Just touched down at Learmonth Airport? Welcome to the gateway of the Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park. With amazing marine life and unbeatable natural attractions, it’s the perfect place to explore the rugged Australian coastline. In town, visitors enjoy fishing at the Learmonth Jetty and strolling the white sands of Exmouth’s Town Beach. Once you’ve arrived at the airport, all you need to do is pick up the keys to your rental car at the Dollar branch in the terminal to start your North Coast adventure. Discover the best of the North West Cape Peninsula, including must-see activities and family-friendly attractions below.

Ningaloo Coast

Before heading to the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Coast, stop by the Ningaloo Centre in town. Here you can plan your activities on the reef, book tours and get all the information you need to make the most out of your time in the Marine Park. The Centre also features an aquarium, giving you a look at what’s to come on your adventure from the reef to the range. The Ningaloo Coast is home to over 300 coral species and over 700 species of reef fish, with whale sharks gathering annually to feed. Tour groups in Exmouth offer an array of options ranging from beginner-friendly experiences to adrenaline tours for avid ocean explorers. If you’re new to water activities, explore the reef to the fullest with an experienced guide. With half, full and multi-day tours, Exmouth Adventure offers outings for all. Head out on the water for a half-day kayak and snorkel on the ‘Coral by Kayak’ tour. Suitable for children eight years and up, you’ll see stunning coral formations during your time in the reef. Dive into a full day of snorkelling on the Ningaloo Reef Snorkel Adventure, with your expedition leading you to the landmark Turquoise Bay and Oyster Stacks. Or get the most out of your stay in Exmouth with a four-day trek and kayak expedition. The Ningaloo Odyssey adventure includes hiking through the Cape Range National Park, sea kayaking and snorkelling through the Ningaloo Reef, and wilderness camping for the ultimate outdoor escape. 

Ever wanted to swim with sharks? Ningaloo Reef offers the bucket list opportunity to swim with the region’s famed whale sharks. Undertake this tour and wade the waters alongside the largest fish in the sea for a truly unforgettable underwater adventure. Or, if you want the best of the reef without getting wet, hop onboard a glass-bottom boat tour. The perfect choice for young children and families, you’ll see rainbows of coral gardens right under your feet. A visit to the Ningaloo Reef is ideal for those wanting to swim, snorkel and dive through a world of marine beauty.

Cape Range National Park

Along with the Ningaloo Reef, the North West Cape Peninsula offers unique experiences and unbeatable scenery at the Cape Range National Park. Only 30 minutes from Exmouth, drive along the coast through the Charles Knife Canyon. With rugged terrain and dramatic cliff faces on either side, you’ll enjoy the drive almost as much as the view from the lookout. From the summit, the grandiose canyons make for a scenic backdrop that’s perfect for taking pictures, and the rock formations look even better as the sun sets. Looking for a bushwalking challenge? Head to the Mandu Mandu Gorge on the opposite side of the Park. Here, the 3km return track winds along the perimeter of the gorge before descending onto its grounds, and with wildlife often spotted here, you’ll truly feel connected to nature. Another adventurous trail in the area is the 18km Thomas Carter Lookout Walk. This loop is suitable for hiking, walking or running, and the lookout itself is one of the highest points in the National Park. With vast, rocky plains set against the colourful Ningaloo Reef, the Cape Range National Park showcases the best of Australia’s raw beauty.

Vlamingh Head Lighthouse

Just a 15-minute drive from Exmouth, take the rental car across the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse Scenic Drive to discover the best sunset viewing spot in the region. From the lighthouse, you’ll get sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and Ningaloo Reef and can even spot humpback whales during migration season. For the ultimate sunset-watching experience, pack some snacks and drinks, roll out the picnic blanket and prepare to watch the sunset over the horizon. A beautiful place to capture photos, bask in that lovely holiday feeling and make memories with loved ones, your time here will be one to remember. 

Jurabi Turtle Centre

Just a short stroll from the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse, head to the Jurabi Turtle Centre to learn about the four marine turtle species that call the region home. With guided tours during the summer months, you’ll see female turtles up close as they make their way to the beach to lay eggs - toward the end of the season, keep an eye out for baby turtles hatching! A fun activity for kids and adults alike, let the sea turtles amaze you as you watch their march to the sea.

From wildlife adventures in the forest to the underwater biodiversity of the Ningaloo Coast, get ready for a nature-filled holiday when you travel to Exmouth. With activities for adults and children of all ages and abilities, there’s something for everyone in the rugged North West Cape Peninsula, and you can see it all in a Dollar rental car.