tour. Give yourself a buffer day in case of flight delays or weather.

2. Pick Your Base

• Exmouth if you want more dining options and easy access to Cape Range National Park.
• Coral Bay if you want a small-village feel and a sheltered bay.

3. Shortlist Licensed Operators

Look for operators with:

• A current DBCA whale shark interaction license.
• Advanced Ecotourism certification or similar credentials.
• A dedicated spotter aircraft to locate sharks.
• Small group sizes and strong guest reviews.
• Clear no-sighting policy, high-definition photo packages, quality gear, and experienced in-water guides.

4. Decide on Your Package

Common inclusions:

• Hotel transfers, morning tea, lunch, and refreshments.
• Quality snorkel gear, wetsuits or rashies, and flotation aids.
• Several reef snorkels alongside the whale shark swim.
• Professional photographer with images included or available to purchase.
• No-sighting guarantee. This may mean a free repeat trip on the next available day, a voucher valid for two years, or a partial refund. Read the fine print.

Typical prices for adult swimmers:

• Exmouth: roughly AUD 450 to 600.
• Coral Bay: roughly AUD 420 to 550. Observers pay less and can still enjoy the day on the water.

5. Book and Pay a Deposit

• Secure your preferred date as soon as your flights are confirmed, especially for April to June.
• Provide accurate snorkeling experience and medical information so the crew can support you properly.

6. Coordinate the Rest of Your Trip

• Flights: Perth to Learmonth Airport for Exmouth. If driving from Perth, allow two full days with an overnight stop in Geraldton or Carnarvon.
• Car hire: Book early. Tourism demand often outstrips supply.
• Accommodation: Reserve a place that allows easy early morning pickup.
• National park pass: Needed for Cape Range National Park if you plan to self-drive and snorkel from shore.

What to Expect on the Day: From Briefing to Bucket-List Moment

A whale shark tour is a full day at sea with a dedicated crew making sure you are safe and in the right place at the right time.

Check-in and Fitting

• Hotel pickup or self-drive to the boat ramp for a tender transfer to the main vessel.
• Safety briefing, snorkel sizing, and an introduction to whale shark biology and interaction guidelines.

Reef Snorkel Warm-Up

• Start with a guided reef snorkel inside the lagoon to check your gear and comfort level.
• Expect turtles grazing on seagrass, schools of reef fish, and healthy corals in shallow, clear water.

Spotter Plane Calls In a Shark

• Licensed tours use a spotter aircraft to locate whale sharks beyond the reef edge where the water is deep blue.
• The skipper positions the boat to give your group the best approach while maintaining required distances and minimizing disturbance.

The Swim Rotation

• Swimmers are divided into small groups, typically up to 10 people per group. Only one group enters the water at a time with in-water guides.
• The guide leads you into position ahead of the shark’s path so you can watch it glide past. You swim parallel, keeping pace at a respectful distance. There is no chasing.

Typical in-water protocol:

• Minimum 3 meters from the body.
• Minimum 4 meters from the tail.
• No touching under any circumstances.
• No flash photography.
• Keep clear of the head and do not block the shark’s path.

Encounters usually last several minutes per drop, repeated multiple times if the shark is cooperative. Each boat has a maximum number of interactions per shark and per day to ensure ethical standards are met.

Lunch and More Snorkeling

• Between swims, enjoy lunch and views of a cobalt ocean.
• Many tours fit in a second lagoon snorkel, often on a different reef site, to round out the day with manta rays, rays, and reef fish.

Return to Shore

• Most boats return mid to late afternoon.
• Photo packages are shared digitally. Crews provide debriefs and recommendations for the rest of your stay.

Safety and Comfort: Who Can Join and How to Prepare

You do not need to be an expert swimmer to enjoy a whale shark tour, but comfort in the water helps. In-water guides are there to assist, and flotation is available.

• Minimum age: Varies by operator. Some accept swimmers from about 6 to 8 years with a parent or guardian. Younger children can often join as observers.
• Swim test: Expect to demonstrate basic swimming and mask use at the warm-up snorkel.
• Fitness: You will swim short bursts at a relaxed pace in open water. Basic fitness is helpful.
• Non-swimmers: You can still join as an observer and enjoy reef snorkeling in shallow water with support, or simply take in the wildlife and scenery from the boat.
• Seasickness: If you are prone to motion sickness, take preventative medication before boarding as advised by a pharmacist. Choose a morning tour and eat a light breakfast.

