Western Australia’s Coral Coast is renowned for its wild, remote beauty—but what may not be immediately apparent is just how accessible it can be for travellers of all abilities.
Feature by Julie Jones and Tourism Western Australia
One family discovered this firsthand on a two-week journey along the coast, where their son Braeden, a wheelchair user, was included in every step of the adventure.
Turquoise Bay, Ningaloo
The trip began in Perth, where the centrally located Novotel Perth Murray Street offered easy access to shopping, dining, and Elizabeth Quay. From there, a two-hour flight took the family north to Exmouth, gateway to the Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park. The vibrant landscape provided endless opportunities for wildlife encounters, from emus wandering supermarket car parks to rock wallabies hiding among Yardie Creek’s ochre cliffs.
Guided tours with local operators—including Ningaloo Safari Tours and the Coral Explorer Glass Bottom Boat—allowed the family to explore the natural wonders of the area. The accessibility of the tours ensured Braeden could enjoy spotting turtles, rays, and colourful coral alongside his family, while others snorkelled the reef.
Turquoise Bay proved a highlight, with a free-to-loan Sandcruiser beach wheelchair from the Milyering Discovery Centre making it possible for Braeden to reach the water and enjoy a swim in the bay’s famed turquoise shallows.
Monkey Mia, Denham
From Exmouth, the journey continued south with a stop in Carnarvon—Western Australia’s ‘food bowl,’ known for its tropical fruits, fresh seafood, and a vast range of vegetables. Roadside plantation stalls and a quirky cactus garden made for a fun detour.
In Monkey Mia, the family enjoyed close encounters with wild dolphins and an exceptional accessible catamaran cruise with Perfect Nature Cruises. Sightings of dugongs, including a mother and calf, left a lasting impression. Accessible facilities such as beach wheelchairs and respectful wildlife practices ensured everyone could participate and learn.
Eagle Bluff’s 100-metre accessible boardwalk offered spectacular wildlife views, while the Kalbarri Skywalk’s cantilever platforms gave panoramic vistas over the Murchison River Gorge.
Kalbarri National Park, Kalbarri
Further south, the family visited Jurien Bay, where sea lions swam playfully alongside their boat during a Turquoise Safaris tour. While some snorkelled, others enjoyed the action from onboard. An afternoon at Sandy Cape and two visits to The Pinnacles Desert—by day and at sunset—rounded out the road trip. A Lumineer stargazing tour offered a magical end to their time on the Coral Coast.
Before heading home, a day trip to Rottnest Island (Wadjemup) allowed the family to meet the island’s famous quokkas and explore by accessible shuttle, golf buggy and electric bike. With accessible beaches, Changing Places facilities, and inclusive transport options, Rottnest was the perfect finale.
The Coral Coast may feel a world away, but it proved to be welcoming, inclusive, and full of adventure. With passionate local operators and considered infrastructure, the region ensures travellers of all abilities can explore, engage, and be immersed in Western Australia’s natural beauty.
* Braeden is able to do a standing transfer and walk short distances with the family’s assistance, which opens up additional opportunities for his inclusion while travelling.
Published May 2025.