travelling in western australia

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COVID-19 coronavirus: Information for travellers

International travellers, interstate travellers, cruise ship passengers, visiting remote aboriginal communities.

Frequently asked questions about travel to WA

Travellers are no longer required to provide a G2G Pass or proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter WA.

People travelling to Australia no longer need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result.

The Australian Government controls Australia’s international border. Visit the Department of Home Affairs for the latest advice on entering and leaving Australia.

You can enter WA from interstate without any requirements.

Interstate travellers and returning WA residents:

• do not need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccinations to enter WA
• do not need to undertake any pre-departure or arrival COVID-19 testing

If you are entering WA via cruise ship, guidelines are in place to keep you and our community safe from COVID-19.

WA has adopted the Eastern Seaboard and Western Australia protocols, which provide cruise ships with policy guidelines about how to manage COVID-19 restrictions and outbreaks on board.

Please follow all guidelines put in place by your cruise ship and continue to engage in COVID-19 safe behaviour, both onboard and during shore excursions.

WA encourages all visitors on cruise ships to take a RAT prior to shore excursions and follow recommendations on mask wearing in WA to help protect local communities.

There are more than 200 remote Aboriginal communities in Western Australia across the Midwest, Gascoyne, Pilbara, Goldfields and Kimberley regions. Restrictions on entering remote Aboriginal communities have now lifted, however, communities may continue to enforce their own restrictions for entry.

If you plan on visiting a remote Aboriginal community, you need to check with the community before leaving, to learn if there’s any restrictions on entry and make sure you have necessary approval before travelling. This is important if you are wanting to use amenities or to access food or fuel.

Contact the visitor centre  for the region for the latest travel information.

Check ahead for any restrictions at your destination location before you leave WA. Visit the Smartraveller website for the latest travel advice.

Do I need a G2G Pass to enter WA?

No, a G2G Pass is no longer a requirement to enter WA.

Can I travel to WA unvaccinated?

Yes, proof of COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required to enter WA.

Do I need to take a RAT before travelling to or on arrival to WA?

No, you do not need to undertake any pre-departure or arrival COVID-19 testing to enter WA. However, it is recommended that you take a test to help protect others around you.

What travel restrictions are in place for WA?

There are no travel restrictions in place to enter WA. If you intend to travel to a remote Aboriginal community, some communities may have restrictions in place. Check before you travel.   

Can I travel to WA from overseas?

Yes, eligible international travellers and visa holders may enter WA. 

Visit the Department of Home Affairs for the latest information on entering and leaving Australia.  

Can I travel to WA from another Australian state or territory?

Yes, interstate travellers can enter WA.

Are WA border restrictions still in place?

No, WA no longer has border restrictions in place.

Can I enter WA by road?

Yes, travellers driving to WA may enter by road.

Visit the WA COVID-19 information home page

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Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.

The Ultimate Western Australia Road Trip Itinerary

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From Esperance in the south all the way up to Broome in the north, this ultimate Western Australia road trip itinerary takes you along all the highlights of Australia’s largest state.

As soon as you hit the road and start exploring Western Australia, you’ll immediately realise why this destination is a truly unique corner of the world.

In terms of land mass, it is the biggest state in Australia. It is absolutely massive, taking up almost the entire western half of the country.

Despite its size, Western Australia is sparsely populated. Much of the land is desert, so it is extremely remote and there are few tourists here compared to places like New South Wales or Queensland.

Even when heading to the desert regions of the Outback, most travellers head to Alice Springs in the Northern Territory before considering a trip to Western Australia.

Because Western Australia is mostly rural, and there are few tourists, it’s actually one of the best spots for road trips in Australia!

Full of wildlife, national parks, coral reefs, wineries, charming towns, white sandy beaches, and rugged natural landscapes that sometimes look like another planet, Western Australia has so much to offer.

The best way to see it all is definitely a road trip. Public transport doesn’t reach all the best parts of the state, so a driving adventure allows you to get to all the most beautiful and remote places on your own schedule.

Let’s get into this epic Western Australia road trip itinerary!

Table of Contents

Where to Start?

How long is the drive, car or campervan, driving in western australia – road trip tips, day 1 – perth to dunsborough, day 2 – dunsborough to margaret river, day 3 – margaret river to albany, day 4 – albany to bremer bay, day 5 – bremer bay to esperance and cape le grand national park, day 6 – esperance to hyden, day 7 – hyden to perth, day 8 – perth to jurien bay, day 9 – jurien bay to geraldton, day 10 – geraldton to kalbarri, day 11 – kalbarri to shark bay, day 12 – shark bay to coral bay, day 13 – coral bay to exmouth, day 14 – exmouth, day 15 – exmouth to karijini national park, day 16 – karijini, day 17 – karijini to eighty mile beach, day 18 – eighty mile beach to broome, where next, wa road trip guide.

