8 Days: Coral Coast & Ningaloo Self Drive [ST-SD38]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Perth (1 Night), Kalbarri (1 Night), Monkey Mia (2 Nights), Carnarvon (1 Night), Coral Bay (1 Night), & Exmouth (2 Nights)
  • All Flights are not included (can be added at an additional cost).
  • Car Hire - 9 Day Rental, Pick up in Perth and Drop off in Exmouth
  • Rental Car Hires are base rate only and do not include taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees.
  • All Day Tours listed are Optional (Not Included)
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (additional US$15.00 per person)
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
  • Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Itinerary Details
(Day 1) - Flight Arriving into Perth, Own Arrangements

International flight (as per your own arrangements).

(Day 1) - 9 Day Car Rental

Discover Australia as you travel by rental car for nine days.

As part of your vacation self-drive Australia and explore our stunning landscapes, coastlines, regional towns and wildlife. Stop and meet the locals, maybe enjoy a counter meal at a local Aussie pub, or relax on the beach while sampling some takeaway fish & chips from the local deli or servo. During one of your rest stops try to spot a kangaroo, emu or even a Koala in the wild.

Please bring a valid American drivers license with you and be aware that the Australians drives on the left hand side of the road.

Base rate only paid by About Australia. GPS, Insurance, Premium Location Surcharge, Fuel and Fees to driver’s credit card.

(Days 1 to 2) - 1 Night Accommodation in Perth

Travel to your accommodation in Perth, Western Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Your 3 Star vacation accommodation is located in the heart of the city of Perth, only a few metres from the Murray and Hay Street shopping malls. The hotel includes a restaurant, bar, and Internet access. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, free tea and coffee making facility, radio, and ensuite bathroom. Perth has a reputation amongst travelers to be a friendly city on the Swan River. Travel some short miles to Fremantle, a modern and vibrant counterpart. From outdoors to indoor, the fabulous range of Perth and suburban shops will satisfy even the most particular of traveler. Western Australia offers you a unique vacation experience.

Photo Credit: Western Australia

Optional Tour (Not Included), Hop On Hop Off Explorer Bus

Ready to explore? Hop on board and enjoy the ride. See all the sights that Perth has to offer on this unique open top double decker bus tour.

Today you’ll be able to explore a new city without any of the hassle of finding your way around. Enjoy full commentary as your friendly driver takes you on a tour of Perth.
Your double decker tour bus offers a bird’s eye view of Kings Park and Perth’s top attractions. Take great photographs from the upper deck viewing platform, no glass windows to spoil the view!
If you stay on all the way round, the tour takes approximately 1 & 3/4 hrs to complete. Or you can use the hop on hop off facility and make a whole day of it! There are 2 buses on the tour so you are never more than an hour from the next one. Your ticket price also includes discounts to Perth’s major tourist attractions!

Highlights Include:
Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, Northbridge, Crown Perth, The WACA, The Bell Tower, The Perth Mint , The Swan River, Museum & Art Gallery of WA , Perth Town Hall, & Perth City Shopping Malls

Monday to Friday
1:30pm-3:00pm or 3:30pm-5:00pm

Optional Return Ferry (Not Included) - Perth to Rottnest Island

Board the ferry for a fun filled day at Rottnest Island!

Located just 19km off the mainland, Rottnest Island offers endless possibilities!

Interested in Australia’s unique wildlife? How about a selfie with the world famous and adorable Quokkas? You can also meet Rottnest’s colony of New Zealand Fur Seals. The island is also home to a one of a kind Nature Reserve that is widely regarded as one of Western Australia’s “best kept secrets.” You can also view the annual migration of Humpback Whales from September – November.

The Island’s breathtaking natural beauty has to be one of Rottnest’s biggest assets. This vast natural playground has over 63 beaches and 20 bays so there is a high possibility of finding a secluded beach all to yourself. Rottnest is teeming with more than 135 species of vibrant tropical fish and 20 species of coral. Snorkelling is the best way to explore Rottnest’s underwater playground. Be sure to check out the underwater snorkel trail located at Parker Point.

