The EPIC Perth to Exmouth Highway Journey Itinerary (2024 Version)

• Distance: 230km
• Time: 2.5 – 3 hours

Driving out of Perth by means of metropolis visitors could take a little bit of time relying on the time of the yr (anticipate heavier visitors throughout faculty holidays).

When you’re out of the primary space of Perth, the roads are lengthy and quick by means of largely flat landscapes surrounded by bush.

Although there isn’t loads of distance to cowl at the moment. However this a part of the drive from Perth to Jurien Bay has many superior stops the place you’ll be able to spend a superb chunk of time.

READ MORE: You probably have just a few days to spare in Perth, take a look at these superior actions to maintain you busy.

Cease 1: Yanchep Nationwide Park

Positioned solely 50km (round 40 minutes) north of Perth, Yanchep Nationwide Park is open day by day and is a ravishing cease to benefit from the coastal woodlands, wildlife and limestone caves. Stroll alongside the 240-metre koala boardwalk to identify some koalas of their pure habitat.

Yanchep Nationwide Park can also be house to western gray kangaroos which will be seen early and late within the day. The park has 9 stroll trails appropriate for any ages, pursuits and health talents in addition to over 400 caves to take pleasure in.

For these wanting to increase their Perth to Exmouth street journey, this can be a good spot to spend a day or two.

Cease 2: Journey Sand Dunes in Lancelin

After having fun with some wildlife recognizing and the caves at Yanchep Nationwide Park, proceed onwards in direction of Lancelin which is an additional 72km.

Right here, you’ll be able to take pleasure in some sand dunes adventures both by yourself or by means of an organization.

Lancelin is understood for its sand dunes so when you’ve got a 4WD and are skilled in off-roading, you’ll have loads of enjoyable right here.

If you wish to lengthen this street journey, Lancelin can also be an awesome spot to remain for a few nights. There are campsites right here and you can even benefit from the stunning native seashores.

Cease 3: Go to The Pinnacles Desert

The Pinnacles Desert is positioned in Nambung Nationwide Park close to Cervantes.

The Pinnacles are unbelievable pure limestone buildings that have been shaped roughly 25,000 to 30,000 years in the past after the ocean receded and left deposits of seashells.

Over time, the pillars have been uncovered to the weather as coastal winds eliminated the encircling sand.

Strolling by means of the desert is one thing you’d think about in a film in a scene on the moon! The Pinnacles are finest loved within the late afternoon when the climate is cooler.

Cease 4: Cervantes and Lake Thetis

Goal to reach at Lake Thetis for some beautiful sundown pictures of the thrombolites within the lake.

These rock-like buildings are constructed by micro-organisms too small for the human eye to see. The thrombolite-building micro-organisms of Lake Thetis resemble the earliest types of life on Earth!

A straightforward 1.5-kilometre path across the shores of the lake presents perception in regards to the dwelling communities throughout the buildings and the surroundings that helps them.

After your go to at Lake Thetis, head into Cervantes city for some dinner at any of the favored seafood eating places and check out the notorious Western rock lobster.

Cease 5: Jurien Bay

On your first in a single day keep, we suggest Jurien Bay as there are extra campsites obtainable and the city is a bit larger than Cervantes.

Because it’s a giant day, we suggest reserving one thing earlier than you get there so that you don’t spend hours driving round looking for someplace to say.

Try the choices on Reserving.com.

In case you’re feeling drained from the primary massive day although, be at liberty to remain in Cervantes in a single day and proceed the drive to Jurien Bay within the morning.

READ MORE: Plan your journey to Australia with our complete journey planner!

Day 2: Jurien Bay to Geraldton

• Distance: 200km
• Time: 2.5 hours

The drive from Jurien Bay to Geraldton is all on sealed roads travelling alongside the beautiful Western Australian coast.

Cease 1: Jurien Bay

Since
you gained’t be making many stops at the moment, spend the morning having fun with the tranquillity
of Jurien Bay alongside the coast at any of the seashores. In case you’ve bought your
snorkelling gear, head in direction of the outdated picket jetty and take a look at a number of the
coral round there.

You can even hire rise up paddleboards and luxuriate in some paddling.

For an additional particular expertise, contemplate reserving a ‘swimming with the ocean lions’ tour. I personally suggest Turquoise Safaris.

Cease 2: Leaning Tree

Between Jurien Bay and Geraldton, there isn’t an excessive amount of to see. You possibly can cease off in Dongora for gasoline and low however in any other case simply energy on by means of in direction of Geraldton.

You’ll begin noticing some leaning timber as you make your approach nearer to Geraldton.

Essentially the most photographed leaning tree is that this River Gum that leans as a result of fixed robust southerly winds.

It is a fast photograph cease with easy accessibility and parking and an awesome alternative to provide your legs a bit stretch!

