In short
- Reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard
- Your own snorkel, mask, and fins
- Warm layers for cool winter evenings
In this article
Ningaloo Reef sits in a remote and arid region of Western Australia. The harsh sun, rugged limestone gorges, and ocean conditions demand careful packing. You need gear for both land and water.
What sun protection should I pack?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, and a rash guard.
- Sunscreen: Must be reef-safe and biodegradable to protect the coral.
- Clothing: A rash guard offers excellent sun protection in the water.
- Accessories: A wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses reduce glare on the ocean.
Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear?
Pack a snorkel, mask, and fins if you are not renting them locally.
Many visitors prefer using their own equipment for a better fit. A rash guard or a lightweight wetsuit is also highly recommended for winter water temperatures. Bring an underwater camera or a GoPro with a waterproof housing to photograph marine life.
What should I wear for exploring Cape Range National Park?
Pack sturdy walking shoes for the gorge trails and bring a fleece jacket for the evenings.
The trails around Mandu Mandu Gorge and Yardie Creek feature rugged terrain. You need proper walking shoes to hike these safely. Bring a fleece jacket, as winter evenings in the outback get noticeably cold.
What supplies are essential for a Ningaloo road trip?
Bring high-capacity reusable water containers and motion sickness medication.
Cape Range National Park does not have drinking water available. If you are camping, you must bring your own high-capacity water containers. If you plan to join boat charters from Coral Bay or Exmouth, pack motion sickness medication.
Do Ningaloo boat tours provide gear?
Most boat tours include basic snorkeling equipment.
Boat tours generally supply snorkels, masks, and fins. Many also provide short wetsuits and flotation devices. Review your specific tour details, as some require you to bring your own towel, drinking water, and reef-safe sunscreen.
Questions travellers ask
What kind of sunscreen is allowed at Ningaloo Reef?
You should only use reef-safe and biodegradable sunscreen to protect the fragile coral ecosystem.
Do I need a wetsuit for Ningaloo Reef?
A lightweight wetsuit or rash guard is recommended for sun protection and for warmth during the cooler winter months.
Is there drinking water in Cape Range National Park?
No, there is no drinking water available in the park. You must bring reusable water bottles and high-capacity containers if you are camping.
