Australia's CORAL COAST - Holiday Planner 2018 - Australia's Coral Coast
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Australia’s
CORAL COAST
Holiday Planner 2018
Welcome to Australia's
CORAL COAST
Travel through thousands of years of history and 1100 kilometres
of stunning coastline. Discover uninterrupted stretches of white
sandy beaches, untouched coral reefs just metres from the shore,
breathtaking gorges and brilliant carpets of colourful wildflowers.
Along the way, you’ll also find some of the best known and loved
holiday destinations and attractions on Western Australia’s Coral
Coast. From the Pinnacles, Kalbarri National Park and Shark
Bay World Heritage Area to the dolphins of Monkey Mia and the
incredible Ningaloo Reef, where you can swim with the world’s
largest fish – the whale shark.
Cover
image: Swedish tourist Felicia Kervefelt visiting Port Gregory’s Hutt Lagoon - @FeliciaKervefelt australiascoralcoast.com
S TOP 10
IT IN E RA RIE THINGS LOCAT
IO NS
TO D O
Australia’s CORAL COAST map 2 try a 4WD adventure 24 the INDIAN OCEAN drive 28
travelling the CORAL COAST 4 find a UNIQUE stay 24 visit WILDFLOWER country 38
short & sweet itinerary ideas 8 Explore secret BEACHES 25 the Geraldton region 44
the ultimate BUCKET LIST 11 Discover CREATURES the KALBARRI region 52
tasty FOOD trail 16 great and small25 the SHARK BAY region 60
fun-filled FAMILY itinerary 18 enjoy FAMILY fun 26 the Ningaloo region 68
experience WILDFLOWER trails20 WALKING or DRIVE trails 26
natural Events and activities 22 the ultimate #INSTA SPOTS 27
World Heritage, MARINE AND
NATIONAL Parks 27
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook & YouTube | Australias Coral Coast
Instagram | @australiascoralcoast
#australiascoralcoast 1
2
Disclaimer The information contained in this holiday
planner has been provided as a guide only. Although
every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy
of the information contained in this publication,
Australia’s Coral Coast does not take responsibility for
any injury, irregularity, loss or damage arising from
ONE MILE the provision of any services, or failure to deliver such
Australia’s CORAL COAST map
JETTY services. Australia’s Coral Coast does not endorse
or provide warranty, either express or implied, as
to the conduct or practice of the advertisers in this
publication. Australia’s Coral Coast does not accept
responsibility for changes or withdrawal of prices,
details or services, which are subject to change.
The map featured is not comprehensive and is for
illustration purposes only.
Acknowledgements Australia’s Coral Coast is
proudly supported by Tourism Western Australia.
Images used in this planner are courtesy of: Apertunity
Productions, Belinda Sheridan, Ben Teo Photography,
Caleb Davenport, Carnarvon Visitor Centre, Chris
Lewis, COImages, Coral Bay Eco Tours, Coral Coast
Helicopter Services, Dan Avila, David Kirkland, Dongara
Port Denison Visitor Centre, Elements Margaret
Wooramel River, Elise Hassey, Felicia Kervefelt, Flight Seeing
Roadhouse Imagery, Funtavia, Gascoyne Food Council, Geraldon
Air Charters, Henderson Photography, Jewels Lynch
Photography, Kalbarri Visitor Centre, Karijini Eco
Retreat, Katrin Lehr - Vielunterwegs, Lauren Bath
Photography, Lobster Shack, Mackerel Islands, Matt
Hutton Photography, Michael Bond MB AUS, Michelle
McKoy, Moritz Maschek, Paul Bester, Paul Pichugin,
Paul Shepherd, Prue Wheeler - Sealife Differently,
Rebina Criddle, Richard Rossiter, Sail Ningaloo, Salty
Wings, Samantha Walton, Samille Mitchell, Sean
Scott Photography, Sharon Graham, Shawn Peach
Photography, Summersite, Theaker Von Ziamo,
australiascoralcoast.com
Tourism Western Australia, Trevor King and Vertical
Project, Tully Clayton, Wildflower Country, Will Wardle
Photography, Wooramel River Retreat.
COASTAL
CLIFFS
#australiascoralcoast
PINK LAKE
Houtman
Abrolhos
Islands
Perth
200
Cervantes
2hr
220 20
Jurien Bay
2hr 30min 30min
349 149 129
Dongara
3hr 45min 1hr 45min 1hr 15min
415 215 195 66
Geraldton
4hr 30min 2hr 30min 2hr 30min
577 411 387 218 152
Kalbarri
6hr 5hr 3hr 45min 1hr 45min 1hr
838 631 604 473 409 377
Denham
8hr 30min 6hr 30min 6hr 5hr 4hr 15min 4hr
905 690 671 540 478 445 325
Carnarvon
9hr 7hr 7hr 5hr 30min 4hr 45min 4hr 30min 3hr
1,132 929 900 774 708 667 564 240
Coral Bay
11hr 30min 9hr 30min 9hr 8hr 7hr 6hr 45min 5hr 30min 2hr 30min
1,260 1,093 1,068 900 835 802 691 367 150
Exmouth
13hr 11hr 10hr 30min 9hr 8hr 30min 8hr 7hr 3hr 45min 1hr 30min New Norcia
Distance (kilometres)
Driving times
To convert from km to miles multiply by 0.621
3
Self guided travel itineraries are available online at australiascoralcoast.com
travelling the CORAL COAST
GETTING THERE TRAVELLING TIPS
By Air Road safety
Air services operate to towns in the Take breaks! Coral Coast has long stretches Drive on the left-hand
Coral Coast from Perth. Virgin Australia of road, so be sure to stop for regular side of the road
Regional (virginaustralia.com.au) fly to breaks. The maximum speed limit is 110
Geraldton. QantasLink (qantas.com.au) kilometres per hour on the open road and
also offer services to Geraldton and 50 kilometres per hour in built up areas.
Exmouth (Learmonth). Regional Take note of the speed limit signs along
Express (www.rex.com.au) offers your journey.
flights to, Monkey Mia (Shark Bay)
and Carnarvon. Road rules
Western Australia’s Coral Coast observes
Flight schedules and operators are
the same driving laws and regulations as
subject to change.
the rest of Australia. Vehicles travel on the
Visit australiascoralcoast.com for
left-hand side of the road and wearing of
up to date information.
seat belts is compulsory for all passengers.
By Road Driving under the influence of alcohol or
Road closures
The Coral Coast region starts at drugs is an offence.
Sealed roads are easily accessible, except
Cervantes (less than two-hour drive Be prepared: Make sure your vehicle is in in case of heavy rains when they could be
north of Perth). Excellent road top condition before you set out. Food closed due to flooding. Unsealed roads
conditions throughout the region make and fuel are generally available every 100 are more unpredictable and can be closed
the area an ideal self-drive destination. – 300 kilometres along the main highway, during very wet periods. Get an update
Hire cars are available from Perth so be sure to plan ahead. Please note that on local road and weather conditions
and in all major towns in the region. LPG Autogas is not available in all regional from Main Roads Western Australia or
A range of 4WD camper trailers are areas. Some areas of Australia’s Coral Coast contact the local visitor centre.
available for hire. A one-way rental are remote, so if you plan to explore off-
fee is often charged within the region road, ensure you are well prepared with a Road trains
unless returned to a designated depot first aid kit and a spare tyre. Some road trains (giant trucks) are more
such as Broome or Darwin. A range of If your vehicle breaks down or becomes than 50 metres in length. Take care when
package tours are also available, from bogged, stay with the vehicle. A car is overtaking road trains and only do so when
adventurous four wheel drive vehicles easier to spot in the event of a search. you can clearly see the road ahead. Be
to luxury coaches. aware that dust and stones can be kicked
up on unsealed roads, obscuring vision and
TransWA operate regular passenger
potentially damaging your vehicle.
coach services throughout the region.
