It’s the most magical (or should we say dreamlike?) time of the year!
This year’s whale shark season has officially kicked off, with the first encounters for 2026 recorded off the coast of Exmouth last Thursday.
With a later start to the season than expected, the incredible encounter was with local ecotour operator Ningaloo Discovery, with a manta ray also joining guests during the swim.
“First swim of the season and well worth the wait,” wrote the Ningaloo Discovery team. “After taking their time to show up this year, it made the moment even sweeter.”
The longest fringing reef in the world and UNESCO World Heritage listed since 2011, Ningaloo Reef holds the world record for whale shark encounters – making it the best place on earth to not only spot, but swim with one of these gentle giants. Last year’s season also saw record numbers of encounters, with over 41,000 swims taking place at Ningaloo.
The whale shark season normally runs from March through to August, although sightings will often continue until October – with encounters through to early November for the past two years.
Ningaloo is also the only place in WA where you an swim with humpback whales. Their season normally begins in July and continues through to October – during which approximately 40,000 humpback whales will make their way along the “Humpback Highway” that follows the state’s coastline. You can also encounter graceful manta rays and curious turtles (green, loggerhead and hawksbill) year-round.
“The first sightings are always an exciting moment and a great sign that an incredible season is underway,” says Australia’s Coral Coast CEO David O’Malley.
“Ningaloo is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks, and we’re looking forward to another fantastic year. To make sure you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience, we recommend booking early.”
Image credits: Ningaloo Discovery