A UNESCO Heritage Site in Australia
The Ningaloo Coast was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011 due to its outstanding natural assets and cultural significance. The 604,500-hectare marine & terrestrial property of Ningaloo Coast, is one of the largest nearshore reef systems in the world.
The land features an extensive network of underground cave & watercourses, holding high species endemism (unique to this area). An estimated 300 to 500 whale sharks aggregate annually coinciding with the mass coral spawning and upwelling currents.
The marine environment contains a high diversity of habitats including lagoon, reef, open ocean, the continental slope & the continental shelf. Intertidal systems such as rocky shores, sandy beaches, estuaries and mangroves are all found locally as well.
The Parks and Wildlife Service
Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) manage the Ningaloo Marine Park and aim to protect its ecological, cultural and historical significance. They work closely with local stakeholders including Indigenous communities, science researchers, community groups, tour operators, recreational users and private land managers.
Our Partnerships
Ningaloo Marine Interactions proudly works with DBCA, contributing to their world-leading Whale Shark Tourism management strategy. Part of your ticket proceeds contributes to on-going environmental research and education through ECOEANS (an Australian NGO).