Check with the local visitor centres Wandering stock and wildlife
listed on australiascoralcoast.com Many cattle stations are unfenced
or contact the WA Visitor Centre on and it is not uncommon to encounter
1300 361 351. wandering stock and wildlife. Watch out for
kangaroos, cows and various other animals,
particularly at dawn and dusk, as these are
the most dangerous times.
4 australiascoralcoast.com
take a JOURNEY along National Park Fees
Australia’s CORAL COAST Visitor fees apply to enter National Parks
within Australia’s Coral Coast. A range of
National Park passes are available from
Parks and Wildlife.
Day Pass: This pass covers entry into one
or more parks on any one day. Passes are
available from rangers in the parks. In some
parks, a system of self-registration applies.
Fees: $13 per car (up to eight legally seated
people), $7 for seniors, aged pensioners
and veterans (cards must be sighted) and
HEALTH & SAFETY $7 per motorcycle.
Holiday Park Pass: This pass entitles entry
into as many parks as required for any
Healthy travelling four-week period. Fee: $46/vehicle (up to
Always carry adequate supplies of eight people).
water and a comprehensive first aid kit.
Annual All Park Pass: This pass entitles
Use appropriate insect repellents and
you to unlimited access to all parks in
cover arms and legs with loose clothing,
WA. Valid for one vehicle, with up to eight
particularly at dawn and dusk. Netted hats
legally seated people. Fees: $92 adults
can be useful when bushwalking and can
or $58 for seniors, aged pensioners and
often be purchased at fuel stations.
veterans (cards must be sighted). Park
Bushfire safety passes do not include camping. Separate
The hot and dry conditions in parts of fees apply. For more information visit
Western Australia’s Coral Coast mean
Sun protection www.parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au or contact
there is a risk of bushfires. The lighting of The sun is almost always shining on Parks and Wildlife on +61 8 9219 9000.
Australia’s Coral Coast so ensure you’re
fires can be extremely dangerous. Care
sun smart, particularly between 10:00am Pre-Booking Campsites in
should be taken at all times and a campfire National Parks
should never be left unattended. Safety and 3:00pm, when UV radiation is most
intense. Travellers should always wear a wide There is a number of camping sites in the
information is available from Fire and
brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, sunglasses Cape Range National Park which can now
Emergency Services Authority of Western
and at least an SPF 30+ sunscreen when be pre-booked before your arrival through
Australia (FESA). Check signs for areas
outdoors. It is also recommended that you www.parkstay.dpaw.wa.gov.au. This
allowing campfires.
drink at least two litres of water each day. ensures (particularly at busy times such as
Cyclone safety School holidays, Easter or Christmas) that
Cyclones can affect Western Australia
Safety at the Beach you can access your favourite locations
during the summer months - generally • When in place, swim between the red right on the Ningaloo Reef! Other National
from December to March. Tropical cyclone and yellow flags that mark the safest Parks offer camping however do not
advice is issued on local TV and radio areas to swim currently offer pre-booking online.
stations whenever a cyclone is expected. • Always swim under supervision, with a
friend or other swimmers Flying Drones in National Parks
Read tide charts • Read and obey safety signs Western Australia’s Parks and Wildlife
Before entering the water, take note to see • If you are unsure of conditions, seek advice recognises that remotely piloted aircrafts
if there are any signs warning of rip tides. • Don’t swim under the influence of or ‘Drones’ are becoming increasingly
Please be careful at the following locations: alcohol or drugs popular, especially when capturing
• Turquoise Bay (drift snorkelling), • Don’t run and dive in the water incredible National Parks and marine life. If
Cape Range National Park • Conditions change regularly so your drone is less than 2kg and you are not
• The Blowholes (king waves), Carnarvon check before you enter the water flying it for commercial purposes (i.e. to sell
• Quobba Station (king waves), Carnarvon • If you get into trouble in the water, or use footage for profit), please check the
don’t panic - signal for help, float and Parks and Wildlife website before use, as
If you are undertaking any activity by the
wait for assistance you may be flying it in an area of Aboriginal
water, check the local tide charts available
• Float with a rip current or undertow, significance or with protected wildlife/flora.
at visitor centres and service stations.
do not swim against it See www.parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au and search
‘drone’.
#australiascoralcoast 5
CLIMATE IMPORTANT CONTACTS
Australia’s Coral Coast enjoys a warm climate all year round. Covering
Royal Automobile Club (RAC) Ph: 13 11 11
approximately 1100 kilometres of coastline, from Cervantes to Exmouth,
the region enjoys a Mediterranean climate in the south and a sub-tropical Emergency breakdown service
climate in the north. The best time to visit is between March to October Main Roads Ph: 13 81 38 mainroads.wa.gov.au
with the majority of wildlife on offer to see, however there is something Road conditions and other information about WA roads
to experience all year round – depending on your travel habits or budget.
Emergency Services Ph: 000 (landline) or 112 (mobile/cell phone)
Visitors should wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen between 10am and 3pm
to avoid sunburn. Cyclones sometimes affect the northern part of Australia’s Police, ambulance and fire brigade
Coral Coast during summer. Cyclone warnings are broadcast on local radio Bureau of Meteorology Ph: +61 8 9263 2222 bom.gov.au/wa
stations. Contact the Bureau of Meteorology on 1300 659 210 for advice.
WA weather and warnings
Average seasonal temperatures (ºC) More information
See australiascoralcoast.com or contact us via Facebook for
Dec - Feb Mar - May Jun - Aug Sep - Nov further information on travelling within Australia’s Coral Coast.
Cervantes & Jurien Bay 30 26 20 23
Geraldton & Port-Denison
Kalbarri
31
33
28
29
20
22
24
26 NATIONAL TOURISM ACCREDITATION
Monkey Mia & Denham (Shark Bay) 31 29 23 26 The National Tourism Accreditation symbol indicates
tourism businesses that have achieved accreditation and
Carnarvon 31 29 23 26
are committed to providing excellent customer service.
Coral Bay & Exmouth 37 33 25 32
Broome, Kimberley
& Beyond
Package holiday & destination specialists
Specialising in self-drive, accommodation,
tours and value packages with flights for
individuals, families or groups. Contact us
to create your ideal itinerary to the Coral
Coast and beyond.
Tel : 1300 357 057 / +618 6382 2169
reservations@broomekimberley.com
www.broomekimberley.com.au
6 australiascoralcoast.com
TOURS & CHARTERS | GENERAL SERVICES AUSTRALIA’S CORAL COAST
Let us do
the driving
Kick back, relax and explore WA’s scenic Coral
Coast on one of our luxury road coaches.
We operate five-star road coach services to more than 240 destinations throughout Western Australia, including Geraldton, Kalbarri and Jurien Bay.
All coaches are fully accessible and equipped with on-board entertainment, air conditioning, USB ports and toilet facilities.
