Last Updated on 2 April 2025 by Ariana Svenson
Looking for the best things to do in Shark Bay? The Shark Bay Heritage Area Shark Bay, known as Gutharraguda to its traditional custodians, is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Western Australia.
I can honestly say that one’s first view of Shark Bay takes your breath away. It’s a beautiful place where the red colour of the land meets the turquoise water. I was lucky enough to fly in on my first visit, and I could see the vivid colours from the plane and the geometric shapes of the Birrida Lakes – I was hooked!
On my second visit, the moment I turned off the North West highway, I felt a tingle. This is a truly special landscape and a must-visit area if you’re planning a trip to Western Australia. The road trip to Monkey Mia and Shark Bay is all part of the fun!
This guide covers what to do in Shark Bay + everything you need to know to have an unforgettable trip!
Shark Bay Location
Located at the westernmost point of Western Australia, Shark Bay is a stunning coastal region that spans around 2.2 million hectares, where the land meets the sea.
The Shark Bay region is known for its incredible natural beauty and unique wildlife. It’s about 500 miles / 836 kilometres north of Perth – a bit of a drive, but totally worth it!
Why is Shark Bay’s World Heritage Status So Important?
Only a handful of places in the world meet all four natural World Heritage criteria, making it an internationally recognised site of outstanding natural value.
It holds this status due to its exceptional biodiversity, ancient history, and unique ecosystems. It’s actually the meeting point of three climatic regions.
Shark Bay is home to an incredible array of biodiversity, including plant species that are considered unique and newly identified by scientists. 5 of Australia’s 26 species of endangered Australian mammals and 35% of Australian bird species are also found here!
Indigenous heritage
If you’re planning a visit to Shark Bay, you’re stepping into a living, breathing story of deep cultural heritage. For over 30,000 years, the Malgana (Central), Nanda (South), and Yinggarda (East Coast) Aboriginal people have called this extraordinary region home.
The Malgana name for Shark Bay, Gutharraguda, translates to ‘place of two waters‘ celebrating the connection between the saltwater of the sea and the freshwater that flows throughout the region.
As you explore, you’ll come across over 130 Aboriginal heritage sites scattered throughout the area. Every corner tells a piece of history, from ancient quarries to rock shelters, burial sites, and large middens filled with shells, bones, and food-related artifacts. If you venture near Eagle Bluff, you’ll be standing on the same ground that Aboriginal people have lived on for millennia.
But it’s not just the past that makes Shark Bay so special. Aboriginal culture is deeply rooted in the tradition of “Caring for Country”. This ethos is about understanding and respecting the sacred relationship between the people, their land, and the environment, ensuring they are protected as we move forward.
In fact, Aboriginal groups’ ties to this land are recognised through Native Title – a legal acknowledgment of their enduring connection to the land. The Malgana aboriginal people received Native Title over a massive 28,800 square kilometres, including much of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.
In 2024, a native title was also gained for South Peron/Nanga National Park, another step toward preserving land for future generations.
Stromatolites
One of the most significant reasons for Shark Bay’s inclusion is Hamelin Pool’s stromatolites, which are considered the oldest living fossils on Earth, dating back over 3.5 billion years.
Often called ‘living fossils’, they offer a look into life long before dinosaurs. Seeing these beautiful formations should be one of the top things on your Western Australia bucket list.
Seagrass
Seagrass meadows are beautiful and incredibly important to marine life. Shark Bay takes this up another level, as its meadows cover over 4,000 square kilometres, achieving the accolade of being the largest and most diverse in the world.
These huge underwater fields support marine life as a food source, maintain water clarity, and prevent coastal erosion.
Birridas
Birradas are landlocked saline lakes between sand dunes in Shark Bay. They are found between the dunes in Shark Bay. These ancient depressions were once part of the ocean but became isolated as sea levels changed over thousands of years.
Map of the Best Things to do in Shark Bay, WA
The Top Things to do in Shark Bay, WA
Shark Bay is full of incredible things to do and places to explore. Many of our top things to do in Shark Bay are located in and around Monkey Mia and Denham, so be sure to check out our posts on things to do in Monkey Mia and things to do in Denham with detailed expert tips and insider info on these locations.
