Montgomery Reef: The Highlights
Published on 26 May 2025
Montgomery Reef is one of those places that makes everyone say the same thing what is going on here? One minute, it’s just open ocean. Then, as the tide drops, the water starts rushing away, and this massive reef slowly rises out of nowhere. Waterfalls pour off it in every direction, like the whole ocean is draining in reverse. It just doesn’t look real, even when you’re staring right at it.
Turtles bob to the surface, reef sharks weave through the shallows, and seabirds dive in for an easy feed. It doesn’t matter if you’re right up close in a boat or watching from above, it’s the kind of thing you’ll be talking about long after you’ve left.
Where is Montgomery Reef?
Montgomery Reef is a vast inshore reef off the Kimberley coast of Western Australia. Covering approximately 400 square kilometres, it stretches about 80 kilometres in length, making it the largest inshore reef in the world.
Located at the southwestern end of Camden Sound, the reef surrounds Yawajaba (Montgomery) Island and sits about 20 kilometres offshore, between Camden Sound and Collier Bay.
Montgomery Reef holds deep cultural significance for the Dambimangari people, who have lived along this coast for thousands of years. The reef and its surrounding waters are integral to their traditions, reflecting a deep connection to this unique marine environment.
How to get to Montgomery Reef
By air
You can reach Montgomery Reef by plane or helicopter, giving you a stunning aerial view of the reef and its surroundings. But did you know that onboard True North, we offer helicopter flights so you can see the reef in all its glory from above? Watching the water drain away and reveal the massive reef from this perspective is something few people get to experience.
Learn more about our onboard helicopter experience.
By water
The best way to experience Montgomery Reef is on a Kimberley cruise. As the tide rushes out, the reef comes to life, and from the water, you get front-row seats to the spectacle. Turtles pop up for air, reef sharks cruise through the shallows, and seabirds dive in to grab stranded fish. Small adventure boats take you right alongside the cascading waterfalls, so you can see, hear, and feel the reef as it transforms before your eyes.
Learn more about being on board True North and True North II.
Best times to visit Montgomery Reef
We highly recommend visiting Montgomery Reef in winter (June – August). This is the dry season, meaning clear skies, calm seas, and comfortable temperatures. The conditions are perfect for cruising, and with great visibility, you’ll see the reef at its absolute best. Wildlife is everywhere, from turtles and reef sharks to seabirds diving for fish as the tide rushes out. It’s the perfect time for a Kimberley adventure.
Autumn (March – May) is also a great time to visit. The wet season is coming to an end, so the waterfalls are still flowing, and the landscape is lush. The humidity starts to ease, making it more comfortable to explore.
Spring (September – November) brings hotter temperatures, but the marine life is still incredibly active. Turtles, manta rays, and reef sharks are all out in force, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot humpback whales in nearby Camden Sound.
Summer (December – February) is a different story. This is the wet season, and with it comes extreme heat, heavy rains, and rough seas. It’s not the best time to visit, and most Kimberley cruises don’t operate during this period.
Top things to see & do at Montgomery Reef
Tidal Waterfalls
This is what Montgomery Reef is all about. As the tide drops, thousands of waterfalls cascade down the exposed reef, creating an incredible sight. It looks like the ocean is draining away, and the sound of rushing water fills the air.
Spot marine life
As you cruise through the reef, you’ll see turtles popping up for air, reef sharks gliding through the shallows, and manta rays moving beneath the surface. Birds swoop down to grab fish caught in the tide, making the whole area a feeding frenzy.
Prince Regent River
Just a overnight away, the Prince Regent River is one of the most unique river systems in Australia. It carves a perfectly straight path through deep gorges and towering cliffs, leading to incredible sights like King Cascades.
King Cascades
This tiered waterfall tumbles down rugged rock formations into a freshwater pool below. It’s a perfect spot to stop and soak in the Kimberley’s beauty. If conditions allow, you can even take a dip in one of the safe pools above the falls.
Camden Sound
Located near Montgomery Reef, Camden Sound is one of the most important humpback whale nurseries in the world. During migration season, you’ll see whales breaching, tail-slapping, and nursing their calves in these protected waters.
Tips for exploring Montgomery Reef
Time your visit with the tides
Montgomery Reef is only exposed when the tide drops, so timing is everything. Luckily, if you’re on True North, we’ll make sure you arrive at the perfect moment.
Bring your camera
This is one of the most photogenic spots in the Kimberley. From cascading waterfalls to turtles and reef sharks moving through the shallows, there’s always something incredible to capture. If you’d rather put the camera down and just take it all in, our onboard expedition photographer is always ready to snap the perfect shot for you.
Respect the environment
Montgomery Reef is an important cultural and ecological site. Follow your guide’s instructions, avoid disturbing wildlife, and take only photos so this place stays untouched for future visitors.
The only way to experience Montgomery Reef
Montgomery Reef is one of the Kimberley’s greatest natural spectacles, and there’s no better way to experience it than on a luxury Kimberley cruise. Watching the reef emerge from the ocean, with waterfalls spilling over its edges and wildlife appearing from every direction, is something few people get to see—especially in comfort and style.
On True North, you won’t just see Montgomery Reef, you’ll experience it in a way that most travellers never will. With expert guides, fine dining, and an onboard helicopter for the best views, every moment is unforgettable. Browse our upcoming cruises and start planning your next adventure.
