Bel

About Bel

Posts by Bel :

January 20 2026

Your Local Experts in Comfortable, Reliable Transport

Exmouth Bus Charter: Your Local Experts in Comfortable, Reliable Transport

At the gateway to the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area, Exmouth is one of Western Australia’s most extraordinary destinations, where rugged limestone ranges meet turquoise waters teeming with marine life. Whether visitors are arriving by air, road, or cruise ship, getting around comfortably and reliably is essential to making the most of their time here.

That’s where Exmouth Bus Charter comes in.

With over 20 years of local experience, a professional team, and a modern fleet of air-conditioned vehicles, Exmouth Bus Charter is the region’s leading tourism transport provider. From seamless airport transfers to private charters, cruise ship services, and guided land-based tours, we help visitors explore Exmouth and the surrounding region with ease, insight, and comfort.

More Than Just a Transfer — A Local Experience

Exmouth Bus Charter offers far more than point-to-point transport. Every journey is designed to be part of the experience.

Our fleet of seven modern vehicles caters to individuals, families, tour groups, corporate travellers, and cruise ship guests. Onboard, guests enjoy comfortable seating, air conditioning, and the knowledge of local guides who bring the region to life with engaging commentary and local insight.

What truly sets us apart is our commitment to storytelling, culture, and place. Our buses proudly showcase artwork by Baiyungu woman Rachael Cooyou alongside wildlife photography by local artist Tash Allen, celebrating the landscapes, wildlife, and cultural richness of Nyinggulu Ngarrari — the Ningaloo Coast — with every trip.

Airport Transfers: A Stress-Free Start and Finish

For many visitors, Exmouth begins at Learmonth Airport, just a 30-minute drive from town. Exmouth Bus Charter provides reliable, comfortable airport shuttle services and private transfers to accommodation throughout the Exmouth township.

Whether guests are travelling solo, as a couple, or as part of a larger group, our airport services ensure a smooth arrival and departure — no waiting, no confusion, and no stress. Private transfers are also available for those seeking a more exclusive, flexible experience.

Private Charters & Custom Tours

From corporate groups and school excursions to weddings, events, and bespoke itineraries, Exmouth Bus Charter specialises in private charters and custom transport solutions.

Our team works closely with clients to design tailored routes and schedules, ensuring reliable, professional service for every occasion. With modern vehicles, experienced drivers, and flexible options, we make group transport simple — even in one of Australia’s most remote and spectacular regions.

Cruise Ship Services in Exmouth

Exmouth is a popular stop on Coral Coast cruise itineraries, with vessels anchoring in Exmouth Gulf and guests tendered ashore. Exmouth Bus Charter is a trusted provider of shore excursion transport, delivering seamless logistics from jetty pick-up to curated land-based experiences.

Our local knowledge, efficient operations, and high-quality fleet make us a reliable partner for cruise operators seeking memorable, well-organised onshore experiences for their guests.

Wedding & Large Group Transport

Exmouth Bus Charter also provides reliable, stress-free transport for weddings, celebrations, and large group events. From guest shuttles between accommodation and venues to coordinated transport for rehearsal dinners, receptions, and private functions, our experienced team ensures everyone arrives comfortably and on time.

With modern, air-conditioned buses and flexible scheduling, we’re an ideal solution for destination weddings, corporate retreats, sporting groups, and special occasions where smooth logistics make all the difference.

Discover the Region on the Cape Range Discovery Tour

While many visitors come to Exmouth for the reef, the landscapes on land are just as spectacular. Exmouth Bus Charter’s signature Cape Range Discovery Tour offers a half-day, guided land adventure showcasing the highlights of Cape Range National Park and the Exmouth coastline.

Designed to perfectly complement marine activities like whale shark swims and snorkelling tours, this morning experience allows guests to see the best of Exmouth before lunch, making it ideal for short stays and packed itineraries.

Tour highlights include:

Charles Knife Gorge Lookout
Vlamingh Head Lighthouse
SS Mildura Shipwreck
Bundegi or Hunters Beach

The tour includes accommodation pick-up and drop-off, morning tea, expert local commentary, and travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. It’s suitable for couples, solo travellers, groups, and older passengers seeking a relaxed yet informative way to explore the region.

