A remote small town with some of the most spectacular beaches in the country has been named one of Australia’s top tourist destinations for 2024.
Exmouth is located in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia, more than 1,200 kilometers north of Perth, and is famous in the state for its out-of-this-world beaches.
The coastal paradise was ranked number nine out of 10 in the Wotif Awards for Australian City of the Year 2024 based on travel app data index that analyzes accommodation affordability, quality and traveler satisfaction.
Exmouth is the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, the largest fringing reef in the world, and has miles of pristine, unbleached seascape to explore.
It’s not just the beaches that attract thousands of tourists each year: the Cape Range National Park with its red rock gorges is an outdoor adventurer’s dream, while the township is home to a number of fun bars and restaurants.
The stunning WA town of Exmouth has been named one of Australia’s top 10 travel destinations for 2024
Exmouth is located in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia, more than 1,200 kilometers north of Perth, and is famous in the state for its out-of-this-world beaches.
Exmouth is the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, the largest fringing reef in the world, and has miles of pristine, unbleached seascape to explore.
Exmouth’s aptly named Turquoise Bay has received numerous travel and tourism awards for its incredibly calm waters and white sandy shores.
But the award-winning bay isn’t the only beach worth visiting. The Ningaloo Coast is packed with stunning swimming spots within easy reach of the town.
Sandy Bay is a coastal paradise without the crowds of Turqouise Bay; Surfers will love the waves at Dunes Beach, while you can drive your 4×4 onto the sand at Town Beach.
You don’t have to go far from shore to witness the colorful beauty of Ningaloo Reef. Oyster Stacks is a popular spot for snorkelers, where you can drift with the current over the coral to see turtles and fish.
Travelers flock to this dreamy gem in the warm winter months, where temperatures can still reach thirty degrees, to swim with the whale sharks that migrate through the reef from May to October.
You don’t have to go far from shore to witness the beauty of Ningaloo Reef. Oyster Stacks is a popular spot for snorkelers, where you can float over the coral to see turtles and fish.
In the township, local emus are as common a sight as residents on the main street, where there is a vibrant food and drink scene.
Froth Craft Brewery is a favorite watering hole in the heart of the city, while Whalebone Brewing Co is the perfect place to try craft beer and catch live music from WA musicians.
Ningaloo Discovery Whale Shark Tours offer reef cruises and the chance to swim with the gentle giant of the ocean, all aboard a luxury catamaran or speedboat.
The adventure and scenery don’t stop at the sand: Cape Range National Park features red limestone ranges, canyons and valleys bordered by 50km of stunning beaches.
In the township, local emus are as common a sight as residents on the main street, where there is a vibrant food and drink scene.
Froth Craft Brewery is a favorite watering hole in the heart of the city, while Whalebone Brewing Co is the perfect place to try craft beer and catch live music from WA musicians.
Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef Safari Camp is a sprawling luxury tented resort offering guests a unique seaside glamping experience.
Manta Rays Beach Resort, located on Sunrise Beach, is one of Exmouth’s most luxurious accommodations with private jacuzzis, a huge sparkling pool and a gourmet restaurant.
Exmouth’s aptly named Turquoise Bay has received numerous travel and tourism awards for its incredibly calm waters and white sandy shores.
Travelers flock to this dreamy gem in the warm winter months, where temperatures still reach 30 degrees, to swim with whale sharks that migrate through the reef from May to October.
Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef Safari Camp is a sprawling luxury tented resort offering guests a unique seaside glamping experience.
Exmouth Shire president Matt Niikkula said being recognized as WA Wotif’s only Australian Town of the Year is a testament to the incredible offering the local tourism industry has to offer.
Vlamingh Head Lighthouse is high on a hill overlooking the township and is where visitors go to watch the sunset at the end of the day.
Exmouth Shire president Matt Niikkula told FEMAIL that being recognized as WA Wotif’s only Australian Town of the Year is a testament to the incredible offering the local tourism industry offers visitors.
He described his beloved city as a treasure of natural beauty and adventure.
‘With its pristine beaches, renowned diving spots and coastal islands, this hidden gem offers an unforgettable escape for travelers seeking fun and relaxation. But Exmouth is so much more than the famous Ningaloo Reef!’ he said.
“Our visitors can get the true Reef to Range experience when they venture into the rugged natural landscapes and iconic beauty of the country’s arid terrain that make the North West Cape so special.”
“Whether you are looking for an educational getaway for the whole family or a secluded paradise, Exmouth captures the hearts of all who visit.”
Flights to Exmouth from Perth take just under two hours, while the journey will take you just under 13 hours.