Situated on the Coral Coast of Western Australia, Monkey Mia is a beautiful spot for wild dolphins, beaches and biodiversity. Located within Shark Bay, a World Heritage Site, Monkey Mia offers camping like no other, whether you want to relax or adventure. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about camping at Monkey Mia, from beachfront camping options to the many activities and sights that will make your camping trip unforgettable.
The Magic
Monkey Mia’s main attraction is the dolphins that have been visiting for decades. The daily dolphin feeding sessions allow you to get up close and personal with these clever creatures. But there’s more to see. Whether it’s the coastline, the shrubs and dunes or the marine life, Shark Bay Marine Park is stunning. If you want to connect with nature, get in the water or sit by the ocean, Monkey Mia is the place.
Where to Camp
RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort is the camping hub and has a range of accommodation options to suit your needs. The resort has powered and unpowered sites for campers, all within walking distance of the beach and visitor centre. Whether you’re in a tent, campervan or caravan, the resort’s facilities, such as clean bathrooms, drinking water and swimming pools, will make your stay comfortable.
For more comfort, Monkey Mia Resort also has beachfront accommodations with direct beach access. Families and groups can choose from flexible options, including villas and cabins. If you’re visiting during the school holidays, be sure to book early, as the accommodation books out fast. Flexible accommodation booking is available so you can book to suit your needs.
Getting Here
Monkey Mia is accessible by road, and the drive from Perth takes around 4-5 hours. The coral coast drive is one of the most beautiful in Western Australia and passes through the charming town of Carnarvon. Alternatively, you can fly into Shark Bay Airport, which is just a minute from the resort and is ideal for those who prefer to fly.
Once you arrive, you’ll see why the drive was worth it—the natural beauty of Monkey Mia Conservation Park and the surrounding area is stunning. From here, you’re set for a relaxing trip of beach activities, nature walks and wildlife spotting.
Camping Essentials
Here are a few things to make your camping trip to Monkey Mia as good as possible:
1. Pack for all Weather
Western Australia is warm, but the coastal areas of Monkey Mia can have cool nights and occasional rough weather. Pack light for the day and warm for the evening. Also, make sure your tent or campervan is ready for soft sand on the beach or trails.
2. Go Walking
For the outdoorsy types Monkey Mia has a few walking trails. The Wulyibidi Yaninyina Trail is the most popular, it has great views of the Shrub land and ocean. Perfect for nature lovers who want to see the landscape and lots of wildlife, including foreshore birds. It’s one of the shortest trails so good for families and those who want a easy walk.
3. Respect Wildlife and Culture
Monkey Mia is not only home to marine life and birds but also a culturally significant site for the Malgana Aboriginal people, the Traditional Owners of this land. As visitors, you need to respect the traditional custodians and their connection to the Country. During your stay, you may learn more about the local Aboriginal history and the contributions of the Aboriginal West Australians who have lived here for thousands of years.
4. Get in the Water
From water skiing and kayaking to snorkelling and fishing, Monkey Mia has water activities for all ages. The shallow water near the shore is great for kids. The deeper water further out is for the more adventurous swimmers. If you’re lucky, you might even see manta rays or whale sharks while you’re in the water.
5. Prepare for Dolphin Encounters
One of the best parts of visiting Monkey Mia tours is getting up close to the wild dolphins. Dolphin interaction is managed to minimize the impact on the animals, and only selected adult females interact with visitors during feeding times. Make sure you follow all guidelines from the Parks and Wildlife Service to ensure a safe and respectful experience for the dolphins and the visitors.
Things to Do
There’s more to do at Monkey Mia than just dolphins. Here’s what you can do:
1. Shark Bay Marine Park
This protected area is teeming with marine life – dugongs, turtles, rays. Take a boat Monkey Mia tour or rent a kayak and paddle along the coast.
2. Hamelin Pool
Just a short drive from Monkey Mia, Hamelin Pool has the oldest living things on earth – stromatolites. A must see for nature lovers.
3. Francois Peron National Park
Another must-see is Francois Peron National Park – a natural wonder with stunning views, soft sand tracks and loads of sea life. The park is a hiker and camper’s paradise with campsites in some of the most beautiful parts of the coast.
4. Monkey Mia Beach
For those who want to chill out, the beach at Monkey Mia is perfect for a lazy day of swimming, sunbathing and beach games. The white sand and shallow water make it a great spot for families with young kids. And the beach is right in front of the Monkey Mia RAC Resort, so you’re never far from comfort.
5. Day Trip
If you want to get out and about beyond Monkey Mia, there are plenty of options for a day trip. Head to Bottle Bay for some of the best snorkelling in the area, or visit Steep Point for a rugged adventure along the Australian coast. The rough drive to Steep Point is worth it for the views at the most westerly point in Australia.
When to Visit
Best time to visit Monkey Mia is during the cooler months from April to October when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities and the marine life is most active. These months are also peak tourist season especially during school holidays so book your camping trip in advance.
But if you prefer a more peaceful experience visit during the off peak months. You’ll still have nice weather and while dolphin activity may be less predictable the environment will be serene.
Environment
As a visitor to Shark Bay you need to protect this amazing ecosystem. Follow eco-friendly camping practices – minimal waste, conserve water, respect wildlife. Parks and Wildlife Service staff are on site to help visitors understand how to keep this environment pristine for future generations.
FAQ
Can I camp all year round at Monkey Mia?
Yes, you can camp at Monkey Mia Reserve all year round, but the best time to visit is April to October when the weather is cooler and marine life is more active.
What to do at Monkey Mia?
Besides dolphin interaction you can snorkel, kayak, fish and beach activities. You can also do a day trip to nearby Francois Peron National Park and Hamelin Pool.
What facilities are available at the Monkey Mia campgrounds?
Powered sites, unpowered sites, swimming pools, clean bathrooms, BBQ areas and drinking water. Beachfront cabins and villas are also available for those who want more comfort.
Do I need to book a campsite?
Yes, it’s best to book in advance especially during peak season and school holidays as the campgrounds and accommodation books out fast.
Is Monkey Mia good for families?
Yes! Monkey Mia is perfect for families, safe shallow waters, pet friendly campsites and plenty of beach activities for kids of all ages.
