Exmouth is a standout destination for canoe and kayak lovers. Its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life create perfect conditions for paddling adventures. Whether you’re seeking a quick half-day trip to spot turtles or a full-day expedition that includes snorkeling with reef sharks, Exmouth offers options for every level of interest and experience. Among the tours we love is the Turtle Tour — a small-group outing that combines kayaking with snorkeling, giving you a chance to see juvenile turtles and reef sharks in their natural environment. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a personal, well-paced experience with knowledgeable guides. For those wanting a more immersive day, the Lagoon Explorer offers a full 8-hour adventure with kayaking, snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to spot marine life, including dolphins and dugongs. For additional options, check out the other tours below, designed to suit different schedules, budgets, and comfort levels.
1. Turtle Tour – Ningaloo Reef Half Day Sea Kayak and Snorkel Tour
At number one on our list, the Turtle Tour provides a fantastic introduction to Ningaloo Reef’s marine world. This half-day tour lasts about 3.5 hours and is perfect for those short on time but eager for quality wildlife encounters. You’ll be picked up from your Exmouth accommodation and taken to the Bundegi Sanctuary Zone, a protected area teeming with juvenile turtles, reef sharks, and colorful fish. The tour includes all snorkeling gear, plus sun shirts, hats, and drybags—making sure you’re comfortable and protected from the sun. The group size is small—capped at eight—to ensure personalized attention from guides like Sam, who’s praised for being both informative and friendly. Reviewers highlight the chance to see dozens of turtles, rays, and reef sharks, along with the clear water which makes snorkeling a joy. The tour’s value lies in its intimate size and knowledgeable guides, making it ideal for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a quick, memorable marine experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a short, wildlife-rich trip with a personal touch. Book early, as this tour’s popularity shows.
2. Lagoon Explorer – Ningaloo Reef Full-Day Kayaking and Snorkeling Adventure
For around $190, the Lagoon Explorer offers a full day—about 8 hours—of kayaking and snorkeling in Ningaloo Marine Park. This tour is perfect if you want to spend more time exploring and seeing marine life at your own pace. Starting with a pickup from your Exmouth hotel, you’ll head into Cape Range National Park where sheltered lagoons provide calm waters, ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The tour includes a hearty lunch, morning tea, snacks, and all gear, with friendly guides like Rosie and Mary providing safety tips and insights into the region’s geology and natural history. Guests often rave about the variety of marine life, from turtles and rays to reef sharks, and dolphins sometimes make surprise appearances. The small group size and comprehensive itinerary make it great for those who want a relaxed, active day immersed in nature.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, full-day adventure ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and paddlers wanting to maximize their reef experience.
3. Coral By Kayak – Ningaloo Reef Half Day Kayak & Snorkel Tour
Number three on our list is the Coral By Kayak, a half-day tour that combines education and adventure. Starting from Exmouth, you’ll travel around the NW Cape learning about the area’s geology, flora, and fauna before hitting the water. The tour includes double kayaks and snorkeling gear, with an emphasis on exploring the vibrant coral formations and marine life. This tour stands out because of its focus on education—your guide will share insights about the environment and marine ecosystem, enhancing your appreciation for this pristine area. Reviewers love the opportunity to see tropical fish and sea turtles and appreciate the souvenir photos offered at the end. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, though some kayaking experience helps. Its value lies in combining cultural learning with active exploration, making it ideal for curious travelers who enjoy a bit of everything.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in both the natural beauty and the ecological story of Ningaloo Reef.
4. Exmouth: Half Day Turtle Kayak & Snorkel Tour
Ranking fourth, this half-day tour focuses squarely on wildlife, with an emphasis on turtles and reef snorkeling. You’ll paddle in the shallow waters of the Bundegi Sanctuary Zone, which is known for its calm conditions and abundant marine life, including rays and schools of fish. Snorkeling is done from kayaks at designated moorings in the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, ensuring both safety and convenience. Local guides with extensive experience lead the small group tours, typically capped at eight people, allowing for a more personal experience. Reviewers mention how easy it is to spot marine creatures from the kayaks, and the guides’ familiarity with the area makes all the difference. The tour costs around $99, representing good value considering the wildlife encounters and equipment included.
Bottom Line: A solid option for wildlife lovers preferring a shorter, intimate experience with a focus on turtles and reef snorkeling.
5. Exmouth: Lagoon Explorer – Full day kayak & Snorkel tour
Another full-day favorite, the Lagoon Explorer (listed again for its distinct itinerary), takes you into Cape Range National Park for roughly 8 hours of paddling and snorkeling. This tour often features sightings of turtles, rays, and schooling fish right from the kayaks, with opportunities to snorkel amidst the coral gardens of Ningaloo Reef. Pull over on secluded beaches to enjoy provided morning tea and lunch, making this a relaxed yet active day. The guides offer commentary on the area’s geology, ecology, and cultural features. It’s excellent for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience, combining physical activity with rich natural insights. With just a small group, you get plenty of attention and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a full, immersive day with good food, wildlife, and scenery.
6. Exmouth: Half Day Coral by Kayak tour
Rounding out our list, the Coral by Kayak offers a shorter experience that highlights Ningaloo’s coral formations and marine diversity. For 4 hours, you’ll paddle out to snorkel among colorful corals and fish, with your guide pointing out marine species along the way. Equipment is provided, along with complimentary photos taken during the trip, which is a nice touch. This tour is ideal if you want a quick but comprehensive introduction to Ningaloo Reef’s underwater beauty, especially if you’re short on time but want to maximize your sea experience.
Bottom Line: A good option for those seeking a quick, high-quality kayak and snorkel trip without sacrificing wildlife viewing.
How to Choose Your Perfect Canoe & Kayak Experience in Exmouth
Selecting the right tour depends on your budget, time availability, and interest level. For a quick taste of marine life, the Turtle Tour is hard to beat, especially for families or first-timers. If you’re after a full-day adventure with more snorkeling and paddling, the Lagoon Explorer offers excellent value and variety. Budget travelers might prefer the Half Day Coral by Kayak, which still delivers plenty of coral and fish encounters at a lower price point. Fitness level is also a consideration—most tours are suitable for most people, but some, like the full-day trips, require stamina and comfort in the water.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and small-group experience. Think about your personal interests: wildlife sightings, educational components, or just the chance to paddle in calm, clear waters. All these tours provide different ways to explore Ningaloo Reef’s incredible marine environment, so choose one that matches what excites you most.
Final Thoughts
Exmouth’s canoe and kayak options are genuinely some of the best ways to connect with the local marine environment. From quick trips that focus on turtle sightings to full-day excursions with snorkeling, there’s something for every traveler. The Turtle Tour is perfect if you want a short, wildlife-heavy experience, while the Lagoon Explorer suits those craving a comprehensive day out on the water. For a balance of education and adventure, the Coral By Kayak offers a delightful combination.
No matter which option you pick, booking ahead will ensure you get the dates and small-group sizes you want. Dive into these experiences early in your trip—being on the water with Ningaloo’s incredible marine life is an experience you won’t forget.