Exmouth is a jewel for travelers who love marine life, outdoor adventures, and stunning coastal landscapes. Its proximity to Ningaloo Reef — a UNESCO World Heritage site — makes it a prime spot for unforgettable tours. We especially love the Swimming with the Whale Sharks experience for its once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the Full-Day Kayaking and Snorkeling tours for their immersive nature. Whether you’re chasing gentle turtles or colossal whale sharks, Exmouth offers something genuine and spectacular. And with well-organized operators and glowing reviews, you can trust these tours will deliver memorable moments.
Quick Overview
Exmouth’s tours are primarily focused on marine wildlife encounters, snorkeling, diving, and land-based adventures. From swimming alongside the world’s largest fish to exploring national parks on foot, there’s a diverse lineup. These experiences are perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and families alike. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each of the best tours, helping you choose the one that fits your style and schedule.
1. Swimming with the Whale Sharks – Ningaloo Reef (Exmouth)
At number 1, this full-day boat trip offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish on Earth, between April and August. The tour departs aboard the modern “Ningaloo Blue,” a spacious vessel with shaded decks and plenty of room to relax or observe marine life. The tour includes snorkel gear, wetsuits, buffet lunch, and hotel transfers from Exmouth, making it easy to focus on the experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its reputation for safety and success—rated 5.0/5 from 171 reviews. Many guests describe it as “exhilarating,” with guides who are encouraging and attentive. The chance to swim at a safe distance with gentle giants, plus sightings of manta rays and sea turtles, creates memories that last a lifetime. The professional crew’s enthusiasm and focus on safety give you confidence in the adventure.
Bottom Line: If seeing the world’s largest fish in its natural environment is a bucket-list goal, this tour delivers with top-notch service, all-inclusive logistics, and memorable encounters.
2. Half Day Snorkel 2.5hr Turtle Tour on the Ningaloo Reef
For a shorter but equally rewarding experience, the Half Day Snorkel Turtle Tour offers a quick 2.5-hour exploration of Ningaloo Reef’s vibrant underwater world. This tour, rated 5.0/5 from 163 reviews, combines scenic boat rides with snorkel stops at two prime sites, increasing your chances to see sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the small group size (max 12) ensures personalized attention. Many travelers mention how engaging the guides are, and how they managed to spot multiple turtles and even dolphins. The tour’s affordability and focus on marine wildlife make it ideal for families or those with limited time who still want an authentic reef experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a quick, intimate encounter with Ningaloo’s marine life without sacrificing quality or fun.
3. Turtle Tour – Ningaloo Reef Half Day Sea Kayak and Snorkel Tour
At number 3, this small-group sea kayaking and snorkel combo takes you into Ningaloo’s protected Bundegi Sanctuary Zone. Rated 5.0/5 from 159 reviews, it’s a hands-on experience—paddling past coral gardens, reefs, and likely spotting juvenile turtles, reef sharks, and colorful fish.
The tour includes transfers from nearby hotels, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, with all gear provided, including drybags and sun protection. Many reviewers note how close they got to wildlife—some saw over 30 turtles! The combination of paddling and snorkeling makes it an engaging, active day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers wanting to combine paddling with snorkeling, and eager to see Ningaloo’s marine mammals up close.
4. Ningaloo Reef Snorkel and Wildlife Adventure
Number 4 on our list is a full-day small-group snorkeling trip rated 5.0/5 from 123 reviews. This adventure focuses on discovering Ningaloo’s marine biodiversity—from coral reefs to the shallow waters teeming with marine life.
The tour features a high-speed vessel capable of reaching inaccessible spots, with a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests. Included are lunch, snacks, snorkel gear, and hotel pickups, making the day both effortless and enriching. Guests appreciate the personalized experience, often mentioning how they saw manta rays, turtles, and a variety of fish.
Bottom Line: For the traveler who wants to explore Ningaloo reef in depth with a flexible, all-inclusive day, this tour hits the mark.
5. Lagoon Explorer – Ningaloo Reef Full-Day Kayaking and Snorkeling Adventure
The Lagoon Explorer is perfect for a full-day immersion at Ningaloo. With an 8-hour duration, it’s rated 5.0/5 from 118 reviews. This tour combines kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife watching, with opportunities to spot dolphins, dugongs, and sea turtles.
The experience is highly rated for its well-organized logistics, including lunch, snacks, and transportation. It’s suitable for all experience levels, as instruction and gear are provided. Many guests mention the guide’s knowledge and how they appreciated the chance to see marine animals in their natural habitat.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a comprehensive, active day on the water, with plenty of chances for wildlife encounters.
6. Swim with Humpback Whales – Ningaloo Reef – 3 Islands Whale Shark Dive
Offering a full-day eco-tour with a focus on both whales and other marine life, this Swim with Humpback Whales experience is suited for the mid-season (August to October). Rated 5.0/5 from 116 reviews, it includes professional photos, buffet lunch, and courtesy hotel transfers.
The tour features a spotter plane to locate whales and other animals, and snorkel gear is provided for close-up encounters. Travelers describe it as “truly incredible,” especially the chance to see humpback mothers and calves swim beneath them. It’s a well-rounded experience combining wildlife viewing with active snorkeling.
Bottom Line: Ideal for whale lovers and those wanting a comprehensive day with expert guidance and excellent reviews.
7. Deluxe Mega Fauna Humpback or Whale Shark Swim Ningaloo Reef
Number 7 is a full-day cruise rated 5.0/5 from 49 reviews, offering multiple opportunities to swim and snorkel at various reef sites while seeking whale sharks, humpbacks, or manta rays. Operating June to October, it’s perfect for those seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive experience with small groups (up to 14 persons).
