Gnaraloo Bay, anchored by the rustic 3 Mile Campsite, is a wild and remote coral-reef snorkeling destination along Western Australia's rugged Ningaloo-northern coast. The fringing reef drops into clear turquoise water just metres from shore, offering direct access to bommies and gutters teeming with tropical fish. Sheltered by the bay's curve from the prevailing southerlies, the site provides calm inshore paddling for beginners while the outer reef edge challenges stronger swimmers. Its isolation — 150 km north of Carnarvon — means uncrowded water and pristine coral formations.
Gnaraloo Bay (3 Mile Campsite)
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.5 mSwell Period 12 sWind Speed 6.0 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Remote location
Nearest medical facilities are over 150 km south in Carnarvon. Bring a first-aid kit and satellite communication.
Low risk: Wind chop and swell
Southerly winds can build afternoon chop, reducing visibility and making return swims strenuous.
Low risk: Reef sharp coral
Live coral and limestone shelves close to shore can cause cuts. Reef shoes or booties are essential.
Low risk: Limited fresh water
No guaranteed fresh-water rinse at the 3 Mile Campsite; carry ample drinking water.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
From Carnarvon, drive north on the Billabong Road (sealed) for approximately 60 km to the Gnaraloo turnoff, then follow the unsealed station road for about 20–25 km to the 3 Mile Campsite. A 4WD is strongly recommended for the station track, especially after rain or in windy conditions.
Parking & facilities
Unsealed parking area adjacent to the campsite, within walking distance of the beach. No designated marked bays.
toiletspicnic_tables
Camping fees apply via Gnaraloo Station — check gnaraloo.com.au for current rates. Day-use access may also incur a fee.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports