Current Conditions – Exmouth & Cape Range

Last updated: 31 May 2026

Following Cyclone Narelle, recovery across the North West Cape has progressed quickly. Exmouth is accessible by both road and air, Cape Range National Park is open, and tourism operators across the region are welcoming visitors.

While some areas have been affected by the cyclone, including the temporary closure of Charles Knife Canyon and Shothole Canyon while specialist assessments and repairs are undertaken, all Trek Ningaloo experiences are operating as normal. Our tours do not rely on these areas, and we continue to access a wide range of spectacular locations throughout Cape Range National Park and the Ningaloo Coast.

The cyclone certainly caused some damage in town, mainly to structures and planted trees that are not native to this environment. Out along the coast and through the range, it is quite a different story.

This landscape has evolved with events like Cyclone Narelle over thousands of years. The native vegetation is well adapted to cyclones and the prevailing south-west winds, and in many areas the changes are subtle unless you know exactly what to look for.

That said, there have also been some remarkable natural changes. Yardie Creek, previously separated from the ocean by a sandbar, has broken through and is now flowing with the tides. In some places, coastal dunes have shifted to reveal white sandy beaches and rocky shelves, while elsewhere the dunes themselves have grown larger and reshaped the coastline.

So while the landscape has changed, it has done so in a way that is dynamic and, in many respects, even more fascinating than before.

For those visiting in the months ahead, there is a rare opportunity to witness a coastline in transition. These natural changes are part of what makes this region so remarkable and offer a unique perspective on the forces that continue to shape the North West Cape.

As always, guest safety and experience remain our priority, and we continue to operate in line with current conditions and official advice.

If you're planning a visit, we recommend checking with your accommodation provider prior to travel, as some properties continue to reopen and availability may be limited at times.

Should you have any questions about current conditions or trip planning, please feel free to get in touch.

For broader regional updates and trip planning, refer to Australia’s Coral Coast.

Ian Vickers
Founder & Head Guide
Trek Ningaloo