Exmouth, on Western Australia’s northwest coast, is a favorite spot for travelers who want to experience Ningaloo Reef and the surrounding wilderness. What makes Exmouth ideal for full-day tours is its extraordinary access to both vibrant marine life and rugged landscapes—all within a manageable distance from town. Whether you’re paddling among turtles and reef sharks or trekking through canyons, Exmouth offers a variety of ways to explore its natural wonders. Our favorite? The Lagoon Explorer full-day kayaking and snorkeling adventure, which combines comfort, expert guiding, and an abundance of marine encounters—plus, it’s rated a perfect 5 out of 5 by recent travelers.
For those wanting a mix of nature and physical activity, the Cape Range National Park full-day trekking adventure offers a more immersive experience on foot, exploring canyons and coastal plains. If a comprehensive day of reef and range sightseeing appeals, the Exmouth: Full day Ningaloo in a Day tour provides a great overview. Or, if you prefer a more relaxed pace with kayaking and snorkeling in sheltered lagoons, the Lagoon Explorer and the Lagoon Explorer kayak & snorkel tour are excellent choices. Below, we detail what each tour offers to help you decide.
1. Lagoon Explorer – Ningaloo Reef Full-Day Kayaking and Snorkeling Adventure
At number one on our list, the Lagoon Explorer stands out for its balanced mix of fun, relaxation, and wildlife encounters. This full-day guided tour takes you on small-group excursions into the calm waters of Ningaloo Marine Park. The focus here is on kayaking and snorkeling, with all gear and instructions supplied, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned paddler or new to the activity.
What makes this tour unique? It’s the opportunity to see a wide array of marine life without the crowds—think turtles, rays, reef sharks, colorful fish, and sometimes dolphins or dugongs. The tour includes morning tea, lunch, snacks, and refreshments, ensuring you stay energized as you explore. The small-group setup means plenty of personal attention, and hassle-free pickup from your Exmouth accommodation simplifies logistics. Reviewers consistently praise the guides—like Rosie, who is noted for her flexibility and knowledge—and describe the day as “incredible” with highlights like swimming alongside reef sharks and spotting turtles.
Bottom line: If you want a relaxed, wildlife-rich experience with expert guides and all-inclusive logistics, this tour offers excellent value and is suitable for all experience levels.
2. Cape Range National Park Full-Day Trekking Adventure
Coming in at number two, the Cape Range National Park full-day trekking adventure is perfect for active travelers eager to experience the rugged beauty of the Ningaloo coast on foot. This small-group tour—capped at eight participants—gives you a personalized way to explore the dramatic gorges, canyons, and coastal plains.
The tour starts with a walk through the spectacular Yardie Creek Gorge, where rocky scrambles and scenic vistas are the order of the day. Your guide, Ian, has over 25 years of experience, and his enthusiasm for the landscape shines through. Along the way, you’ll learn about the area’s geology, flora, and fauna, making the experience both educational and invigorating. This tour is great for those who want a deeper connection to the landscape and don’t mind a bit of physical effort. Reviewers mention Ian’s “exceptional knowledge” and appreciate getting off the beaten path away from crowds.
Bottom line: This trek is ideal for active travelers who appreciate detailed insights and a more intimate experience in wild, natural scenery.
3. Exmouth: Full day Ningaloo in a Day tour
At number three, the Ningaloo in a Day offers a straightforward, guided exploration of both reef and land highlights. The tour covers the best of Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park, making it a good choice for travelers wanting a rundown. Highlights include spotting endangered black flanked rock wallabies and ancient coral formations, as well as snorkeling at Turquoise Bay with guides leading the way.
This tour balances sightseeing with light activity and is suitable for travelers who want an efficient, well-organized day. The inclusion of stops at the Milyering Visitor Centre and Vlamingh Head lighthouse provides scenic views and cultural insights. With a 4.8/5 rating from 12 reviews, it’s praised for its professionalism and pleasant flow.
Bottom line: Best for visitors seeking a full but relaxed day combining reef, wildlife, and scenic views with professional guidance.
4. Exmouth: Lagoon Explorer – Full day kayak & Snorkel tour
Number four is the Lagoon Explorer kayak & snorkel tour, which focuses on exploring Cape Range National Park’s sheltered lagoons. This tour is slightly more specialized, emphasizing sea kayaking combined with snorkeling in calm, protected waters. It’s perfect for those who want to get close to sea turtles, rays, and schools of jumping fish from the kayaks.
The tour’s highlights include pulling up on sandy beaches for delicious morning tea and lunch, with commentary on the area’s history, culture, and natural features. The small group size (six reviews) guarantees a personal experience, and the affordability at $185 per person offers good value for a full day of water-based fun.
Reviewers mention how often they see **marine life from the kayaks, which adds an adventure element. The calm lagoons and gentle paddling make this ideal for beginners or families seeking a relaxed water day.
Bottom line: If paddling among marine creatures in tranquil lagoons appeals to you, this tour delivers a memorable and relaxed day.
5. Ningaloo In A Full day Hike and Snorkel Tour
Rounding out our list, the Ningaloo in a Full Day Hike and Snorkel Tour combines guided hikes with snorkeling, offering a diverse experience. Starting with a 2km walk through Yardie Creek Gorge, you’ll scramble over rocks and enjoy stunning views. Then, you’ll switch to snorkel mode at Turquoise Bay, with your guide by your side for the famous drift snorkel.
From there, the visit continues at the Milyering Visitor Centre for lunch and ends with a scenic stop at Vlamingh Head Lighthouse. This tour is great for those who want a physical challenge and love both land and water adventures. It’s the only tour rated 5 stars from a single reviewer, highlighting its tailored approach.
Bottom line: This option suits active travelers wanting a varied day of hiking and snorkeling with expert guidance.
$166.31 per person
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Exmouth
When deciding between these options, consider your fitness level, interests, and preferred pace. If you love being on the water and wildlife, the Lagoon Explorer offers a relaxed, wildlife-rich experience. For those who want to see more of the land, the Cape Range trekking provides a physically engaging adventure. If your focus is on comprehensive sightseeing, the Ningaloo in a Day delivers a balanced mix, while the kayak & snorkel lagoons are perfect for paddlers seeking tranquility and marine encounters. Lastly, active hikers interested in both land and sea might prefer the Hike and Snorkel.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, and think about what fits your fitness and interests. For example, if you’re traveling with family or beginners, the gentle kayak tours suit well, while active explorers might prefer the trekking adventure.
Final Thoughts
Exmouth’s full-day tours cover a broad spectrum—from relaxing marine wildlife encounters to energetic land explorations. For a balanced experience with expert guides and all-inclusive amenities, the Lagoon Explorer stands out. If you’re after a deeper connection with the landscape, the Cape Range trek is ideal. For a rundown of Ningaloo’s land and reef highlights, the Ningaloo in a Day offers good value.
No matter your preference, booking these tours early ensures you won’t miss out. With such a variety of options, there’s a full-day adventure in Exmouth suited to every type of traveler—so pick what excites you most and get ready for a memorable day exploring Western Australia’s stunning coast and wilderness.