Here are our top 14 things to do in Shark Bay, Western Australia:
1. Marvel at the Hamelin Pool Stromatolites
Location: Hamelin Pool Rd, Hamelin Pool, WA
Hamelin Pool is home to a diverse and abundant collection of living stromatolites. Admire these ancient living fossils from land at low tide (the viewing boardwalk was damaged during Cyclone Seroja in 2021), along with the crystal blue waters and sandy beaches. Pack some binoculars or a telephoto lens for a bird’ s-eye view.
While slightly underwhelming to look at, take a moment to find a quiet place and reflect. Try to imagine what life may have been like millions of years ago. You can feel this is an ancient country.
You can also take a short walk to the Shell quarry and then onto Hamelin Pool Telegraph station. I recommend lunch or a cuppa at the station.
2. Visit Striking Shell Beach
When travelling from Hamelin Pool to Denham, your next stop will be the pristine shores of Shell Beach – one of the best beaches in Western Australia!
When you see the beach for the first time, you’ll see that the beach is quite literally made up entirely of shells. It’s one of the few beaches in the world where you can see this.
It’s due to a huge accumulation of tiny white cockle shells. It’s so beautiful to see, and you just can’t miss it if you’re exploring the Shark Bay area.
This beach has a visually striking landscape stretching for kilometres. This is due to the Fragum cockle, which thrived due to increased salt levels reducing predators. At some points, the cockle shells can reach a whopping 10m in depth on the beach.
The beach is Instagram-famous. If you’ve been researching, you’ll have probably seen influencers throwing shells in the air to make love hearts. Shell Beach is also a fun place to swim or walk along the beach.
3. Enjoy the Views at Eagle Bluff
The next stop along the road from Hamelin Pool to Denham (20km away) is the very beautiful Eagle Bluff, where you can appreciate the seagrass beds that sustain the unique species in the ocean. If you’re after one of the best coastal viewpoints in Shark Bay, Eagle Bluff should be high on your list. You can walk along the walking platform, which edges a cliff, and see the beautiful water and the sandy bluffs – the contrasting colours are amazing!
We could see a shark swimming below; if you are lucky, you might spot a dugong. Pack a picnic and head up the walkway along the cliff, which offers sweeping views of aquamarine waters, marine life, and salmon-pink sandy bluffs.
4. Kick Back and Relax in Denham
Denham is the main town in Shark Bay and the perfect place to base yourself while exploring the region. Read our Denham accommodation guide for details.
Base-wise, Monkey Mia is also a good option. Our post on where to stay in Shark Bay – Denham Vs Monkey Mia will help you make the perfect choice!
Once a pearl fishing hub, it’s now a top spot for wildlife and amazing photo ops. From emus roaming freely to pristine coastlines, it’s a place not to be missed.
Our guide to things to do in Denham gives a detailed overview of the must-do things in this beautiful town. A must-see place, both for the orientation of the area and for stunning information, is the Shark Bay Discover Centre in Denham, where you can learn about Indigenous History, marine species, and more.
It’s packed with exhibits about the area’s culture, wildlife, and natural wonders, giving you a deeper look at what makes this place so unique. There’s also a great interactive exhibit of HMAS Sydney for maritime fans.
Don’t miss walking along Denham foreshore, stopping for a picnic and enjoying the sea views. The Ocean Park Aquarium is also a must-visit, and guided tours are available.
You can’t visit Denham without exploring the historic buildings. The Old Pearlier Restaurant is built entirely from compacted shells, and St. Andrew’s Church is one of the oldest in the region.
5. Relax at Little Lagoon
If you’re looking for a relaxing day in the Shark Bay area, this is where you should head!
Little Lagoon is an idyllic spot just outside Francois Peron National Park and a 5-minute drive from Denham.
You can either drive here or take the Little Lagoon walk trail. Originally an old birria (salt pan) that filled with seawater over time, Little Lagoon is now a calm, shallow estuary (perfect for families) . The surrounding beach offers safe swimming and plenty of space to enjoy the scenery.
Kayaking and paddleboarding are fantastic ways to explore the lagoon’s calm waters, and fishing here can yield catches like yellowfin whiting and flathead.
