Turquoise Bay, Cape Range National Park

We visited the area during the Christmas period and were warned by many that this was not the best time of the year for a trip to the great north. However besides the wind that never seemed to stop and the blistering heat, we thoroughly enjoyed our time. Turquoise bay had been recommended by friends and family before we left and then again by locals. Many were suggesting we visit there before Coral Bay. We weren’t disappointed. I would recommend getting there early as it is no longer a local secret. Having visited the two we definitely preferred Turquoise over Coral.

Coral Bay

Coral Bay, while lovely, was extremely overcrowded, a bit rougher and perhaps it was the time of day but the waters weren’t as clear as they were at Turquoise.
The best part was away from the crowds and under water. We couldn’t come all this way and not experience Ningaloo reef.We ran out of time to book into a tour and we regret we didn’t go further out. However just with our very basic scuba sets, we saw some amazing sights and would highly recommend Turquoise Bay for all levels. It was really calm and clear.There was a large group of ‘seniors‘ who were taken way out beyond where anyone was snorkeling and they all seemed to cope with no issues. Every one of them came back to shore with big smiles and animated reports of turtles, sting rays and loads of underwater splendour!Even if a tour is not for you, grab yourself some flippers, mask and snorkel and have a go, it truly is worth it. My recommendation is definitely pack some form of shade and the usual sun-smart fare. Just about everyone on the beach had either a gazebo, umbrella or beach tent. As with every where else it was windy and the tents seemed to be fairing best of all.We took all our food and water so we didn’t have to leave the beach, though there were a few shops and eateries nearby but again, they were packed so we had to give them a miss this time. Such a gorgeous part of the world and a lovely alternative to the more bustling Coral Bay if you are short on time, it would definitely be our preference. Our biggest regret was the lack of an underwater camera for the world famous reef. There was a very flamboyant stingray who was quite the poser! He would have made for some lovely photo ops!