Coral Bay, WA

A tiny settlement on the southern Ningaloo Reef — wade in from the beach and you're snorkelling with reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish.

Live AI Coastal Briefing

Friday 28 August is shaping up to be a unique day along our stunning coastline, with the southern Ningaloo Reef just metres from shore, offering an incredible snorkelling experience with reef sharks, manta rays, and tropical fish. The current temperature is a cool 14C, with clear blue skies and a humidity level of 72%. As we head into the day, the forecast is calling for a 95% chance of rain, so it's a good idea to pack a rain jacket or umbrella.



The ocean conditions are quite rough, with a wave height of 2.50m, making it extremely large and dangerous, so we advise everyone to stay out of the water today. The water temperature is a warm 23.0C, but the strong waves and potential rain make it a day to exercise caution. The tide times are 11:03 am for high tide and 06:18 pm for low tide, with a significant difference in water level between the two.



For all the sports and fitness enthusiasts out there, today might not be the best day for surfing or paddleboarding due to the large waves and strong winds gusting up to 39 km/h. However, runners and cyclists can still enjoy the scenic routes, just be sure to wear waterproof gear. Anglers might want to consider alternative activities or wait for more favourable conditions. The air quality is good, with an AQI of 28, but the rain and wind might make outdoor activities a bit more challenging.



As we head into the afternoon, the rain is likely to continue, with a maximum temperature of 21C expected. The wind will continue to blow at around 24 km/h from the SSE, with gusts up to 39 km/h, making it a good idea to secure any outdoor items that could be blown away. Despite the rain, it's still a great day to appreciate the beauty of our coastline, so let's make the most of it and stay safe and dry. With low UV levels, you won't need to worry about sun protection, but do make sure to check the conditions regularly and plan your activities accordingly.

About This Coastline

Coral Bay is a tiny settlement on the Ningaloo Coast where a sheltered beach and fringing coral reef sit directly in front of the village.

The location rewards attention to its details: the orientation of the shore, the form of the headlands and the way the town meets the water.

The Vibe

The atmosphere is informal, quiet and almost entirely centred on the sea.

Snorkelling, glass-bottom boats, diving and wildlife tours shape daily life, with few urban distractions beyond basic holiday services. Its appeal is strongest when the day is allowed to unfold naturally, following conditions rather than a rigid resort timetable.

The Local Anchor

Ningaloo Reef is the local anchor in the most literal sense: coral and reef fish can be reached from shore in suitable areas.

Boat tours extend access to manta rays, turtles and seasonal encounters with larger marine life. The landmark also acts as a bridge between the natural coast and the human stories that have accumulated around it.

The Landscape

The main bay is protected by the reef and often appears calm, but tides, currents and coral hazards still vary.

White sand, low dunes and clear turquoise water dominate a landscape where the desert meets a highly productive tropical marine ecosystem. These physical features influence everything from wave behaviour to wildlife habitat and the practical routes people take along the shore.

Across the area, the coast is best understood as a living landscape rather than a single viewpoint or attraction.