Shark Bay & Monkey Mia

Shark Bay is actually a couple of bays encompassed by two narrow peninsulas. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to 26 threatened Australian mammal species, almost up to 150 different reptiles and over 230 species of birds. There are many sharks and rays in the water, and the bay is famed for its dolphins that pay daily visits to Monkey Mia.

The main town in the region is Denham, on the western side of the Peron Peninsula. Denham is the main centre for travellers visiting Monkey Mia, 25km away on the other side of the peninsula. Denham is where you’ll find most accommodation as well as a supermarket, bakery and a couple of restaurants.

Monkey Mia’s main attraction is the dolphins that visit the beach every morning (8am–10am). What makes Monkey Mia special is that the dolphins here are especially tame.

Shark Bay is also known for its dugongs. Around 10,000, or around 10% of the world’s dugong population, are estimated to live in Shark Bay.

Facilities at Monkey Mia are fairly basic although it is possible to stay here as the Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort has excellent backpacker accommodation. There’s also a small general store but it’s expensive and you’re better off bringing your food in from Denham.