Don’t forget, all seniors, WA Pensioner and Health Care Card holders, WA full-time students and children under 16 years of age are entitled to a 50% concession.
Plan your journey by visiting transwa.wa.gov.au
Bringing WA closer
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TRAN172_Coral Coast Planner_82x194.indd 1 4/10/2017 12:56 PM
Enjoy the freedom
Caravan Parks in Australia’s
Coral Coast offer a range
of accommodation, from
camping sites for tents,
powered sites for vans, to
rn Australia fully self-contained cabins
Weste . . . the choice is yours!
FOR YOUR NEAREST CARAVAN PARK VISIT
Photo: Dongara Tourist Park www.caravanwa.com.au
ADAMS
The experience you come back for!
A wholly Western Australian owned company operating with over 12 years’ experience ADAMS (and subsidiary ADAMS Pinnacle Tours with over 36 years’ operation) is proudly regarded as
Western Australia’s leading coach tour operator. Renowned for our custom-designed fleet of 5-star touring vehicles, ADAMS covers the whole Coral Coast region, in 5 star air-conditioned
luxury comfort. Whether it be one of our daily tours to the magical Pinnacle Desert with a combined offering of either the historical charm of New Norcia or the only 4WD experience on the
Lancelin Sand dunes, a magnificent seasonal Wildflower tour, through to our express 2 Day luxury coach tour to Geraldton and Pink Lake, a 5 star, premium experience is assured.
With unique custom made itineraries possible for groups, the Coral Coast is the real Australia. Our driver guides are an elite group of highly trained environmentally aware professionals
with extensive touring and charter experience who will share their experience and stories of
Western Australia with customers to ensure every tour is ‘the experience you come back for’.
150 Bellefin Drive, Malaga 6090 • Tel: 61 8 6270 6060 • www.ADAMSPinnacletours.com.au
#australiascoralcoast 7
Wooramel
short & sweet ITINERARY ideas
Roadhouse
WHEN: All year round
utman
rolhos
ands
One NIGHT away
Sandy
Cape
Overnight Lake
Thetis
DURATION: 2 days, 1 night
WHEN: All year round
IN
HIGHLIGHTS: Beaches, nature, animals, photography, food – anything & everything!
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BASE YOURSELF: Cervantes or Jurien Bay
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It doesn’t have to take a long time to discover Western Australia’s Coral Coast. If
IV
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you’re after an enjoyable weekend away a short and sweet trip up the coast is it!
Day 1 Driving south from Green Head, stop into
Head north via the Indian Ocean Drive Lake Thetis and the Thrombolites found
towards Jurien Bay, an easy 2.5 hour drive near Cervantes. Similar to the Stromatolites
north of Perth. of Shark Bay, there is a 1.5km walking loop
If you’re looking for a good coffee, with boardwalk out to view these ancient
BettyVan is a pop-up coffee truck which micro-organisms
frequents Cervantes and Jurien Bay Visit the Lobster Shack for a delicious
between 7 to 11am. Find her on Facebook seafood lunch. Here you can take a tour to
@bettyvancoffee for the exact location. learn about how the Western Rock Lobster
Stop in to the Visitor Centre to purchase industry operates in Western Australia.
a National Park Pass. Spend some time Use your Park pass to explore Nambung
bushwalking amongst wildflowers (July to National Park, the home of the Pinnacles.
September) at Lesueur National Park. Stop into the Interpretative Centre to learn
Consider visiting the stunning Sandy Cape more about the area before returning back
for a swim, sandboarding or simply a sunset. to Perth.
Overnight: Jurien Bay or Cervantes
Day 2
Wake up early and explore a little more.
Take a tour in Jurien Bay where you can
interact with Australian Sea Lions in their
natural habitat and snorkel in the crystal
clear calm waters. Drive North to Three
Bays Walkway where you can enjoy a
beach walk or swim in the sheltered bays
of Dynamite, South and Anchorage Bay.
8 australiascoralcoast.comWooramel
Roadhouse
enjoy a relaxing
SUNSET STROLL
on the Irwin River Houtman
Abrolhos
Islands
Day 1
A long WEEKEND roadtrip
DURATION: 3 days, 2 nights
STOCKYARD GULLY
NATIONAL PARK
WHEN: All year round Sandy
Cape
HIGHLIGHTS: Beaches, food, heritage, nature, animals, photography Day 2 Lake
Thetis
BASE YOURSELF: Cervantes, Jurien Bay, Dongara-Port Denison & Geraldton
It’s surprising how far you can travel and what you can see with just three days
IN
road tripping on Australia’s Coral Coast.
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Day 1 Day 2
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Wake up early and head north via the Wake up early to enjoy a beach breakfast
E
Indian Ocean Drive towards Dongara-Port at the Seaspray Café and take the morning
Denison, a four hour drive from Perth. to go crabbing off the Port Denison Marina.
Dongara-Port Denison is an RV For those who love to walk, take to the
friendly town and there is plenty of Thungara Trails – six different trails that
accommodation from hotels to campsites. traverse the ocean and river with scenic
If visiting on a Saturday, stop into the views, spotting flora and fauna.
If you have a 4WD, visit the Stockyard
Weekend Markets to pick up some local Go north-east and spend some time at Gully National Park to see the fascinating
treasures. Ellendale Pool, a stunning water hole carved below ground river system of caves, once
A great way to explore this seaside town is out by the Greenough River. Picnic, swim, forming part of the stock-route for sheep
by water. Hire a kayak and learn about the kayak or stay overnight for a small fee! and cattle. Take care in the caves if it’s been
birdlife of the twin towns visiting the Irwin When travelling the Indian Ocean Drive, raining, due to potential flooding.
River and surrounds. keep an eye out for Echidnas which can Visit Nambung National Park, home of
When in Port Denison visit the Illegal Rum often be spotted during the day between the Pinnacles. Explore by car or on foot
Tender Distillery (join their morning tour Dongara and Jurien Bay. via the designated walking trails. Return
for a behind the scenes look at turning Arriving in Jurien Bay, consider hiring back to Perth.
water in rum!). snorkel gear and picking up the “swim
Before sunset find the 15 ANZAC soldier cards” for the Jurien Bay Underwater
silhouettes made out of 2D metal art Interpretive Snorkel trail, accessed 25
as a visual memorial. The sculptures metres out from the Old Jetty piles on the
can be seen, opposite the Lookout on beach. The Swim Cards (available from
Ocean Drive, next to Nunn’s Pool in local shops) outline which fish species and
Port Denison. coral you will see on the trail.
Finish your Saturday evening enjoying a Enjoy the evening with fish and chips on
sunset from the balcony of Southerlys the beach or marina.
Harbour View Bar and Restaurant while Overnight: Jurien Bay or Cervantes
sampling the local seafood off the menu
or if visiting in Summer kick-back at the Day 3
Drive-In Cinema. Spend the morning swimming in the
turquoise waters of Jurien Bay or consider
Overnight: Dongara-Port Denison hiring a SUP or kayak.
#australiascoralcoast 9Shark Bay, FLY AWAY
DURATION: 3 days, 2 nights
Day 1, 2 & 3 WHEN: All year round
HIGHLIGHTS: Beaches, nature, animals, history and heritage
BASE YOURSELF: Monkey Mia or Denham
When you throw in a flight, a three-day break on Australia’s Coral Coast can feel
like so much more. Regular flights to Monkey Mia leave from Perth, usually around
midday, which leaves you the afternoon to relax.