Before we get into the actual itinerary for a Western Australia road trip, we’re going to cover some of the basics.

To plan a road trip of this diverse and stunning state, you need to have a few things sorted including your transport, your time frame, your supplies, and any other logistics.

The road trip will consist of two sections: A southern loop from Perth to Esperance and back, and a northern route from Perth up to Broome and back. This is a lot of ground to cover, but it is so worth it.

To help you plan your road trip, here are some important things to consider.

Although it makes sense to start at one end of the west coast and finish at the other, this isn’t realistic for most people.

This Western Australia road trip will reach from Esperance in the south, all the way up to Broome in the north. However, flights into Esperance or Broome aren’t cheap from most destinations around Australia. Car rentals are even more scarce, and more costly in these places.

Your best option is to start your Western Australia road trip in Perth.

Perth is the capital city of Western Australia, and it has the most amenities available. Flights into Perth are plentiful, and they are more affordable than other places in the state.

Fly into Perth, spend a few days enjoying the capital city, then rent a car and head out on your road trip. Return to Perth at the end to return your car and fly home.

If you already have your own car or camper van and you don’t need to rent one in Perth, you can always begin this road trip anywhere that suits you. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to drive all the way back home after the trip.

READ MORE: Check out our list of the best things to do in Perth!

The biggest obstacle when planning a Western Australia road trip is time!

Because the state is so huge and all the attractions are spread out, you’ll need a good chunk of time to see everything.

Give yourself 3 weeks at the very least to complete the entire Western Australia road trip and then loop back to Perth. This is the very minimum amount of time, with just one night in most places.

The first part of the road trip starts in Perth, follows along the south west edge of the state until Esperance, then loops back to Perth inland via Hyden. The driving distance is roughly 21 hours (with no stops), covering about 1,900 km.

The second part starts in Perth and heads north along the coast, with a detour to Karijini National Park, before ending in Broome. The driving distance is roughly 31 hours (with no stops) and covers about 2,800 km.

After Broome you’ll return to Perth unless you’re continuing into the Northern Territory. So the total driving time for the north and the south, plus the return drive to Perth, is roughly 75 hours. The total distance is roughly 6,700km.

Three weeks is very doable for this drive! If you have time to spare, stretch the road trip out into a month or more.

Whether you want to take your time and leisurely explore the state, or you want to see it all in 3 weeks, a Western Australia road trip is one of the best things to do Down Under .

You can do a Western Australia road trip in either one! But spoiler alert, we recommend a campervan!

A rental car is cheaper than renting a campervan. You’ll probably spend less money on petrol, and there is less maintenance required with a small car.

But you’ll have to book all your accommodations in advance. You can also pack a tent and camping gear , you’ll just have to set up camp every night.

A campervan is the most convenient option because you can just drive up to most campsites and you’re good to go.

There is a lot of hopping around on this road trip, so it is handy to just have your sleeping arrangements all set up in your van. If you don’t have your own van, you can rent one in Perth.

We recommend Travellers Autobarn , who have the biggest range of budget-friendly vans available.

Whether you rent a car or a camper van, definitely take advantage of the amazing campgrounds in the state.

Camping in the remote outback areas of Western Australia and watching the stars is an epic adventure!

Another thing to note: you don’t necessarily need a 4WD. Some more rugged areas of the road trip will definitely be easier with a 4WD, but you can still complete the road trip without one.

Here are some other road trip tips for Western Australia.

As mentioned, Western Australia is very remote. Petrol stations are usually available, but it is wise to be prepared just in case. Try to have spare fuel, spare tires, and extra necessities like food, water, and a first aid kit.

Also, be careful when driving on the outback roads. Wildlife is everywhere, and even when the road looks deserted, you never know what may jump out in front of you. Particularly at dawn and dusk, drive with caution.

In terms of weather, I would recommend avoiding a Western Australia road trip in the middle of summer.

December through February can get extremely hot, especially the further north you go.

The north of Western Australia has a tropical climate as well, meaning summer is also rainy season.

To avoid rain, floods, and potential road closures, and super hot temperatures, plan your road trip outside the summer months.

With those tips in mind, all road trips around Western Australia should run smoothly. Let’s get into the itinerary and our suggestions for the best places to go on your road trip.

Western Australia Road Trip Itineraries

As discussed earlier, we have separated this Western Australia road trip itinerary into two sections.

