Shark Bay and Monkey Mia

The next major stop northward is Shark Bay. This is in fact a couple of bays encompassed by two narrow peninsulas. The area's main attraction is the small settlement with the big reputation: Monkey Mia, a world renowned spot for getting friendly with the local dolphin population, who come into knee deep water to be fed daily. Located 833km north of Perth, camping is available - it's best to book in advance. Although Monkey Mia attracts its fair share of travellers, facilities are quite limited. Denham - 25km towards the other side of the peninsula - is really the area's main town, and is much cheaper than Monkey Mia for the supplies you'll need to continue north.

The tropical fruit-growing area of Carnarvon, 904km north of Perth, sits at the mouth of the Gascoyne River. The area attracts travellers with short-term work opportunities in the farming and fishing industries.
The rugged coastline nearby is famous for seasonal whale sightings during fish-feeding frenzies, when sharks herd anchovies against the cliffs. Try a camel trek, safari or visit Mt Augustus, the world's biggest rock (twice the size of Uluru).

Next: Exmouth and Ningaloo Reef >

< WA – Central Coast (Geraldton, Monkey Mia, Port Hedland)