 Visit Jurien Bay WA
Jurien Bay is a coastal town located approximately 275 kilometres north of Perth.
Jurien Bay is the largest town in the Dandaragan Shire and it has developed as a result of the growth of the rock lobster industry. In more recent times the town has become a popular holiday and recreation area because of its attractive coastline and seclusion.
Visitors to Jurien can see the incredible variety of marine life found in the waters off the town's coast as well as having the opportunity to interact with seals, go swimming, snorkelling, or fishing. Exploring the offshore reefs and islands in the area is another exciting option.
Jurien Bay Marine Park extends south from Green Head to the Southern boundary of Nambung National Park. A small section of this marine park has been allocated for sanctuary zones, however a full range of marine activities such as fishing, swimming and diving are allowed in the majority of the marine park area.
The town of Jurien Bay boasts a modern boat harbour, which has become the focus for the expanding aquaculture industry.
A full range of dining experiences are available in Jurien Bay from a la carte dining and cafe style meals to fast foods, takeaway and counter meals. A full range of accommodation is available including motels, hotels, caravan parks, selfcontained cottages and chalets.
Jurien Bay Sea Lions
The Australian Sea Lion is the only Sea Lion native solely to Australia. With a population of between 9,300 to 11,700, ranging from the Abrolhos Islands in Western Australia to The Pages off the South Australian Coast (in the Bass Strait they were exterminated by hunting), they are among the rarest of the world's seal species.
They are referred to as pinnepeds, or 'eared seals' as they have easily visible ear flaps, in contrast to 'true seals' (for example leopard seals) which have no visible ears. They belong in the family Otariidae and are characterised by a visible earflap and have large eyes to help them see in the dark when diving up to 100 metres.
The largest population in Western Australia is found around Beagle Island near Leeman. Today Sea Lion numbers are slowly increasing and all offshore islands in Western Australia with Sea Lion colonies are nature reserves.
Visitation to these islands is restricted to allow for minimum disturbance to these friendly and fascinating marine mammals.
Jurien Bay has Essex Rocks, four nautical miles south of Jurien Bay, as a haul-out site where Sea Lions can rest from their foraging expeditions. This site makes for an unforgettable half day trip for all ages and these fascinating creatures love showing off in front of the camera.
There are a number of safety rules when viewing wild Sea Lions:
• Keep a safe distance at all times.
• Never try to touch wild Sea Lions.
• Never walk between the Sea Lion and the water.
• Don't leave children unsupervised around Sea Lions.
• Never go onto an island occupied by Sea Lions.
• Do not feed Sea Lions.
Leave your dog at home as Sea Lions can catch many diseases from dogs. Take your rubbish home with you as it can be the cause of Sea Lion deaths. Respect the animals and they will tolerate your presence.
For more information on travelling to the the West Coast region visit Western Australia Tourism's website.
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WA's National Parks & Reserves can be closed at times because of bushfire danger, Cyclone or flooding and other natural emergencies. Phone 1300 657 721 for emergency alerts or visit the FESA for more information. Find out about the National Parks and forests of WA by visititing CALM. Remember, play it safe and tell others where you go and when you will be back.
All images © WA Tourism.
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Disclaimer: The information contained about this region is provided as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, Break Loose Publishing disclaim any liability or responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein. For our complete Disclaimer please follow the link at the foot of the page.
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