Discover 6 Great Canoe & Kayak Experiences In Exmouth

Exmouth in Western Australia is a standout for anyone looking to paddle through some of the most pristine waters on the planet. Its proximity to Ningaloo Reef makes it a prime destination for sea kayaking and snorkeling. Whether you’re after a quick half-day adventure or a full-day immersion into coral gardens and marine life, Exmouth delivers. We especially like the Turtle Tour, which combines intimate kayaking with the chance to swim alongside juvenile turtles and reef sharks—an excellent option for those short on time but eager for a memorable experience.

Exmouth’s calm, sheltered waters and abundant marine life mean you can often see turtles, rays, and colorful fish just off the coast. The tours listed here are designed to suit different preferences: some focus on quick encounters, others on comprehensive exploration. No matter which you choose, you’ll find that Exmouth’s vibrant underwater world leaves a lasting impression. Here’s a detailed look at each of the top canoe and kayak experiences available.

1. Turtle Tour – Ningaloo Reef Half Day Sea Kayak and Snorkel Tour

At number 1 on our list, the Turtle Tour offers a half-day adventure in Ningaloo Reef’s Bundegi Sanctuary Zone. This small-group tour caps at just eight participants, ensuring personalized attention from your guide. The trip includes round-trip transfers from local Exmouth hotels, making it a hassle-free outing.

The core of this experience is kayaking in calm, shallow waters, perfect for beginners or those who prefer a relaxed pace. You’ll have plenty of chances to snorkel over coral gardens, where juvenile turtles and reef sharks are common sightings. The provided gear, including snorkel equipment, drybags, sun shirts, hats, and sunglasses, helps keep you comfortable and prepared. Tour guides like Colton and Nick go beyond navigation—they share insights about marine life and local history, enriching your adventure. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides and the clear waters—“We saw at least 30 turtles,” reports one.

Bottom line: This tour is ideal for families or travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate experience with abundant wildlife, all wrapped up in a manageable 3.5-hour window.

2. Lagoon Explorer – Ningaloo Reef Full-Day Kayaking and Snorkeling Adventure

For those wanting to spend a whole day immersed in the marine world, the Lagoon Explorer offers eight hours of guided kayaking and snorkeling at Ningaloo Reef. This tour is perfect for all skill levels, as gear and instructions are provided, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned paddler or trying it for the first time.

The itinerary includes stops at Cape Range National Park and the reef itself, with opportunities to spot turtles, reef sharks, rays, and vibrant fish. Your guide will take you to secluded spots, often pulling up on sandy beaches for a provided lunch, snacks, and drinks. The small group setting, with just a handful of participants, keeps things personal. Guests frequently mention the knowledgeable guides, like Rosie and Neil, who are eager to share their marine expertise.

At around $200, this tour offers good value considering all-day access to Ningaloo’s underwater spectacle. Reviewers state “The whole day was incredible—swimming with reef sharks, turtle sightings, and coral.” It’s best suited for active travelers eager to combine paddling with a full day of marine discovery.

Bottom line: If you crave a comprehensive, all-day adventure that balances paddling, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing, this tour hits the mark.

3. Coral By Kayak – Ningaloo Reef Half Day Kayak & Snorkel Tour

At number 3, the Coral By Kayak provides a focused half-day experience exploring Ningaloo Reef’s spectacular coral formations. This tour emphasizes the underwater beauty, with ample time for snorkeling among colorful fish and sea turtles after a guided kayak paddle.

The tour’s main strength is its ability to blend above- and below-water exploration. You’ll learn about the region’s geology and marine ecosystem from your knowledgeable guide and take home memorable photos captured during the trip. The 4-hour duration keeps it manageable, making it a solid choice for travelers with limited time or those who want a lighter adventure.

Reviewers highlight the well-organized nature of the trip and Karlton’s engaging guiding style. “Worth the money and well planned,” one reviewer states, emphasizing the quality of the experience. It’s suitable for beginners who want a relaxed pace with plenty of marine encounters.

