Welcome to Shark Bay

A Natural and Cultural Treasure

Perched on the far western edge of Australia, where the land meets the Indian Ocean, Shark Bay is one of the world’s great wilderness treasures. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Area in 1991, it spans over 2.2 million hectares of breathtaking beauty, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Located in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia’s Coral Coast, Shark Bay includes two sweeping peninsulas and the westernmost point of the Australian mainland. Denham, the main township, lies about 800 km north of Perth, alongside other local communities like Monkey Mia, Nanga, and Useless Loop.

This region is the traditional home of the Malgana, Nhanda, and Yingkarta peoples, with the Malgana calling it Gutharraguda—“two waters”—a reference to the twin bays formed between the peninsulas and Dirk Hartog Island. For over 30,000 years, they’ve maintained a deep connection to these lands and waters.

Shark Bay is famous for:

• • The world’s largest and most diverse seagrass beds
  • A thriving population of dugongs
  • The ancient stromatolites of Hamelin Pool—living fossils dating back billions of years

It’s also home to endangered mammals and unique plant species found nowhere else on Earth.

Beyond its natural wonders, Shark Bay offers a strong sense of community, vibrant local events, and a diverse economy built on tourism, fishing, pearl farming, and pastoral life.

Whether you’re here to explore its rich history, connect with nature, or simply soak up the beauty, Shark Bay is a place like no other—where ancient landscapes, living culture, and warm hospitality await.