Exploring
Shark Bay
Tasmania
Traveling to Shark Bay as a family is an adventure filled with stunning landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, and unforgettable experiences. This remarkable region, consisting of Denham, Monkey Mia, and Francois Peron National Park, offers a myriad of activities for all ages. Located four hours north of Kalbarri and three and a half hours south of Carnarvon, Shark Bay is a must-visit destination for any family road trip.
Where We Stayed
Our family chose to stay at Shark Bay Caravan Park, one of the three caravan parks in Denham. This location was perfect as it was close to shopping and most attractions. For those with a bigger budget, Monkey Mia, located 30 kilometers up the road, is a fantastic option. Our friends stayed there and had an amazing time. The caravan park in Denham provided us with all the amenities we needed and served as a great base for exploring the area.
Francois Peron National Park and Point Peron
Francois Peron National Park is one of Australia’s most breathtaking national parks, featuring multiple camping spots, lookouts, and a full day of four-wheel driving on soft sand, salt plains, and graded dirt. We took our Triton and had no real trouble navigating the terrain, although driving slowly and playing it smart is essential. The park’s diverse landscapes and stunning views make it a highlight of any visit to Shark Bay.
Little Lagoon
Located just outside of Denham, Little Lagoon is another beautiful spot worth visiting. You can four-wheel drive on both sides of the lagoon, swim, have a BBQ, and try your luck at fishing, as we did (with no success, unfortunately). While powered water vessels are not allowed, kayaking is a popular activity here, offering a peaceful way to explore the lagoon.
Dolphin Feeding at Monkey Mia
One of the highlights of our trip was the dolphin feeding at Monkey Mia. Ella took the boys up for this unique experience, and they thoroughly enjoyed watching the dolphins up close. The morning was filled with excitement and learning, as the staff provided interesting information about the dolphins and their habits.
Shark Bay Aquarium
The Ocean Park Aquarium provided an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family. The guided tours offered by the knowledgeable staff gave us insights into the diverse marine life in the area. We saw sharks, snapper, stingrays, sea snakes, lobsters, and more. The boys were fascinated by the variety of creatures and the interactive displays.
Exploring Denham
In the heart of Denham, we found an amazing playground right on the water, opposite shops and cafes. This was a great spot for the boys to burn off some energy while we enjoyed a coffee and the stunning views. The town’s coastal charm and friendly atmosphere made it a pleasant place to spend time.
Coastal Drive
A scenic drive along the coast took us to Fowlers Bay and Whale Bone Scenic Lookout, a 60-kilometer round trip from Denham. The breathtaking views and serene landscapes made this drive one of the memorable highlights of our trip.
Getting to Shark Bay
Our journey to Shark Bay was one of the longer drives we undertook, requiring a petrol and lunch stop. We chose the Billabong Roadhouse for this break, which provided a welcome rest and a chance to refuel before continuing our adventure.
Traveling to Shark Bay as a family was an unforgettable experience, filled with natural beauty and unique activities. Whether you’re exploring national parks, enjoying marine life, or simply relaxing by the water, Shark Bay offers something for everyone.