Sustainability, Community & Culture at the Core

Sustainability and respect for Country are central to everything we do. Exmouth Bus Charter proudly acknowledges the Baiyungu, Thalanyji, and Yinigurdira people as the Traditional Owners of the lands and waters around Exmouth and the Ningaloo Coast, and we pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging.

We are committed to responsible tourism, supporting local artists, working with community partners, and helping visitors experience this extraordinary region in a way that is respectful, enriching, and sustainable.

Why Choose Exmouth Bus Charter?

Over 20 years of local experience
Modern, air-conditioned fleet
Professional local guides and drivers
Airport transfers, private charters, cruise services & guided tours
Strong focus on sustainability, culture, and community
Trusted by visitors, tour operators, and cruise partners

Whether you’re arriving by air, exploring by land, or coordinating group travel, Exmouth Bus Charter is your trusted partner for safe, comfortable, and memorable transport in Exmouth and the Ningaloo Coast.

Book or Learn More

📍 exmouthbuscharters.com.au
📧 book@exmouthbuscharters.com.au
📷 Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

January 6 2026

Experience WA’s Coral Coast Station Stays

Bel Blog

Experience WA’s Coral Coast Station Stays

Western Australia’s Coral Coast is a region defined by contrast – red dirt meeting turquoise seas, remote landscapes balanced with rich stories and warm hospitality. One of the most rewarding ways to experience this unique part of the state is through a station stay. These working pastoral properties invite travellers to slow down, connect with the land and experience a side of WA that few ever see.

Here are five unforgettable Coral Coast station stays worth adding to your travel plans.

Murchison House Station Stay

Outback heritage meets river and sea

Set on a vast pastoral property just inland from Kalbarri, Murchison House Station offers an immersive outback experience steeped in history. Spanning hundreds of thousands of acres, this working station has been part of the landscape for more than a century and a half.

Visitors can camp near the homestead or, for those with a capable 4WD, venture further afield to secluded bush camps across the Murchison River. The property stretches from rugged Indian Ocean coastline through to expansive river floodplains, creating a haven for wildlife and birdlife. Thanks to the station’s permanent water sources scattered throughout, sightings are common, including rare species such as the endangered Carnaby’s cockatoo.

The landscape itself is incredibly diverse, ranging from coastal dunes to dramatic river gorges carved through striking red sandstone. Guests can explore via self-guided tracks, join guided experiences, paddle along the Murchison River or simply soak up the stillness under some of WA’s darkest night skies.

Best for: 4WD travellers, nature lovers and those chasing a true outback adventure.

: Soak up the stillness under some of WA’s darkest night skies. Image via Facebook

Bullara Station Stay

A welcoming blend of comfort, community and cattle country

Located between Coral Bay and Exmouth, Bullara Station Stay has become one of the Coral Coast’s most loved stopovers, and it’s easy to see why. Born from a passion for sharing station life in a sustainable and welcoming way, Bullara strikes the perfect balance between authenticity and comfort.

Travellers can choose from generous campsites suitable for all rigs, or settle into one of the station’s accommodation options — including cottages, safari huts, bell tents or rooms in the historic shearer’s quarters. Whatever your style, Bullara offers a relaxed, social atmosphere where campfires, wildlife encounters and stargazing are part of everyday life.

Set in working cattle country, the station is rich in native flora and fauna and offers guests the chance to experience life on the land while still being within easy reach of Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park.

Best for: Families, social travellers and those wanting comfort without losing the outback feel.

: Farm to table, attention to detail and culinary story telling. Image via Facebook

Nambung Station Stay

Farm life near the Pinnacles

For travellers heading north or south along the Coral Coast, Nambung Station Stay provides a peaceful rural stop close to one of WA’s most iconic natural attractions. This working farm blends a small, nature-based caravan park with open farmland and bush surrounds.

Guests can choose from powered or unpowered sites or stay in an on-site caravan, with access to amenities, a camp kitchen and wide open spaces. One of the highlights is the opportunity to join a farm tour or explore areas connected to the nearby Painted Desert, part of the broader Pinnacles landscape.

