The early wake-up to venture into Cape Range National Park is well worth it when you arrive just in time to watch the sunrise over the spectacular Charles Knife Canyon. As golden light spills across the ridgeline, the canyon walls ignite in fiery reds and oranges, with the calm waters of Exmouth Gulf glowing in the distance. After soaking in the views, keep the adventure going by tackling the 6km rim walk that traces the edge of this dramatic landscape.

Exmouth is a world-class fishing destination, and no trip here is complete without casting a line into its vibrant waters. One of the most prized catches? The elusive Coral Trout, famous for its vibrant colours and reputation as one of the best-tasting fish on the reef.

On a Friday night, Bullara Station is the place to be! Just an hours drive out of town, the working station experience is known for its homemade burgers, live music and unique outdoor showers. The classic charm and laid back atmosphere brings travellers together like old mates. Whether you spend a week here or pass through for the night, Bullara serves up a true taste of the outback with memories you’ll never forget.

Heading along the Coral Coast, 14 Mile Beach is not a spot to skip! This stretch of paradise lets you roll right up amongst the sand dunes and set up just metres from the ocean. Mornings start with the sound of waves, days are spent soaking up the sun and swimming in crystal-clear waters, and evenings roll in with epic sunsets over the sea. Our top tip is to book your site early so you can snag one of the prime beachfront spots! Nearby South Lefroy, Winderbandi Point and Point Billie are also some favourites.

When breeding season hits between September-March every year, the nearby Coral Bay Shark Sanctuary is the place to visit if you would like to see hundreds of black tipped reef sharks and other species swimming in the shallows close to shore. Just a 20min walk North along Bills Bay, this wild sanctuary with no swimming or fishing permitted offers the rare opportunity to watch these sharks congregate in their natural habitat.

When the wind forecast picks up, it's time to get out your surfboard and paddle out for a surf! Popular spots to get in on the action include the reef break at Dunes Beach, the sandy bottomed Wobiri Beach and the bommie at Hunters Beach. You may find yourself sharing the waters with keen kitesurfers, all out and about making the most of a breezy day!

The World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef is famous for being the world’s largest fringing reef, where you can step straight off the beach into a thriving underwater sanctuary just metres from shore. Teaming with marine life, you’ll likely see colourful coral gardens, turtles, reef sharks, dugongs and a wide variety of fish species. Our favourite sites include Five Fingers Reef, Turquoise Bay Drift Snorkel and Lakeside Sanctuary Zone.

Turtle breeding season in Exmouth runs from November to March, and it’s one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events. If you're still around during that time, you’ll have the chance to witness hundreds of green sea turtles gathering in the shallow waters to breed. At night, the females come ashore to rest and lay their eggs. Come March, these eggs hatch and tiny hatchlings embark on their first journeys in life. Bungelup beach is a good spot to witness the magic!

Swimming with whale sharks is the top reason why many visit Exmouth, bringing a high number of tourists every season. Often referred to as a once in a lifetime bucket list experience, gliding alongside these gentle giants is nothing short of surreal. Despite their massive size, whale sharks are gentle, slow moving giants that are safe to share the water with. Your best chance of seeing these incredible creatures is between the months of March and July when they migrate to the warm waters of Exmouth Gulf. You can book tours with several experienced companies in Exmouth town centre.