Monkey Mia, a stunning seaside town on Australia’s Coral Coast, is a must-see for wildlife lovers. Famous for wild dolphins, turquoise water and dolphin encounters. Visitors come for the beach and it’s the perfect spot to experience dolphin feeding, explore the coast and do a coastal loop. This guide will break down the costs, entry pass details, accommodation and activities for you at Monkey Mia so you can travel smoothly. If you want guided tours, several Monkey Mia tours have curated itineraries for travelers.
Contents
Entry Fees and Entry Pass
You must purchase an entry pass to enter Monkey Mia Conservation Park and do the dolphin feeding.
- Adults (16+): $15 per day or $25 for 2 days
- Children (6-15): $5 per day or $8 for 2 days
- Family (2 adults + two children): $35 per day or $55 for 2 days
- Card holders (concessions): Reduced rates apply
The park operates under strict conditions of entry to ensure wildlife viewing and to prevent harm to wildlife and the spread of diseases to wildlife.
Travel Arrangements
Monkey Mia is 850km (9 hours) from Perth so it’s a great coastal loop. You can make travel arrangements to suit your budget and preference:
- Self-drive: Fuel costs $150 – $250 return
- Flights: Direct flights from Perth to Shark Bay Airport $300 – $450 one way
- Shuttle from Denham: 25-minute drive from Denham to Monkey Mia $20 – $30 taxi or shuttle
If you prefer guided travel, several Perth tours offer transportation and sightseeing stops along the way to your Monkey Mia from Perth. Booking in advance can get you a cheaper price and consulting a travel agent can help with booking conditions and cancellation terms. Be aware of external events that may affect travel, such as extreme weather, rain and sickness.
Accommodation and Pricing
Monkey Mia has a range of accommodation to suit all budgets:
- RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort: $180 – $500 per adult per night
- Denham Hotels & Motels: $120 – $250 per person per night* Budget hostels: $50 – $100 per night.
- Camp and Caravan: $20 – $40 per night.
Used to be a salt mining town, now an eco tourism and conservation town.
Food and Dining
Food options are limited so consider food allergies and limited options.
- Restaurant Meals: $25 – $50 per meal.
- Café Snacks: $10 – $20 per item.
- Self-Catering: $50 – $100 per week.
- Water Refill: Bring a reusable bottle.
Do not feed the wildlife as food scraps and introducing food to animals can spread diseases to wildlife.
Activities and Dolphin Experience
Monkey Mia has friendly dolphins and lucky visitors can get up close to the female dolphins and their calves during daily feedings. Certified wildlife handlers monitor the dolphins behaviour so that their natural behaviour is preserved.
Other activities:
- Dolphin Feeding: Included in entry pass.
- Wildlife Cruise: $80 – $150 per person.
- 4WD Coastal Loop: $150 – $300 per person.
- Snorkelling in the Blue Waters: $25 – $50 per session.
- Stargazing and Night Tours: $40 – $80 per person.
If you want a structured itinerary, a Monkey Mia tour may include multiple activities such as wildlife cruises and cultural experiences so you make the most of your stay. Be aware of dangerous animals such as rays and sharks when swimming in the stunning coastline. Sharks are present but we take safety precautions.
Booking Conditions and Cancellation Policy
Read the conditions of booking for a stress-free experience.
- Time of Booking: Prices may vary depending on demand.
- Booking Confirmation: Always check your email for confirmation.
- Cancellation Policy: Refunds vary by provider.
- Extreme Weather: Some tours may be cancelled in a storm.
- Illness: Refunds may be available in case of a medical emergency.
Estimated Total Cost for a Trip
| Expense Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Fees | $15 | $15 | $15 |
| Transport | $150 (fuel) | $300 (flights) | $900 (flights + taxi) |
| Accommodation | $40/night | $150/night | $400/night |
| Food | $10/day | $40/day | $100/day |
| Activities | $50 | $150 | $300+ |
| Miscellaneous | $20 | $50 | $100 |
| Total (per person for 3 days) | $275 – $400 | $600 – $900 | $1,500+ |
Final Thoughts
Monkey Mia is a once-in-a-lifetime dolphin experience, with blue waters and a chance to see the social structures of marine animals in their natural habitat. Whether you’re on a budget or indulging in a luxury retreat, Monkey Mia’s coastal loop adventure will be a must do!
FAQ
How much is the entry fee for Monkey Mia?
$15 per adult, $5 per child, $35 per family
What’s the cheapest way to get to Monkey Mia?
Driving is the most budget-friendly option, $150 – $250 for a return trip
Can I visit Monkey Mia on a budget?
Yes! Staying at budget accommodation, cooking your own meals and booking tours early will have you under $400 for a 3-day trip
What wildlife can I see at Monkey Mia?
Besides dolphin interactions you may see turtles, dugongs, rays and shark species
What if my tour gets cancelled due to extreme weather?
Most operators have terms that allow rescheduling or refunds if the tour is cancelled due to external factors.