Monkey Mia on the stunning Coral Coast of Western Australia is a must see for wildlife enthusiasts, with wild dolphin and marine animal encounters. Located in the UNESCO listed Shark Bay World Heritage Area, the region is famous for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and diverse marine life, including the friendly bottlenose dolphins that visit Monkey Mia every day. But when is the best time to visit?
In this guide we will give you the low down on the best time to visit Monkey Mia, covering the weather, wildlife experiences and best conditions for outdoor activities. We will also look at nearby attractions like Francois Peron National Park, Hamelin Pool and Coral Bay so your trip to Western Australia is action packed.
Weather and Best Time to Visit Monkey Mia
Monkey Mia has a temperate climate so it’s a great destination any time of the year. However each season has its own experience depending on what you are looking for.
Summer (December to February)
Western Australia’s summer means warm weather, averaging 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F), so it’s perfect for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. During this time, you will have long sunny days when you can snorkel, swim, or explore Shark Bay. However, the heat can be intense, so make sure your accommodation has air conditioning to stay cool during the hottest part of the day. Be aware of peak season during school holidays when Caravan Parks and the RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort fill up quickly.
Autumn (March to May)
Autumn is the best time to visit Monkey Mia. The weather is cooler but still warm enough to enjoy the beach, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This is the best time to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat and on day Money Mia tour to nearby Jurien Bay and Hamelin Pool. Autumn is also the perfect time to camp in Francois Peron National Park or enjoy the warm waters of Coral Bay.
Winter (June to August)
Winter in Monkey Mia is mild, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It’s a great time to get out and about the national parks and enjoy more active pursuits like hiking in Kalbarri National Park or Karijini National Park. Winter is also whale shark season, so it’s the perfect time to dive or snorkel with these gentle giants near Coral Bay or Cape Range National Park. Although the weather is cooler, the warm waters of the Coral Coast are still inviting for marine life encounters, and the beaches are still stunning.
Spring (September to November)
Spring is another great time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It’s wildflower season, so the whole of Western Australia is in bloom. If you want to visit Shark Bay Nambung National Park or Cape Range National Park, spring is the perfect time for outdoor activities like nature walks and camping. Fewer crowds means you can get a room at Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort.
Wildlife and Dolphin Encounters
The main attraction at Monkey Mia is the wild dolphins that visit the beach daily. The local bottlenose dolphins are used to human interaction so it’s a real treat to see them up close. They usually come in in the morning so you can see their playful antics and in some cases even feed them. Just remember while the dolphins are used to humans they are still wild animals so be respectful.
And there’s more to Monkey Mia than just dolphins. Snorkelling and diving will get you up close and personal with manta rays, Whale Sharks and even dugongs. The clear waters of Coral Bay and Shark Bay are perfect for exploring the coral gardens and marine life. Day trips to the Ocean Park Aquarium or Dirk Hartog Island will give you more insight into the region’s maritime history and culture.
What to do in Monkey Mia
While dolphin watching is the main attraction, Monkey Mia and the wider Shark Bay area have more to offer.
Francois Peron National Park
A must for nature enthusiasts. Francois Peron National Park has stunning coastal cliffs, turquoise water and rare wildlife. Perfect for hiking, 4WD or just a day at one of its secluded beaches. The warm shallow water makes it a favourite for swimming or kayaking.
Hamelin Pool
Home to the world’s oldest living things, the stromatolites. Hamelin Pool is a one off attraction where you can see these ancient life forms in action. Hamelin Pool has stunning scenery so it’s a photographer’s dream.
Coral Bay
Just a short drive from Monkey Mia, Coral Bay is the entrance to Ningaloo Reef and is famous for its clear blue water and marine life. Perfect for those who want to see breathtaking views and relax on white sandy beaches. Coral Bay is also a great spot to see manta rays and snorkel through the coral gardens.
FAQ
When to visit Monkey Mia?
Autumn (March to May) or Spring (September to November) is the best time to visit with good weather and less crowds. For whale shark season visit in winter (June to August).
Can you feed the dolphins at Monkey Mia?
Yes, during dolphin feedings, you can interact with the wild dolphins that visit the shores of Monkey Mia daily.
Are there any national parks nearby?
Yes, Francois Peron National Park and Kalbarri National Park are close by for hiking, wildlife and coastal views.
How do I get to Monkey Mia?
Monkey Mia is car accessible or can be accessed via Shark Bay Airport with flights from Perth.
What other wildlife can I see?
Aside from dolphins, you can see manta rays, Whale Sharks, dugongs and various bird species.
