Coral Coast National Events
As one of the most beautiful and diverse regions in Western Australia, the Coral Coast is a wonderful place to be any time of year. While its beaches, marine life, and ancient landscapes offer plenty to explore, the region is perhaps best known for its festivals and events. From music and food to sports and culture, here are some of the annual events you won't want to miss in and around the Coral Coast.
1. Ningaloo Whaleshark Festival
Taking place each May in the town of Exmouth (known as the gateway to the Ningaloo Reef), this festival celebrates the arrival of the whalesharks - the largest fish in the sea - to the Ningaloo Marine Park. Visitors can enjoy live music, food and wine tastings, traditional Aboriginal dances, art exhibits, a street parade, and even the chance to swim with the whalesharks themselves.
2. Gascoyne Food Festival
If you're a foodie, the Gascoyne Food Festival in August is a must-attend event that celebrates the region's abundant fresh produce. From seafood to exotic fruits, visitors can sample the best that the Gascoyne River Valley has to offer in a series of culinary events, including a sunset long-table dinner, a farmers' market, cooking workshops, and a gala dinner featuring local chefs.
3. Beach Volleyball WA Tour
For sports enthusiasts, the Coral Coast is home to some of the best beach volleyball in Australia. The WA Beach Volleyball Tour includes several tournaments held in towns like Jurien Bay, Carnarvon, and Geraldton that attract both top-level players and amateurs alike. With the stunning coastline as a backdrop, these tournaments offer a fun and competitive way to spend a weekend.
4. Ningaloo Turtle Program
From November to March, visitors to the Ningaloo Marine Park can join the Ningaloo Turtle Program, which aims to track the movements and nesting habits of the region's turtles. Participants can sign up for turtle tagging and monitoring activities, beach clean-ups, and educational talks about the importance of turtle conservation.
5. Gwoonwardu Mia Cultural Centre
Located in the town of Carnarvon, the Gwoonwardu Mia Cultural Centre is a hub for Aboriginal culture, art, and history. Visitors can take tours that showcase the local Yamatji culture, visit art exhibits featuring some of the region's most talented Aboriginal artists, and attend workshops on traditional crafts like boomerang making and dance.
6. Shinju Matsuri Festival
For ten days each September, the town of Broome - located in the Kimberley region just north of the Coral Coast - hosts the Shinju Matsuri Festival, a celebration of the town's multicultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy outdoor concerts featuring local and international musicians, watch Japanese drumming and dance performances, take part in a street parade, and indulge in the regional cuisine at food stalls.
7. Kalbarri Surf Festival
Held in October, the Kalbarri Surf Festival is one of the most anticipated surfing events in Western Australia. The festival attracts some of the best surfers in the country, who compete on the waves of Jake's Point - a world-class surf break known for its long, consistent barrels.
These are just a few of the annual events that make the Coral Coast region a vibrant and exciting place to be. Whether you're a nature lover, a foodie, a sports enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, there's something for everyone in this breathtaking corner of Western Australia.
 |
