Coral Coast Tourist Information
Coral Coast Tourist Information
Shark Bay & Denham
Shark Bay is the best natural harbour on the west coast of Australia, and its warm, sheltered waters are home for an abundance of wildlife. The world's finest stromatolites accumulate in the blue hypersaline waters of Hamelin Pool, whose shores are built of countless tiny white coquina shells. Further north, along the eastern arm of Shark Bay, the world's only wild dolphins accustomed to human presence, frolic among tourists who flock to share the waters with them at Monkey Mia.
The shallow waters of Shark Bay Marine Park abound with a myriad of other marine life. The clear waters allow the visitor an opportunity to view the unique herds of dugong, manta rays, humpback whales and other species of aquatic life. Visitors are encouraged to look closely at Shark Bay's natural beauty. Plan to spend time exploring the pristine bays, inlets and islands.
By virtue of its position on the west coast, Shark Bay was a key destination for European navigators visiting New Holland. The first European landing recorded in Australia took place in October, 1616 when Dutch Sea Captain, Dirk Hartog, landed at Cape Inscription on the island that now bears his name. Hartog's plate was rediscovered 81 years later in 1697 by another Dutch Captain, William De Vlamingh, who replaced the original with one of his own. Vlamingh's plate is now on display at the Fremantle Maritime Museum. A succession of English and French explorers followed. William Dampier named the area Sharks Bay in 1699 and a Frenchman, Francois St. Allouarn, laid formal claim to the territory for France in 1772. Later, in 1801, Nicholas Baudin's ship spent fifteen days on Bernier Island collecting many species of wildlife, then mostly unknown to science. This expedition was also the first Euopean contact made with aborigines.
Today, Shark Bay is recognised as a very special place on earth. Being one of only eleven regions in the world to meet every criteria for world heritage listing. The 35,000 square kilometre area, about 60 percent of which is sea, offers the visitor a wealth of natural wonders and a warm Meditterranean climate. The region also offers numerous activities including swimming, tennis, spas, fishing, restaurants and shopping facilities. With so much to see and do, the Shark Bay World Heritage Region of Western Australia's mid north is a uniquely enjoyable experience.
