To see inquisitive wild Sea Lions, head to Jurien Bay; about a three hour drive north of Perth. Take a sea lion watching cruise and you will find these graceful swimmers love to show off in front of the camera.
The Australian sea lion is the world's rarest species. It is believed there are less than 12,000 remaining along the country's southern coastline. One of their main breeding grounds lies offshore from Jurien Bay, giving you a chance to watch sea lions in the wild.
Hundreds of sea lions live on the isolated Buller and North Fisherman islands as well as Essex Rocks, only a few kilometres from land. These islands are known as haul out sites where sea lions rest from their foraging expeditions for food.
Australian sea lions are picture perfect - their visible ears and large eyes often draw comparisons to the friendly Labrador dog breed.
Boat tours are available from Jurien Bay. You might also spot dolphins or whales migrating along the coast. There are sea lion watching guidelines to follow including maintaining a good distance, not landing on an island occupied by sea lions, and never trying to touch them.