Have a soak in the Artesian Hot Tub at the Peron Homestead. Make use of the free barbecue and take a stroll around the old shearing sheds.
6. Visit Monkey Mia
No visit to Shark Bay is complete without a trip to the Monkey Mia conservation park, home to one of Western Australia’s most famous wildlife experiences.
Known for its resident wild bottlenose dolphins, this beachfront reserve is the best place to see these incredible creatures up close in their natural environment. It goes without saying that you need to head to Monkey Mia in the early morning to see the dolphins that come visiting in the early morning.
The beautiful beach and relaxed vibe make it the perfect spot to unwind. If you’re feeling more energetic, hike in the nature reserve, kayak, or try stand-up paddleboarding.
Discover all the things to do in our Things to do in Monkey Mia post!
Monkey Mia is also a great place to base yourself to explore Shark Bay. Read our Monkey Mia accomodation post or see if Denham would be better suited in our Denham Vs Monkey Mia post.
7. Drive to Edel Land National Park & Steep Point (Only for those with Four Wheel Drive Experience!)
If you are experienced in four-wheel driving, visiting Edel Land National Park and the most westerly point of Mainland Australia (Steep Point) should be on your bucket list.
I happened to be in the Shark Bay Visitor Centre when I overheard a couple asking about the road to Steep Point. The lady repeated over, and over again “Do you have a lot of 4wd experience?” This is not a road for beginners or even people with moderate experience.
Maybe I am extrapolating, but it sounds like people do get themselves into trouble quite frequently!!! (Don’t join the club)
Expect a thrilling drive through approximately 140 km of unsealed road (high-clearance 4WD and experience required) and a single-lane soft track winding around the sand dunes.
8. Fly Over Shark Bay
As I have flown into Shark Bay, I have had the opportunity to see how incredible it is from the ground.
Flying over Shark Bay offers an unforgettable perspective of the bright turquoise waters, vast seagrass meadows, and dramatic coastline.
It’s an amazing way to take in the reds, whites and blues of Big Lagoon and Francois Peron National Park, be wowed by the Zuytdorp Cliffs and Dirk Hartog Island, and experience Steep Point.
Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
Discover Shark Bay Flights Here >>>
9. Have an Adventure in Francois Peron National Park
Francois Peron National Park is a rugged, stunning landscape perfect for adventure. With its red sand dunes, white beaches, and crystal-clear waters, the park offers incredible scenery and a chance to spot wildlife like kangaroos and emus.
Explore by 4WD or via the walking trails (these can be challenging in places for less experienced hikers). Make sure you visit Skipjack Point to walk along the boardwalk and see what marine species you can spot from the clifftop!
10. Explore Dirk Hartog Island
Dutch explorer Dirk Hartog landed on this island in Shark Bay in 1616. Since then, it’s become known for its eco-tourism. Camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing, combined with an opportunity to learn about the island’s history and cultural significance, make for a magical experience.
This island also has a European history. In 1616, it was the first recorded landing place of Europeans in Australia.
11. Shark Bay Boat Hire
Hiring a boat in Shark Bay is a fantastic way to explore the coastline and crystal-clear waters at your own pace, whether cruising, fishing, or dolphin spotting.
Spot manta rays, loggerhead turtles, and more! Denham has plenty of boat rental options; just remember to check the local conditions and safety tips before you go. Guided boat trips, such as nature cruises, are also available.
12. Fishing Charters in Shark Bay
One of the top Shark Bay things to to is fishing. Plenty of local operators in Denham offer fishing charters with guides who know the best spots.
Another option is to fish from the shore or hire a boat yourself from Eagle Bluff, Shark Bay Beach, and Hamelin Pool. Just make sure you’re aware of local fishing regulations, including permits and catch limits. Abundant species include Pink Snapper, Milloway, Spanish Mackerel and Tailor.
13. Diving in Shark Bay
In Shark Bay, dive tours offer expert guidance and access to top spots, perfect for beginners or those seeking local knowledge. Experienced scuba diving fans can also enjoy self-led dives at spots like Nanga Bay and Little Lagoon, exploring the clear waters and marine life at your own pace.
