Join our Coastal Loop tour from Perth to Monkey Mia to see what makes this part of Australia so special. See the World Heritage-listed gateways of Kalbarri and Shark Bay, as well as accessible wildlife such as dolphins playing in the surf at Monkey Mia and eye-opening rock formations. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Perth.
Travelers are recommended to bring:
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Customers must notify us of any special dietary needs at least 48 hours before departure; there are limited options once the tour departs
At Monkey Mia, interaction with the wild dolphins is strictly regulated to protect their natural behavior. Visitors are not permitted to touch or feed the dolphins directly. Expert rangers facilitate controlled feeding sessions, allowing for close observation while minimizing human impact. Always follow the instructions of the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions staff.
The wild dolphins at Monkey Mia typically visit the shore for interaction sessions in the mornings. While exact times can vary, they generally appear between 7:45 AM and 12 PM. There can be multiple sessions, so arriving earlier in the morning offers a better chance to witness these unique interactions.
The dolphins frequently observed at Monkey Mia are the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus). These are part of a resident pod that has been visiting the shores for decades, making Monkey Mia one of the few places in the world where wild dolphins interact with humans regularly in a natural setting.
The name 'Monkey Mia' has a fascinating origin. While 'Mia' is an Aboriginal word meaning 'home' or 'shelter', the 'Monkey' part is believed to have come from a pearling lugger boat named 'Monkey' that was anchored in the bay in the late 19th century. Another theory suggests it might refer to a pet monkey kept by early fishermen in the area.
The ideal season to visit Monkey Mia and the broader Western Australian coast is during the dry season, typically from April to October. This period offers mild, sunny weather that is comfortable for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. While dolphin interactions are consistent year-round, the pleasant weather enhances the overall experience.
Access to the Monkey Mia Conservation Park requires an entry fee, which can be paid upon arrival or often included as part of a tour package. For a seamless and comprehensive experience that includes transportation and entry to various attractions, booking a guided tour through KKday ensures convenient arrangements and a hassle-free exploration of the region's highlights.
Kalbarri National Park features several spectacular natural attractions. Highlights include the Kalbarri Skywalk, offering breathtaking views of the Murchison River Gorge, Nature's Window, a famous rock formation framing the gorge, and Hawkes Head Lookout, providing panoramic vistas. The park is renowned for its dramatic coastal cliffs and diverse flora.