By Miles Wood 
Shark Bay, a World Heritage site on the west coast of Australia, where turquoise waters meet sand dunes and wild dolphins make memories. This place has some of the most unique natural wonders in the world, Francois Peron National Park and the ancient stromatolites of Hamelin Pool. Two places in Shark Bay—Denham and Monkey Mia—have different accommodations, attractions and experiences. This guide will help you decide where to stay and what to do.
Shark Bay: A World Heritage Wonder
Famous for its incredible wildlife and landscapes, Shark Bay is a nature lover’s paradise. From the beautiful Monkey Mia beach, where dolphins visit daily, to the red sand dunes of Cape Peron, this place is alive. Take a wildlife cruise, snorkel in the clear waters or visit the historic Hamelin Pool Telegraph Station. Whether you love the marine mammals or the colourful coastline, Shark Bay is like nowhere else.
Staying in Denham: A Seaside Town with Charm
1. Accommodation in Denham
Denham, the westernmost town in Australia, has accommodation to suit every budget and style. Whether you want luxury or rustic, Denham has it all. Shark Bay Seafront Apartments have water views and are close to all the attractions, Wildsights Villas are self contained units perfect for families and couples, Denham Seaside Caravan Park and Bay Lodge have budget options with camp kitchens, barbecue facilities and clean villas. Many are just a short walk to Denham Beach where you can enjoy the calm water and peaceful atmosphere.
2. Attractions around Denham
Denham is the gateway to some of Shark Bay’s best attractions. One of the highlights is the Ocean Park Aquarium where you can watch feeding times for local marine life and learn about Shark Bay’s unique environment. François Peron National Park is another must see, with rugged landscapes, red cliffs and turquoise water. 4WD trails to Cape Peron and Skipjack Point offer amazing views of the coastline and wildlife. Just 15 minutes drive from Denham is Eagle Bluff Lookout where you can see sharks, rays and even dugongs in the crystal clear water below. History buffs will love the Peron Homestead where you can learn about the area’s sheep station history and relax in the natural artesian water pools.
3. Vibe and Location
Denham has a laid back seaside feel that suits all ages. The town is on Shark Bay Road and is a great stopover for those on a Perth tours along Western Australia’s coast. With community feel, dining options, petrol stations and essential services Denham has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Close to National Parks and beautiful beaches it’s the perfect base to explore Shark Bay.
Staying in Monkey Mia: A Dolphin Lover’s Paradise
1. Accommodation at Monkey Mia
If you want a wildlife focused experience then Monkey Mia Reserve is the place to be. The RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort is the top accommodation option with a range of choices from budget dorms to beachfront villas. On site you’ll find swimming pools, camp kitchens and bistro kitchens. The beachfront location means you have direct access to Monkey Mia beach where you can laze in the shallow waters or explore the coastline. Other nearby accommodation options like Hamelin Pool Caravan Park are closer to Shark Bay’s historic sites.
2. Things to do at Monkey Mia
The highlight of any Monkey Mia tour is the world famous dolphin experience where wild bottlenose dolphins, including mature and adult females, come in to shore for daily feedings. This unique interaction allows you to see dolphin behaviour up close. Beyond dolphin feeding Monkey Mia has plenty more to offer. Wildlife cruises and charter boat tours allow you to explore Shark Bay’s marine life including manta rays, turtles and even sharks. If you want to go further afield a day trip to Dirk Hartog Island or Steep Point – the westernmost point of mainland Australia – offers snorkelling, fishing and exploring untouched wilderness.
3. Atmosphere and Accessibility
Monkey Mia’s laid back and nature focused atmosphere is a haven for wildlife lovers and those looking for a peaceful escape. Just a minute’s drive from Denham and accessible via Monkey Mia Road. The resort has facilities for both relaxation and adventure so it’s perfect for families, couples and solo travellers. The peaceful surroundings and wildlife encounters are hard to beat.
Denham vs. Monkey Mia: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Denham | Monkey Mia |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Variety, including Shark Bay Seafront Apartments and Wildsights Villas | Focused on RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort |
| Main Attractions | François Peron NP, Eagle Bluff, Ocean Park Aquarium | Dolphin encounters, snorkelling at Bottle Bay |
| Accessibility | Central location, easy Shark Bay Road access | Short drive from Denham along Monkey Mia Road |
| Vibe | Relaxed seaside town | Tranquil, wildlife-centric |
| Dining and Services | Multiple options, including bistros and cafes | Resort-based dining and cooking facilities |
Which One Should You Choose?
Denham If
- You want to be in the middle of François Peron National Park, Eagle Bluff and other Shark Bay attractions.
- You like multiple accommodation options and easy access to restaurants and shops.
- You prefer a traditional seaside town with calm water and views.
Monkey Mia If
- Dolphin interactions and beach visiting dolphins are your top priority.
- You want to stay at a resort with beachfront access to Monkey Mia.
- You’re looking for a quieter nature focused escape with unique snorkelling spots and shallow water for relaxation.
Conclusion
Both Denham and Monkey Mia are Shark Bay experiences not to be missed. Whether you like Denham’s laid back feel and central location or Monkey Mia’s dolphin interactions and beaches you’ll find your bit of heaven. Whatever you choose the natural wonders of Shark Bay will blow you away.
FAQ
What is Shark Bay known for?
Shark Bay is famous for its World Heritage listing, unique marine life and natural attractions like François Peron National Park and the wild dolphins of Monkey Mia.
How do I get to Denham and Monkey Mia?
Both are along Shark Bay Road with Denham being closer to Shark Bay Airport. Monkey Mia is a short drive from Denham.
What accommodation is available in Denham?
Denham has multiple accommodation options including Shark Bay Seafront Apartments, Wildsights Villas and Denham Seaside Caravan Park.
Can I see dolphins at both Denham and Monkey Mia?
Wild dolphins can be seen around Denham but Monkey Mia is where you can see the famous dolphin feeding where dolphins come into shore.
What are the top activities near Denham?
Top activities include exploring François Peron National Park, visiting Eagle Bluff Lookout, and enjoying the Ocean Park Aquarium.