It’s an ideal base for those wanting to experience the Pinnacles Desert by day and retreat to a quieter, more relaxed setting by night.

Best for: Road trippers, nature lovers and Pinnacles visitors.

: A working sheep and cattle station two hours north of Perth. Image via Facebook

Quobba Station Stay

Where the desert meets the sea

Perched along a spectacular stretch of coastline north of Carnarvon, Quobba Station is all about raw beauty and ocean adventure. Sitting on the edge of the Ningaloo Reef Marine Park, the station offers access to kilometres of rugged Indian Ocean frontage, world-class fishing and unforgettable coastal views.

Accommodation ranges from traditional camping and caravan sites to rustic cottages, fishing shacks and ocean-view chalets. The station’s two main camping areas cater to different styles of travellers — from families and grey nomads to surfers and adventurous campers.

Between May and October, lucky visitors may spot migrating humpback whales offshore, along with resident dolphins cruising the coastline. It’s remote, dramatic and deeply memorable.

Best for: Anglers, surfers and adventurous coastal campers.

: World class waves, pristine beaches and unforgettable camping experiences. Image via Facebook

Warroora Station Stay

Ningaloo wilderness at its finest

Stretching along a pristine section of the Ningaloo Coast, Warroora Station Stay offers one of the most immersive nature-based experiences in the region. This family-run cattle station combines eco-friendly camping with comfortable accommodation options, all set just moments from untouched beaches.

Unpowered campsites with fire pits create a classic outback atmosphere, while access to showers, toilets and a basic camp kitchen ensures a comfortable stay. For those seeking more comfort, options include self-contained cottages, stockmen’s rooms, an ocean-view villa and homestead accommodation.

With the world’s largest fringing reef just offshore, guests can enjoy snorkelling, fishing, swimming, surfing and bushwalking — all from their doorstep.

Best for: Nature lovers, snorkellers and travellers seeking seclusion.

: Warroora Station is a family run station offering eco-friendly bush campground as well as a variety of accommodation options. Image via Facebook.

Station stays offer something truly special—space, silence, and connection to the land. They’re perfect for travellers who want to slow down, experience local hospitality and see a side of Western Australia that few get to enjoy.

December 16 2025

The Best Beaches to Swim and Snorkel in Exmouth

Bel Blog

The Best Beaches to Swim and Snorkel

Exmouth is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in Western Australia — and the best part? Many of them offer incredible swimming and snorkelling straight from the shore. With the Ningaloo Reef running parallel to the coastline, you don’t need a boat to experience vibrant coral, tropical fish, turtles and crystal-clear water.

Turquoise Bay – A Must-Visit Exmouth Icon

Turquoise Bay is one of Exmouth’s most famous beaches, and it consistently earns its place on lists of Australia’s best beaches. Known for its drift snorkelling, this spot allows you to enter the water at one end and gently float along the reef, surrounded by colourful coral and marine life.

You’ll often spot parrotfish, butterflyfish, turtles, rays and reef sharks, all just metres from the shoreline. The beach has two main access points, making it suitable for a range of swimming and snorkelling abilities when conditions are right.

Local tip: Calm mornings offer the clearest water and safest conditions. Always check signage and current conditions before entering the water.

: Turquoise Bay *Image via Tourism WA

Oyster Stacks – Easy Access to Ningaloo Reef

Just north of Turquoise Bay, Oyster Stacks is a favourite for those looking for relaxed, accessible snorkelling. The reef here is shallow and close to shore, making it ideal for beginners and confident swimmers alike.

Coral bommies sit beneath clear water, attracting schools of fish and the occasional turtle gliding past. It’s a great option if you want a rewarding snorkel without a long swim.

Local tip: Low to mid tide usually provides the best visibility and easiest access.

: Oyster Stacks - Image via @milliehpowell97

Sandy Bay – Ideal for Families and Easy Swimming

Sandy Bay offers a long stretch of soft sand and generally calm waters, making it popular with families and those wanting a simple, enjoyable swim. While snorkelling is best near the rocky headlands, many visitors come here to relax, picnic and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

It’s also a fantastic spot to end the day, with sunsets lighting up the Cape Range cliffs.