Cease 3: Geraldton

Geraldton is a small city that has grown over the previous few years to turn out to be a major street journey location for folks not eager to go too far out of Perth.

It’s house to some fabulous seashores, charming cafes, weekend markets, the Yamaji Aboriginal Artwork Centre and the Museum of Geraldton.

Head to Ellendale Pool for a waterhole swim or cliff leaping type the attractive rocky gorge alongside one aspect of the pool.

Day 3: Geraldton to Kalbarri

• Distance: 155 km
• Time: 2 hours

The sealed street from Geraldton to Kalbarri is usually an inland street and pretty flat and quick.

Cease 1: Morning in Geraldton

Your keep in Geraldton will be as lengthy or as brief as you want. You probably have some additional time, we extremely suggest you make a visit to the Abrolhos Islands, positioned 60-kilometres offshore from Geraldton.

The islands are stuffed with sea lions, dolphins, turtles, birdlife, coral and different marine life.

The 1629 Batavia Shipwreck is an underwater museum and is a spectacular diving web site for knowledgeable divers. You possibly can take scenic flights or fishing charters out to the islands.  

In case you’re brief on time, spend the morning in Geraldton grabbing some breakfast at any of the cafes, go for a swim within the seaside after which proceed onwards north in direction of our subsequent cease.

Cease 2: Pink Lake

Proceed heading north out of Geraldton in direction of Kalbarri and after an hour, you’ll arrive at Hutt Lagoon – one among WA’s iconic pink lakes.

The color comes from the presence of the carotenoid-producing algae, Dunaliella salina. The most effective viewing spot of the Pink Lake from land is alongside Port Gregory Highway the place you’ll be able to park and stroll right down to the sting of the water.

The most effective time of the day to go to the lake is between 10 am and a couple of pm when the solar is overhead and at its highest. It will deliver out probably the most spectacular shades.

Cloudless days are additionally nice as clouds will block daylight and might typically make the lake look paler.

Cease 3: Kalbarri

You’ll be spending the complete day within the inland of the nationwide park tomorrow so at the moment is an effective likelihood to wind down and take it straightforward.

Discover the Coral Coast and take a look at the dramatic coastal cliffs at Pink Bluff which overs unbelievable views over the ocean and is an effective spot for whale watching.

In case you’re up for a few brief hikes, the 3km path to Mushroom Rock will take you to a spectacular sight.

Try Island Rock and Pure Bridge for some epic sundown views and pictures, go for a swim at Pot Alley or deliver your snorkelling gear for some enjoyable at Blue Holes.

Day 4: Kalbarri Nationwide Park

Kalbarri in itself might warrant a 3-day journey. So you’ll be able to simply lengthen this leg as a part of your Perth to Exmouth drive to benefit from the wonders of the nationwide park.

Kalbarri Nationwide Park presents many alternative mountain climbing choices of various courses which are appropriate for any stage.

You possibly can take pleasure in gorge views from the picnic space and comply with a brief path to Hawks Head which overlooks the Murchison River or take the Z Bend Lookout path which overlooks the river.

The Loop path to Nature’s Window is barely 800m and has views of the Murchison Riber’s switchback course from a pure rock arch that frames the upstream view.

You can even proceed the path alongside an 8km loop for individuals who need to get transferring.

The 4 Methods Path (Idinggada Yina) is a 6km return more difficult hike that descends to the river exposing fascinating surroundings, geology and landforms.

For hikers who’ve time, you’ve got the choice of a 4-day hike overlaying a 38km route by means of the gorge with river crossings.

Most of those hikes are significantly better within the early morning when the solar isn’t as harsh.

Day 5: Kalbarri to Shark Bay

• Distance: 374km
• Time: 4 hours

You gained’t have too many nice views driving the primary freeway from Kalbarri to Shark Bay however the street is accessible and simple to drive.

Cease 1: Hamelin Pool

Essentially the most various and plentiful examples of dwelling marine stromatolites (or ‘dwelling fossils’) on this planet are discovered proper right here in WA!

The stromatolites will be seen from the boardwalk which extends out within the ocean for everybody to take pleasure in. Boating, swimming, diving and snorkelling usually are not permitted over stromatolites or inside 300m of the shore.

Cease 2: Shell Seaside

Shell Seaside is a ravishing white seaside made up of billions of tiny shells as much as 10 metres deep and stretching over 70km! There isn’t a sand right here, solely shells!

This is likely one of the solely locations on earth the place shells change seaside sand and is a must-visit in your approach into Shark Bay. The ocean right here is hypersaline so it is rather salty, making it straightforward to drift – simply don’t get the water in your eyes!

Cease 3: Denham

Denham is the gateway for exploring the Shark Bay World Heritage Space and is a pleasant coastal city of roughly 1,000 residents.

The city supplies many lodging choices, has secure swimming seashores, eating places and a golf course.

The seashores are excellent for newbie kite surfers if you wish to e-book a lesson. Or just spend the day in Denham stress-free on the seaside and having fun with what the city has to supply.

Be sure you fill up on provides and gasoline earlier than transferring on tomorrow!

READ MORE: In case you’re searching for different locations to go to in Australia, take a look at our inspirational information right here!

Day 6: Shark Bay / Monkey Mia

Francois Individual Nationwide Park is one among WA’s best-hidden gems however requires a high-clearance 4WD and expertise driving.

There aren’t any sealed roads and you ought to be ready to get bogged and know easy methods to get out.

Cease 1: Francois Nationwide Park

Recognized for its contrasting crimson cliffs, white seashores and blue waters, the park presents nice alternatives for canoeing, kayaking, swimming, snorkelling, fishing and bushwalking.

There’s a small campground with gasoline BBQs and bogs positioned at Large Lagoon. Be sure you learn all indicators rigorously as some seashores aren’t secure to swim in as a result of robust currents.

You probably have extra time obtainable, it is best to undoubtedly contemplate tenting within the park and staying for a few days. No bookings are taken for tenting and websites can be found on a first-come-first-served foundation.

For these and not using a 4WD, you’ll be able to entry Little Lagoon – a pure swimming pool stuffed with fish – and Peron Homestead which has a self-guided station stroll path, picnic amenities and a scorching tub.

Cease 2: Monkey Mia

Positioned round 24 km away from Denham is Monkey Mia which is known for its wild dolphin expertise. Monkey Mia is surrounded by rusty crimson sand dunes, white sandy seashores and its waters are stuffed with marine life.

Right here, you would possibly see dugongs, sharks, rays, turtles and a great deal of different fish exterior of the dolphins.

A day allow of $15 per grownup applies for Monkey Mia.

Day 7: Shark Bay to Carnarvon

• Distance: 330 km
• Time: 3.5 hours

Driving from Shark Bay to Carnarvon is again on a sealed street by means of flat landscapes, numerous bush and desert views.

Cease 1: Eagle Bluff

In your approach out of Denham or Monkey Mia, cease by Eagle Bluff – a excessive cliff that overlooks the Denham Sound.

A well-built boardwalk permits you to see breathtaking views out throughout the water the place you’ll be able to see sea eagles flying, dugongs feeding and maybe some fish leaping about.

You probably have the time, you can even get within the water and benefit from the abundance of coral and fish within the water.

Cease 2: Gladstone Scenic Lookout

As you proceed to go north, this lookout is an effective spot for a fast cease to absorb 360-degree views of the encircling desert panorama.

On the perimeter of a plateau, this scenic lookout additionally encompasses a assortment of backyard gnomes and rocks dealing with Shark Bay.

Over time, this spot has turn out to be a memorial with the gnomes and rocks positioned there with names and messages to recollect deceased pals and family members.

Cease 3: Carnarvon

Carnarvon is hottest with guests within the Australian winter months as guests come to chase the winter solar. The city is understood for its fruit farms making it a scrumptious cease for native produce.

Try the native markets stuffed with produce, meals stands and handmade goodies.

Stroll alongside the One Mile Jetty which is ideal for visiting within the late afternoon for sundown.

You can even head to the Carnarvon House and Know-how Museum that was inbuilt 1964 to help NASA’s Gemini, Apollo and Skylab applications.

Be sure to e-book a room forward of time in Carnarvon if travelling throughout the faculty holidays.

Day 8: Carnarvon to Level Quobba and Pink Bluff

• Distance: 125 km
• Time: 2 hours

The street from Carnarvon to the Blowholes is sealed however from that time, the street is unsealed.

From the Blowholes, it’s 10km to the Quobba Homestead and an additional 60km to Pink Bluff however is accessible by 2WD. Take it straightforward on the roads and be ready for punctures.

Cease 1: Quobba Blowholes

The Blowholes at Quobba reveal the unbelievable drive of nature as highly effective ocean swells drive water by means of sea caves and out of slim holes within the rocks.

This pure phenomenon sees eruptions of water into the air, typically to a peak of 20 metres!

Cease 2: Pink Bluff

Positioned on the southernmost tip of the Ningaloo Marine Park, Pink Bluff is the final word vacation spot to zone out and rejuvenate the physique and thoughts.

The panoramic ocean vista showcases an abundance of marine life in its turquoise water making Pink Bluff in style for browsing, fishing and diving.

The camp overlooks the pristine Indian Ocean and is the final word spot for disconnecting from know-how, having fun with nature and stargazing with out mild air pollution.

Keep the night time in Pink Bluff or at Quobba Station.

Day 9: Carnarvon to Coral Bay

• Distance: 330 km
• Time: 3.5 hours

Popping out from Pink Bluff or Quobba Station will take you alongside an unsealed street earlier than you attain the sealed street once more.

From right here, the street is sealed all the way in which to Coral Bay, may be very flat, crimson and huge.

Cease 1: Coral Bay

With out a lot to see between Carnarvon and Coral Bay, head straight right here and get your self into the water of the Indian Ocean. The seaside at Coral Bay is calm, crystal clear and is ideal for snorkelling and diving.

Stroll to the fitting of Coral Bay seaside to Skeleton Bay, a reef shark nursery the place you’ll be able to see some shark pups!

You can even go quad biking on the sand dunes, exit on diving, fishing or boating in Coral Bay.

Spend the day and night time right here in Coral Bay and even keep longer if time permits.

The Ningaloo Coral Bay – Bayview is a incredible spot to sleep after at the present time in Coral Bay en route from Perth to Exmouth.

Day 10: Coral Bay to Exmouth

• Distance: 155 km
• Time: 2 hours

Proceed alongside the primary sealed street from Coral Bay all the way in which to Exmouth! There isn’t a lot to see alongside the way in which and the street is usually flat with dry desert views.

Cease 1: Ningaloo Customer Centre

Your first cease is the Ningaloo Customer Centre the place you’ll be able to decide up all the data and maps you want for Cape Vary Nationwide Park and for perception on climate and native’s tips about the place to swim at that present time.

Right here, you can even study whale sharks and different marine life within the space and the way conservation works in Ningaloo Reef.

Cease 2: Go for a fast swim at City Seaside

In case you’ve bought a 4WD, you’ll be able to drive alongside the City Seaside and discover your individual non-public spot to swim. In any other case, simply head down for a fast dip and benefit from the ocean views.

Cease 3: Vlamingh Head Lighthouse

Drive to the lighthouse for sweeping views over Exmouth and the ocean. You probably have binoculars, you’ll want to deliver it alongside to identify whales breaching within the distance.

Head up within the late afternoon to absorb the serenity and luxuriate in watching the sundown. That is additionally the most effective stargazing spots you’ll discover in your street journey!

Day 11: Cape Vary Nationwide Park

• Distance: 60 km
• Time: 1 hour

On the final day of your Perth to Exmouth 11 day street journey, drive from Exmouth into Cape Vary Nationwide Park alongside the sealed entry street.

Skip this drive at dawn or sundown as kangaroos are all the time out and about at these occasions!

Boasting 50 km of pristine seashores, breathtaking deep canyons and rugged limestone ranges, Cape Vary Nationwide Park is completely spectacular and warrants as many days as you’ve got obtainable to completely take pleasure in it.

Be sure you e-book a tour to swim with whale sharks early to order your house.

Swimming with whale sharks within the Ningaloo Reef may be very managed and there are a great deal of guidelines round it to make sure that it doesn’t negatively impression whale sharks.

Head to Turquoise Bay, Oyster Stacks and Sandy Bay for epic snorkelling alongside turtles, stingrays, reef sharks and loads of different fish and coral.

Bushwalkers and hikers can benefit from the 3 km return path by means of Mandu Mandu Gorge, the 1.5 km Yardie Gorge Path, the three.5 km Charles Knife Edge Stroll or some longer trails such Shothole Canyon’s 24.5 km path.

As summer time will get as scorching as 50 levels Celcius (122 levels Fahrenheit), the walks and hikes by means of the park ought to solely be accomplished between April and September when temperatures are cooler.

Wrapping Up Your Perth to Exmouth Drive

That wraps up your epic Perth to Exmouth street journey itinerary! This itinerary will be modified to swimsuit any size of time you’ve got however we undoubtedly suggest extending it out when you’ve got time obtainable.

Don’t neglect to have loads of water, provides and instruments useful within the automotive as driving in distant Western Australia will typically depart you out of vary and a flat tyre is a nightmare.

Eager to drive additional than Perth to Exmouth? Why not contemplate driving all the way in which to Broome!

Try our detailed Perth to Broome street journey itinerary publish so you’ll be able to proceed your adventures in Western Australia.

Drive secure in your Perth to Exmouth street journey and tell us for those who’re planning a visit quickly and what you’re wanting ahead to most!

On the lookout for a Automotive for Rent?

In case you’re searching for a automotive to rent for this epic Perth to Exmouth street journey, we suggest Rental Vehicles that will help you discover precisely what you want.

Try choices that provides you with the flexibility to go a bit offroad and street journey to components of Western Australia that few folks see!

The easiest way to get round is to hire a automotive and discover by yourself! We suggest Rental Vehicles, which has the biggest vary of autos for the perfect worth in the marketplace.

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