Jump onboard a 90 minute Rottnest Adventure Tour or afternoon Whale or Seal Encounter and explore the Island by sea. Or feel the wind in your hair as you use pedal power to explore the Island’s many treasures by bike. With cars excluded on the Island, bike riding is the most popular and fun way to explore the Island. Take to the air on a 10 minute joy flight or visit the Rottnest Bike and Hire store to grab your very own Surfboard or Stand-up Paddle Board for the day.

During your day on Rottnest you can also explore ship wrecks and the island’s fascinating and colourful history. Take a tour up to Oliver Hill on the Captain Hussey, sit back on a Discovery Coach Tour or view relics at the Rottnest Museum, Lomas Cottage and Pilot Boat House. Keep an eye out for the yellow shirt clan, the Rottnest Volunteer Guides, offering an array of informative walking tours.

With all it has to offer, Rottnest Island is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip!

Insider's Tip: Perth Zoo

Perth Zoo is Australia’s best small zoo and located just 5 minutes from the Perth CBD.

Touted as one of the most diverse zoos in the Southern Hemisphere, the Perth Zoo almost always has something new to see. The zoo is open year round from 9am to 5pm and entrance fees are as follows (all prices in AUD): $22 for adults & $11.30 for children. In addition to Keeper Talks, you can ride in the electric-powered zebra buggy, go on a free walking tour or ride on the zoo’s historical carousel. This Perth attraction is an excellent way to spend a day without spending a lot of money.

Getting There
By Bus: From Perth CBD Bus No. 30 and 31 stop right in front of the Zoo weekdays or weekends, leaving regularly from the Esplanade Bus-Port. Bus #34 stops behind the Zoo and leaves from the Wellington Street Bus-port. From the ‘Causeway’ (Victoria Park) Bus #730 and #731 stop at the Zoo. For further information on bus timetables, routes and prices please call Transperth information on 13 62 13 or visit www.transperth.wa.gov.au where you can search for the best route for you.
By Train: Currently, the easiest way to visit Perth Zoo by train is to transfer at the Esplanade Bus-port (Train Platform 1) to Bus # 31 (Bus Stand E4) which makes Perth Zoo one of its first stops. The bus stops right out front of the ticket office. The reverse applies when you want to go home.

Photo Credit: Perth Zoo

Optional Tour (Not Included), Freemantle Explorer River Cruise

Take an amazing scenic cruise to Fremantle along the beautiful Swan River, where you will be able to explore the Cappuccino Strip, Fishing Boat Harbour and the many sights and museums Fremantle has to offer.

On your cruise you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Perth, Freemantle, and the surrounding area through your knowledgeable captain’s expert live commentary. Once you arrive in Freemantle you may enjoy a coffee on the famed Cappuccino Strip, fish and chips at the Fishing Boat Harbour or try a boutique beer at one of the lively pubs. Enjoy your leisurely cruise back to Perth on the Swan River and enjoy the rest of your evening discovering the city.
  
Operates
Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Departs Perth at 11:15am and returns to Perth at 5:00pm
Does not operate on Christmas Day, December 26 – 27, New Year’s Day, January 26, April 25, June 12, October 2.
 
Inclusions
– 5.5 hour Fremantle cruise
– Expert commentary from the captain

Need to Know
– Food and beverages are not included, but will be availble along the tour for purchase
– Please bring sunscreen, a water bottle, and wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes
– Tour may be changed or cancelled due to weather or other unforseen circumstances

Upgrades
– Dinner and beverage cruises

Optional Day Tour (Not Included), Indigenous Heritage Park Tour

Could you survive if you got lost in the outback?

Pick up some great bush survival tips and learn about Australia’s indigenous culture with personalized guided tour of Western Australia’s most visited location Kings Park and Botanic Garden!