14. Meet marine life at Shark Bay Aquarium
This is not your average aquarium, where you are left to wander around the tanks alone. Your guide will take you on a tour, and you can learn more about marine life with insightful commentary. To wrap up your visit, head to the restaurant for lunch and beautiful views of Shark Bay.
Weather in Shark Bay + The Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Shark Bay, Western Australia, is between April and May when the weather is mild and warm and perfect for swimming, boating, and camping.
July can get pretty cold and a little rainy, averaging 10ºC to 20-25ºC. This is a great time for hiking and exploring, but the water might be a bit too chilly for extended swimming.
On the flip side, February is usually the hottest month, ranging from 23ºC to 35ºC or 40ºC. Cyclone season is from November to the end of April, but cyclones are not that frequent. October through March can be windy, which is something to keep in mind if you’re planning activities like fishing or boating.
Aside from the weather, it’s also good to know the busier times. School holidays like Easter will be very busy in Shark Bay, so attractions like Monkey Mia will be packed.
The main thing to consider is what works for you. If you can travel out of peak season, that’s great. Mild winters and hot, dry summers are the norm in Shark Bay’s semi-desert climate, so go with what you prefer. Just make sure your accommodation has air-conditioning if you visit during summer.
Shark Bay Restaurants + The Top Places to Eat
We all remember where we tasted great food on a memorable holiday. It’s something you never forget. Here are the top places to eat in Shark Bay:
- The Old Pearler Restaurant: A charming restaurant with great food and seafood that is not to be missed. Book ahead in busier periods.
- Oceans Restaurant: Combine with a visit to the aquarium. Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea and cake, or lunch with ocean views.
- Shark Bay Pizza: Sometimes, all you need is great pizza. Try the seafood pizza, as it’s amazing, but all other options offer fresh ingredients, great combos, and are woodfired to perfection.
How to Get to Shark Bay
Wondering how to get to Shark Bay? Here are your options:
Fly to Perth and Drive: Perth is the closest major international airport; from here, you can drive to Shark Bay. It’s about an 8-9 hour drive (800 km) to Shark Bay. The scenic road trip is a great way to see the countryside! This Perth to Kalbarri road trip includes a stop in Denham.
Fly to Geraldton and Drive: If you want to shorten the drive, you can fly from Perth to Geraldton (about 1-hour flight) and then drive 4-5 hours (380 km) to Shark Bay. QantasLink and Rex run the route.
Fly to Shark Bay Airport: About 10km from Dengam, REX operates direct flights from Perth to Shark Bay Airport.
Shark Bay Tours from Perth and Elsewhere: Several tour operators run multi-day excursions from Perth, often including Kalbarri National Park and the Pinnacles Desert. The most popular tours include:
Final Words
Shark Bay is an absolute gem! From the stunning Shark Bay World Heritage Area to the incredible wildlife and beaches, there’s so much to see and do. Trust me, you won’t regret making this place your next adventure!
FAQs
Why is it Called Shark Bay?
Shark Bay, WA, was named in 1699 by English explorer William Dampier, who noted the large number of sharks in the area. While sharks are indeed present, they are just one part of the rich marine life, including dugongs, dolphins, turtles, rays, and a huge variety of fish.
However, the traditional Malgana name for Shark Bay is Gutharraguda, which means “two waters”. This refers to the bay’s unique geography, where sandbars and islands create a distinct double-water effect.
What is Shark Bay Famous for?
Shark Bay is famous for its natural beauty, including unique seagrass meadows, the world’s oldest living fossils (stromatolites), and incredible wildlife like dugongs and dolphins. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich cultural history.
What are Birridas in Shark Bay, WA?
Birridas is another amazing element that makes Shark Bay so unique. These unique habitats are key to the area’s ecosystem, providing food and shelter for crabs, fish, and dugongs.
The water was rich in lime sulphate, which was deposited onto the lake floor. Birrida appears as dry, shimmering salt flats in the Shark Bay Heritage Area, particularly in summer. They often fill with water afterwards, which creates a beautiful contrast between the colour of the Earth and the salt.
How many days do you need in Shark Bay?
Consider spending 5-7 days exploring Shark Bay. Split your time between Denham for adventure and day trips and Monkey Mia for a relaxing stay with plenty of downtime and fun by the beach.
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