Monkey Mia dolphins, Shark Bay

Wild bottlenose dolphins have been coming to the beach at Monkey Mia for more than 40 years. Most mornings, rangers hold a carefully managed feeding session in the shallows, and a few visitors are chosen to give a fish to the dolphins. Arrive early, as the dolphins usually come in before noon, but it isn't guaranteed.

Monkey Mia is in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, which also has Shell Beach, made entirely of tiny white shells, the ancient stromatolites at Hamelin Pool, and wildlife cruises to see dugongs, turtles and rays. There's a resort with camping right on the beach.