Join your Aboriginal guide for a snapshot of traditional life in the South West of Western Australia.
During the tour you’ll learn about the culture and life of Perth’s first people the Wadjuk. Your experienced guide will highlight local plants and their use for bush food and medicine. Also today you will have the unique experience of listening to the Ancient Dreamtime story of the Nyoongar people.

Monday to Friday
1:30pm-3:00pm or 3:30pm-5:00pm

Optional Evening Event (Not Included), Progressive Dinner - 4 Hr

Tonight you’ll walk and dine down St Georges Terrace in the heart of Perth. Enjoy three delicious courses with a beverage to compliment in some of the finest venues in the city.

Starting at the Perth Town Hall, the traditional centre of town, and finishing in the King Street precinct, the tour lasts 3.5 in a fun, relaxed and sophisticated environment. This will truly be a mouth-watering night to remember.

Over the course of the evening, in a small group, you will visit 3 of the newer restaurants to indulge in an entrée, main course and desert, plus drinks, amongst historic settings including the Public Trustee building, St Georges house and the home of Perth’s first Bishop, Matthew Hale.

While strolling between venues, you will be guided to interested spaces to discover art, heritage buildings and stories of some influential people in Perth’s history before arriving for another course prepared by some of Perth’s best chef’s.

Please advise of any dietary requirement in advance. All effort will be made to accommodate

Optional Tour (Not Included) - 4WD Pinnacles, Koalas & Sand Dunes

The extraordinary ancient rock formations that make up the Pinnacles are located about a three-hour drive north of Perth near the coastal town of Cervantes. Join on a guided walk through the Pinnacles desert and marvel at the limestone pillars created by forces of nature.

After stopping at Caversham Wildlife Park in the Swan Valley to view koalas and hand feed kangaroos, travel to the lobster fishing town of Cervantes for lunch. Stop at the Lobster Shack for an informative talk about the lobster industry, followed by a self-guided tour through the purpose built factory.

Then it’s onwards to the mystical Pinnacles Desert for an easy paced walk through the fascinating landscape where you will be in awe at the sheer size and number of these spires. Afterwards enjoy a thrilling experience of sand boarding and 4-wheel driving over the vast sand dunes of Lancelin. Full Day Tour.

Operates
Daily
Times
Departs 8:00am from Perth, Returns 7:30pm
Includes
– Lunch
– Experienced Driver Guide
– Comprehensive Commentary
– Travel in an Air-conditioned Coach
Need to Know
Low level of fitness required, however this tour is unsuitable for pregnant women, infants and guests with back problems.

Photo Credit: Western Australia

(Day 2) - Self Drive from Perth to Kalbarri

Today you will embark on your self-drive adventure along the Coral Coast of Western Australia. Drive time from Perth to Kalbarri is approximately 6 hours (370 miles).

Make your journey to the beginning of your adventure by joining the Indian Ocean Drive north of Perth. Starting in the coastal playground of Lancelin, it leads you to one of the most unique landscapes on Earth, the Pinnacles Desert of Nambung National Park.

Picnic at the Pinnacles or grab lunch at the fishing village of Cervantes.

The last stretch of the Indian Ocean Drive leads you to the windsurfing capital of Geraldton. From here, you’re just one hour and 45 minutes away from the ultimate outback coast playground in Kalbarri National Park.

This park is most well-known for abundant wildflowers, the Gorges of the Murchison River, and ocean coastline. Your dive to Kalbarri Town travels through the very center of the Kalbarri National Park with signposted turnoffs to the river gorges and scenic attractions. The park is managed by the Department of Conservation and Land Management and interpretive materials describing the region may be collected at the Park Ranger’s Office or at the Kalbarri Tourist Bureau. Turn left at the riverfront. As you enter Kalbarri, the Kalbarri Tourist Bureau is 1 km on your left and they are happy to answer any questions you may have. Alternatively, you may phone them on (08) 9937 1104.