Day 1 Enjoy your dinner and then count the
Flight: Depart Perth for Shark Bay stars from the beach. With very little
Fly to Monkey Mia airport from Perth. light pollution, Shark Bay is a great place
Arrange to either hire a car before flying to absorb the immense vastness of
(stay in Denham) or airport-transfer (stay constellations on show.
in Monkey Mia). Overnight: Shark Bay
Upon arrival, we suggest you ease into Day 3
‘Shark Bay time’ by enjoying an afternoon Wake up early to feed the dolphins of
swim or beverage near the beach. Monkey Mia. As they are wild animals,
Enjoy your dinner and then take part timing differs daily but the first feeding is
in an Aboriginal Night Tour with Wula from approximately 7.45am.
Houtman
Gura Nyinda. A great way to learn about Make the most of your final day by
Abrolhos the Malgana people and to discover the booking a morning Wildlife Cruise,
Islands history of the Gathaagudu (two waters). sailing around Shark Bay spotting
Overnight: Shark Bay dugongs, turtles and rays.
Day 2 Flight: Depart Shark Bay for Perth
Day 1
With a full day in Shark Bay there is just
too many choices of things to see, do
and experience but here’s a few of our
favourite Full-Day Tours:
STOCKYARD GULLY
• Dirk Hartog Island 4WD Eco Tour
NATIONAL PARK
Sandy
• François Peron National Park 4WD Eco
Cape
Tour or Kayaking Tour
Day 2 • Dive
Lake
ThetisShark Bay either Steep Point
or Dirk Hartog Island or Ocean Park
Aquarium Shark Tank
IN
• Stromatolites and Shell Beach, learn why
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these attractions are World Heritage listed
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10 australiascoralcoast.comthe ultimate BUCKET LIST
Day 4 & 5
DURATION: 14 days, 13 nights
HIGHLIGHTS: Everything! This
itinerary gives you the best of the
best that the Coral Coast has to offer
Day 6 & 7 both on the land and in the water.
Day 1
Perth to Dongara
(354km – 4 hours)
Travel north along the Indian Ocean Drive
(continues north from Wanneroo Road),
through the coastal towns of Cervantes,
Day 3 Dongara, Port Denison and Greenough.
Day 3
Geraldton to Carnarvon
Top tips:
(Approx 480km – 5 hours)
• Walk the unique limestone spires of the
Pinnacles Desert Continue north to Carnarvon, a popular
Wooramel • Visit the Lobster Shack for a factory tour holiday spot for sun seekers.
Day 8, 9 & 10 Roadhouse
and late lobster lunch Top tips:
• Sand board the dunes of Dongara • Explore, sample and buy fresh fruit and
• Walk the Thungara trails in Dongara- vegetables along the ‘Fruit Loop’ trail
Port Denison • Enjoy an evening stroll along The Fascine,
Overnight: Dongara-Port Denison taking in the magnificent sunset views
• Head out for a fresh seafood meal at the
Day 2 local pub
Dongara to Greater Geraldton Overnight: Carnarvon
Day 11 & 12 (65km – 45 minutes)
Wake up early and drive to Geraldton.
Day 4
Carnarvon to Exmouth
Top tips:
(Approx 365km – 3.5 hours)
• Book a full or half day scenic flight tour
of the Abrolhos Islands Travel north to Exmouth where the nearby
Houtman
• Drive out to Coalseam Conservation Park pristine Ningaloo Reef is located just
Abrolhos Day 2
Islands
(from July to September) for everlasting metres from the shore in some places.
wildflower displays Top tips:
From Perth Day 1 • Walk the city’s Street Art trail with a • Visit the local microbreweries
great coffee in hand • Watch an unforgettable sunset from
• Enjoy a historic tour of HMAS Sydney II Vlamingh Head Lighthouse on the west
Memorial, St Francis Xavier Cathedral side of the Cape
and Monsignor Hawes Centre • Bush walk or simply enjoy a 360° view
Overnight: Geraldton from Shothole Canyon before driving
Day 13
into Exmouth
Overnight: Exmouth
#australiascoralcoast 11Day 5 Day 6 Day 7
Exmouth Exmouth to Coral Bay Coral Bay
Spend the day in Exmouth and soak up (Approx 150km – 2 hours) Coral Bay is known for its giant manta ray
paradise. Depart Exmouth early for your drive to Coral swimming tours, so get out on the water.
Top tips: Bay. On your way south, stop into Bullara Top tips:
• Spend the day snorkelling on the reef Station for coffee and scones. • Any day of the year, try a Manta Ray
• Swim with the world’s largest fish, the Top tips: swim tour, plus meet the friendliest baby
whale shark (from March to July) • Bill’s Bay - the main beach is a reef sharks at Asho’s Gap
• Join an eco-tour for whale watching snorkellers’ paradise with calm, protected • Join a whale shark tour (from March to
(August to November) and turtle spotting waters and hundreds of fish and coral June) to swim with the world’s largest fish
• Dive the Navy Pier species just metres from the shore • Bag a big one on a fishing charter tour
• Safari tour or boat cruise the Cape • Explore further out by glass bottom Overnight: Coral Bay
Range National Park which features boat, cruising yacht or kayaking tour
deep canyons, limestone ranges and • Enjoy an afternoon quad bike and Day 8
spectacular gorges snorkel tour, taking you to the harder to Coral Bay to Shark Bay
Overnight: Exmouth reach (and best) snorkelling spots (Approx 590km – 6.5 hours)
Overnight: Coral Bay Wake up early and head south along the
North West Coastal Highway to Shark Bay.
Top tips:
• Take in the interpretative signage of the
Shark Bay World Heritage Drive, stopping
at the Stromatolites of Hamelin Pool and
Shell Beach before arriving in Denham
• Visit the cliff top lookout at Eagle Bluff
for superb ocean views
Overnight: Denham or Monkey Mia
12 australiascoralcoast.comDay 11 Day 13
Shark Bay to Kalbarri Kalbarri to Jurien Bay
(Approx 375km – 4.5 hours) (Approx 350km – 3.5 hours)
Head south to Kalbarri to explore this town Take the coastal/scenic drive south from
situated on two bodies of water. Kalbarri and then take the Indian Ocean
Top tips: Drive to Jurien Bay.
Day 9 • Explore the magnificent Murchison River Top tips for the drive:
Dirk Hartog Island on a kayaking tour • Be sure to take a photo at Port Gregory’s
Spend the day (or a little longer if you have • Take in the dramatic sights of Kalbarri’s stunning Pink Lake
time and a booking!) on Dirk Hartog Island. coastal cliff look outs, and spot • Take a short swim break at Little Bay, a
humpback whales (July – November) sheltered beach accessed out of Horrocks
Top tips:
• Meet the coloured parrots and other • Taste scones and great coffee at
• An important historic site, Dirk Hartog
birds of Rainbow Jungle, solve the Oakabella Station, near Northampton
Island was the first recorded location of
outdoor maze or see a movie at the • Drive through picturesque Chapman
a European landing on Australian soil
outdoor cinema Valley. If it’s a weekend we suggest
• The island is home to rare and endangered
Overnight: Kalbarri stopping into the Burnt Barrel for a cold
wildlife and is a major attraction for those
hand-crafted beer and barbecue lunch
seeking an exclusive beach for snorkelling, Day 12 • In Jurien, pick up fish and chips or a pizza
swimming or kayaking Kalbarri and head to the Old Jetty for dinner
• Experience the island and its dramatic
Wake up early to enjoy some of the action- Overnight: Jurien Bay or Cervantes
cliffs by air or access it by land and
packed activities on offer such as:
barge crossing from Useless Loop,
outside of Denham. 4WD only Top tips: Day 14
Overnight: Shark Bay or Dirk Hartog Island • Take a pot-pulling tour to catch your Jurien Bay to Perth
own Western Rock Lobster (Approx 220km – 2.5 hours)
Day 10 • Quad bike morning or afternoon at Enjoy your final day with an easy trip home.
