The Canyon is a renowned dive and snorkel site on the Ningaloo Reef, accessed by boat from Exmouth. This underwater canyon formation, carved through the fringing reef, drops to depths of 6–7 metres and is teeming with marine life. Swimmers drift over vibrant coral bommies, plate corals, and sandy channels while encountering reef sharks, turtles, rays, and massive schools of tropical fish. Part of the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area, the site offers clear, warm waters and excellent visibility, making it a must-visit for those seeking an immersive reef experience away from shore-based spots.
The Canyon (Ningaloo Reef)
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 1.0 mSwell Period 11 sWind Speed 1.2 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Strong ocean currents
The Canyon can experience strong currents, especially during tidal changes, requiring confident swimming ability.
Low risk: Boat traffic
Access is by boat only; surfacing near vessels poses a collision risk in this busy marine park area.
Low risk: Marine stingers
Box jellyfish and other marine stingers may be present during warmer months (November to May).
Low risk: Limited visibility on windy days
Sandy bottom around the cleaning stations can reduce visibility when swell or wind stirs up sediment, especially on less calm days.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
The Canyon is an offshore reef site accessed via guided snorkel tours or private boat from Exmouth, Western Australia. Tours depart from Exmouth marina or Tantabiddi boat ramp, ~60 km west of Exmouth along the Yardie Creek Road in Cape Range National Park. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for beach boat launches.
Parking & facilities
Park at the Tantabiddi boat ramp carpark (within Cape Range National Park; park entry fees apply) or at the Exmouth marina. For tours, parking is available at the tour operator's meeting point in Exmouth.
parkingtoilets
Cape Range National Park entry fee applies (~$15 per vehicle). Guided snorkel tours to The Canyon range from $130–$200 per person.
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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