12 Reasons to Head West During the Green Season

1. Fill ya face!

   
   
   It's mango season, time to pick up a tray and spend an afternoon snacking 'til your heart's content. Head to your local markets to get a bonza deal on these deliciously sweet fruits, ready to eat if you're brave enough to peel the skin off.
   
   While you're at it, why not try some Gubinge, or Kakadu Plum? This delicious Indigenous superfood is rich in Vitamin C, anti-inflammatory agents and it's got antibacterial properties too! Perfect if you've got a case of the travel tummy, or if you're wanting to #levelup before heading out on a hike through the stunning rainforests up north. 
   
   

2. Get out Fishin'

   
   Alright, get ya fishing kit ready, it's peak Barra season out west! Barramundi, that is. All across the top end this Aussie sea bass travels in the warmer waters and are one of our most popular fish... to eat that is. Get some help from a local scaling your catch, and you'll be all set for the freshest meal in town!
   
   

3. Smile at a Crocodile

   
   
   These big reptiles love the green season, and are far more active while it's warm and wet. Say hello to one of the oldest animals in the world from a comfortable distance at the Malcom Roberts Crocodile Park, don't forget to show off your digital YHA card for a concession entry! If crocs aren't your thing, the park has plenty of incredible creatures, from colourful birdlife, ancient cassowaries, adorable kangaroos, wallibies, and emus to spend some koala-tea time with.
   
   

4. Catch a Coastal Sunset

   
   Grab an icy cold beer and watch the sun set over kilometres of pristine beach at one of Australia's westernmost points. Exmouth is the gateway to Ningaloo Reef, a world heritage listed coral reef with over 500 species of tropical fish filling the marine park. Snap a sunset pic without leaving the hostel, relaxing at the beer garden while saying wishing the day adieu, or jump into one of the pools around our hostels for the complete sunset experience
   
   

5. Snorkel with Manta Rays

   
   
   Speaking of the Ningaloo Reef... you can swim with manta rays all year 'round! Travelling west during the green season is perfect for getting some quality time without the rush and bustle of the peak tourist season, so you can enjoy the magic of these pristine landscapes all the more. 
   
   

6. Tour with Turtles

   
   If you want to catch the magic of nesting season, head to the Jurabi Turtle Centre, a short drive from Exmouth YHA. Experience the wonder of seeing female loggerhead turtles crawl onto the beach to lay their eggs, or quietly cheer on the hatclings heading for the water, it's essential to book a tour so you don't miss out!
   
   

7. Join a river cruise

   
   Far from your seniors-only river cruise, float along Yardie Creek and let your worries float away while you spot egrets, ospreys, and even the rare black-footed rock wallaby throughout the Cape Range National Park. Let legendary tour guides Boxy and Ash show you this unique landscape, with over 60 years of experience between them, these blokes will hapilly hold your camera for the perfect angle to fill your feed with stunning shots.
   
   
   

8. More mangoes... more booze... more fun!

   
   
   What can we say, mangoes and beer are a match made in heaven! Head to Matso's famous Broome Brewery to discover how their mango beer is made, and enjoy a delicious tasting paddle at the end of your tour. Space is limited to six per tour, so you'll have plenty of time to ask about their secret ingredients and sip happy!
   
   

9. Sit back and watch the Staircase to the Moon

   
   Once you've sipped your way to bliss at Matso's, head to nearby Roebuck Bay for one of nature's finest illusions. The staircase is a natural phenomenon that occurs during a full moon and low tide, causing the moon's reflection to form a 'staircase' from the water all the way up to the beautiful glowing orb.
   
   

10. Travel by Camel across Cable Beach

    
    
    Have you even travelled out west until you've take an a camel ride by sunset? This iconic experience is magical no matter the season, and too special to miss! Honestly, the photos say it all, so we'll catch you at Cable!

11. Discover dinosaurs at Gantheaume Point

    Hop on a hovercraft and head on a day tour from Broome to stand in the perfectly preserved dinosaur footprints, over 120 million years old! Venture further to discover the Flying Boat Wrecks and learn the history of flying boats in the second world war
    
    

12. It's a whole lot cheaper!

    We've saved the best 'til last, travelling outside of peak seasons will save you a bunch of sweet sweet money! Put your hard earned cash towards treating yourself to some feasting, some drinking, and experiencing all that the wild west of Australia has to offer. Ready to start your trip? We've got a bed waiting for you.

Images Courtesy of Tourism Australia, Sal Salis, Shutterstock