Shark Bay Wagoe Beach
Top tips:
Spend some time in this stunning World • From late-2018, traverse the twin Skywalks
• Join a morning tour to explore
Heritage Area. at the West Loop in the National Park
Stockyard Gully Caves or a wildflower
Top tips: Overnight: Kalbarri mecca, Mt Lesueur National Park
• Meet the famous Monkey Mia dolphins, • Explore Jurien Bay’s snorkel trail made
with the first feeding from 7.45am of reef balls, full of resident and visiting
• Visit the Aquarium or if you dive, spend fish populations
the day diving Shark Bay’s best sites • Get the rush with a skydive experience
• Visit Shark Bay’s Discovery Centre over the green and blues of Jurien Bay
which explores history and heritage via • Look out for the BettyVan Coffee signs
soundscapes, film footage, interactive to grab a brew from the retro-style
multimedia and artefacts travelling coffee cart – check out their
• See the stars and learn about the Facebook page for the day’s location
Indigenous culture of the local Nhanda
and Malgana Aboriginal people on a
night tour
Overnight: Denham or Monkey Mia
#australiascoralcoast 13take a FLY\DRIVE trip
Two World Heritage Sites – Ningaloo & Shark Bay
DURATION: 9 days
WHEN: March – November
SPECIAL EVENT SEASON: Whale Shark season (March to July) and Gascoyne Food Festival (August)
HIGHLIGHTS: Food, landscapes, water, nature, animals and photography
BASE YOURSELF: Exmouth, Coral Bay, Carnarvon, Denham or Monkey Mia
Discover Western Australia’s
magnificent Ningaloo and Shark
Bay World Heritage Areas on this
fly / drive itinerary. There’s so much
to see and do in this pristine part
of the world, from swimming with
whale sharks and snorkelling the
world’s largest fringing reef in the
Ningaloo Marine Park, to walking
along a beach made entirely of
shells and interacting with wild
dolphins in Shark Bay.
Day one • Drive into the Cape Range National Park
Perth to Exmouth either on tour with Ningaloo Safari Tours
Day 1, 2 & 3 or self-drive and jump on the Yardie
(Learmonth Airport)
Creek Boat Tour to see the incredible red
Arrive/Depart Take a morning flight from Perth to gorges
Exmouth (Learmonth Airport) with Qantas. • Stop at Milyering Visitor Centre for the
Pick up your hire car and stop off at tide info, then experience drift snorkelling
• Shothole and Charles Knife Canyon on at Turquoise Bay
your way into Exmouth, enjoy the 360 • Get into some serious fishing on a game-
views over the Gulf and the Reef fishing or billfish full-day tour
Day 7 & 8
If you haven’t already done so before Overnight: Exmouth
arriving, book your full-day tour to explore
the Ningaloo Reef. Day four
Overnight: Exmouth Exmouth to Carnarvon
367 kilometres
Day two Take an early morning dip at Bundegi Beach
Explore Exmouth near Exmouth town before heading south
Get up early to spend a day in and on to Carnarvon, a subtropical oasis where
the water: fresh produce and seafood are plentiful.
Day 4 • Take a Whale Shark tour between
mid-March and July to swim with the Spend the afternoon:
world’s largest fish and other marine life • Visit the Space and Technology Museum,
on the Ningaloo Reef open daily
• Dive the Navy Pier • Go Heli-Snorkelling to picnic on private
swimming beaches along Ningaloo Reef
Day 5 & 6 Wooramel Overnight: Exmouth • Get takeaway local seafood and enjoy a
Roadhouse
Day three sunset at the Fascine waterways
Explore Exmouth Overnight: Carnarvon
Get up early, pack a picnic lunch and
snacks for a day in the National Park.
14 australiascoralcoast.comsee two world heritage sites –
NINGALOO & SHARK BAY (monkey mia)
Day five • Take a Scenic Flight to see Useless Loop • Sail away to relax on Ningaloo waters
Carnarvon to Shark Bay and Dirk Hartog Island from above • Join a glass bottom boat tour to see the
300 kilometres • Join a 4WD day tour to François Peron reef without getting wet
National Park for some rugged adventure Overnight: Coral Bay
Head south on the North West Coastal • Dive for the day at Steep Point,
Highway and turn right onto the Shark Bay Australia’s most western point Day nine
World Heritage Drive.
Overnight: Denham or Monkey Mia Coral Bay to Learmonth
On your way in to Shark Bay, stop in at the Airport
following landmarks Day seven 116 kilometres
• Hamelin Pool Stromatolites, the oldest Monkey Mia to Coral Bay Take one last morning dip in the crystal
“living” fossils in the world 564 kilometres
• Shell Beach, 70 kilometres of beach waters of Coral Bay before departing for
Leave Shark Bay in the morning and head Learmonth Airport for your afternoon flight
made entirely of billions of tiny shells.
north. Stop for lunch in Carnarvon and back to Perth.
• Eagle Bluff for spectacular ocean views
• Explore the Heritage Precinct and have On your way to the airport, stop in at
and spot marine life in the water below.
lunch at the Sunset Café while taking in Bullara Station for homemade scones and
• Meet sea life at Ocean Park Aquarium
the views of the Indian Ocean barista coffee!
and enjoy a bite to eat overlooking
• Drive the “Fruit Loops” to buy fresh fruit,
Tinkerbell Flats
vegetables and other treats for the road
Enjoy a drink on the foreshore at Denham
Continue your journey to Coral Bay
BONUS NIGHT
or Monkey Mia and watch the sun set over
the Indian Ocean. Overnight: Coral Bay
Overnight: Denham or Monkey Mia Day eight If you’ve got a spare night or seeking
a special overnight spot, why not try
Day six Explore Coral Bay the Station Stay Way - a collective
Explore Shark Bay Get up early to spend a day in the Bay: of outback stations with great
• Home to a resident population of Manta accommodation options.
Wake up early to meet the Monkey Mia
Rays. Interact with them any day of the year Try Wooramel (between Shark Bay
bottlenose dolphins who visit the shores
• Kayak and snorkel the Blue Maze and and Carnarvon), Quobba (out of
daily from 7.30am. Afterwards, get up close
Asho’s Gap Carnarvon) or Bullara (between Coral
to more of Shark Bay’s natural attractions:
• Quad bike and snorkel the secret and Bay and Exmouth).
