Great Ocean Drive

Great Ocean Drive is a breathtaking coastal route along Western Australia's Coral Coast, offering dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and pristine beaches. This scenic drive near Exmouth is less crowded than its Victorian namesake but equally stunning, with opportunities for snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and exploring rugged national parks.

Highlights & What to See

• Vlamingh Head Lighthouse – Perched on a cliff, this historic lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Ningaloo Reef and is a prime spot for whale watching (June–November) and sunset photography.
• Turquoise Bay – One of Australia's best snorkeling spots, where you can drift over coral gardens teeming with tropical fish just meters from the shore.
• Lakeside Lookout – A short walk leads to stunning vistas over Lake MacLeod (a pink salt lake) and the rugged coastline; best visited in late afternoon for soft light.
• Charles Knife Canyon – A dramatic gorge drive with sheer red cliffs, offering hiking trails and a bird's-eye view of the Cape Range National Park.
• Ningaloo Reef – The world's largest fringing reef, easily accessible from the shore, where you can swim with whale sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least half a day to drive the full loop (about 30 km) and stop at key viewpoints. To fully appreciate the area—including snorkeling at Turquoise Bay and a hike in Charles Knife Canyon—dedicate a full day. If you're based in Exmouth, you can easily split the drive into two days, combining it with a boat tour or a sunset session at the lighthouse.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Exmouth – The gateway town for the Ningaloo region, with excellent dining, accommodation, and tour operators for reef adventures.
• Cape Range National Park – Adjacent to the drive, this park offers rugged gorges, walking trails, and pristine beaches like Sandy Bay.
• Ningaloo Marine Park – Extends along the coast; combine with a snorkel or whale shark tour from Exmouth.
• Bundegi Beach – A sheltered bay perfect for swimming and snorkeling, just north of Exmouth.
• Shark Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage site about 4 hours south, home to stromatolites, dolphins at Monkey Mia, and stunning shell beaches.

Please check official sources for current details.