Explore our FAQ’s for responses to some common questions
Accommodation
Is there accommodation available in Exmouth?
At present, the availability of accommodation in and around Exmouth is extremely limited. Options for temporary short-stay camping and caravanning will be available through the Shire of Exmouth website.
Where else can I stay if Exmouth is booked out?
At present, the availability of accommodation in and around Exmouth is extremely limited. Options and information for temporary short-stay camping and caravanning will be provided shortly.
Where else could I camp?
Camping or caravanning is only permitted in approved areas. Visit the Department Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions website for more information on National Park access, passes and bookings.
Viewing The Eclipse
Are there dedicated sites for viewing the eclipse?
The Western Australian State Government has identified a safe viewing site, within the eclipse path, for visitors arriving on the day to witness the eclipse. More information will be provided shortly. Visit the Viewing The Eclipse page for more information.
Will food and drinks be available at the dedicated viewing site?
Yes, this will be included in the ticket price.
Can I bring my dog/pet into the event?
Unfortunately, no pets will be allowed on the site.
Do I need special eyewear to view the eclipse?
You should never attempt to observe a total, partial or annular eclipse with the naked eye. There are several way to observe an eclipse for more information visit the ARPANSA website.
How much of the eclipse will I see in surrounding areas?
An Eclipse path map has been added to the Ningaloo Eclipse website. Here you will be able to see how much of the eclipse will be visible from locations around Western Australia.
Can I pull over anywhere to view the eclipse?
Traffic management will be in place to control the traffic flow into and out of Exmouth on the day of the Eclipse. It is unsafe to pull off to the side of the road to view the Eclipse. It is recommended you view the eclipse from one of the dedicated viewing locations. Visit the Viewing The Eclipse page for more information.
Planning For Your Trip
How do I plan for my trip to Exmouth?
We have developed the below checklist to enhance your Eclipse experience in Exmouth.
- Have you booked accommodation? You will need to have pre-booked your accommodation whether it’s camping or glamping, a hotel, motel or private rental. It is important to note that rangers will be in force targeting illegal camping.
- Have you got a plan on how to get around? Make sure you plan how you will get to the region and get around. If you are driving to the region, plan your trip including rest and fuel stops. Be patient and courteous to other road users.
- Are you aware of the viewing locations? Make sure you have booked your tickets to the official viewing site at ningalooeclipse.com.au or plan where you are going to view the eclipse around the region.
- Do you have food and water? Plan your meals and bring extra food and water supplies.
- Are you aware of how to safely view the eclipse? Make sure you follow the advice on eye safety. It is never safe to look directly at the sun, and doing so may cause eye damage. For more information from the Department of Health visit healthywa.wa.gov.au
What do I need to bring to Exmouth?
Exmouth is a small regional town in Western Australia. If you are traveling to Exmouth via road for the Eclipse you might consider stocking up on essential items before arriving into Exmouth. Stop in at Carnarvon to the south or perhaps Onslow to the north.
What do I need to pack for the Eclipse?
We recommend you pack:
- Event tickets
- Hats, sunscreen, sunglasses – for protection from the heat and sun
- Suitable clothing and footwear – for the dusty, hot climate
- Water – to ensure you stay hydrated and prevent heat stroke
- Medication, basic first air and insecticide
- Snacks – to keep the hunger pains at bay
- Rubish bag – so you can dispose of your waste responsibly
- A positive attitude and patience! Please be courteous, kind and considerate to ensure everyone has a wonderful experience.
Can I take a boat?
If you intend on viewing the Eclipse from your boat on the day of the Eclipse please check the Marine page of the Department of Transport website for updates on changes to waterway usage that may be introduced.
What else is there to do in Exmouth?
Exmouth is located in the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo region which is home to Australia’s largest fringing reef and the dramatic gorges of Cape Range National Park. We suggest you visit Australia`s Coral Coast or Tourism WA`s website to explore more of what to do in and around Exmouth.
What other events are happening in the region?
Exmouth, Carnarvon and Onslow are planning a program of activities to support the Eclipse. Details of these programs will be released closer to the Eclipse. Check out the What’s On page for more information.
Is there mobile/cell phone reception in Exmouth?
Yes, however the State Government is working hard to improve connectivity in the region for the Eclipse. Additional capacity will be in place for the Eclipse.
Will there be enough water for everyone?
The Western Australian Government has been working to prepare for the population increase with will inevitably come with the Total Solar Eclipse and have been taking action to ensure water and wastewater requirements are fulfilled for both residents and visitors.
However, we still need to work together to save water for when we need it most.
Having showers less than four minutes, refraining from hosing down boats and caravans and keeping loads of washing to a minimum will have a positive impact on our water supplies.
Travel and Transport
Where is Exmouth?
Exmouth is located on the West Coast of Australia 1253 km north of Perth, 13 m above sea level, and 1372 km south-west of Broome.
How do I get to Exmouth?
By air: Regional Express (REX) flies to Monkey Mia and Carnarvon, and Qantas flies into Geraldton and Exmouth.
Drive: Coach, tour, hire car and self-drive options are all available, with the Coral Coast Highway, from Perth to Exmouth being a popular driving route, showcasing some of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes and experiences. From Perth, it’s a nine-hour drive to Carnarvon; 11.5-hour drive to Coral Bay and 12.5-hour drive to Exmouth.
Fly + Drive: To help make the road trip more accessible Avis and Hertz Car Rental offer significantly reduced relocation fees for one-way rentals between Perth and Exmouth.
Will extra public transport be available? – is there transport in town?
The Western Australian State Government will be supporting the Eclipse with a town shuttle bus service. A program of this service will be available closer to the Eclipse. Sign up to our Newsletter to keep up to date.
Will roads be closed? How can I see road closures?
Information on road management for the Ningaloo Eclipse will be available via the Main Roads Travel Map closer to the event.
Safety
How do I get in touch with emergency services if I need to?
Australia’s primary emergency call service number is Triple Zero (000), which can be dialed from any fixed or mobile phone, pay phones and certain Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services.
There are also two secondary emergency call service numbers – 112 and 106.
112 is available from most mobile phones. 106 connects to the text-based relay service for people who have a hearing or speech impairment. All calls to the emergency numbers, whether from fixed, mobile, pay phones or VoIP services are free-of-charge.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) have produced a webpage for Emergency Calls ‘how and when’ to call the emergency services in Australia.
For more information on he 106 Text Emergency Relay Services, Triple Zero (000) by internet relay and Triple Zero (000) by Speak and Listen, go to the National Relay Service website.
Please think ahead when planning your trip. Don’t count on widespread mobile phone coverage. You may need to make other arrangements for communicating with friends and family.
Can I use a drone?
Yes, but you must have the necessary licenses and be able to see and navigate your drone at all times.
To check where you can and can’t fly your drone, check out one of the CASA-verified drone safety apps before taking off.
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