Local tip: Combine your visit with a stop at Yardie Creek for a full Cape Range experience.

: Sandy Bay - Image via @earthwithtom

Bundegi Beach – Close to Town, Easy to Reach

Located just outside Exmouth town, Bundegi Beach is a convenient option if you’re short on time. The shallow reef systems here offer casual snorkelling opportunities, while the calm waters make it suitable for a refreshing swim.

It’s a great introduction to Ningaloo Reef, especially for first-time visitors.

Local tip: Early mornings usually offer the best conditions before sea breezes pick up.

: Bundegi Beach - Image via @dare_to_make_memories

Jurabi Area Beaches – Untouched and Wild

The beaches near the Jurabi Turtle Centre feel remote and unspoiled, offering a more rugged Ningaloo experience. On calm days, snorkelling along the reef edge can be excellent, but conditions can change quickly.

This area is also an important turtle nesting site, so visitors are encouraged to respect signage and seasonal guidelines.

Local tip: Always assess conditions carefully and snorkel with confidence and care.

: Jurabi - Image via Australia's Coral Coast

December 1 2025

Top 5 Land Animals to Spot in Exmouth

Bel Blog

Top 5 Land Animals to Spot in Exmouth

Exmouth, Western Australia, is best known for its turquoise water, whale sharks, and world-class marine experiences, but the region’s wildlife wonders don’t stop at the shoreline. Step onto the rugged landscape of Cape Range National Park and you’ll discover an equally impressive world of land animals roaming the red earth, limestone cliffs, and coastal plains. Here are the top five animals, both land and coastal, you can encounter in the Exmouth region.

1. Red Kangaroo — The Outback Icon

No visit to Exmouth is complete without encountering Australia’s most famous marsupial: the Red Kangaroo. These powerful animals often graze across open plains and are most active around dawn and dusk. With their distinctive reddish coat, formidable hind legs, and curious gaze, red kangaroos are a favourite among photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Best place to spot them: Plains around Cape Range National Park and along quiet roads during early mornings.

2. Black-footed Rock Wallaby — The Cliffside Acrobat

Shy, agile, and incredibly skilled at navigating steep rock faces, the Black-footed Rock Wallaby is one of Exmouth’s rare treasures. Their black paws, thick tail, and mottled fur help them blend seamlessly into rugged limestone gorges. Spotting one feels like a true privilege.

Best place to spot them: Yardie Creek Gorge, where these wallabies often hunker on shaded cliff ledges.

3. Emu — The Outback Wanderer

Tall, quirky, and endlessly entertaining, Emus are a common sight in the Exmouth region. These flightless birds travel in small groups, striding confidently across the landscape with their unmistakable bobbing gait. Although curious by nature, they prefer to keep a respectful distance, unless they think you might be carrying snacks!

Best place to spot them: Throughout Cape Range National Park, particularly near picnic areas and water sources.

4. Osprey — The Coastal Hunter

While technically not a land animal full-time, the Osprey earns its place on this list thanks to its dramatic presence along Exmouth’s coastline. With a wingspan of up to 1.8 metres, ospreys often soar above beaches and cliffs, diving with pinpoint precision to catch fish. Their impressive nests—large, stick-built structures—can be seen perched on high lookouts around the region.

Best place to spot them: Vlamingh Head Lighthouse, Bundegi, and around Ningaloo’s coastal cliffs.

5. Dingo — The Desert’s Wild Spirit

The Dingo is one of Australia’s most misunderstood and fascinating wild animals. These intelligent, slender canines are an important part of the region’s ecosystem and often roam the more remote parts of the Cape Range. While sightings are less frequent, spotting a dingo in the wild is an unforgettable experience.

Best place to spot them: Quiet inland tracks and remote coastal areas of Cape Range National Park.

Whether you’re exploring breathtaking gorges, cruising along the coastline, or joining a guided local tour, Exmouth offers incredible opportunities to see unique Australian wildlife in their natural habitat. Keep your camera ready, stay respectful of animals and their space, and soak up the magic of the Ningaloo region, both above and below the waterline.

November 19 2025

Dirk Hartog Island

Bel Blog

Discover Dirk Hartog Island

Western Australia is full of places that make you stop and breathe it all in, but Dirk Hartog Island — or Wirruwana — is something truly extraordinary. Recently, Exmouth Bus Charter owners Stella and Stephan swapped their usual bus-driving days for a 4WD, a barge ride across the water, and a few blissful days soaking up the untouched beauty of this remote island.

A World Heritage Gem With a Big Story

Sitting within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Dirk Hartog Island is the largest island in WA and the most westerly point of the continent. It’s the place where the first recorded European landing occurred back in 1616, when Dutch explorer Dirk Hartog came ashore and left behind his famous pewter plate.

You feel that sense of history the moment you arrive. The landscapes are wild and ancient — sweeping cliffs, desert dunes meeting bright blue ocean, and long stretches of white sand with not a single footprint in sight. It’s the kind of place that feels like time slows down, and you instantly understand why people call it one of Australia’s most pristine and memorable destinations.

Wildlife, Conservation & the Return to 1616 Project

Today, the island is a national park undergoing one of Australia’s most impressive ecological restoration projects: Return to 1616. After the successful removal of feral species, native animals that had disappeared from the island are being reintroduced — from hare-wallabies to bandicoots and beyond.

For Stella and Stephan, learning about this project made the trip even more meaningful. It’s not just a holiday spot; it’s a place being carefully restored so future generations can experience its wildlife and landscapes in their purest form.

Staying on the Island

Whether you love the simplicity of camping or prefer a few home comforts, Dirk Hartog Island has options for everyone. Stella and Stephan stayed right near the water, waking up to ocean breezes, long horizons, and the kind of quiet you only get in truly remote places.

With a mix of homestead stays, clifftop campsites, and beachfront national park sites, you can pick the style of island time that suits you best.

Why Dirk Hartog Island Should Be on Your WA Bucket List

If you’re craving something raw, peaceful, and unforgettable, Dirk Hartog Island delivers. It’s a place where desert meets ocean, where wildlife thrives, and where you can watch Australia’s last sunset from the country’s most westerly edge.

For Stella and Stephan, this wasn’t just a getaway — it was a reminder of how special our coastline really is. Think wide-open spaces, star-filled skies, incredible history, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Want to see their adventure come to life? Check out our Instagram reel of Stella and Stephan on Dirk Hartog Island

Images courtesy of Australia’s Coral Coast.

November 1 2025

Give the Gift of Experience

Bel Blog

Give the Gift of Experience

This summer, make your trip to Exmouth even more unforgettable with the Gift of Experience special offer from Exmouth Bus Charter. When you book your airport transfer, you’ll receive 30% off our popular Cape Range Discovery Tour – plus a free Exmouth Bus Charter stubby holder as a keepsake of your adventure.

See the Best of Exmouth Before Lunch

Perfect for visitors short on time, the Cape Range Discovery Tour showcases the rugged beauty, rich history, and spectacular coastal scenery that make Exmouth so special. Relax aboard our air-conditioned coach as our friendly local guides share fascinating stories and insights into this unique part of Western Australia.

Highlights include Charles Knife Canyon Lookout, a scenic coastal stop, the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse, and the SS Mildura Wreck site – all wrapped into one seamless half-day experience.

With over 20 years of local experience, Exmouth Bus Charter is known as Exmouth’s trusted transport provider, delivering tours that are comfortable, informative, and full of character.

Limited-Time Offer – Book Early and Save

This special offer runs from 1 November 2025 to 31 January 2026, with travel available until 31 October 2026. To qualify, simply book and pay for your airport transfer and Cape Range Discovery Tour in the same name – either in one transaction online or by contacting the Exmouth Bus Charter team directly.

The 30% discount applies to the tour fare only, and the bonus gift (one per person) will be provided when you check in for your tour.

Terms & Conditions: Subject to availability and minimum tour numbers. Offer not valid with any other promotion, discount, or agent booking. Non-transferable, not redeemable for cash, and cannot be exchanged for another item. Exmouth Bus Charter reserves the right to amend or withdraw this offer at any time. Standard booking and cancellation policies apply. Full T’s & C’s can be read here.