Tune to Visitor Information Radio 88FM as you enter Kalbarri for more information.

(Days 2 to 3) - 1 Night Accommodation in Kalbarri

Travel to your accommodation in Kalbarri, Western Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

From the rugged inland gorges to the dramatic coastal cliffs, sensational beaches to the tranquil Murchison River, Kalbarri is unique and has something to offer everyone. Kalbarri’s year round warm climate is perfect for fishing, swimming, and a variety of coastal activities.

Your accommodation is set in a pristine location just next door to the town centre. Facilities include:

Room service
Cocktail bar and alfresco dining area
Outdoor barbecue and giant chess set
Swimming pool and gym
Guest laundry

(Day 3) - Self Drive from Kalbarri to Monkey Mia

Continue your self-drive today into the Shark Bay region, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Drive time from Kalbarri to Monkey Mia is approximately 5 hours (245 miles).

At the most westerly point of the Australian continent, Shark Bay, with its islands and the land surrounding it, has three exceptional natural features: its vast sea-grass beds, which are the largest (4,800 km2) and richest in the world; its dugong (‘sea cow’) population; and its stromatolites (colonies of algae which form hard, dome-shaped deposits and are among the oldest forms of life on earth). Shark Bay is also home to five species of endangered mammals.

On your drive north today, please consider making a few stops to explore the area along the Shark Bay World Heritage Drive. Some unforgettable highlights you’ll be able to stop and enjoy include:

Hamelin Pool – See the Earth’s Oldest Living Fossils, the Stromatolites!
Shell Beach – A Snow-White Beach Comprised Entirely of Tiny Shells
Eagle Bluff – Amazing Ocean Views & Wildlife Including Dugongs, Rays, & Reef Sharks

(Days 3 to 5) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Monkey Mia

Travel to your beachfront accommodation at Monkey Mia where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

In the heart of Western Australia’s shark Bay, Monkey Mia is a place of recognised natural beauty and a World heritage landmark. A popular escape for visitors from around the world, Monkey Mia is a premier natural dolphin sighting area where visitors can experience the mystical world of wild bottlenose dolphins .Located at Dolphin Beach, famous for its kilometres of secluded crystal blue waters and pristine white-shell beaches, Monkey Mia has attracted schools of dolphins to its tranquil shores daily for more than forty years. Enjoy the warmth of a Mediterranean-style climate with sunshine and blue skies throughout the year, complemented by tranquil beaches. Experience one of the most diverse marine environments, home to a variety of unique wildlife including turtles and dugongs. Enjoy getting up close and personal with the dolphins directly in front of the Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, the only accommodation at Monkey Mia and only a few steps from your absolute beach front accommodation.

Facilities Include:

Onsite Restaurant & Bars
Swimming Pool
Hot Tub
Tennis Court
Barbecues
Mini-Mart
Laundry Facilities
Resort Wide Wi-Fi

Optional Tour (Not Included), South Peron 4WD Tour - Full Day

Today you’ll be treated to a guided full day 4WD exploration of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.

On your South Peron adventure today you’ll visit some amazing spots such as the world famous Shell Beach, Nanga, Goulet Bluff, Fowlers Camp and Eagle Bluff. Snorkelling and swimming is also an option. So, bring your swimming costume and a towel.
Your experienced guide will lead you down remote bush tracks to spectacular lookouts high above the ocean. Understand why Shark Bay is a World Heritage Area and discover why local Aboriginal people have a strong connection to this saltwater paradise.
Highlights Include:
Unique and Abundant Wildlife
Breathtaking Natural Landscapes
Insight into Aboriginal Culture and History
Swimming & Snorkelling in Crystal Clear Waters
Birdwatching
Homestyle Catering!

Optional Tour (Not Included), Francois Peron National Park 4WD Tour - Full Day

Embark on one a 4wd Adventure never to be forgotten exploring the amazing Francois Peron National Park. This tour takes you into this world class Park allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and culture.