Bottom line: This tour offers a well-rounded half-day trip that showcases Ningaloo’s stunning reef with expert guidance, perfect for families or snorkeling enthusiasts.

4. Exmouth: Half Day Turtle Kayak & Snorkel Tour

Number 4 is the Half Day Turtle Kayak & Snorkel, which provides a straightforward, half-day exploration of the wildlife-rich Bundegi Sanctuary Zone. With a focus on turtle and ray sightings, the tour includes snorkeling from kayaks at specific moorings in the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef.

It appeals to travelers who want to see marine life without spending a full day on the water. The tour is designed for small groups—capped at 8—led by experienced local guides. This flexibility makes it ideal for families or those with limited time. The itinerary includes a 3-hour engaging marine adventure with safety briefings and wildlife viewing.

One reviewer notes, “Very attentive and friendly guides, with plenty of wildlife sightings,” highlighting the personal touch. The tour is best suited for those who appreciate a manageable, wildlife-focused outing that emphasizes turtle sightings and reef snorkeling.

Bottom line: Perfect for a short, wildlife-centered paddle with experienced guides, this tour offers a quick but rewarding taste of Ningaloo’s marine life.

5. Exmouth: Lagoon Explorer – Full day kayak & Snorkel tour

Our fifth pick, the Lagoon Explorer, offers an eight-hour adventure into Cape Range National Park’s sheltered lagoons. It combines beachside paddling with snorkeling among stunning coral reefs, often featuring turtles, rays, and schools of jumping fish.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a full day of exploration with multiple stops. The itinerary includes enjoying local snacks on sandy beaches, guided wildlife and cultural commentary, and paddling in calm waters. Arranged pickup and drop-off from local accommodations add to the convenience.

Reviews mention the high level of organization and the opportunity to see diverse marine life. The tour is best for those comfortable with a full day on the water and eager to experience Ningaloo’s quieter, more protected areas.

Bottom line: If you want a full-day adventure with plenty of chances to snorkel and spot wildlife in a relaxed setting, this tour delivers.

6. Exmouth: Half Day Coral by Kayak tour

Finally, the Half Day Coral by Kayak focuses on exploring the vibrant coral formations of Tantabiddi Sanctuary Zone. Over 4 hours, you’ll paddle out to snorkel sites with your guide pointing out colorful marine life and coral structures.

This tour is great for those interested in coral formations and marine biodiversity. It includes complimentary photos, which help you remember your trip. The itinerary involves a 2.5-hour guided kayaking session, with a transfer to and from Exmouth, making it suitable for a half-day outing.

Reviewers appreciate the well-organized schedule and the chance to see a variety of fish and coral. It’s best suited for travelers who want a shorter, focused marine experience with a mix of paddling and snorkeling.

Bottom line: For a quick but visually impressive exploration of coral ecosystems, this tour offers a good balance of activity and scenery.

How to Choose

When deciding among these options, consider your budget, available time, fitness level, and specific interests. If you want a shorter, wildlife-focused trip, the Half Day Turtle Kayak & Snorkel is a solid pick. For a full immersion in Ningaloo Reef, the Lagoon Explorer offers the best value in terms of time and variety.

Those seeking a specialized coral experience may prefer the Half Day Coral by Kayak, while travelers on a budget might opt for the Turtle Tour, which balances affordability with wildlife sightings.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, so plan ahead if you want to secure the best slot.

Final Thoughts

Exmouth offers a fantastic range of canoe and kayak experiences tailored to different interests and schedules. Whether you prefer a quick wildlife encounter, a full day of reef exploration, or a focus on coral and marine biodiversity, there’s something here for every paddler. For those new to kayaking, guided tours with instruction and gear included make the experience accessible and fun.

For serious wildlife lovers and keen snorkelers, full-day tours like Lagoon Explorer provide the most value. If your time is limited, the Half Day Turtle Kayak & Snorkel is a no-brainer. Whatever your choice, booking early and preparing for calm, warm waters will help ensure a memorable adventure in this exceptional coastal setting.