How Much Does an Exmouth Trip Cost? Whale Shark Tours and Beyond

A trip to Exmouth is so much more than a holiday. It’s a chance for you and your family to dive into one of Australia’s most spectacular natural playgrounds. From swimming alongside majestic whale sharks to wandering pristine beaches and exploring vibrant coral reefs, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.

But before you pack your snorkels and sunhats, it helps to know what to expect, especially when it comes to the cost of an Exmouth trip. Flights, accommodation, food, tours — it all adds up. But we’re here to help with this stacked guide, breaking it all down so you can budget, plan and make the most of your family adventure on the Ningaloo Reef.

Why Exmouth is the perfect family destination

Stretching along the stunning north-west coast of Western Australia, Ningaloo Reef is one of the world’s largest fringing reefs. And it’s right on Exmouth’s doorstep! 

Its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life and easily accessible beaches make it a fantastic playground for families. Here’s why the whole family—parents, kids and grandparents—fall in love with this unforgettable destination:

1. Wildlife encounters for every explorer

See the wonder on your kids’ faces as a whale shark drifts gracefully beneath them. Or a manta ray twirls in the sun-dappled shallows like it’s performing just for them. 

Turtles peek out of coral gardens, and schools of colourful reef fish dart around, creating underwater spectacles that feel like living cartoons. And all of this unfolds under the watchful eyes of expert guides.

2. Adventure for the whole crew

Little ones can splash in glassy lagoons. Older kids can snorkel over magically bright-coloured coral gardens. And teens or adults can wander secret trails. Even those who like to take it easy can marvel at dugongs from the shore or sink their toes into sun-warmed, sandy beaches.

3. Stress-free from wheels to waves

Hop on a direct flight from Perth and you’re in Exmouth before you know it, ready to dive into adventures. Family-friendly cars and a range of stays, from snug apartments to splash-ready resorts, make exploring the region easy and carefree. 

With everything so simple, all that’s left is to pack your sense of wonder and jump straight into the fun.

4. Memorable shared experiences

Few destinations allow multiple generations to explore together in comfort, from gentle reef swims to quiet beach picnics. Every laugh, splash and sunset becomes a story you’ll tell over and over long after the trip ends.

Family-friendly cost breakdown

Now that we’ve painted the picture of family magic in Exmouth, it’s time to get down to the details. Planning a trip here can feel daunting, especially when you’re thinking about flights, accommodation and activities for multiple generations. 

But don’t worry. We’ve broken it all down so you can see exactly what to expect, helping you budget without needless stress.

1. Transport

Flights: Most visitors fly into Learmonth Airport (Exmouth), usually via Perth. Prices fluctuate depending on the season and how far ahead you book, but adult return flights are generally in the $600-$800 range.

Tips to save

• Book well in advance, especially for school holidays when seats disappear fast.
• Keep an eye out for family discounts or flexible fare packages.
• Flying midweek can sometimes save hundreds off your total.

Car hire

Once you arrive, having your own wheels makes getting around Ningaloo Reef and nearby sights so much smoother.

• 5-7 seat SUV: ~$100–$150/day
• Fuel: ~$80–$120 for a week, depending on how much reef hopping and beach exploring you plan
  

2. Accommodation

Exmouth offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxurious resorts to more budget-friendly choices. Looking for a beachfront escape or a cosy self-contained holiday home? Whatever your family’s style, there’s the perfect spot waiting for you in Exmouth. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

• Resorts & hotels: Family rooms or two-bedroom suites range from $180–$400 per night, with many resorts offering enjoyable extras like pools, restaurants and direct access to the reef.
• Holiday Apartments / Self-Catering: A great option for families who want more room and the freedom to do things their way. With your own kitchen, you can whip up meals as you please (not to mention save on dining out, especially if your kids are picky eaters!).
• Caravan Parks / Cabins: $80–$150/night. A more affordable option if you're after a no-frills stay. Many parks offer family cabins, plus communal facilities like BBQs and play areas.

3. Food & dining

Exmouth offers a huge range of dining options. But dining out for larger families can definitely add up quickly. Luckily, there are ways to balance eating out with self-catering to keep costs in check:

• Casual Meals: $15–$25 per person: After a day of sun and adventure, Exmouth’s casual cafes, takeaway spots and local eateries offer a delicious, budget-friendly refuel. Dive into crispy fish and chips, fresh-baked sandwiches stacked with local ingredients, or a juicy burger with all the fixings.
• Mid-Range Restaurants: $25–$45 per person. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, Exmouth offers up a fantastic range of restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood, Australian fare or international cuisine. It’s a great option for a special night out with the family.
• Groceries / Self-Catering: $80–$120 per day for a family of four. If you’re looking to save on food costs, consider self-catering. Exmouth has no shortage of well-stocked local supermarkets where you can pick up fresh produce, snacks and meal ingredients.

4. Tours & experiences

When it comes to experiencing Exmouth, the adventures don’t get much bigger (or more memorable) than swimming with the majestic whale sharks. But that’s just the beginning! 

Three Islands Whale Shark Dive offers a range of tours that let you explore the underwater wonders of Ningaloo Reef and beyond. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

Whale Shark Snorkelling Tour: $620 per adult, $550 per child

Swim with the world’s largest fish in Ningaloo Reef’s crystal-clear waters. Three Islands Whale Shark Dive offers a safe, small-group experience where expert guides ensure a thrilling yet secure adventure for the whole family. Spot whale sharks, manta rays, turtles and vibrant reef fish, all giving you an unforgettable way to connect with nature.

Snorkel trips to Ningaloo Reef: $150–$250 per person

Beyond the iconic whale sharks, Ningaloo Reef offers a wealth of marine life, and these snorkel trips give families a chance to explore its colourful coral gardens at a relaxed pace. Glide through the water alongside sea turtles, rays and schools of spectacular fish.

Multi-day eco-adventures: $600–$1,000 per person

For those who want to fully immerse themselves in Exmouth’s natural beauty, the multi-day eco-adventures combine snorkelling, wildlife encounters and visits to stunning natural landmarks, such as Cape Range National Park.

Families will enjoy the opportunity to stay in eco-friendly accommodations while connecting with the region's rich environment.

Sample 5-day family itinerary & budget

To help you plan your trip to Exmouth, here’s a sample itinerary and budget breakdown for a family of four (2 adults, 2 kids). This will give you a clearer idea of how to allocate your time and budget to make the most of your adventure.

Make your Exmouth adventure a reality

You’ve seen how unforgettable Exmouth can be for families. Now it’s time to turn your plans into lasting memories!

Three Islands Whale Shark Dive makes it easy for families to explore Ningaloo Reef safely and comfortably. With expert guides, small groups and family-focused tours, every moment will fill you with electrifying thrills, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro.

So why wait? Jump into sparkling blue waters, meet the world’s gentle giants, and make your Exmouth trips one the whole family will treasure. Book your whale shark swim today and get adventurous!