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Five ultimate WA animal experiences
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.
Swim with whale sharks
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
Get a quokka selfie on Rottnest Island
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: Perth City YHA and 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!
Ride a camel in Broome
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
Whale watching in the South West
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, Esperance YHA
Relaxing with kangaroos at Lucky Bay
There are a couple of reasons to visit this beach – it’s rarely crowded, the sand is some of the whitest sand you’ll ever see, the blue is some of the bluest water you’ll ever see and the kangaroos in the area call this beach home. You’ll be the envy of all your mates - how often do you get to chill on a beach with a bunch of kangaroos?!
Where to stay: Esperance YHA
Photos: Shutterstock, Tourism WA, Tourism Australia
Nearby Hostels
From $32 per night
Exmouth YHA
Situated in the heart of Exmouth, located on the grounds of the Potshot Hotel Resort, Excape Backpackers YHA is the perfect place to plan your Ningaloo Reef experience.
From $25 per night
Perth City YHA
Perth accommodation in the centre of the CBD. Perth City YHA is central to The Perth Mint, Art Gallery of Western Australia and Perth Zoo
From $20 per night
Fremantle Prison YHA
Fancy a historic and unique stay? Fremantle Prison YHA backpackers hostel has what you are after! With the option to stay in the prison itself or the colonial cottages you're in for a comfy stay.
From $25 per night
Broome YHA
Kimberley Klub YHA is a 5 star backpackers resort located within walking distance to both the airport and Chinatown. The hostel is surrounded by tropical gardens and African Gazebos overlooking the swimming pool.
From $29 per night
Albany YHA
Located in the historical part of Albany, the hostel dates back to the 1800's. Old world charm cheerfully blends with modern amenities to create a relaxed atmosphere. Magnificent views over Princess Royal Harbour from the top story.
From $29 per night
Bunbury YHA
You'll feel at home at the friendly Dolphin Retreat YHA hostel. Walk to the city and beaches. Free daily breakfast, fully-equipped kitchen, common room and travel information.
From $31.5 per night
Denmark YHA
For those that like a cosy place with an intimate feel, this is the baby of all WA hostels. A great little YHA in a great little town, where atmosphere and community comes first. The huge table in the dining room is infamous for its stimulating conversations.
From $34 per night
Dunsborough YHA
Dunsborough Beachouse YHA is the ideal base to enjoy the attractions of the Margaret River. Close to the vineyards, amazing coastline and unspoiled national parks, you'll love it!
From $26 per night
Esperance YHA
Esperance YHA hostel is a great base for exploring the Cape Le Grand National Park where kangaroos laze on the pristine beaches, only 15 minute walk to town.
YHA is a member of Hostelling International