Western Australia has so much to offer travellers – stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, amazing food, bustling cities and most importantly, mind blowing animal experiences. Here are the top five animal experiences that you shouldn’t miss when you visit WA.
Numero uno on our list is swimming with whale sharks on the Ningaloo Reef – it’s truly a once in a life time experience. These gentle giants of the ocean are placid enough that you can swim alongside them while they nom on krill around the reef. Both Ningaloo Discovery and Ningaloo Reef Dive and Snorkle offer YHA member’s discounts on whale shark swims, so pick the tour that suits you best and go! Check out the discounts here.
Where to stay: Exmouth YHA
The happiest – and quite possibly the cutest – animal in the animal kingdom, the adorable quokka has made its home on Rottnest Island, just off the coast near Fremantle. The island is teeming with these friendly creatures who won’t run away if you approach them camera in hand, so get a quokka selfie and then see what else amazing Rottnest has to offer.
Where to stay: Fremantle Prison YHA have special deals that involve tours to Rottnest Island. Alternatively, book yourself a bed at either property and book your Rottnest tour at reception!
Riding a camel on Cable Beach at sunset is one of those things that you have to tick off your Broome and WA bucket list. It can be romantic – so perfect for couples – or it can be a right old laugh with your mates or family.
Where to stay: Broome YHA
From May until December, humpbacks, southern right whales and orcas will hug the coastline of the South West. It’s easiest to spot them on a whale watching tour (which leave primarily from Dunsborough and Albany, as well as a few other locations), but if luck is truly on your side, you may be able to spot them from the beach or lookout points with the naked eye.
Where to stay: Bunbury YHA, Dunsborough YHA, Margaret River YHA, Denmark YHA, Albany YHA
Photos: Shutterstock, Tourism WA, Tourism Australia