Shark Bay, Australia, blends ancient creatures and beautiful landscapes

Shark Bay, on the western tip of Australia, showcases natural beauty, diverse sea life and wide-ranging geography. It has the largest seagrass bed in the world, dozens of endemic animal species, five endangered mammal species and more than a third of Australia’s bird species.

Shark Bay, on the western tip of Australia, showcases natural beauty, diverse sea life and wide-ranging geography. It has the largest seagrass bed in the world, dozens of endemic animal species, five endangered mammal species and more than a third of Australia’s bird species.  (© DEC / Rory Chapple)

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Shark Bay

UNESCO in 1991 recognized Shark Bay as a World Heritage Site, one of only 16 sites to meet all four natural criteria for inscription. Besides natural beauty, Shark Bay offers opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, camping and hiking.  (© DEC / Rory Chapple)

Shark Bay

Sunset at Hamelin Pool.  (© DEC / Rory Chapple)

Shark Bay

Much of Shark Bay’s natural beauty is accessible only by off-road driving. Visitors can explore the region’s beaches, sand dunes and cliffs.  (© DEC / Rory Chapple)