Exmouth might be best known for its pristine beaches and world-renowned Ningaloo (Nyinggulu) Reef, and visiting during the off-peak summer months offers a unique experience. While the temperatures are warmer than normal, the crowds thin, revealing a quieter, more relaxed version of this coastal gem—perfect for families seeking adventure, natural beauty and quality downtime. During our recent five week stay at RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park, we discovered why this destination is so special, even during the hottest season.
Escaping the heat: beaches and beyond
The summer heat in Exmouth can be hot, but the nearby waters of Ningaloo Reef and the Gulf offer the perfect escape. With crystal clear water, the beaches beckon snorkellers, swimmers and anyone seeking to be salty, sandy and sun-kissed. This is also turtle mating and hatching season, making it an extraordinary time to visit. Watching turtles lay their eggs or hatchlings making their first journey to the sea is a humbling and magical experience and our kids’ highlight of their holiday. This year was our second time watching the hatchlings make it to the ocean and it just keeps getting better!
Snorkelling along Ningaloo Reef in summer is unbeatable. The reef is teeming with life and the visibility is unmatched. Our family, including our adventurous seven year old, had the unforgettable opportunity to swim with reef sharks, turtles and vibrant reef fish. It’s hard to describe the awe of being surrounded by such incredible marine life in water so clear it feels like swimming in a giant aquarium.
For evening adventures, the sunsets at Vlamingh Head Lighthouse are breathtaking. Overlooking Ningaloo Reef, the fiery sky meeting the vast ocean is a view you won’t soon forget.
RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park: A family haven
Staying at RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park was an absolute delight for our family. It’s more than just a caravan park; it’s a vibrant hub of activities and facilities, perfect for families spending extended time in Exmouth, and has become a second home to us.
The park caters to all ages, with two pools as well as a toddler pool, a playground and heaps of indoor and outdoor games. From ping pong and foosball tables to air hockey and cart hire, there’s no shortage of entertainment. Our kids especially loved riding their bikes around the park, meeting other children and playing in the games room.
The park also made holiday chores manageable with washing machines on-site and the amenities were super clean and tidy. We particularly used the kitchens and BBQ facilities a lot during this trip. Let’s not forget the all important ice creams to cool off during the heat of the day from reception! The staff were so helpful and able to assist us with requests or questions. Over Christmas, the park also hosted festive activities, adding an extra layer of fun to the season and getting the kids even more excited for Christmas Day.
Exploring Exmouth
Exmouth is more than just beaches and reefs; the town offers a variety of dining and shopping experiences. We explored local boutiques and enjoyed meals at the pubs, restaurants, and coffee spots. The quieter summer season meant shorter waits and a more personal experience at every venue.
Families with kids will love the local splash park and pool, a perfect option for those wanting a break from the beach. We also took advantage of fishing opportunities, which are plentiful during the summer months. Nothing beats the satisfaction of catching dinner and enjoying it fresh that evening!
Day trips and programs
One of the highlights of our trip was a day trip to Coral Bay, a 1.5 hour drive from Exmouth. It’s another jewel along the Ningaloo Coast, offering more pristine beaches and snorkelling opportunities.
Closer to Exmouth, there are many places along Cape Range National Park that have amazing snorkelling:
Turquoise Bay – we recommend parking at the drift loop, setting up then walking to the left of the beach then drifting down with the current
Lakeside – about a 500m walk down the beach and there are some coral bommies just off the shore
Oyster Stacks – Make sure you go on high tide or the reef is too exposed
Osprey Bay – turtles galore!
For kids, the DBCA (Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions) and the local shire often run summer programs, keeping them entertained with activities that also teach about the environment and marine life.
Across the road from RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park is the Ningaloo Discovery Centre. It has great day trip recommendations (which you can book there), an aquarium, a history gallery and Cape Range National Park gallery. There is also a local library, with a huge range of books and a cafe on site.
Summer in Exmouth: A quieter adventure
While summer in Exmouth is warmer, it’s a season full of rewards. The town is quieter, the pace slower and the natural beauty as captivating as ever. From swimming with turtles to enjoying family time at RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park, our summer adventure was one to remember. Whether you’re escaping to the cool waters of the reef, exploring the town’s charms, or relaxing by the pool, Exmouth in summer has something special for everyone.