• Cruise the Bay spotting marine life on a
hard to reach spots only the locals know
wildlife cruise
#australiascoralcoast 15tasty FOOD trail
DURATION: 6 days
WHEN: March – October
SPECIAL EVENT: Gascoyne Food Festival (August)
HIGHLIGHTS: Western Rock Lobster, craft beer,
distilleries and Aboriginal bush tucker tour
Day 3 & 4
Wooramel
Roadhouse
Day 1 Day 2
Perth to Dongara Geraldton to Carnarvon
(Approx 354km – 4 hours) (Approx 475km – 5 hours)
Day 5 & 6 Travel north along the Indian Ocean Drive Wake up early and have breakfast at one of
(continues north from Wanneroo Road), Geraldton’s favourites:
through the coastal towns of Cervantes, • Jaffle Shack
Dongara, Port Denison and Greenough. • Piper Lane Café
Check out the following places: • Salt Dish
• Morning Tea: Enjoy a great cup of Continue north to Carnarvon, a popular
Houtman
Abrolhos Day 2 coffee and cake at House Blend Café holiday spot for food lovers. $104 million
Islands in Jurien Bay worth of fruit and vegetables are grown
• Lunch (Monday or Tuesday): Dine annually in Carnarvon.
at the Central Greenough Café and Whilst driving on the North West Coastal
Day 1
Visitor Centre. Highway, stop off at either:
• Lunch (Wednesday – Sunday): Visit the • Town of Nanson where the Burnt Barrel
Hampton Arms Inn for rustic home-style Outback BrewBQ specialises in low and
lunch and a browse of their bookshop. slow smoked meats coupled with beer
The first hotel in the area built in 1863, it which is brewed onsite (open Friday-
was restored 17 years ago. Enjoy scones Sunday only).
with fresh cream and homemade jam. • The Billabong Homestead’s Red Car
Dinner in Geraldton: enjoy a pre-dinner Café to fuel up, have a meal and rest up.
drink at the Sunset Bar at the Broadwater Take an evening stroll along The Fascine
Resort Hotel as the sunsets over Champion (Carnarvon’s waterway) showcasing
Bay. Enjoy dinner at: magnificent sunset views before heading
• The 'Broady' out for seafood meal at Sails Restaurant at
• Salt Dish (dinner on Friday & Saturdays) the Best Western Carnarvon.
Overnight: Geraldton Overnight: Carnarvon
16 australiascoralcoast.comfresh and DELICIOUS food
Day 3 Day 4 Day 6
Carnarvon Carnarvon to Kalbarri Dongara to Perth
There’s so much to eat in Carnarvon: (445km – 4.5 hours) (350km – 3.5 hours)
• Visit the Carnarvon Heritage Precinct Enjoy a great coffee and breakfast from the Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the Starfish
and visit Sunsets Café at One Mile Jetty Port Hotel before setting off to Kalbarri. Café, right on Port Denison’s South Beach.
for lunch Arriving in Kalbarri, enjoy a pub lunch. Travel south from Port Denison and join
• Explore and sample the abundant fresh For dinner, try one of the favourites: the 11am distillery tour at Illegal Rum
produce along the Gascoyne Food Trail • The Edge Restaurant Tender Co with a behind the scenes look
– pick up a chocolate-coated frozen • The Jetty Seafood Shack at the distilling process.
banana or mango smoothie On your way home, stop in at Jurien Bay
Overnight: Kalbarri
• Between May to October, every Saturday to experience the beachfront and tasty
morning, the Growers’ Markets are run Day 5 treats from the Jurien Bay Bakery or if
by the growers themselves in front of the Kalbarri to Dongara you’re seeking a full lunch, don’t forget the
Carnarvon Visitor Centre. (220km – 2.5 hours) Cervantes Lobster Shack for the freshest
• Cook your own dinner and pick up Western Rock Lobster. During Wildflower
a selection of seafood from Pickles Wake up early for a full breakfast at the
Gorges Café or Angie’s Café, both are season (July - September) explore Lesueur
Point Seafood & Boatyard or Norwest National Park (near Green Head) and if you
Seafood (April – October). very welcoming and relaxing places for a
coffee or a meal. didn’t make it on the way up from Perth –
For a real outback dinner, book don’t forget a visit to the Pinnacles!
accommodation at Wooramel River As you travel through Northampton, turn off
Retreat located between Carnarvon and to Nanson where the Burnt Barrel Outback
Shark Bay. On Wednesday nights, the BrewBQ specialises in low and slow smoked
team offer an Australian camp oven dinner BBQ coupled with beer which is brewed
or enjoy a Homestead Hamper – a bush onsite (open Friday- Sunday only).
picnic dinner. Dinner in Dongara-Port Denison: It’s got
Overnight: Carnarvon and surrounds to be Southerlys Harbour View Bar and
Restaurant in Port Denison to enjoy fresh
top quality dining with friendly service,
hearty serves and a great selection of brews.
Overnight: Dongara or Port Denison
#australiascoralcoast 17fun-filled FAMILY itinerary
Day 3 & 4
Wooramel
Roadhouse
DURATION: 7 days Day 2
WHEN: All year round Dongara to Geraldton
Wake up and visit the Seaspray Café
HIGHLIGHTS: National parks, wildlife,
located opposite the beach.
Day 5, 6, 7 beaches and local delights
Make your way north to Greenough (41km
Day 1 – 30mins) and stop in at the Greenough
Wildlife Park to meet the emus, kangaroos
Perth to Dongara and friendly reptiles. You may get to cuddle
(Approx 354km – 4 hours)
a rescued baby joey and learn about the
Houtman Travel north along the Indian Ocean Drive importance of the protection of Australian
Abrolhos Day 2
Islands (continues north from Wanneroo Road), wildlife. Perhaps enjoy an afternoon picnic
through the coastal towns of Cervantes, on the banks of nearby Ellendale Pool
Dongara, Port Denison and Greenough. before continuing north to Geraldton.
Day 1 First stop is The Pinnacles of Nambung Kids will love the Playground and Water
National Park followed by Lake Thetis. Park, located at the Geraldton foreshore.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite head It offers hours of free family fun. Or if
to the Lobster Shack for a factory tour and you’re feeling a little more adventurous try
seafood lunch. Ultimate Watersport’s many activities on
Travel north to the twin towns of Dongara offer like jet skiing, jet packing and tubing -
and Port Denison to sample some sweet located on the Geraldton foreshore.
bakery treats from the Dongara Bakery. Take the kids to the Museum of Geraldton
For dinner head to Southerleys Harbour to learn about the Batavia shipwreck
View Bar and Restaurant where you can through interpretive displays or enjoy
challenge the kids to a game of pool while a walking tour of the Monsignor Hawes
waiting for your meals. designed, St Francis Xavier Cathedral.
Overnight: Dongara or Port Denison On your way to your overnight
accommodation in Geraldton, enjoy a tasty
dinner at the Sunset Bar at the Broadwater
Resort Hotel.
Overnight: Geraldton
18 australiascoralcoast.comDay 3 to François Peron National Park and show to feed the cheeky local pelicans. Be there
Geraldton to Shark Bay the kids the spectacular landscape where by 8.45am and watch the greedy pelicans
(Approx 433km – 5 hours) the red dirt meets the ocean. compete for a fishy treat.
Continue north to Shark Bay, home of the Learn about the Aboriginal culture of the Explore the magnificent Murchison River
Monkey Mia dolphins and one of the two Nhanda and Malgana people on an after gorges of Kalbarri National Park by walking
Coral Coast World Heritage Sites. dinner night tour. trails or have your photo taken in the iconic
Overnight: Monkey Mia or Denham natural red rock Nature’s Window frame in
As you travel through Northampton to
Kalbarri National Park.
Nanson in the Chapman Valley, enjoy lunch
at the Burnt Barrel Outback BrewBQ
Day 5 Visit Rainbow Jungle - the Australian
(open Wed – Sun) which specialises in slow
Shark Bay to Kalbarri Parrot Breeding Centre is a beautiful parrot
(Approx. 399km – 4 hours) habitat, where you will find the largest
cooked smoked Kansas-style barbecue
coupled with beer which is brewed onsite. Head south to Kalbarri and stop off at parrot free-flight aviary in the country.
There’s lots of space for the kids to run Shell Beach, 70 kilometres of white Overnight: Kalbarri
around while parents enjoy the expansive cockle shells and turquoise water and the
view over the rolling hills. Stromatolites of Hamlin Pool (considered Day 7
the oldest ‘living fossils’). If its wildflower Kalbarri to Perth
Stop off at the Billabong Roadhouse to (Approx. 573km – 6 hours)
season (July – September) on the eastern
fuel up and rest your legs as you continue Whilst heading south towards Perth on the
approach to Kalbarri you will find flower
north to Shark Bay. scenic coastal drive, check out the stunning
displays at Galena Bridge rest area and
Overnight: Denham or Monkey Mia Warribanno Chimney road. views of the Coastal Cliff walkways.
Day 4 Overnight: Kalbarri Be sure to stop in for a photo at Port
Gregory’s stunning Pink Lake called Hutt
Shark Bay Day 6 Lagoon (just south of Kalbarri) before
Spend some time at the Monkey Mia foreshore
early this morning where you’re likely to meet
Kalbarri continuing your journey to Perth.
Wake up early and join a quad bike tour For a rest stop on the way home, stretch
the famous Monkey Mia dolphins, with the
to explore the area or perhaps get on the your legs at one of the coastal lookouts
first feeding starting from 7.45am.
water and join a whale watching charter and beaches such as Tea Tree beach
Visit the nearby Ocean Park Aquarium or (late June - November). (Leeman), Dynamite Bay (Green Head), or
join one of the many tours on offer such as
Kids love nothing more than to head down Sandy Cape (Jurien Bay).
a wildlife cruise looking for dugongs. For
to the Kalbarri foreshore (near the Grey Visit www.australiascoralcoast.com for
the more adventurous, take the 4WD out
and Wood St intersection) for their chance more itineraries.
#australiascoralcoast 19experience
experienceWILDFLOWER trails
1, 2 & 3
NAME
Intro
These are just a few wildflower itineraries and ideas. For more trails and
information search ‘Wildflowers’ on www.australiascoralcoast.com
utman
rolhos
ands
STOCKYARD GULLY
NATIONAL PARK Day 1
The WEEKEND wildflowers
Sandy
Cape
Day 2 Lake
Thetis
DURATION: 2 days minimum
WHEN: July – October
HIGHLIGHTS: colourful Kangaroo Paw species in Badgingarra National Park,
IN
DI
AN
orchids in Lesueur National Park
OC
EA
BASE YOURSELF: In/around Cervantes, Jurien Bay, Badgingarra and Eneabba
N
DR
IV
E
Day 1 Day 2
Depart Perth and head north along the Just west of Green Head is the Lesueur
Brand Highway towards Badgingarra where National Park. Known for its incredible
you can wander through the two kilometre floral diversity representing 10% of
Badgingarra Nature Trail. This trail will Western Australia’s total flora, the park
show off: features more than 900 species, many of
• Smokebush, purple star flower, which are not found anywhere else in the
yellow buttercups, banksias plus black, world. Try the following locations:
red and green kangaroo paws, one- Drummonds at the foot of Gairdner
sided bottlebrush, melaleucas and Range offers an 8km hike (return) to the
feather flowers messa of Mt Lesueur. The initial section is
Travelling north to Eneabba, continue 22km flat with the ascent a switchback climb.
north to Western Flora Caravan Park with Cockleshell Gully Road provides great
guided wildflower tours daily until 4.30pm. views of the park, it’s an 18km bitumen
Placeholder There’s often plenty of colour appearing scenic drive showing
beside the walking tracks around the park: • Propeller banksias, magenta starflower,
• Catspaw, various orchids, hakeas, wattle, smokebush, verticordias, hakeas,
yellow myrtle, smokebush, droseras, grevilleas and leschenaultias.
dampiera, daviesia and native buttercups Heading south along the Indian Ocean
If you are travelling by caravan, book ahead Drive towards Perth, turn off to the
for a site at Western Flora and keep exploring! Pinnacles of Nambung National Park. You
Overnight: Cervantes, Jurien Bay or Western will find
Flora Caravan Park (caravan/camping) • Acacias, hibbertias, various orchids,
catspaws, blue tinsel lilies, myrtle,
banksias and casuarinas
Overnight: Cervantes or Jurien Bay or
continue to Perth
20 australiascoralcoast.comDay 2 & 3
Houtman
Abrolhos
The EVERLASTINGS trail
Islands
Day 1
DURATION: 3 days minimum
WHEN: June – October
HIGHLIGHTS: Wreath flowers around Mullewa and fields of colourful
everlastings in the Coalseam Conservation Park.
STOCKYARD GULLY
NATIONAL PARK
BASE YOURSELF: In/around Dongara-Port Denison, Geraldton and Kalbarri
Sandy
Cape
Day 1 Day 2
Lake
Thetis Head inland to Mingenew and Three Take a walk in Geraldton’s Chapman River
Springs for an abundance of unique wreath Regional Park home to flowers, birds and
flowers, everlastings, hakea and more - reptiles. Join the guided walks offered on
IN
check with local information centres. the weekend, ask the visitor Centre for
DI
AN
Travelling north between Mingenew and times and dates.
OC
EA
Mullewa is a wildflower “must-do” - the Just north of Geraldton is the Chapman
N
DR
IV
Coalseam Conservation Park. The park Valley and Yuna where wildflowers
E
is THE hot-spot for everlasting carpets flourish on the roadside. If travelling on
in stunning white, pink and yellow the weekend, stop into Nanson and visit
everlastings as far as the eye can see. the Burnt Barrel for a gourmet outback
In Mullewa explore the Everlasting Cultural barbecue and crafted beer.
Trails, rich with blooming flora and history. Heading north to Kalbarri, make sure to
When entering, look along the highway stop at Northampton’s Elephant Lookout
for bush flowers and orange daviesia (the for a number of wild orchids.
bacon and egg flower). East of Mullewa Overnight: Kalbarri
is Pindar where wreath flowers are Day 3
common along the roadside and Canna
Visit the Kalbarri National Park, home to
where orchids and everlasting fields
breathtaking coastal cliffs and deep river
bloom. West of Mullewa is Tenindewa
gorges. The National Park has roughly 800
where yellow gentlemen’s buttons and
species of native flora, many of which are
everlastings grow wild.
endemic species, including the coveted
Overnight: Dongara-Port Denison or Kalbarri spider orchid. Don’t forget the
Geraldton Coastal Cliffs, the walkways and trails are lit
up with colour. Grab a wildflower map from
the Kalbarri Visitor Centre to assist you.
