Location
Australia
Status
Unofficial / Tolerated
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
April to October
About Mauritius Beach
Mauritius Beach is a long, remote beach on the North West Cape of Western Australia, on the Ningaloo coast about 21 km from Exmouth near Vlamingh Head Lighthouse. It faces the Indian Ocean inside the Ningaloo Reef, with white sand and clear turquoise water. Tourism Australia lists it as a clothing-optional beach, mentioning snorkelling on the reef just offshore and turtles that come ashore to nest. Because the beach is isolated and rarely busy, nude use is spread along it rather than confined to a marked section. Turtles nest on parts of the beach at night between roughly October and April, so visitors should keep off marked nesting areas and avoid lights after dark. There are no toilets, shade, bins or drinking water and no lifeguards, and currents can be strong. Sources disagree about its status: some say the local council declared it a nude beach in 1999 and that it is signposted from the main road, while a naturist guide lists it as unofficial and tolerated, and another source says no sign marks it as a nude beach.
Getting there
From Exmouth drive north and around the cape towards Vlamingh Head Lighthouse, about 21 km. Reports on the final access differ: one guide describes a short walk from the road on a graded path, while another says a 4WD is essential to reach the sand, so conditions likely vary with the track and season. There is no public transport. Bring all water and supplies, and tell someone your plans as the area is remote.
What visitors say
Travellers describe Mauritius Beach as beautiful and very quiet, with clear water and good snorkelling, and few other people even in peak season. The main complaints are the lack of any facilities and confusing or rough access, with accounts differing on whether a 4WD is needed. Visitors advise bringing shade, plenty of water and reef shoes, watching for currents, and respecting turtle-nesting areas.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
Tourism Australia describes Mauritius Beach as clothing-optional (checked 2026). Some sources say the local council declared it a nude beach in 1999, but we did not find a Shire of Exmouth document confirming this, and a naturist guide lists it as unofficial (tolerated).
Naturism at Mauritius Beach sits under Australia's rules for de facto tolerance — usually left alone if you keep it non-sexual and low-drama.
Full country law: Australia public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. -21.8093, 114.0950
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Australia
Frequently asked questions
Is Mauritius Beach a nude beach?
Yes, Tourism Australia lists it as clothing-optional. Whether it was formally declared by the council is unclear.
Do I need a 4WD?
Reports differ. Some say a short walk from the road is enough, others say a 4WD is essential. Check local conditions in Exmouth.
Are there facilities?
No. There are no toilets, shade, water or lifeguards, so bring everything.
When is the best time to go?
The cooler months, about April to October, are most comfortable. Turtles nest on the beach from about October to April.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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