Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Beautiful, laid-back Denham, with its aquamarine sea and palm-fringed beachfront, makes
a great base for trips to the surrounding Shark Bay Marine Park, nearby François Peron
and Dirk Hartog Island National Parks, and Monkey Mia, 26km away.
Australia's westernmost town originated as a pearling base, and the streets were once
paved with pearl shell. Knight Tce, the now-tarmac main drag, has everything you will
need.
1
Sights & Activities
o
Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery Centre
( 08-9948 1590;
www.sharkbayvisit.com
; 53 Knight Tce; adult/child $11/6; 9am-5pm Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm Sat
& Sun)
Informative and evocative displays of Shark Bay's ecosystems, marine and animal
life, indigenous culture, early explorers, settlers and shipwrecks.
MUSEUM
AQUARIUM
Ocean Park
( 08-9948 1765;
www.oceanpark.com.au
; Shark Bay Rd; adult/child $20/12; 9am-5pm)
Superbly located
on a headland just before town, this family-run aquaculture farm features an artificial la-
goon where you can take a 60-minute guided tour to observe feeding sharks, turtles, stin-
grays and fish. The licensed cafe has sensational views, and it also conducts full-day 4WD
tours with bushwalks and snorkelling to François Peron National Park ($180) and Steep
Point ($350).
LANDMARK
Little Lagoon
Little Lagoon, 4km from town, is a pleasant picnic spot with tables and barbecues; you
can walk, drive or cycle there. Don't be surprised if an emu wanders by.
