Western Australia Coastal Road Trip

This amazing 13-night Western Australia Road Trip gets underway with two nights in the city of Perth – gateway to Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Cottesloe Beach, Elizabeth Quay, and Fremantle. You’ll then hit the open road behind the wheel of your campervan along Western Australia’s scenic coastline with one or two-night stays in Cervantes, Geraldton, Kalbarri, Shark Bay, Coral Bay, Exmouth, and Karijini National Park.

Days 1 to 2: Perth – Pensione Hotel Perth
Your Western Australia adventure begins with two nights in Perth, where you’ll explore the vibrant heart of the city. Discover the lush Kings Park and Botanic Garden, offering panoramic views of the city and Swan River. Take time to visit Fremantle, known for its historic charm, bustling markets, and the famous Fremantle Prison. Relax on the white sands of Cottesloe Beach or stroll along Elizabeth Quay, where urban excitement meets riverside tranquillity.

Day 3: Perth to Cervantes (250km – 2.5 hours)
Leave Perth behind and travel north along the scenic coastal road to Cervantes. En route, stop at Yanchep National Park to see koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat. The highlight of the day is the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park, where thousands of ancient limestone pillars rise dramatically from the yellow sands. Take a detour to Hangover Bay for a relaxing picnic before arriving in the charming coastal town of Cervantes.

Day 4: Cervantes to Geraldton (200km – 2 hours)
Continue your journey north to Geraldton, stopping at Hutt Lagoon, famous for its vivid pink waters. Once in Geraldton, visit the HMAS Sydney II Memorial, which commemorates Australia’s greatest naval tragedy, and spend the afternoon relaxing at the town’s picturesque beaches.

Day 5: Geraldton to Kalbarri (155km – 1.5 hours)
Head further north to the coastal gem of Kalbarri. Discover the dramatic landscapes of Kalbarri National Park, where you can visit the iconic Nature’s Window and marvel at the deep gorges like the Z-Bend Gorge. Along the coast, visit Red Bluff and Mushroom Rock for incredible views of the rugged cliffs.

Day 6: Kalbarri to Shark Bay/Denham (380km – 4 hours)
Travel to Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Visit the stunning Shell Beach, where the shore is made entirely of tiny white shells, and head to Monkey Mia to witness wild dolphins swimming close to shore. Shark Bay’s unique marine life and natural beauty make it an unforgettable destination.

Day 7: Shark Bay to Coral Bay (580km – 6 hours)
Your next destination is Coral Bay, a paradise on the edge of the Ningaloo Reef. Spend your time snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters right off the beach, where you can explore vibrant coral gardens and spot a variety of marine life. Coral Bay is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural wonders of the Ningaloo Coast.

Day 8: Coral Bay to Exmouth (155km – 2 hours)
A short drive brings you to Exmouth, the gateway to Cape Range National Park and more of the Ningaloo Reef. Spend the day at Turquoise Bay, renowned for its pristine waters and incredible snorkelling opportunities. Take a hike through Yardie Creek Gorge, where you’ll experience the rugged beauty of the outback meeting the coast.

Day 9: Exmouth to Carnarvon (365km – 4 hours)
Begin your journey back south with a stop in Carnarvon, a town known for its tropical fruit plantations and fascinating history. Visit the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum or take a relaxing stroll along the beautiful coastline.

Day 10: Carnarvon to Kalbarri (450km – 5 hours)
Make your way back to Kalbarri, giving you a chance to explore any sites you may have missed on your first visit. Enjoy Kalbarri’s scenic coastal walks or take a sunset cruise along the Murchison River.

Day 11: Kalbarri to Geraldton (155km – 1.5 hours)
Today’s journey takes you back to Geraldton, where you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the beach or visit the town’s Western Australian Museum, which offers insights into the area’s rich maritime history.

Day 12: Geraldton to Cervantes (200km – 2 hours)
Travel south towards Cervantes, with time to revisit the beautiful Pinnacles Desert or stop by Lake Thetis to see the ancient stromatolites, some of the oldest life forms on Earth.

Day 13: Cervantes to Perth (250km – 2.5 hours)
Complete your road trip with a scenic drive back to Perth. If you missed Yanchep National Park on the way north, this is your chance to explore its walking trails and wildlife. Arrive back in Perth and enjoy one final evening in the city, perhaps with dinner at one of the riverside restaurants along the Swan River.

You’ll still experience the incredible diversity of Western Australia’s coastline, national parks, and unique natural attractions, all within a more manageable timeframe.