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Bundegi Sanctuary Zone Kayak Trail Bundegi Sanctuary Zone Kayak Trail

Paddle

(+1)
Snorkel
 in Coral Coast

  • Half day
  • 7.5 km

Bundegi Sanctuary Zone Kayak Trail is one of four trails at Ningaloo with designated buoys for kayaks to tie off on while snorkelling the reef. Each buoy is located near a particular feature of the reef system.  This is the only kayak trail site on the Exmouth Gulf side of the cape. Plan your trip around the high tide.  On this trail in the later part of the Ningaloo season (August - September), paddlers may encounter humpback whales and manta rays in the Exmouth Gulf.

Bundegi Kayak Trail Exmouth Adventure Co 1
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MOORINGS: There are two KAYAK ONLY moorings within the Bundegi Sanctuary Sanctuary Zone.  They are easily identifed by their blue colouring and white labels.

  • Kayak 1 – Nook and Crannies: 21° 51.751'S, 114° 09.613'E
  • Kayak 2 – The Cove: 21° 51.536'S, 114° 09.739'E

ROUTE: A 3.5km (about one hour) paddle south south-west along the inside of the Bundegi reef will take you to the two kayak moorings within the Bundegi Sanctuary Zone. Snorkel the sites and return north back along the coast to the boat ramp. These sites may be attempted individually or in any combination. The line on the map is for illustration purposes only. The actual route and duration are dependent on the number of sites visited, based on your own abilities. Once at the site, assess the currents prior to entry − it is recommended to snorkel into the current at the beginning of your snorkel to enable an easy return to the mooring.

SITE INFORMATION: Snorkelling at high tide only is recommended. Site depth ranges from 1.5 to 3 metres. In spring and summer 2011−12, the Bundegi reef experienced a significant coral bleaching event. It was estimated as little as one to six per cent of corals remained alive at the end of eight months of sustained high water temperatures, which rose up to 5°C above normal. Two years later, in 2013, there had been some limited recovery of corals in patches, while other sites remain as coral rubble. Although dead, the remaining coral structure still provides habitat for a vast array of marine life including turtles, groper, large schools of drummer, reef sharks, the occasional manta ray, and many juvenile species from tiny blue green Chromis to small butterfly and angel fish. The Bundegi reef provides an excellent example of the devastating effects high water temperatures can have on coral reefs, and the patchy and slow nature of recovery.

Expand your trip and enjoy great businesses nearby

Exmouth Adventure Co

Exmouth Adventure Co specialises in small group eco tours based out of Exmouth, Western Australia.

Photo of Exmouth Adventure Co

Be trail ready for Bundegi Sanctuary Zone Kayak Trail

Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.

Time / Duration

Allow four hours return time, including snorkelling.

Length

7.5km however, distance varies, depending on how many sites are visited

What To Pack

Group F - Paddling Trails (Paddling trails) required.

Trail Start

From the beach access track to the right of the Bundegi boat ramp.

Get directions

Trail End

Return back to Bundegi Boat Ramp / Beach

Difficulty Notes

It is best to avoid paddling to the north of Bundegi Beach on an outgoing tide as you may find that when trying to return you may be unable to paddle against the strong currents on the cape.

Hazards & Warnings

Beware of Currents and Winds at all sites. Check local weather conditions prior to leaving the shore.

All sites require paddling and snorkelling experience. It is your responsibility to ensure your experience is suitable for the site. If in doubt don’t go out.

Stay alert and maintain a 360-degree watch when you are paddling in areas shared by power boats.

Irukandji jellyfish can be present at Ningaloo - wearing stinger suits or rash shirts can reduce risk of being stung.

Maintain safe distance from wildlife - Look, Dont Touch!  Follow whale watching rules and guidelines (see links)

Safety

Be safe and plan your paddle.

Paddle with a friend to enhance the enjoyment and safety of your adventure.

Please ensure your craft is seaworthy and has the required safety equipment aboard as these sites are more than 400 metres from shore. The required safety equipment includes life jacket, flares/PLB and a bailer (if not self draining).

The moorings hold a maximum of ten kayaks at any one time. 

Please note that only Telstra and Optus phone networks provide connection in this area.

Facilities

Bundegi Boat Ramp is located approximately 10km north of Exmouth town.  Just north of the boat ramp on the beach front you'll find 'The Beach Shack' cafe and toilets/showers.  Bins are also available in this area.  Dogs are allowed on the beach at Bundegi but not out on the kayak trail.

This trail is suitable for those with accessibility needs providing they have assistance. Milyering Discovery Centre located in Cape Range National Park have two foldable beach wheelchairs that can be used to assist access to the beach - To book them, please contact Parks and Wildlife Office in Exmouth  Ph (08) 9947 8000 or Milyering Discovery Centre Ph 08 99492808.  If a ranger is available, it may be possible for the ranger to transport the wheelchair for you. Please note, there are no universally accessible facilities at this site.

  • Car Park
  • Public Toilet
  • Cafe
  • Sheltered Area
  • Child Activities
  • Water Access Points

Best time of year

April to November

Fees

No fees apply

Trail Access

Self drive to Bundegi Beach (10km North of Exmouth)

Prohibited Items

ALL MOORINGS ARE LOCATED IN SANCTUARY ZONES – NO FISHING PERMITTED

 

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