Overview
Exmouth is a premier destination for sport fishing enthusiasts, offering the chance to land the catch that’s often only fantasized about. It’s also renowned for its unique opportunity to swim alongside whale sharks and for offering exceptional snorkelling and diving experiences around the nearby offshore reef.
Location Insights
Exmouth lies 1272 kilometres north of Perth, on Australia’s Coral Coast in the northernmost section. Thanks to its placement on the North West Cape, its unique orientation towards the east and the Timor Sea makes it distinctive. The town is a gateway to the Ningaloo Coral Reef, just offshore to the north. Travelling to Exmouth is convenient by renting a car at Perth Airport or catching a flight to Learmonth Airport.
Attractions in Exmouth
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Whale Sharks: Ningaloo Marine Park is where you’ll find the planet’s largest fish species from March to June. These gentle giants, feeding on plankton and small fish, gather in significant numbers in the shallow waters of Ningaloo Reef, presenting a unique snorkelling opportunity.
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Ningaloo Coral Reef: This is the largest coral reef in Western Australia, inhabited by over 250 coral species and 540 fish species. The area also hosts larger marine life like dolphins, manta rays, cod, and sharks. The reef’s adjacent long, sandy beaches are a must-visit.
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Cape Range National Park: Situated 40 kilometres from Exmouth, this national park features stunning coastlines, beaches, gorges, wildlife, and wildflowers, offering a mix of natural beauty and adventure.
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Game Fishing: Exmouth is a paradise for fishing aficionados, with its tropical waters providing unparalleled opportunities for both shore-based and boat angling. The region is known for its significant catches.
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Pinnacles Desert: A unique and fascinating site located just 4 kilometres from the coast, featuring ancient, stone-like formations that emerge from the desert sands, best experienced at dawn or dusk for their full mystique. We recommend joining the Australian Pinnacles Tour if you want to visit the Pinnacles Desert on an organised trip.
Climate Conditions
Exmouth enjoys a tropical climate without a ‘wet season,’ offering year-round rainfall and consistently warm temperatures. Summers (December to February) see highs of 37°C and lows around 20°C, while winter (June to August) temperatures range from an average high of 24°C to a low of 11°C. Tropical cyclones are common between December and April, necessitating awareness of local safety procedures.
Historical Context
First mapped by the Dutch in the 1600s and further explored by the British in the 1800s, Exmouth is Australia’s newest town, officially established in May 1963 following a joint agreement between the Australian and US governments to set up the Harold E. Holt US Naval Communication Station. Opening in September 1967, Exmouth initially served as a military base and has evolved over the years. For detailed visitor information, maps, and local advice, the Ningaloo Visitor Centre is the go-to resource.
