7-Day Exmouth Explorer via Pinnacles Monkey Mia Ningaloo Reef returning to Perth

Thinking about exploring the stunning coast of Western Australia without the hassle of driving through remote areas? This 7-day guided tour from Perth to Exmouth offers travelers a chance to see some of Australia’s most iconic sights, all while relaxing and leaving the logistics to professionals. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or someone wanting an authentic experience with knowledgeable guides, this trip packs a lot into just one week.

What we love about this tour is the seamless combination of guided bush walks and marine encounters—like snorkeling with manta rays—that bring the region’s natural beauty alive. Plus, with all meals and accommodations included, you can focus on the sights and sounds rather than stressing about planning each day. On the flip side, potential travelers should consider the long driving stretches—it’s a physically active trip, and you’ll need a moderate fitness level.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see a large swath of WA’s spectacular coastline without the self-drive stress, and who appreciate expert guides that make the journey both fun and educational. Families, wildlife lovers, and those eager for a deep dive into nature will find this a worthwhile adventure.

Key Points

Includes guided bush walks and marine encounters—no extra cost, so you’ll experience WA’s wilderness firsthand.
All accommodations and meals are covered—simplifying your trip and offering good value for such a comprehensive itinerary.
Skip the long drives—a perfect option for those who prefer exploring with a knowledgeable guide rather than behind the wheel.
Highlights include snorkeling with manta rays and dolphins, and visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites like Shark Bay.
The tour caters to a moderate fitness level, with some walking and physical activity involved.
Traveler reviews consistently praise guides for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the experience more memorable.

The Itinerary in Depth

Starting in Perth: Setting the Stage

The adventure kicks off in Perth, Australia’s most isolated capital, a vibrant city with a laid-back vibe. The group departs early to make the most of daylight, heading north into wild Western Australia. The initial stop at The Pinnacles Desert offers a surreal landscape of limestone formations. The guided tour here is a highlight, providing insights into how these unique structures formed over thousands of years. Expect about 1.5 km of walking, which is manageable and allows plenty of time to marvel at the bizarre shapes while soaking up coastal views on Indian Ocean Drive.

From here, you’ll travel to Kalbarri, a seaside town known for its rugged cliffs and river gorges. The scenic drive itself is part of the experience, giving travelers a taste of WA’s remote beauty.

Day 2: Exploring Kalbarri National Park and Surroundings

Kalbarri National Park is a major draw, with its striking water-carved sandstone formations and gorges. We loved the way the guides explain the geology and history—making these natural wonders come alive. You’ll hike down to the Murchison Gorge and Z-Bend, giving you a chance to see the landscape from different perspectives. Expect about three hours of moderate walking.

Natures Window is a must-see—a natural rock formation that frames the landscape like a giant picture window. From here, you’ll capture some spectacular photos of the park’s rugged beauty. Before heading to Monkey Mia, you’ll stroll along Shell Beach, a stunning stretch of shoreline covered entirely with tiny white shells—an ideal spot for a leisurely walk and some memorable photos.

Day 3: Monkey Mia and Shark Bay’s Marine Marvels

Arriving at Monkey Mia in the World Heritage-listed Shark Bay, you’ll encounter the famous dolphins that come ashore each morning. Reviews consistently praise this encounter as a highlight; “the dolphins playing just off the shore” is a common theme. It’s a genuinely charming experience, and the guides’ commentary adds context to these intelligent creatures’ behaviors.

Post-dolphin meet-and-greet, the group visits Hamelin Pool to see the Stromatolites—the oldest living fossils on Earth—a reminder of the planet’s ancient past. Visiting these living microbial mats is like stepping back in time.

The afternoon is free to explore Coral Bay, a town that feels more like a beach haven than a typical tourist stop. Snorkeling nearshore, or even dolphin or manta ray tours (optional, extra cost), enhance your connection with this vibrant marine environment.

Days 4 & 5: Ningaloo Reef & Exmouth’s Natural Wonders

Spending most of Day 4 in Coral Bay offers ample time to enjoy Ningaloo Reef, Australia’s largest fringe reef. Snorkeling here is effortless—just steps from the beach—offering opportunities to see colorful coral, fish, sharks, and turtles. Many reviews mention snorkelers’ amazement at the reef’s proximity and diversity. Optional activities like swimming with manta rays or whale sharks (additional cost) are available, with many travelers describing these as “life-changing.”

The next day, you’ll head north to Exmouth, a rugged town perched on the cape. Standing atop Vlamingh Head Lighthouse provides sweeping views over the reef and ranges, with a chance to spot passing whales in season. Exploring Cape Range National Park reveals more of WA’s dramatic limestone formations, deep canyons, and pristine beaches—perfect for those who love wild, untouched landscapes.