: Vlamingh Head Lighthouse

: Charles Knife Canyon

: Receive a free Exmouth Bus Charter stubby holder as a keepsake of your adventure

October 28 2025

Discover the Best Beaches in WA

Bel Blog

Discover the Best Beaches in WA

When it comes to unforgettable coastal experiences, few places can rival Western Australia’s pristine shores. From secluded coves framed by rugged red cliffs to long stretches of powdery white sand, WA’s beaches are nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re chasing world-class snorkelling, sunset swims, or the perfect spot to roll out a towel, this guide to the best beaches in WA will help you plan your next seaside escape.

1. Turquoise Bay – Ningaloo Reef

Consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches, Turquoise Bay is a natural wonder you can’t miss. Located near Exmouth, Western Australia, in Cape Range National Park, this breathtaking stretch of sand lives up to its name with crystal-clear, turquoise waters.

What makes it special? Turquoise Bay is famous for its drift snorkel—you can step into the water, let the current carry you gently along the reef, and glide past colourful coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, turtles, and rays. It’s the perfect spot to experience Ningaloo Reef just metres from the shore.

: Turquoise Bay, Exmouth. Image via @wunez

2. Cable Beach – Broome

Picture a 22-kilometre-long stretch of soft white sand, fiery red cliffs, and camel trains silhouetted against a glowing sunset. That’s Cable Beach. Located in the Kimberley region, this iconic destination offers a magical mix of natural beauty and laid-back charm.

Swim in warm, calm waters, unwind with a beach picnic, or book a sunset camel ride for a bucket-list experience. Visiting between May and October? You might even catch the famous “Staircase to the Moon,” a natural phenomenon where the rising full moon reflects over tidal flats, creating a stunning optical illusion.

: Cable Beach, Broome. Image via @seek.and.wander

3. Lucky Bay – Cape Le Grand National Park

If your idea of paradise involves sharing the beach with kangaroos, then Lucky Bay is for you. Located near Esperance, Western Australia, this postcard-perfect bay is known for its dazzling white sand and impossibly blue water.

Kangaroos often laze along the shore, making it one of the most photogenic spots in the country. Beyond the wildlife, Lucky Bay is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the serenity of WA’s southern coastline.

: Lucky Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park. Image via @australia

4. Cottesloe Beach – Perth

For those looking for a beautiful beach close to the city, Cottesloe is a classic. Just a short drive from the Perth CBD, this lively beach is a favourite for locals and visitors alike.

Crystal-clear waters and rolling waves make it ideal for swimming and body surfing, while the beachfront cafes offer the perfect post-swim refreshment. Don’t miss the sunset here, it’s one of the best in WA, with the Indian Ocean glowing in golden hues.

: Cottesloe Beach, Perth. Image via @shotbylukewilliams

5. Greens Pool – William Bay National Park

Tucked away near Denmark, Western Australia, Greens Pool feels like a hidden sanctuary. Large granite boulders shelter the bay from the surf, creating calm, glassy waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling. It’s a fantastic family-friendly beach, offering safe swimming conditions and a picture-perfect backdrop.

: Greens Pool, William Bay National Park. Image via @cjmaddock

Your Beach Adventure Awaits!

Whether you’re exploring the remote north or the vibrant south, WA’s beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful. Each one offers something unique – be it spectacular snorkelling, unforgettable sunsets, or encounters with native wildlife. So pack your swimmers, grab the sunscreen, and get ready to fall in love with Western Australia’s incredible coastline.

October 21 2025

History of Vlamingh Head Lighthouse

Bel Blog

History of Vlamingh Head Lighthouse

Perched atop the rugged cliffs of North West Cape, Vlamingh Head Lighthouse stands as a testament to Western Australia’s maritime heritage. Located approximately 17 kilometres north of Exmouth, this historic lighthouse offers more than just panoramic views; it narrates tales of exploration, resilience, and transformation.

A Beacon Born from Tragedy

The story of Vlamingh Head Lighthouse dates back to 1907, following the tragic wreck of the SS Mildura off the coast of North West Cape. This disaster highlighted the perilous nature of the coastline, prompting the Western Australian government to reconsider its approach to maritime safety. Although the lighthouse had been proposed earlier, the Mildura incident accelerated its construction. By 1909, the Harbour and Lights Department had selected Vlamingh Head as the site for a new lighthouse.

