Current Conditions – Exmouth & Cape Range

Last updated: 22 April 2026

Following Cyclone Narelle, recovery across the North West Cape is progressing quickly. Exmouth is now accessible by both road and air, and the town is steadily reopening as services and infrastructure continue to come back online.

The cyclone certainly caused some damage in town, mainly to structures and planted trees that aren’t native to this environment. Out along the coast and through Cape Range National Park, it’s quite a different story.

Cape Range National Park is open, and access across the region continues to improve. The landscape here has evolved with these kinds of events over thousands of years, and the native vegetation is well adapted to cyclones and the prevailing south-west winds. In many areas, the changes are subtle unless you know exactly what to look for.

That said, there have also been some remarkable natural shifts. Yardie Creek, which was previously closed off from the ocean, has broken through the sandbar and is now flowing with the tides. In some places, coastal dunes have shifted to reveal white sandy beaches or exposed rocky shelves, while in others the larger dunes have grown even more.

So while the landscape has certainly changed, it’s in a way that is dynamic and, in many respects, even more interesting.

Many tourism operators across the region are open and ready to welcome visitors. Trek Ningaloo is preparing for the upcoming trekking season, with tours commencing from May 2026. As always, guest safety and experience remain our priority, and we will operate in line with conditions on the ground.

This is also a time of renewal. There’s a rare opportunity to witness a changing coastline and evolving landscapes in the wake of Cyclone Narelle, something few visitors ever experience. The months ahead are shaping up to offer a unique and memorable time to explore Cape Range and the Ningaloo Coast.

If you’re planning a visit, we recommend checking in with your accommodation provider ahead of travel, as availability may still be limited while properties continue to reopen. If needed, feel free to get in touch and we can assist with local recommendations.

Travellers are encouraged to keep or reschedule bookings where possible, check availability prior to travel, and review current travel information before departing. For broader regional updates and trip planning, refer to Australia’s Coral Coast.

Ian Vickers
Founder & Head Guide
Trek Ningaloo