Hotel in Maidstone Crescent, Exmouth, Western Australia, Western Australia
The Green Mermaid Hostel Exmouth
A well-regarded and clean hostel in Exmouth, the gateway town for Ningaloo Reef. Perfect base for whale shark tours, Turquoise Bay snorkelling, and Cape Range National Park exploration. Features a communal kitchen, outdoor areas, and an excellent tour booking service with good deals on whale shark trips.
The Green Mermaid Hostel is a well-regarded budget property in Exmouth, the small coastal town on the tip of the North West Cape peninsula in Western Australia, approximately 1,270 kilometres north of Perth. Exmouth is the primary gateway for Ningaloo Reef — one of the world's longest fringing coral reefs and a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and the hostel has established itself as a leading budget base for travellers targeting whale shark encounters, reef snorkelling, and Cape Range National Park day trips.
The hostel is situated on Maidstone Crescent in the residential part of Exmouth town, a short drive from the Ningaloo Visitor Centre and the town's compact commercial strip. The property has a relaxed, informal character consistent with Exmouth's low-key atmosphere, with outdoor communal areas taking full advantage of the warm Coral Coast climate. The setting naturally encourages guests to connect with fellow travellers before heading out on shared reef excursions.
Accommodation is basic but clean, with dormitory beds and limited private room options. The communal kitchen is well-equipped for self-catering, which is an important cost consideration given that Exmouth dining options are limited and more expensive than in larger regional cities. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, along with a laundry facility and bike hire for independent beach access.
The hostel's tour desk is one of its most valued features. Staff can arrange discounted group bookings for whale shark snorkelling tours departing from Exmouth or Coral Bay, half-day and full-day trips to Turquoise Bay and the Oyster Stacks snorkel sites within Cape Range National Park, and humpback whale watching charters available from August through November. Ningaloo Reef glass-bottom kayak experiences and guided reef walks can also be organised through the desk. The combination of central location, clean facilities, and active tour-booking support makes the hostel a practical choice for independent travellers exploring one of Australia's most remote reef destinations.
Amenities
- Communal kitchen
- Outdoor areas
- Laundry
- Tour desk
- Wi-Fi
- Bike hire
Location
Maidstone Crescent, Exmouth WA 6707
Highlights
- Prime base for Ningaloo Reef whale shark snorkelling tours, operating March through July each year
- On-site tour desk with group deals for Turquoise Bay, Cape Range National Park, and reef excursions
- Clean, well-maintained facilities in a quiet residential setting close to Exmouth town centre
- Bike hire available for independent access to North West Cape beach and reef entry points
- Self-catering communal kitchen keeps costs manageable in one of Australia's more remote coastal destinations
Tips
- Whale shark season runs from mid-March to late July — book accommodation and tours months in advance as Exmouth fills completely during this window.
- The tour desk often has group deals for whale shark snorkelling; asking about package options on arrival can save money compared to booking independently.
- Turquoise Bay is accessible without a tour — hire a bike or drive approximately 60 km south through Cape Range National Park on a day pass.
- Pack personal snorkelling gear if possible; rental equipment is available in Exmouth but demand is high during peak season.
- Exmouth's supermarket has limited stock and higher prices than Perth — consider stocking up on long-life supplies before arriving if travelling by car.
FAQ
Is The Green Mermaid Hostel close to Ningaloo Reef?
The hostel is in Exmouth town, approximately 3–5 kilometres from the nearest beach access points on the western shore of the North West Cape. The main reef snorkel sites in Cape Range National Park are 50–70 kilometres south by road.
Does the hostel organise whale shark tours?
The on-site tour desk can book whale shark snorkelling tours with licensed Exmouth operators. Group bookings arranged through the desk may attract discounted rates compared to independent reservations.
What is the best time to visit Exmouth?
The dry season (April–September) is the most popular period, coinciding with whale shark season (March–July) and comfortable temperatures. December through February is hot and humid with occasional cyclone risk.
Is cooking possible at the hostel?
Yes. A communal kitchen is available for all guests with standard cooking equipment and shared refrigerator space. Self-catering is recommended as dining options in Exmouth are limited and more expensive than in larger cities.
Accessibility
The hostel is a single-storey property set in a residential area with generally flat terrain. Specific accessibility provisions are not documented — travellers with wheelchair or mobility requirements are advised to contact the hostel directly to confirm suitability before booking.
When to visit
March through August is the optimal window, combining the whale shark season (March–July) with comfortable dry-season temperatures on the Coral Coast. July and August see peak occupancy — early booking is essential.