Ningaloo Reef, Marine nature reserve in Western Australia, Australia
Ningaloo Reef is a coral reef system stretching 260 kilometers along Western Australia's coast, forming the largest fringing reef near a continental landmass. The structure hosts hundreds of fish species and serves as home to sea turtles and other marine creatures throughout the year.
The Australian government established Ningaloo Marine Park in 1987 to protect this coral system. The designation was later expanded when it was added to the National Heritage List in 2010.
The Yamatji peoples, particularly the Baiyungu and Yinigudura groups, maintain deep ties to this marine environment through traditional practices that have passed through generations. This connection shapes how the reef is understood and valued by the communities who live nearby.
The best time to visit is from March through August when whale sharks arrive and guided tours depart from Exmouth and Coral Bay. Water conditions during these months are favorable for snorkeling and viewing the reef directly from the shore.
The reef harbors around 500 fish species and more than 300 coral varieties, making it one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the region. This abundance also attracts endangered sea turtles that nest on the beaches nearby.
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