Construction Amidst Challenges

Construction commenced in 1910, but the project faced significant delays. Labourers battled dysentery outbreaks, and the harsh climate posed additional challenges. All materials had to be transported by sea from Fremantle, adding to the logistical complexities. Despite these hurdles, the lighthouse was completed and lit on November 10, 1912. Standing 12 meters tall and situated 61 meters above sea level, its light could be seen up to 22 nautical miles away. The lighthouse operated continuously for over five decades, guiding vessels safely along the treacherous coast.

Wartime Significance and Later Years

During World War II, the North West Cape became a strategic location for the Allied forces. A radar station was established near the lighthouse, and the area served as a refuelling depot for U.S. Navy ships. In 1953, a devastating cyclone caused extensive damage to both the airbase and the lighthouse. Remarkably, the lighthouse keepers undertook much of the repair work themselves, showcasing their dedication and resilience.

By 1969, the lighthouse was deactivated, its role supplanted by a light mounted on a tower at the U.S. Naval Communications VLF site at Point Murat. Despite its deactivation, the lighthouse remains a significant historical landmark, listed on the State Register of Heritage Places in 2007.

A Modern-Day Attraction

Today, Vlamingh Head Lighthouse is a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive from Exmouth, leading to breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and Ningaloo Reef. The area is renowned for its vibrant sunsets, making it a favourite spot for photography. Additionally, the lighthouse’s location offers opportunities for whale watching during migration seasons.

While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the surrounding grounds and lookout points are accessible. The nearby Ningaloo Lighthouse Holiday Park provides accommodations for those wishing to extend their visit.

For those looking to experience Vlamingh Head Lighthouse up close, our Cape Range Discovery Tour offers the perfect opportunity.

: Vlamingh Head Lighthouse. Image via Tourism WA

: Vlamingh Head Lighthouse. Image via Tourism WA

: Vlamingh Head Lighthouse Tour

October 14 2025

Summer Fun in Exmouth

Bel Blog

Summer Fun in Exmouth

As summer heats up in Exmouth, Western Australia, the region offers an exciting mix of outdoor adventures, wildlife experiences, and scenic escapes. Nestled on the North West Cape and bordering the world-famous Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth is a paradise for those looking to explore both land and sea. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply after a relaxing getaway, there’s plenty to enjoy during the warmer months.

Dive Into the Waters of Ningaloo Reef

Summer is the perfect time to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo Reef. Swimming, snorkelling, and diving offer incredible opportunities to see vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish. The reef’s calm summer conditions make it ideal for families and solo adventurers alike. For a relaxed day on the water, try a Yardie Creek boat tour, where you can glide along the scenic creek, framed by towering cliffs, while spotting native birds and wildlife.

Explore Scenic Canyons

Exmouth’s rugged landscapes are best experienced on land, and summer is a great time to explore the region’s iconic gorges. Charles Knife Canyon and Shothole Canyon feature multi-coloured limestone formations, panoramic views, and walking trails for all levels. These spots are perfect for photography and scenic drives.

Tips for a safe adventure: If you’re heading into the park during summer, be sure to pack plenty of water, wear sun protection, and plan your visit for the cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon) to make the most of your canyon explorations.

Iconic Landmarks and Lookouts

No visit to Exmouth is complete without stopping at Vlamingh Head Lighthouse. Perched atop cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, the lighthouse provides breathtaking views, particularly at sunset. It’s a fantastic spot to watch the changing colours of the sky and the sparkling waters below. For a family-friendly activity, the Ningaloo Centre offers an immersive experience with an aquarium, educational displays, and insights into the reef’s diverse marine life.

Wildlife and Nature Experiences

Summer is also a great time to learn about Exmouth’s unique wildlife. Guided turtle eco-tours give visitors the chance to observe nesting turtles up close (booking ahead is recommended). These tours provide an educational and memorable experience, highlighting conservation efforts and the natural rhythms of the region’s marine life.

