Sal Salis

Sal Salis is your entry point to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, one of Australia’s best kept natural secrets

About halfway between Perth and Broome lies the little-known Ningaloo Reef, a 260km-long coral fringe which lies so close to the mainland that you don’t need a boat to experience its undersea wonders. At Sal Salis, the reef is just 100m offshore, with a wealth of marine life including staghorn coral, manta rays, clownfish and reef sharks. Each year between April and July, gentle whale sharks congregate in huge numbers here, and during this season, Sals Salis offers the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity (extra cost) to swim with the largest fish on earth. As of 2016, the Western Australian government has also given Sal Salis guests the go-ahead to share the waters with migrating humpback whales (from August to October, at additional cost).

The area surrounding the property is a rich turtle breeding ground, with species such as hawksbill and loggerheads coming ashore to lay their eggs at night from September to December. Snorkel as much as you want – all gear including wetsuits are provided – and take a complimentary sea kayak out to closer inspect the many sheltered lagoons. There are also various spectacular gorges inhabited by dingo and kangaroo – ideal for walks – if you’re after some land-based activity.