GETTING AROUND
Once you arrive into Coral Bay, you can just ditch the car as everything is walking distances from your accommodation and of course, the Ningaloo Reef.
ROAD CONDITIONS
Whether you are embarking on a long trip or travelling down the road, it's important to plan ahead. Main Roads is the best source of information for major roads and highways in Western Australia. Weather is the largest factor of road closures in Western Australia. For information regarding major roads you can contact Main Roads on 138 138 or visit www.mainroads.wa.gov.au or www.travelmap.mainroads.wa.gov.au
FOUR WHEEL DRIVING
All beaches in the marine park are closed to vehicles, apart from designated beaches only, which may be opened for vehicle access under certain conditions.
- Please observe all signs in relation to vehicle access areas. (Please note: the rules regarding vehicle access to beaches are currently under review. Further restrictions may be imposed in future, in an effort to provide improved safety for other beach users and to reduce environmental impacts from increasing numbers of visitors each year).
- Four wheel drives can be driven on Bateman Beach, however a seasonal closure occurs north from Maud Landing, to protect nesting sea turtles, from 15 October to 30 April each year.
- Four wheel drives may also be driven, with care, along the beach directly south of Five Fingers Reef.
- Four wheel drives are not permitted on any beach within Maud Sanctuary Zone – (without lawful authority from DEC).
- For your safety, and the protection of the environment, when driving around Coral Bay please observe the following conditions:
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- Please be aware of the hazards associated with driving on beaches, such as soft sand, washouts and drop-offs, as well as tides and waves. Some of the beaches around Coral Bay have very soft sand and, during high tides, waves can wash up to the vegetation line making these beaches impassable.
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- On soft sand your tyre pressure should be reduced to between 15 and 20 PSI. Lowered tyre pressures provide extra traction, help to provide a more comfortable ride, and also help to protect tracks for other users. Driving on soft sand is for experienced four wheel drivers only. Remember to re-inflate your tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure before travelling on hard surfaces.
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- Vehicle tracks present special hazards and risks. Stay on the main tracks to protect the vegetation. Passing or overtaking other vehicles can be dangerous. Be aware of blind corners and hill crests. Slow down and look out for other vehicles, including four-wheel motorbikes.
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- Visitors planning to drive the Ningaloo coast should be very cautious after sunset, when large numbers of kangaroos and other animals make driving hazardous. If driving at night is unavoidable, please look after your own safety and conserve wildlife by driving slowly and carefully at all times!
- Whenever driving in remote areas, take necessary precautions such as carrying sufficient drinking water, vehicle spares, recovery equipment and communication equipment. Always advise someone of your trip details, including an estimated time of return.