What to Pack for a Whale Shark Day

Most operators provide all snorkel gear, but a few personal items make a big difference.

• Reef-safe sunscreen and a long-sleeve rash guard.
• Hat, polarized sunglasses with strap, and a light windproof layer.
• Swimwear, towel, and a dry bag for personal items.
• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Action camera or compact camera in a waterproof housing. A red filter is not essential in blue water, but set custom white balance if possible.
• Motion sickness medication if needed.
• Waterproof phone case for boat shots.

Photography Tips: Capture the Moment Without Missing It

• Follow the guide: They understand the shark’s path and will position you for the best angles.
• Stay calm and let the shark come to you: Kicking hard stirs bubbles and scares fish. Smooth, slow finning works best.
• Aim for eye level: Images are more engaging when you are level with the shark’s head and eye.
• Use burst mode: Short, controlled bursts as the shark passes. Check your settings before you jump in.
• Keep your distance: Respectful space keeps everyone safe and often results in better composed shots.
• Consider the pro package: The onboard photographer knows the conditions and will deliver sharp, color-corrected images so you can relax and enjoy the swim.

Prices, Inclusions, and Policies

A quality Ningaloo whale shark tour is a premium, full-day experience. Know what you are paying for so you can compare apples with apples.

Typical inclusions:

• Hotel transfers within town area.
• All snorkel gear with masks, fins, wetsuits or rash guards, and flotation aids.
• Spotter aircraft support.
• Experienced skipper and in-water guides.
• Morning tea, lunch, and refreshments.
• Multiple in-water interactions with whale sharks if conditions allow.
• One or two reef snorkels.
• Photographs included or available to purchase.

Typical exclusions:

• National park entry fees if applicable to your self-guided days on shore.
• Tips and personal purchases.

No-sighting policies differ:

• Free repeat tour on the next available day if you do not swim with a whale shark.
• Voucher valid for a future season.
• Partial refund. Always read the operator’s terms before you book.

Responsible Travel: Protect the Shark and the Reef

Ningaloo’s license system and code of conduct keep interactions ethical, but you play a role too.

• Never touch or ride wildlife. Maintain required distances.
• Apply reef-safe sunscreen at least 20 minutes before entering the water to reduce run-off.
• Do not stand on coral or kick up sand in the lagoon. Practice good fin control.
• Pack out what you pack in. Avoid single-use plastics on board and on shore.
• Consider contributing to citizen science. If you capture clear photos of the shark’s left side near the gill area, upload to a whale shark ID database so researchers can track individuals.

Where to Stay: Accommodation for Every Style

In Exmouth:

• Resorts and hotels: Mantarays Ningaloo Beach Resort for a waterfront setting. Potshot Hotel Resort and Exmouth Escape Resort are popular mid-range options.
• Holiday parks and apartments: RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park and Ningaloo Caravan and Holiday Resort suit families and road trippers.
• Luxury eco camp: Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef is a unique, high-end safari-style camp within Cape Range National Park with direct beach access.

In Coral Bay:

• Resorts and units: Ningaloo Reef Resort offers absolute beachfront. Ningaloo Coral Bay Bayview provides cabins and sites close to the water.
• Holiday homes: A handful of rentals suit families and small groups.

Book early for April to June. If your dream property is sold out, contact the local visitor center for cancellations or alternatives.

Getting There and Around

• By air: Fly from Perth to Learmonth Airport for Exmouth. Transfer buses and car rentals operate to Exmouth. Coral Bay is a further 1.5 hours south by road.
• By road: Perth to Exmouth is about 1,250 kilometers. Many travelers break the journey in Geraldton, Kalbarri, or Carnarvon. The Coral Coast Highway is a scenic drive with attractions like Kalbarri National Park and Shark Bay en route.
• Car hire: Useful for exploring Cape Range National Park and reaching shore snorkel sites. Book early.
• Park passes: Required for Cape Range National Park. Purchase online or at the park entrance.

