Things To Do With Kids In Exmouth

If you're on the hunt for the perfect destination for a family holiday between March and September, Exmouth in Western Australia, nestled along the stunning Ningaloo Coast, is the ideal locale. Whether you're embarking on a scenic road trip or flying directly, Exmouth welcomes you with open arms. Here, discover interactive learning centres, a captivating aquarium, untouched beaches, and breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky each evening. The rich marine life, from playful humpback whales to the majestic whale shark, along with turtles and numerous other creatures, promises endless fascination. Explore below to discover the best things to do that are kid-friendly in Exmouth, ensuring a memorable adventure for the whole family.

Explore and Educate

If you've just arrived in Exmouth and want to start with something light and fun, taking your children to discovery centres is a great way to start the trip.

JURABI TURTLE CENTRE

Begin by strolling through the interpretive displays and learn about the marine turtles that are found along the Ningaloo Reef coast. Take a guided tour from December through to March and learn about their lifecycle, how to find nesting turtles, the population of the species and if you're lucky you may see some turtle hatchlings.

NINGALOO CENTRE

The Ningaloo Visitor Centre is the perfect discovery hub full of plenty of fun for the whole family. It's home to the Ningaloo Aquarium and Discovery Centre, the Exmouth library, a cafe and staff who have the best knowledge on what to do and where to go whilst in Exmouth.

NINGALOO AQUARIUM & DISCOVERY CENTRE

Begin your family adventure with a walk through the aquarium and discovery centre. With live displays scattered throughout the centre, it's sure to entertain both the children and the adults. Learn about the environment and inhabitants you'll be discovering whilst you're visiting. With over 100 species being housed in the Ningaloo Reef, become familiar with a few on dry land before you see them up close in the ocean.

Let's Start the Adventure

Once your family is settled into the beauty of Exmouth, it’s time to kick-start the real adventure. For a fascinating exploration on land, consider a day trip to the Cape Range National Park where the rugged landscapes meet the azure waters, offering an array of outdoor activities and wildlife spotting. Now, dive into the aquatic wonders by booking the best experience Exmouth has to offer; the Three Islands Whale Shark Tours. Make sure that you and your children have a strong swimming ability as you want to make the most of this incredible experience. You'll be provided with some morning tea to start your day so if you do get a little peckish be sure to bring some snacks for the day.

WHALE SHARK TOUR

Exmouth is one of the few locations in Australia where you can swim with the world's biggest fish, the whale shark. Make sure that you have booked your tour at least a few weeks in advance to secure a space on the boat. The tour will last the entire day starting from 7 or 8 a.m., and returning around 5 p.m. You'll begin with your tour operators briefing you on safety procedures and how to make the most of your day. When you're in the water, ensure that you swim beside the whale sharks from multiple different angles so you can truly appreciate these magnificent animals.

HUMPBACK WHALE TOUR

Humpback whales are known for their acrobatic display and elaborate songs, making swimming alongside them an amazing experience. Much like the whale shark tour, your tour guide will brief you on fun facts and safety procedures for when you enter the water with these gentle giants.

WHALE SHARK & NINGALOO REEF TOUR

If you're looking for a tour where you can swim with the turtles, reef sharks, colourful fish and manta rays but still see the whale sharks, then this is the perfect tour for you. You'll be immersed in the striking coral bay and crystal clear water, and swim with the breathtaking whale sharks before heading into Exmouth to snorkel on the reef to end your amazing day.

WHAT TO WEAR & BRING ALONG TO A WHALE TOUR

As you gear up for the Three Island tour, ensuring you have all the necessary items packed is crucial. Key essentials include suitable apparel (consider packing an extra jacket or a set of changeable clothes), sturdy yet comfortable footwear (preferably non-slip flats), sunscreen to ward off the sun's rays, and your camera to capture the moments. Stay hydrated with ample water, and carry plain snacks along with ginger or travel calm ginger tablets from Blackmores to curb seasickness (take them 30 minutes before boarding). For young explorers, marine lifeline drawing printouts will add a fun learning curve to the voyage. Pack along additional engaging activities to keep their curiosity piqued as you venture into the expansive ocean.

If you'd like more information on preparations before snorkelling, we delve deeper into this topic in our recent blog on 'The Best Snorkelling Spots in Exmouth'.

Chase the Best Exmouth Sunsets

TURQUOISE BAY

After an adventure-packed day, the best way to unwind is with a beautiful sunset. Bring along your snorkelling gear and jump into the water at Turquoise Bay and play who can spot the most fish. If you're at Vlamingh Head Lighthouse with some fish and chips, you simply can't go wrong. Be sure to bring your binoculars along to do some whale watching whilst you're waiting for the sun to set—you may even hear their beautiful singing!

An Adventure You'll Always Remember

Swimming with whale sharks is an incredible, bucket list activity that any adventure seeker needs to embark on. It's also one of the thrilling things to do with kids in Exmouth, providing an educational and awe-inspiring experience for the entire family. Don't forget to have it at the top of your itinerary for your trip to Exmouth. The best time to visit is in March - September as it's whale shark season so remember to book your tickets before you go.

Book your tickets for the best Exmouth snorkelling tours during whale shark season with Three Islands Whale Shark Dive at +61 1800 138 501.