Get a feel for why visitors from all across the planet want to travel here to where the red sand from the deserts kisses the beautiful turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Expect the unexpected and we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

While exploring Francois Peron National Park today you’ll visit fantastic look outs like Skipjack Point, Point Peron and many other scenic locations which provide breathtaking views across the bay. Spot turtles, rays, sharks, dugongs, manta rays, birds and much more.

Snorkelling and swimming is also an option. So, bring your swimming costume and a towel.

You’ll be treated to a beautiful home-style lunch on the beach or other spectacular location across this picturesque National Park

The tour finishes with a relaxing dip in Hot Tub at the Peron Homestead.

Highlights Include:
Unique and Abundant Wildlife
Breathtaking Natural Landscapes
Insight into Aboriginal Culture and History
Swimming & Snorkelling in Crystal Clear Waters
Birdwatching
Lunch on the Beach
Peron Homestead

Insider's Tip - Hand Feed Dolphins at Monkey Mia

Get up close and personal with the wild dolphins of Monkey Mia!

Monkey Mia is one of the world’s most reliable meeting places for dolphins. It is also the only place in Australia where dolphins come daily, not seasonally. There is a 99% chance that they will visit.

A small number of people are selected at random to enter the shallows and feed the dolphins, under ranger supervision. If you attend the second or third feed of the day, when the group sizes are generally smaller, you will have a better chance of being selected.

(Day 5) - Self Drive from Monkey Mia to Carnarvon

Continue your self-drive today to the shire of Carnarvon, the gateway to Australia’s Ningaloo Coast. Drive time from Monkey Mia to Carnarvon is approximately 4.5 hours (220 miles).

The tropical food bowl of Carnarvon is the southern gateway to World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef – the largest and one of the most accessible fringing reefs on Earth.

Stop for a lunch-time feast of seasonal seafood and tropical fruit flavours fresh from Carnarvon’s plantations and farms.

Explore the region’s history and heritage with a visit to the Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage and Cultural Centre and Carnarvon Heritage Precinct.

Take a sunset stroll along One Mile Jetty and ride the coffee pot train.

(Day 5 to 6) - 1 Night Accommodation in Carnarvon

Travel to your accommodation in Carnarvon, Western Australia where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Ideally located in the centre of Carnarvon, this 3.5 star accommodation is a great stopover for your self-drive heading for the far north of Western Australia & also a great base for exploring the local Ningaloo Reef. The motel is located just minutes from the tranquil waters of the Facine. The Facine is often visited by turtles, dolphins and the occasional dugong.

Facilities include:

Kitchen
Free Wifi
Laundry Facilities
Swimming Pool
BBQ Area
Onsite Bar & Restaurant

(Day 6) - Self Drive from Carnarvon to Coral Bay

Continue your self-drive today to to Coral Bay. Drive time from Carnarvon to Coral Bay is approximately 3 hours (148 miles).

The journey from Carnarvon to the chilled-out seaside town of Coral Bay takes approximately three hours.

Here, in the calm, sheltered waters of the bay, you’re just a short snorkel or glass-bottom boat ride from Ningaloo’s coral gardens. Whale watching tours also operate between March and July.

Try catching your own dinner on a deep-sea fishing charter, or choose from a small selection of cafes and restaurants.

