Monkey Mia Tour is famous for its wild dolphin feedings, beautiful beaches, and marine life. People come to this slice of heaven to see the dolphins and enjoy the turquoise water, white sand and unspoilt nature. If you’re driving to Monkey Mia, you might be asking: Do I need a 4WD? This guide answers that and everything else you need to know.
Is a 4WD Essential?
The good news is you don’t need a 4WD or AWD to get to Monkey Mia itself. The roads to get there are sealed and can be accessed by all types of vehicles, including standard cars, campervans and hire cars. The main road is the North West Coastal Highway which runs into Denham-Hamelin Road and then Monkey Mia Road so most people will have a smooth drive.
But if you plan to explore the surrounding areas and get into Shark Bay’s natural attractions such as Francois Peron National Park then a 4WD is required. The park’s roads are unsealed and the sand tracks are best done with a specialized vehicle.
Road Conditions and Distance
- Sealed Roads: The road to Monkey Mia is well maintained, sign posted and smooth so suitable for all vehicles.
- Gravel Roads: While the main road is sealed, some nearby attractions have gravel roads requiring caution.
- Driving Distance: Monkey Mia is 850km from Perth. This is a great multi day drive with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
When a 4WD is a Must
While you don’t need a 4WD to get to Monkey Mia itself, some parts of Shark Bay and its attractions require a specialized vehicle:
Francois Peron National Park
This park is for the adventurers, with coastal scrub, red cliffs and turquoise water. The soft sand tracks require a 4WD.
- Big Lagoon has stunning views and a peaceful and beautiful lagoon for kayaking and wildlife spotting.
- Cape Peron – raw beauty and marine life.
Historic Sheep Stations
If you’re interested in the region’s history then getting into the remote sheep stations of Shark Bay will give you a insight into its past. These areas have unsealed roads and are best done with a 4WD.
Top Attractions and Activities
Monkey Mia is more than just a wild bottlenose dolphin. Here’s what else:
Dolphin Encounters
The best bit is the daily wild dolphin feedings where you can get up close and personal with these friendly dolphins. Supervised by park rangers this ensures the dolphins are safe and you get a great experience.
Beautiful Beaches and Marine Life
- Beautiful Beaches: Walk on white sand beaches with turquoise water.
- Marine Life: Beyond dolphins the area has unique sharks, rays, turtles and abundant bird life so it’s a nature lover’s paradise.
Adventure and Recreation
- Beach Activities: Swim, snorkel and motorised water sports in a safe and beautiful setting.
- Walking Trails: Walk the area’s natural landscape with the family.
- Scenic Flights: Get aerial shots of Shark Bay and its unique geography.
Accommodation Options
- Resorts to Caravan Parks: From luxury resorts with service to budget caravan parks.
- Camping Sites: For nature lovers, there are great camping spots with powered and unpowered sites and access to fresh and artesian water.
- Book Early: Make sure to book online in advance, especially during peak season.
Day Trips and Longer Stays
Monkey Mia is a great day trip but to really experience the area’s natural attractions an extended stay is recommended. The main site is accessible by standard vehicle but guided Monkey Mia Tours by Wayoutback Tours make it easy to get to Shark Bay’s more remote areas.
Travel Tips
- Pack Water: Bring enough drinking water for the trip, as some parts of the drive are remote.
- Check Tyres: If you’re going to be driving on soft sand or gravel roads make sure your tyres are in good condition.
- Plan Ahead: Include Francois Peron National Park and Big Lagoon in your itinerary.
Whether you’re in a standard vehicle or a 4WD, Monkey Mia has beautiful beaches, natural attractions and great camping spots. Plan and be adventurous, and you’ll have a great time!
FAQ
Do I need 4WD for Monkey Mia?
No, Monkey Mia is sealed, so a standard vehicle is fine. However, 4WD is required for the unsealed roads around Francois Peron National Park.
Are there campsites in Monkey Mia?
Yes, Monkey Mia has several campsites with powered and unpowered sites. Camping fees apply.
Can I feed the dolphins?
Yes, supervised wild dolphin feedings daily so you can get up close and personal with these amazing creatures.
What else can I see?
Rays, turtles, sharks and lots of bird life.
How far from Perth?
850km from Perth. Perfect for a multi-day road trip or guided Perth Tours.