Beyond Whale Sharks: Seasonal Wildlife Highlights

• Manta rays: Present year round, with reliable sightings near Coral Bay. Many operators offer dedicated manta ray snorkels.
• Humpback whales: Migration peaks from July to October. Swim-with tours are regulated and increasingly popular once the whale shark season winds down.
• Turtles: Green, loggerhead, and hawksbill turtles frequent the reef year round. Nesting occurs in summer, with hatchlings emerging in the following months. Observe beach closures and guidelines.
• Dugongs and dolphins: Occasional sightings add to the magic.

Sample 5 to 7 Day Ningaloo Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Exmouth. Pick up your car, check in, and catch sunset at Vlamingh Head Lighthouse.

Day 2: Whale shark tour day. Early pickup, warm-up snorkel, multiple whale shark swims, and a reef snorkel to finish. Dinner in town.

Day 3: Shore snorkel at Turquoise Bay in the morning. Afternoon Yardie Creek boat tour or Mandu Mandu Gorge walk. Stargazing after dinner.

Day 4: Drive to Coral Bay. Check in, relax on Bills Bay beach, sunset stroll to the sand spit.

Day 5: Manta ray or reef snorkel tour in Coral Bay. Afternoon glass-bottom boat cruise.

Day 6: Optional second whale shark tour for more chances or a photography focus. Alternatively, a 4WD trip to Five Fingers Reef.

Day 7: Easy morning, last snorkel, then drive or fly out.

If you have less time, center your trip on one base and prioritize the whale shark day early in your stay to allow a back-up day in case of weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to swim with whale sharks? Yes. Whale sharks are filter feeders and not interested in people. Tours follow strict guidelines, and in-water guides manage the encounter.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer? Basic swimming ability is needed for the open water swims. Flotation aids and guides are provided. If you are not confident, talk to the operator about extra support.

Can I scuba dive with whale sharks at Ningaloo? No. Interactions are snorkel only to minimize disturbance and keep groups nimble at the surface.

Are sightings guaranteed? Wildlife is never guaranteed, but Ningaloo has one of the most reliable whale shark seasons in the world. Read your operator’s no-sighting policy before booking.

What is the minimum age for swimmers? Policies vary by operator, often around 6 to 8 years for in-water participation with a parent. Younger children can join as observers.

Can I touch a whale shark? No. You must maintain minimum distances and never touch or block the animal.

What should I wear in the water? A swimsuit and a provided short wetsuit or rash guard. Water is warm but a suit helps with buoyancy and sun protection.

Are drones allowed? Drone use near wildlife is restricted and may require permits. Always check current regulations and your operator’s policy. Never fly over swimmers or wildlife.

What about stingers or dangerous jellyfish? Ningaloo is far less affected by stingers than northern Queensland. Occasional jellyfish can be present. Operators monitor conditions and provide advice on the day.

Can I bring my own snorkel gear? Yes, if it fits well and you are comfortable using it. Operators also provide quality gear.

How far in advance should I book? For April to June, book as soon as you lock in flights. Three to six months ahead is common, longer for peak school holidays.

Insider Tips to Maximize Your Chances and Enjoyment

• Book your whale shark tour early in your trip to allow a second opportunity if weather affects your first day.
• Choose morning departures for calmer seas and better light.
• If you wear glasses, bring prescription mask inserts or use contact lenses. Ask your operator about prescription masks.
• Practice with a mask and snorkel in a pool or calm beach before your trip if you are new to snorkeling.
• Hydrate well the day before and bring a refillable water bottle on board.
• Trust your guide’s hand signals. They will line you up for the best view with minimal effort.

Cultural and Environmental Respect

Ningaloo sits on Country cared for by Traditional Owners for tens of thousands of years. Respect local guidelines, leave no trace on beaches and tracks, and take the time to learn about the cultural significance of the landscape. Visitor centers often host talks and exhibits. Supporting local businesses helps keep this remote community thriving.

The Bottom Line: Why You Should Book Now

Swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef is one of the world’s great nature experiences. The season is short, licenses are limited, and the best boats fill fast. If your dates are set, booking your tour early is the smartest move you can make. Choose an operator with strong ethics, excellent reviews, and a spotter aircraft. Pack smart, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready for that moment when a gentle giant materializes out of the blue and time seems to slow.

Ningaloo rewards those who plan ahead. Set your dates for April to June, pick Exmouth or Coral Bay, secure your tour, and start counting sleeps. This is Western Australia at its wild, sunlit best, and your whale shark story is waiting.