Only a few hours from Perth lies the quiet coastal city of Jurien Bay.
Though it’s especially well known for its fishing (locals consider it one of the best spots in the area), you’ll find tons to do here.
Western Australia boasts some of the most beautiful and well-preserved marine destinations in the world. Take a dip under the water where you’ll find magnificent reefs and lagoons filled with all kinds of native Australian wildlife.
And it’s not just fish, either!
Jurien Bay is home to a colony of rare Australian sea lions, one of nature’s most adorable and friendliest animals, and arguably one of the biggest draws to the area. Folks from all over the world come to meet and swim with these engaging sea creatures on a Jurien Bay sea lion tour.
This is a one-of-a-kind experience that you don’t want to miss!
With their huge liquid eyes and inquisitive whiskered snouts, it’s not hard to see why people refer to sea lions as the ‘puppies of the sea’!
Much like your puppy at home, these are some of the most fun-loving and playful creatures you’ll find in the ocean.
Once hunted to the point of extinction, the endangered Australian sea lions are making a slow comeback thanks to regulated hunting practices and other protective measures. They’re still a rare sight though, as it’s estimated there are only 10,000 to 12,000 left.
You’ll find these sweet-looking pinnipeds only in Australia, between the Pages Islands and off the coast of Western Australia.
A particularly large colony lives on Essex Rocks, less than 15 km from the coast, and because these sea lions tend to hang around at home rather than migrate, you can visit the Jurien Bay sea lions year-round!
You’ll find hundreds of sea lions scattered throughout the many islands in this area, so if you want to swim with sea lions, Jurien Bay is one of the best places to go in the world.
So why do they love it here so much?
All those islands are popular ‘haul-out sites,’ or places where sea lions can go to rest after foraging trips, but the main reason that sea lions seem to love Jurien Bay so much is because they were born there!
Australian sea lions are generally a non-migratory bunch and Jurien Bay is one of the main breeding grounds, making it a popular place for sea lions and sea-lion lovers alike.
While you won’t be able to visit Essex Rocks themselves (where the colony is located), don’t let that deter you from a Jurien Bay sea lion tour!
One of the main reasons sea lions are so prevalent in Jurien Bay is actually because we’re so curious about them. These sea lions are highly inquisitive and often visit the bay when tours are underway.
They want to see you as much as you want to see them!
Swimming with the sea lions in Jurien Bay is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only thing to do in this beautiful city!
There are so many ways to experience Jurien Bay – you’re guaranteed to find something to love.
Come enjoy some of the best beach fishing in Western Australia, try your hand at windsurfing or skydiving and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
With several national parks around, you can also spend your time hiking the trails and enjoying the beautiful scenery of Drovers Cave and Lesueur National parks. And don’t forget to make a stop at Nambung National Park for a look at the famous Pinnacles Desert.
If you want your trip to last a little longer, we have comfortable family-friendly Jurien Bay accommodation options available, from caravan and camping sites to deluxe holiday units.
Ready for the perfect day in Jurien Bay? Get in touch with us and we’ll help you make it happen!
