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Cape Range National ParkThe beauty of Exmouth doesn’t endat the sea shores. On the west side ofNorth West Cape you can experience anoutback holiday in the ruggedly beautifulCape Range National Park. Coveringover 50,000 hectares, the National Parkincludes breathtaking canyons, limestoneranges and 50 kilometres of pristinebeaches. Wildlife in the park is equallyas exciting with emus and red kangaroosregularly sighted and wildfl owers in latewinter change the landscape. A diverserange of fl ora and fauna can be discoveredwithin the park due to the North WestCape originally being an island, cut offfrom the mainland of WA. The cape nowboasts 630 species of plants, including 12endemic and six near endemic specieswith the Sturt desert pea and bird fl owerbeing highlights. There are also over 90camping bays available which cannot bepre booked. Most of these are accessibleby conventional vehicles, but with limitedfacilities, be sure to take along plenty ofwater and supplies.West SideMilyering Visitor CentreThe Milyering Visitor Centre is 52kilometres from Exmouth in the heart ofthe Cape Range National Park. The centreoffers interpretative information to openyour eyes to the wonders of the NationalPark and nearby Ningaloo Marine Park.It features a range of models, videos,a library selection and many graphicdisplays. There is also the Exmouth VisitorCentre located in town on Murat Road.Vlamingh Head LighthouseHistory and views in one. 19 kilometresnorth of Exmouth, this lighthouse wasbuilt in 1912 and offers sweeping views ofthe cape. Ruins of a world war radar arealso visible at the site.Turquoise BayTurquoise Bay is the ideal beach to justsit back, relax and soak up the beautifulsurroundings and sunshine. The white,sandy shores give way to incredibly clearwaters harbouring a plethora of marinewonders. The reef starts just metres from theshore and exploring it is easy at the snorkeldrift. Jump in the water at the south end ofthe beach and let the current take you overthe reef for a fantastic snorkelling experience.Currents can be strong, especially aroundthe sandbar and at the southern most pointof the bay, so take care. This snorkel site issuited to swimmers of average fi tness andsnorkelling ability in calm conditions.Oyster StacksThis snorkel site offers great views ofmarine life and is best accessed on a highor incoming tide. Be careful entering thewater as the oyster shells and rocky areascan be sharp. It is best to enter the waterat the end of the track and then snorkelnorth or south.Mangrove BayThis sanctuary zone includes a bird hide,overlooking a lagoon area. A variety of birdsroost in the lagoon at high tide and manyfeed on small fi sh and other marine life inthe shallow waters. You may even spot anosprey or brahminy kite while you are there.Sandy BayVlamingh Head lighthouseSunset at Lighthouse Bayaustraliascoralcoast.com | Page 81