Overnight: Kalbarri
#australiascoralcoast 21natural EVENTS and activities Home to two of Western Australia’s three natural World-Heritage sites, many events on Australia’s Coral Coast occur seasonally. BEST TIME to visit THE PINNACLES Year round HUTT LAGOON (PINK LAKE) Year round from 10am to 2pm ABROLHOS ISLANDS March – October KALBARRI INLAND GORGES March – October DIRK HARTOG ISLAND March - September NINGALOO REEF March – October MACKEREL ISLANDS April – September 22 australiascoralcoast.com
ACTIVITIES
BEACH FISHING Year round
BEST SPOTS Cervantes, Jurien Bay, Kalbarri, Shark Bay, Carnarvon
EATING ROCK LOBSTER Year round
BEST SPOTS Cervantes, Geraldton, Kalbarri
DEEP SEA FISHING January - September
BEST SPOTS Abrolhos Islands, Kalbarri, Carnarvon, Coral Bay, Exmouth
SURFING March - October
BEST SPOTS Dongara, Kalbarri, Geraldton, Red Bluff and Gnaraloo
WINDSURFING October - April
BEST SPOTS Leeman, Dongara, Denham, Geraldton and Carnarvon
WILDFLOWERS July – October
BEST NATIONAL PARKS Nambung, Lesueur, Coalseam, Shark Bay, Cape Range
BEST TOWNS Mullewa, Coorow, Three Springs, Chapman Valley, Kalbarri
WILDLIFE
MANTA RAYS Year round Best spot Coral Bay
DOLPHINS Year round Best spot Kalbarri, Monkey Mia and Ningaloo
AUSTRALIAN SEA LIONS Year round Best spots Cervantes, Jurien Bay, Leeman,
Green Head, Geraldton and Abrolhos Islands
DUGONGS Year round Best spot Shark Bay and Ningaloo
WHALE SHARKS March – July Best spots Coral Bay & Exmouth
HUMPBACK WHALES July – October Best spots Kalbarri, Dirk Hartog Island,
Ningaloo and Mackerel Islands
ORCAS July – October Best spots Exmouth
EMUS Year round Best spots Denham town, Shark Bay, Exmouth town
KANGAROOS Year round Best spots Nambung and Cape Range National Parks
BIRDLIFE Year round Best spots Stockyard Gully, Kalbarri and Cape Range
National Parks, Abrolhos Islands
BLACK FOOTED ROCK WALLABIES Year round Best spots Cape Range and
Kalbarri National Parks
TURTLE NESTING December – February TURTLE HATCHING January – March
Best spots Dirk Hartog Island, Ningaloo and Mackerel Islands
PRODUCE SEASON
in Carnarvon
BANANA, PAPAYA All Year Round
SEAFOOD All Year Round
TOMATO, CHILLI, CUCUMBERS,
BUTTERNUT PUMPKIN All Year Round
WINTER VEGETABLES May - August
MELONS October - April
GRAPE November - January
MANGO AND TROPICAL FRUITS
November - March
#australiascoralcoast 23TOP 10
T H I N G S
TO D O
try a 4WD adventure
1. Lucky Bay, Kalbarri
2. Hill River, Jurien Bay
3. François Peron National Park, Shark Bay
4. Oyster Bridge, Coral Bay
5. Quobba, Red Bluff & Gnaraloo, Carnarvon
6. Bowes River Mouth, Horrocks
7. Cliff Head at Arrowsmith, near Dongara
8. Dirk Hartog Island, Shark Bay
9. Stockyard Gully, Leeman
10. Sandy Cape, Jurien Bay
find a UNIQUE stay
1. Sal Salis, Exmouth
2. Wooramel River Retreat, between
Shark Bay and Carnarvon
3. Direction Island, Mackerel Islands
4. Oakabella Homestead, Northampton
5. Sail Ningaloo, Coral Bay
6. Dirk Hartog Island, Shark Bay
7. Ningaloo Bed & Breakfast, Exmouth
8. Coral Coast Sunset Deck, Port Denison
9. Western Flora Caravan Park, Eneabba
10. Bullara Station Stay, Coral Bay
24 australiascoralcoast.comExplore secret BEACHES
1. Little Bay, Horrocks
2. Urchin Point on Dirk Hartog Island,
Shark Bay
3. Sandy Bay in Cape Range National
Park, Exmouth
4. Five Fingers Reef, Coral Bay
5. The Thong Shack, Shark Bay
6. Blue Holes, Kalbarri
7. South Beach, Port Denison
8. Sandy Cape, Jurien Bay
9. Shell Beach at Quobba Station,
Carnarvon
10. Muiron Islands, Exmouth
Discover
CREATURES
great and small
1. Whale Sharks, Exmouth & Coral Bay
2. Echidnas, Indian Ocean Drive
3. Thorny Devils, Kalbarri to Exmouth
4. Dolphins, Kalbarri to Exmouth
5. Wedge Tail Eagles, Kalbarri to Exmouth
6. Endangered Australian Sea Lions,
Cervantes to Geraldton
7. Black Footed Rock Wallabies, Exmouth
8. Manta Rays, Coral Bay & Exmouth
9. Western Rock Lobsters,
Cervantes to Kalbarri
10. Dugongs, Shark Bay to Exmouth
#australiascoralcoast 25TOP 10
T H I N G S
TO D O
enjoy FAMILY fun
1. Space and Technology Museum, Carnarvon
2. Foreshore Pirate Playground, Denham
3. Greenough Wildlife Park, Greenough
4. Exmouth’s Water Spray Gardens, Exmouth
5. Rainbow Jungle and Maze, Kalbarri
6. Ocean Park Aquarium, Shark Bay
7. Drive-In Movies, Dongara-Port Denison
8. Ellendale Pool, Geraldton
9. ‘Aquarium’ at the Blowholes, Carnarvon
10. Foreshore Youth Precinct, Geraldton
WALKING or
DRIVE trails
1. Yamaji Drive Trail, Greater Geraldton area
2. Mandu Mandu Gorge, Exmouth
3. Turquoise Way Trail (bike and walk),
Cervantes
4. Street Art Trail, Geraldton
5. The Loop Hike, Kalbarri
6. Heritage Walk, Northampton
7. Thungara Trails, Dongara-Port Denison
8. Mt Lesueur Mesa Hike, Green Head
9. Wildflower Drive, various – see itineraries
10. Three Bays Walkway, Green Head
26 australiascoralcoast.comthe ultimate
#INSTA SPOTS
1. The Pink Lake at Hutt Lagoon,
Port Gregory
2. Turquoise Bay, Exmouth
3. Monkey Mia Dolphins, Shark Bay
4. Wildflowers of Coalseam
Conservation Park, Mingenew
5. King Waves Kill sign at Quobba,
Carnarvon
6. The Pinnacles Desert, Cervantes
7. Bottle Bay, Shark Bay
8. Leaning Trees, Greenough
9. Nature’s Window, Kalbarri
10. ANZAC Soldiers, Dongara-Port Denison
World Heritage,
MARINE AND
NATIONAL PARKS
1. Shell Beach, Shark Bay
2. Ningaloo Reef, Carnarvon to Exmouth
3. Stromatolites, Shark Bay
4. Yardie Creek, Exmouth
5. Natural Bridge & the Coastal Cliffs, Kalbarri
6. Jurien Bay Marine Park, Jurien Bay
7. Abrolhos Islands, Geraldton
8. Turtle Bay at Dirk Hartog Island, Shark Bay
9. Kennedy Range National Park, Carnarvon
10. Cervantes Islands, Cervantes
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