Monkey Mia in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area of Western Australia is famous for its marine life, clear waters and wildlife encounters. The friendly dolphins get all the attention but the area is also a great place to explore the world of marine turtles. This guide will get into the wonders of Monkey Mia, where to see turtles, what to do and travel tips for an amazing experience.
Turtles at Monkey Mia
Monkey Mia is a haven for marine turtles with many species calling its clear waters and shallow bays home. These waters are part of the Shark Bay Marine Park, a protected area that looks after the turtles and their habitats. Visitors to Monkey Mia often get to see turtles feeding on seagrass beds, swimming along the beach or popping up for air in the calm waters.
Turtles in the Environment
Turtles are key to maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. They help control seagrass growth, prevent algae growth on coral reefs and contribute to nutrient cycling in the ocean. Each species has its own habits and ecological functions, so marine turtles are essential to the health of the Shark Bay ecosystem.
Turtle Species at Monkey Mia
Three species of marine turtles can be seen at Monkey Mia. Each one is different and a joy to watch and part of the marine life in the area.
Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Green turtles are named for the greenish fat beneath their shells. They are common at Monkey Mia. These gentle herbivores feed on the seagrass meadows in the area. Their grazing helps promote healthy seagrass growth which benefits many other marine species. Green turtles are slow and graceful so are a favourite among snorkellers and kayakers.
Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta)
The loggerhead turtle is identified by its large head and powerful jaws. They hang out in the waters around Monkey Mia. These turtles are carnivorous and feed on crustaceans, mollusks and other hard-shelled prey. During the nesting season you may see female turtles nesting on the sandy beaches nearby, an amazing sight. Monkey Mia is part of the loggerhead turtle breeding colony in the area.
Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
Less common but a bonus if you see one. Hawksbills are known for their beautiful, patterned shells. They feed on sponges which helps keep the coral reefs healthy. They are a sign of the biodiversity of Shark Bay’s marine life.
Best Spots to See Turtles in Monkey Mia
There are many places to see turtles in their natural environment. Whether you’re on a wildlife cruise or walking, these spots are sure to deliver.
Monkey Mia Beach
The , off Monkey Mia Beach are perfect for turtle spotting. Here green turtles feed on seagrass beds just off the beach, so you can swim or snorkel and see them up close. The local dolphins also hang out in these waters, it’s a wildlife magic.
Located on the Peron Peninsula, this park is famous for its rugged landscape, red cliffs and high biodiversity. The park’s beaches and bays are perfect for turtle spotting especially during the warmer months when turtles are most active. A four-wheel drive is recommended to explore this big area.
Shark Bay Marine Park
As part of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area this marine park is a biodiversity hotspot. Eco-cruises through the park often see turtles, manta rays and even reef sharks. Turtle Bay in the marine park is popular for marine wildlife.
Dirk Hartog Island
This historic island is boat accessible and has an untouched environment to see turtles. The coral reefs surrounding the island are alive with turtles, fish and marine mammals. A visit here will give you a deeper insight into Shark Bay’s ecological and cultural history.
Turtle Activities
Monkey Mia has many activities for turtle enthusiasts.
Snorkeling and Diving
Snorkel or dive the underwater world of Monkey Mia in the shallow waters of Shark Bay Marine Park. These activities will get you up close and personal with marine turtles, coral reefs and other marine life. Equipment hire and guided tours available.
Guided Kayak Tours
For a more peaceful experience join a guided kayak tour. These tours visit Turtle Bay and other hotspots, where you can paddle alongside turtles and other wildlife. Kayaking is a low impact way to explore.
Eco-Cruises
Get on the Monkey Mia Marine Life Cruise Step or the Aristocat 2 and cruise the region’s marine life. These cruises, often led by marine biologists, are a combination of education and relaxation and will see turtles, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins and even migratory species.
Best Time to Visit for Turtle Spotting
Best time to visit for turtle spotting is during the warmer months October to April when the turtles are hatching. This is the best time to see the baby turtles emerge from their nests and make their way to the ocean. For the best experience visit early morning or late afternoon when the turtles are most active.
Plan Your Visit to Monkey Mia
Getting Here
Monkey Mia is just a minute drive from Shark Bay Airport or take a scenic drive along the Coral Coast and stop at Hamelin Pool and Kalbarri National Park along the way.
Accommodation
From the luxury of Monkey Mia Resort to camping in the Monkey Mia Conservation Park there are options to suit all. Staying at the resort gives you easy access to the dolphin feeding experience and other marine wildlife encounters.
Conclusion
Seeing the turtle marine life in Monkey Mia is an experience of awe, education and adventure. With its wildlife, eco tourism and stunning scenery Monkey Mia is a must see for nature lovers. Whether you’re snorkelling with green turtles, kayaking in the shallows or joining an eco cruise you’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the wonders of Western Australia’s Shark Bay Marine Park.
FAQ
What species of turtles can I see?
Green turtles, loggerhead turtles and hawksbill turtles.
Best time to visit for turtle spotting?
October to April, especially during hatching season November to February.
Activities for turtle enthusiasts?
Snorkelling, diving, kayaking tours and eco cruises with guides and marine biologists.
Can I see turtles and other wildlife?
Yes! Monkey Mia is also famous for its friendly dolphins and many tours include turtles, dolphins and other marine life.
Other attractions in the Shark Bay area?
Francois Peron National Park, Dirk Hartog Island, Hamelin Pool or join a wildlife cruise to see more of the marine life and historic sites.