Turquoise Bay is often praised as a snorkeling paradise. You can relax on the beach or rent gear to explore the coral gardens just offshore.

Day 6: Marine Life & Cultural Insights

Back in Exmouth, you’ll revisit Ningaloo Reef, enjoying a close-up look at the marine life. Reviewers rave about the diversity—mantas, sharks, whales, and turtles all frequent this area, making it a magnet for snorkelers and nature lovers alike.

A stop in Carnarvon offers a taste of local produce, with visits to banana or mango plantations (seasonal). The evening concludes with a group dinner at The Murchison Tavern, a chance to relax after a long day on the road.

Final Day: Wrapping Up the Adventure

The last morning includes visits to the HMAS Sydney Memorial in Geraldton—a poignant site overlooking the ocean—and a walk along the sand dunes of Green Head. The journey concludes with a scenic drive back to Perth, arriving around 5 pm, with plenty of time to reflect on an adventure packed with wildlife, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This guided group tour is all about accessibility and depth. The expert commentary enhances every stop, providing context that helps you appreciate what you’re seeing. The accommodation and meals are included, which not only simplifies logistics but also offers significant value, especially considering the remote locations visited.

The marine encounters are a highlight, with many guests noting the chance to snorkel just meters from shore in Ningaloo Reef—the actual reef is so close it feels like an extension of the beach. Snorkeling with manta rays or whale sharks, while optional and paid separately, is widely praised as unforgettable.

Guides consistently receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make each stop meaningful. Many reviews mention their guides’ energy, fun personalities, and careful attention to safety—making the trip both educational and comfortable.

While the long drives are unavoidable, most travelers find that the stops and scenery make the journey worthwhile. The ability to leave the driving to someone else means you can truly relax and take in the views.

Practical Considerations and Value

At $1,223.26 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience of WA’s coastal highlights. When you consider all accommodation, most meals, guided walks, and many activities are included, it’s a good deal for those wanting to see the region without the logistical hassle of self-driving.

However, optional activities like manta ray swims or whale shark tours cost extra, and you’ll want to budget accordingly if those experiences appeal to you. Also, the tour is quite active—expect some walking and physical activity—so a moderate fitness level is recommended. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so pack for a range of temperatures, including hot summer days and cooler nights.

The maximum group size of 23 travelers ensures a balance between social atmosphere and personal attention, making it easier to connect and ask questions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want to see WA’s spectacular coast without the stress of planning or driving. It suits those with a moderate fitness level who enjoy being active outdoors and are curious about wildlife, geology, and marine life. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure travelers will all find plenty to love.

If you’re after authentic experiences—snorkeling in coral reefs, witnessing ancient stromatolites, watching dolphins—you’ll find this tour delivers. Its focus on natural beauty, expert guides, and well-organized logistics makes it an excellent choice for those wanting a meaningful, hassle-free exploration of Western Australia’s coast.

FAQ

How long is the drive between stops?
Most driving stretches are long but broken up with stops, scenic views, and guided walks. The tour is designed to maximize sightseeing while mitigating fatigue, though expect some lengthy drives over the week.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast (6), lunch (5), and dinner (5) are included throughout the trip, simplifying planning and offering good value.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour requires a moderate fitness level and involves some walking, so it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with outdoor activities and long days.

Can I participate in snorkeling with manta rays or whale sharks?
These activities are optional and paid separately. Many travelers say these encounters are unforgettable highlights, but availability depends on the season and weather.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 23 travelers, balancing a social group with enough space for everyone to enjoy the experience.

What should I bring?
Pack suitable clothing for all weather, a 1.5L water bottle, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and any personal gear for marine activities.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, but it’s important to inform the tour operator in advance, as sourcing special foods in remote areas is limited.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days before the start for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days prior are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day guided tour from Perth to Exmouth offers a well-rounded, immersive experience of Western Australia’s coast. It’s a fantastic option for those who want expert guidance, stress-free logistics, and a chance to see marine wildlife, ancient geological formations, and pristine beaches—all in just one week. The inclusion of meals and accommodations makes it a convenience and value-packed choice, particularly for travelers eager to focus on the sights rather than the planning.

If you’re after a trip that combines adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty with knowledgeable guides leading the way, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suitable for those looking for an active holiday with plenty of authentic, memorable moments.

Disclaimer: Always check your physical fitness, weather conditions, and dietary needs before booking. This tour involves some physical activity and long days but promises a rewarding experience of Western Australia’s stunning coast.