Bundegi Reef

Bundegi Reef is a shallow fringing reef in the protected Exmouth Gulf, reached by a 200–300 metre swim from Bundegi Beach, one of Exmouth’s most accessible snorkel sites.

Overview

Bundegi lies inside Exmouth Gulf rather than on the exposed outer Ningaloo Reef, giving it calm, protected conditions year-round. The main reef platform — reached by kayak or a long swim — sits at 1.5–3 metres depth and forms part of a sanctuary zone where fishing is banned.

Confirmed marine life at the site includes sea turtles (present year-round, with nesting from November to March), reef sharks, groper, large schools of drummer, and a variety of juvenile reef fish species on the recovering coral substrate. Cowtail and cowtail stingrays are commonly observed on sandy patches between coral heads. Manta rays visit seasonally.

Note: Sources report that Bundegi Reef has experienced significant coral bleaching damage from high water temperature events, and the reef is described as showing “patchy” recovery, with some sections in good condition and others degraded. Snorkelers are advised to enter at high tide (minimum 1.2m) to ensure adequate water depth over the reef.

Two Parks WA kayak moorings within the sanctuary zone provide a focal point for the best snorkelling areas.

Site Information

• Location: Exmouth Gulf, Ningaloo Marine Park, Western Australia (less than 15 minutes north of Exmouth)
• Entry Type: Shore entry
• Site Type: Reef
• Difficulty Level: Beginner
• Maximum Depth: 3 meters
• Tides: Best at high tide (minimum 1.2m); kayak moorings available

Sources: Snorkel Spots — Bundegi Beach, Ultimate Water Sports — Bundegi Sanctuary Zone, Trails WA — Bundegi Kayak Trail. Last updated 2026-06-18.