Quirky Stops and Local History

For a touch of local flavour, stop by the Exmouth Big Prawn for a fun photo opportunity. History enthusiasts can visit the Harold E Holt Naval Communication Station, an important site that offers a glimpse into Exmouth’s strategic role during the 20th century.

Make the Most of Your Visit with a Guided Tour

For a hassle-free way to see the highlights, consider joining our Cape Range Discovery Tour. This half-day tour includes stops at scenic lookouts, beaches, and the lighthouse, providing a guided experience of Exmouth’s natural beauty and history while keeping you comfortable in air-conditioned transport.

: The Big Prawn, Exmouth. Image via Rosie Eve (Facebook)

: Welcome to Exmouth

: Turquoise Bay

: Vlamingh Head Lighthouse. Image via Tourism WA

: Vlamingh Head Lighthouse Tour

: Turtle season

: Shipwreck of SS Mildura

: Charles Knife Canyon

: Cape Range National Park Drive

October 8 2025

Turtle Season in the Ningaloo

Bel Blog

Turtle Season in the Ningaloo

The Ningaloo Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage–listed treasure in Western Australia, is famous for its turquoise waters, coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Among the most unforgettable experiences for visitors is witnessing turtle season, when three of the world’s most iconic turtle species—green, loggerhead, and hawksbill—return to the shores to nest. If you’re planning a trip to Exmouth, timing your visit with turtle season is a chance to see nature at its most magical.

In this guide, we’ll explore when turtle season happens at Ningaloo, what you can expect during nesting and hatching, and how to enjoy the experience responsibly.

When Is Turtle Season in Ningaloo?

Turtle season on the Ningaloo Coast runs from November through March, with two key phases:

Nesting season (November–February): Female turtles emerge from the ocean at night to lay their eggs in sandy dunes above the high tide mark. Each turtle can lay up to 120 eggs in a single nest, returning to the water before dawn.
Hatchling season (January–March): After around 60 days of incubation, the tiny hatchlings break free from their nests and make a dash for the ocean. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to catch this heart-warming spectacle.

For visitors, this means the most rewarding months to visit are December to March, when you have the chance to witness both nesting adults and emerging hatchlings.

Where to See Turtles in Ningaloo

Some of the best places to spot turtles during the season include:

Turtle Rookery Beaches in Cape Range National Park – Accessible from Exmouth, these stretches of coastline are important nesting sites. Jurabi Coastal Reserve in particular offers excellent viewing opportunities.
Turtle Eco-Education Centre – Located near Exmouth, this interpretive centre provides insights into turtle behaviour, conservation challenges, and tips for responsible viewing.
Coral Bay – A quieter option, Coral Bay is a fantastic spot to see turtles feeding on seagrass meadows year-round, with the added bonus of nesting activity during the season.

Joining a guided turtle tour is one of the best ways to experience turtle season. Local guides are trained to minimise disturbance while ensuring you get the most from your encounter.

Responsible Turtle Watching

As magical as turtle season is, it’s also a fragile time for these endangered species. Human activity can easily disrupt their natural behaviour. To help protect the turtles:

Stay quiet and keep your distance. Use a red torch at night instead of a white light, as bright light can scare nesting turtles or disorient hatchlings.
Never touch or pick up hatchlings. They need to make their own way to the ocean to build strength and survival instincts.
Follow marked paths. Avoid trampling dunes where nests may be buried.
Book with accredited eco-tour operators. This ensures your experience supports conservation and local community efforts.

By observing respectfully, you not only enjoy the moment but also contribute to the survival of future generations of turtles.

: Turtle season

Why Turtle Season Should Be on Your Ningaloo Itinerary

Few wildlife experiences rival the sight of a turtle emerging under a starlit sky to lay her eggs, or a clutch of hatchlings making their determined crawl toward the sea. Turtle season adds another layer to Ningaloo’s already incredible offerings, whether you’re there to swim with whale sharks, snorkel the reef, or hike the rugged Cape Range.

If you’re visiting Exmouth or Coral Bay between November and March, make sure turtle season is part of your itinerary. It’s not just an encounter with marine life; it’s a reminder of the delicate balance between people, wildlife, and the natural world.