Coral Bay

Coral Bay is as idyllic as the name suggests. With a sweeping bay, bobbing yachts and the world-class Ningaloo Reef just two steps off the beach and you'd be mad not to spend a night or two here. Just a two-hour flight from Perth, the tiny seaside town of Coral Bay boasts beach weather all year round. The vibe is chilled out and the local fishermen don't mind stopping for a yarn. Explore the shores of the reef by four-wheel bike tour, or enjoy a snorkelling or scuba diving tour to see the breathtaking underwater coral gardens and some amazing marine life. Hop aboard a catamaran to see the humpback whales, dugongs, manta rays and turtles. The highlight is a chance to swim with the world's biggest fish, the whale shark, which visits between April and June each year to feed. You can even take to the skies on a scenic flight to see how these natural wonders look from the heavens. Or just laze around on the beach with a book. If you want to try for a bite and the deep sea and game fishing charters with local fishermen are the way to go. The good news is the odds are heavily stacked in your favour. After all, Ningaloo boasts the title as the premier game fishing destination in Western Australia. You'll be pulling in red emperor, northwest snapper and coral trout by the bucket load. And it's one of the few places in the world where famous species as black marlin, blue marlin, mahi mahi, Spanish mackerel and sailfish are hooked regularly. Everything is blissfully easy - accommodation, cafes and restaurants are all strolling distance from the beach. Make sure you book a place to stay early during peak season and you'll have no worries, mate.