Situated in the heart of Western Australia, Monkey Mia is the place to be if you love nature and dolphins. This stunning bay is known not only for its turquoise waters, but also for the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with wild dolphins.
Fast Fact
The name may be confusing as there are no monkeys here; the origin is unknown, but that doesn’t detract from the magic of this place.
Geography and surroundings
The picturesque setting of Monkey Mia is characterised by turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and endless blue skies. Situated in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, this place is not only visually stunning but also a biodiversity hotspot. The surrounding national parks, such as Francois Peron National Park, invite hikers and nature lovers to explore the region’s unique flora and fauna.
The dolphins' magic
History of dolphin interaction
The fascinating history of dolphin encounters at Monkey Mia began in the 1960s. At that time, fishermen began to share their catch close to shore – and the curious dolphins started to show interest. Over the years, a remarkable relationship developed between human and animal. Today, Monkey Mia is one of the few places in the world where wild dolphins regularly come to the beach.
Daily dolphin encounters
The daily dolphin shows are undoubtedly the highlight for visitors to Monkey Mia. Early in the morning, tourists gather on the beach while experienced rangers feed a small group of dolphins. This interaction takes place under strict supervision to ensure that the dolphins do not become dependent and continue to live in the wild. After feeding, the dolphins often remain close by, giving visitors a unique and personal experience.
Responsible tourism
Monkey Mia’s managers place great emphasis on responsible tourism.Visitors are encouraged to treat the dolphins with respect and follow strict guidelines to avoid disturbing their natural behaviour. This philosophy of sustainable tourism ensures that future generations will be able to experience the beauty of the human-dolphin relationship.
Diversity of wildlife
As well as the adorable dolphins, Monkey Mia is home to an impressive variety of marine life. Turtles glide through the waters, rays roam the seabed and a variety of fish species enliven the colourful underwater world. Birdwatching enthusiasts will also find themselves spoilt for choice, with many species of birds living along the coast and in the surrounding national parks.
The combination of stunning nature, fascinating wildlife and the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with wild dolphins makes Monkey Mia a hotspot for nature lovers. Monkey Mia is not only a place for unforgettable travel experiences, but also an important contribution to the protection and understanding of our marine habitats.