(Day 6 to 7) - 1 Night Accommodation in Coral Bay, Australia

Travel to your accommodation in Western Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Marvel at this amazing destination from your absolute beachfront accommodation. Throughout the year is a phenomenal collection of unique nature and experiences for both viewing and interaction at Ningaloo Reef. Wake up to the relaxing sounds of Coral Bay and experience the natural energy of the ocean as you gaze across the picturesque Ningaloo coast. Enjoy rooms and apartments with a range of features providing the perfect retreat during your stay in Coral Bay. Keep cool in air conditioned comfort to the sound of Coral Bay – all less than 100 paces from Ningaloo Reef. Refresh in our swimming pool. Relax in the warm sunshine with a book. Lounge on our manicured lawns and gardens. Take a walk by the serene shores of Coral Bay. From live music and complimentary in-house movies to a selection of premium dishes, made from locally sourced ingredients – Ningaloo Reef is home to some of the world’s greatest and most unique underwater attractions. One of the only reefs located on the western side of a continent in the world and Australia’s second largest fringing reef, at Ningaloo Reef you’ll find thousands of magnificent fish, corals and the majestic whaleshark.

(Day 7) - Self Drive from Coral Bay to Exmouth

Continue on your drive today to northern edge of Western Australia – Exmouth. Drive time from Coral Bay to Exmouth is approximately 2 hours (95 miles).

At the northern tip of the Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth is one of the best places in the world for a thrilling swim with the largest fish in the ocean – the whale shark. They visit Ningaloo Reef every year between March and July.

Stop by the Exmouth Visitor Centre to pick up maps and check out the full array of guided tours available.

A glass-bottom boat, snorkel or dive tour to the outer reef will also bring you to the year-round playgrounds of dolphins, turtles, dugongs and manta rays. Another must-do for divers is Navy Pier, one of Australia’s top 10 dive sites!

(Days 7 to 9) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Exmouth

Travel to your accommodation in Exmouth, Western Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your four star resort on Sunrise Beach is your gateway to the world heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef and the Cape Range National Park.

Your accommodation features direct beach access, restaurant, bar, resort style swimming pool, gym, gift shop, and laundry services.

Optional Tour (Not Included), Whale Shark Swim - Full Day

If you are lucky enough to be near the Ningaloo Reef between mid March and mid August you can take a dip with Whale Sharks on this ECO Certified day tour.

Your adventure begins early in the morning when you are picked up from your accommodation and transported to the Tantabiddi Boat Ramp. During the 36 kilometer ride your knowledgeable guide will give an informative and factual commentary on local points of interest is given, including the Cape Range National Park. The day’s program is also outlined, helping to ensure you feel relaxed, informed and comfortable about the upcoming day’s events.

Once you board the vessel the excitement begins! A short cruise through the lagoon and the marine adventure begins with an introductory snorkel on the beautiful inner Ningaloo Reef. If required, assistance and snorkel tuition can be provided by your tour guides. Have the chance to see a turtle swim past, a ray resting in the sand and a myriad of colourful fish amongst the coral.

A spotter plane flies high overhead, and alerts the crew on the boat when the whale sharks have been spotted! Take a deep break, jump in, and swim with the world’s largest fish! Don’t worry, these gentle & inquisitive giants are filter feeders and their favorite meal is plankton. During the day the photographer is always there capturing images and moments that will long be remembered for your complimentary CD.

Your Amazing Adventure Includes:

Courtesy transfers to and from your hotel in an air conditioned bus
Quality snorkel gear and wetsuits (prescription masks available)
Morning tea, delicious buffet lunch, afternoon tea & refreshments
FREE photo CD from the day
Life jacket, buoyancy vest, noodles if required

No-sighting policy: On the rare occasion that we do have a no sighting of a whale shark you are offered a free repeat tour on the next available day!

Tour Operates mid March through mid August

(Day 9) - Australian Domestic Flight, Own Arrangements

Domestic flight in Australia (as per your own arrangements).

  • a) All prices are USD$/person (including all Taxes). Subject to availability and seasonality. Other Conditions Apply (see Terms and Conditions).
  • b) Land Content Only represents the pricing for the full itinerary as detailed, except the International Flights from the USA (and return) are NOT included.
  • c) An Infant (Lapchild) must be less than 2 years old on the date of departure. Infant must travel with at least one adult. An infant with a seat pays the price of a Child.
  • d) A Child must be aged between 2-11 years on the date of departure. Child must travel with at least one adult.