Ningaloo Marine Park

Physical and biological processes drive essential nutrients from Ningaloo Marine Park’s deep oceanic waters to inshore waters, sustaining life on the incredible Ningaloo Reef.

The World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef is Australia’s longest fringing barrier reef and one of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots. Between Exmouth and Coral Bay, two Ningaloo Marine Parks run in parallel along the coast, working together to protect this natural treasure.

The outer Ningaloo Marine Park (Commonwealth waters) is managed by us and helps protect the deeper, offshore waters while the inner Ningaloo Marine Park (State waters) helps protect the coastal waters and shallow reefs.

The State marine park is managed by the Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. We work closely with our State colleagues to manage the two parks in harmony.

The Baiyungu, Thalanyji and Yinikurtura People have responsibilities for Sea Country in the marine park.

Ningaloo Marine Park (Commonwealth waters) covers 2, 435 square kilometres and is home to deep under-sea canyons, diverse colourful sponge gardens and rich fish communities.

Humpback whales pass through the park on their annual migrations north and south and pygmy blue whales forage in the park’s productive waters, while loggerhead, green and hawksbill turtles are regular visitors.

The marine park is mostly a Recreational Use Zone, with a small National Park Zone located off Point Cloates.

Select the park area on the map below to see what you can do in the Ningaloo Marine Park.