The tour is praised for its friendly staff, professional organization, and the thrill of swimming alongside large mega-fauna. Reviewers highlight how they appreciated the multi-site access and the chance to observe marine giants in their natural habitat.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a premium, multi-activity day with the chance to interact with Ningaloo’s iconic megafauna.
8. Cape Range National Park Full-Day Trekking Adventure
Number 8 takes you off the water into the spectacular gorges and canyons of Cape Range. Rated 5.0/5 from 37 reviews, this 8-hour trekking tour explores the Yardi Creek and coastal plains, offering scenic views and wildlife sightings.
Led by expert guides like Ian, you’ll learn about the geology and natural history of the area. Many reviewers mention the personalized experience and local insights that go beyond typical sightseeing. It’s suitable for active walkers who enjoy a bit of adventure on foot.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to explore Exmouth’s land-based natural beauty with knowledgeable guides and fewer crowds.
9. Coral By Kayak – Ningaloo Reef Half Day Kayak & Snorkel Tour
This half-day kayak and snorkel tour rated 5.0/5 from 24 reviews offers a relaxing way to explore Ningaloo. You’ll paddle along the reef, learning about the region’s geology and ecology, then snorkel among colorful corals and fish.
The tour caters to all experience levels, with gear, instruction, and souvenir photos included. Many reviewers highlight the calm waters and friendly guides that make this an ideal choice for families and solo travelers alike.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, scenic option for those who want to combine paddling with reef snorkeling in a casual setting.
10. Scuba Dive Ningaloo Reef
Number 10 offers an immersive diving experience rated 4.5/5 from 92 reviews. The tour includes two guided dives at different sites, with dive gear, snacks, and buffet lunch provided.
The reef hosts over 250 coral species and 500 fish varieties, including sea turtles and reef sharks. Many divers praise the smooth organization and the abundance of marine life, making it a great choice for certified divers wanting to see Ningaloo’s underwater wealth.
Bottom Line: Suitable for certified divers seeking a comprehensive, well-organized diving day with excellent marine biodiversity.
11. Ningaloo Reef Snorkel Adventure
Number 11 focuses on a land-based snorkel experience rated 5.0/5 from 20 reviews. Traveling into Cape Range National Park, you’ll visit Turquoise Bay and other sites, with guides pointing out fish, coral formations, and marine ecosystems.
It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, scenic approach without boat trips. Many reviews mention the full explanation of marine life and the full-length wetsuits that keep everyone comfortable.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for those who want guided snorkeling on land, with plenty of marine wildlife to see in shallow waters.
12. Exmouth: Guided Ningaloo Reef Snorkel Adventure
This guided tour is rated 5.0/5 from 19 reviews and features two snorkel sites—Turquoise Bay and Lakeside or Oyster Stacks. The tour includes morning tea, picnic lunch, and photos, plus expert guidance.
It’s a straightforward, well-organized way to explore two popular spots with a knowledgeable guide. Many mention how the personalized attention and beautiful coral made the day special.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a guided, land-based snorkel experience with all essentials covered.
13. Muiron Island Diving Tour
Number 13 is a full-day diving adventure rated 4.5/5 from 68 reviews. Set at Muiron Island, it includes two dives, lunch, snacks, and refreshments. The island’s reefs are famed for vibrant corals, sea turtles, and reef sharks.
Both certified and beginner divers will appreciate the in-water guides, ensuring safety and enjoyment. It’s especially suitable for those wanting to see marine life up close in a less crowded environment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for divers eager to explore Muiron Island’s reefs with expert support and multiple dives.
14. 7 Hours Off Peak Whale Shark and Ningaloo Reef Tour in Exmouth
This off-peak whale shark tour offers an all-inclusive, flexible day rated 5.0/5 from 15 reviews. Operating early August to mid-October, it focuses on marine life encounters, especially whale sharks.
Many reviewers mention the professionalism and know-how of the crew, plus the chance to snorkel at various reef sites. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking value and a quieter experience during less busy seasons.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a comprehensive, budget-friendly tour during the whale shark season.
15. Exmouth: Half Day Turtle Kayak & Snorkel Tour
Close out the list with a half-day kayak and snorkel rated 4.7/5 from 26 reviews. It’s perfect for small groups, with a focus on spotting turtles, rays, and fish in the shallow Bundegi Sanctuary Zone.
The local guides are experienced, and the tour is suitable for all ages and skill levels. Many reviewers highlight the peaceful environment and the chance to see marine life close up.
Bottom Line: Great for families and beginner paddlers who want a relaxed, wildlife-rich half-day adventure.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Exmouth, consider your budget, time available, and main interests. If swimming with whale sharks is your top priority, the Swimming with the Whale Sharks offers a full-day, all-inclusive experience with top reviews. For those wanting a more gentle introduction to Ningaloo’s marine life, the Half Day Snorkel Turtle Tour provides excellent value and intimacy.
Active travelers who enjoy paddling or hiking should look into the Sea Kayak and Snorkel Tour or Cape Range Trekking. Certified divers will love the Ningaloo Reef Scuba, while families and less experienced snorkelers will find the guided Ningaloo Marine Park Tour a safe choice.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak whale shark season (April–August) and for popular full-day adventures, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Exmouth’s tours offer a wide array of ways to connect with the region’s extraordinary marine world. From the awe of swimming alongside whale sharks to quietly paddling with turtles, this is a destination that truly rewards outdoor explorers. The key is to match your interests, activity level, and budget with the right tour. Whether you prefer a full-day immersion or a quick snorkel adventure, these experiences promise to be highlights of your trip. Remember to book early, bring your sense of wonder, and prepare for some of the most memorable underwater encounters of your life.