Monkey Mia, a world famous destination in Western Australia, is known for its wild dolphins, beautiful beaches and turquoise waters. But when you plan a trip, one question arises: Do you need a car in Monkey Mia?
How to Get There
Monkey Mia is located in the Shark Bay region, 850km north of Perth. Here are the most common ways to get there:
- Drive: A road trip from Perth to Monkey Mia takes around 9-10 hours via the North West Coastal Highway. Having a car allows you to take your time and visit nearby national parks, walking trails and scenic spots. Many people also include Kalbarri National Park in their Monkey Mia trip as it offers dramatic coastal cliffs and gorges along the way.
- Fly: You can fly from Perth to Shark Bay Airport (Denham) which takes around 2 hours. From there you’ll need a shuttle, taxi or hire car to get to Monkey Mia which is 10km away.
- Scenic Flight: Some people opt for a scenic flight over the turquoise waters and Shark Bay landscapes before landing in Denham.
- Tours: Some Monkey Mia tours operate from Perth, covering Monkey Mia and other wildlife hotspots, including coastal towns and national parks.
Do You Need a Car in Mia?
Whether you need a car in Monkey Mia depends on your travel style and plans:
When a Car is Useful
- Exploring the Surrounding Areas: If you plan to visit Francois Peron National Park, Shell Beach, Eagle Bluff or Hamelin Pool, a car is essential as public transport is limited. Some areas have gravel roads and soft sand tracks so a 4WD might be required.
- Visiting Sheep Stations: If you want to visit a historic sheep station, having a car will get you to these remote places.
- Convenience: With your own car you have the freedom to roam without relying on transfers or tours.
- Cost-Effective: If you’re travelling as a group, hiring a car might be cheaper than booking multiple wildlife cruises, day trips or guided tours.
- Petrol Stations: There are petrol stations in Denham but fuel prices are higher than in major cities so plan accordingly.
- Access to Caravan Parks & Eco Lodges: Many eco lodges, caravan parks and accommodation providers are spread across Shark Bay so a car is essential for easy access.
No Car Required
- Within Monkey Mia Resort: If all you want to do is chill and do beach activities, dolphin interaction or afternoon beach fishing, you don’t need a car. The resort is walkable.
- Local Shuttles & Tours: Some tour operators offer transport to key attractions, so you don’t have to drive. Joining a Monkey Mia tour is a great way to see the area without worrying about transport.
- Cycling & Walking: Some visitors hire bikes to get around and there are walking trails for short sightseeing.
- Accommodation near Attractions: If you’re staying at a resort, eco lodge or dorm accommodation within walking distance of the main sites, you may not need a car.
Accommodation
Monkey Mia has a wide range of accommodation from eco lodges and dorm accommodation to resorts and caravan parks. Prices vary depending on accommodation cost, swimming pools (including additional swimming pools and resort-style swimming pools), camp kitchens and drinking water access.
- Types of Accommodation: Whether you’re looking for budget dorm accommodation, mid-range eco lodge or luxury resort with hot water and resort style swimming pools, Monkey Mia has something for everyone.
- Friendly Service & Booking: Most accommodation providers have an easy booking process and you can find places that accept card holders, person concession rates and group travellers.
Things to Do in and Around Mia
No car? No problem! You can still do plenty in Monkey Mia:
- Dolphin Experience: Interact with wild bottlenose dolphins that have been visiting Monkey Mia for decades.
- Wildlife Cruises & Water Sports: Go on a wildlife cruise or try kayaking, paddleboarding or snorkelling in the crystal clear waters.
- Beach Activities: Relax on the pristine beaches, sunbake on the white sand or bring your beach gear for a fun day.
- Fishing Destination: Monkey Mia is a fishing paradise, whether you prefer shore fishing or deep-sea fishing tours.
- National Parks & Walking Trails: Visit Francois Peron National Park, Shell Beach and Eagle Bluff for valuable wildlife sightings and stunning scenery. If you have time, take a detour to Kalbarri National Park to see breathtaking rock formations, river gorges and coastal cliffs.* Eat: Fresh seafood and local food at restaurants, cafes or your accommodation’s dining area.
What You Need to Know
- Park Closures & Entry Fees: Some national parks may be closed or have entry fees so check ahead of time.
- Soft Sand & Drive Time: If you’re heading to remote beaches or national parks be aware of soft sand and drive time.
- Accommodation Cost & Budget: Research accommodation costs in advance to find the best one for your budget.
- Drinking Water & Hot Water: Most resorts and eco lodges have plenty of water, drinking water and hot water but best to check ahead of time.
Conclusion
If you only plan to stay in Monkey Mia and take guided tours, you don’t need a car. But if you want to explore Shark Bay freely, a car is highly recommended. Plus you can visit surrounding areas with wildlife, soft sand and amazing scenery.
By planning ahead you can decide if renting a car in Monkey Mia is right for your trip. Whether you drive or use guided tours, the coastal town, national parks and dolphin experiences in this part of Western Australia are worth the trip!
FAQ
Can you get around Monkey Mia without a car?
Yes, if you’re staying at Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, most attractions are within walking distance. You can also join wildlife cruises, water sports or guided tours including Monkey Mia tours.
How do I get from Shark Bay Airport to Monkey Mia?
You can take a shuttle, taxi or rent a car from a hire company in Denham (Shark Bay Airport). 10 km.
Are there car rentals in Monkey Mia or Denham?
Yes, car rental is available in Denham. Book in advance especially during peak season as availability may be limited.
What are the best places to visit near Monkey Mia?
Francois Peron National Park, Shell Beach, Eagle Bluff and Hamelin Pool Stromatolites are top attractions. A car is needed for most of these as the roads are soft sand and gravel. If you have time, Kalbarri National Park is a must-see.
Is there public transport in Monkey Mia?
Public transport is very limited. Some shuttles and wildlife cruises operate between Denham and Monkey Mia but schedules can be infrequent.