The Southern Route begins in Perth, follows the south west edge of the state to Margaret River and Albany, then continues to Esperance. From there, you can loop back to Perth inland.

The Northern Route starts in Perth and follows the west coast up to Exmouth. Then you can take a detour to Karijini, then continue up to Broome before heading back to Perth or continuing your road trip north.

These itineraries can be modified according to your plans. You can just do one route if you don’t have a full three weeks to spare. If you have more time, feel free to spend extra days in places you really love.

If you don’t have your own wheels you can rent a campervan in Perth .

Southern Route

The Southern Route of the road trip takes 7 days. If you only have a short time to explore Western Australia, this is the quickest road trip to choose.

Be sure to spend a few days exploring Perth before you set out. Check out Fremantle, explore the beautiful  Perth beaches , or take a day trip to Rottnest Island and play with the quokkas.

Once you’ve had your fun in Perth, pick up your car or camper van and get going!

If you’re only planning on driving south too, have a read of our Perth to Esperance road trip guide.

From Perth, it’s a 3 hour drive to Dunsborough.

Stop in Busselton along the way, a charming coastal town with plenty of  fun things to do .

Stretch your legs along the iconic Busselton Jetty, or do the Underwater Sea Walk which explores the marine life under the jetty.

You could also walk to the Cape Naturalist Lighthouse or get some delicious fresh seafood for lunch.

Continue on to Dunsborough, which has some nice wineries and beaches to check out. Meelup Beach is a great spot for a swim or surf.

Dunsborough and Margaret River are only 30 minutes apart, so you can spend the night in either place.

Today you’ll want to do some wine tasting in the Margaret River region, as this is a highlight of Western Australia. You can just drive from vineyard to vineyard on your own, or  book a winery day tour  so you can drink all the wine you want without having to drive.

BONUS –  Booking ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on the tour, and get the best price too! And just for NOMADasaurus readers, if you use the Klook discount code  “NOMADS10”  on the website when checking out, you’ll get $10 off your first booking!

Also check out Margaret River Chocolate Company and Margaret River Dairy Company to sample locally made, artisan food and buy some snacks for your trip.

Other fun things to do near Margaret River include surfing at Yallingup Beach, taking a dip at the nearby natural swimming pool called Injidup Natural Spa, and checking out the stalactites and stalagmites at Jewel Cave or Ngilgi Cave.

After Margaret River, it’s time to head towards your next destination: Esperance. If you want an extra day in Esperance, drive straight there from Margaret River. It takes 8 hours.

If you prefer to break the journey up and see more Western Australia highlights along the way, you can make a few stops on the way to Esperance.

It’s 4 hours from Margaret River to Albany.

Definitely stop in Hamelin Bay , where lots of sting rays swim through the shallow waters. You can go snorkelling here or just wade amongst the rays. 9am or 10am is the best time to see them!

Another cool stop on the way to Albany is the massive, seaside boulders known as Elephant Rocks in William Bay National Park. Nearby is Greens Pool, a beautiful spot for a swim.

Just before you reach Albany there is another gem: Torndirrup National Park. Check out the unique rock formations here like The Gap and the Blowholes, and the Natural Bridge.

Read next:  The 20 Best Things to Do in Albany

It’s 2 hours from Albany to Bremer Bay, the next stop on your way to Esperance along the south west coast.

You can spend the morning in Albany. Get brekky in a cafe, go for a swim or stroll on Middleton Beach, or check out the National ANZAC Center for a bit of Aussie history. If you’re here on a Saturday, definitely stop by the Albany Farmers Market.

Once you reach Bremer Bay, consider booking an  orca whale watching tour . This is one of the best places in the world to see orcas in the wild. Between January and March, the ocean here is home to the largest congregation of Orcas in the Southern Hemisphere.

You can also go whale watching here between June and October, as southern right whales come here to calve.

You may also see humpback whales, pilot whales, and more. Anywhere on this region of the south west coast of Australia is great for whale watching during the winter months!

Also in the area is the Fitzgerald River National Park. Full of beautiful forest and walking trails, this is a nice place to explore if you’re not here during whale season.

There are two campgrounds here as well if you want to spend the night in the wilderness.

From Bremer Bay, it’s a 5.5 hour drive to Esperance.

Known for its pink lakes, stunning beaches, and active wildlife, Esperance is one of Australia’s most beautiful places.

The famous saltwater Pink Lake is right next to the town, but it isn’t actually pink anymore.

Lake Hillier is the more famous pink lake, which is located on an island off the coast of Esperance. You can access this lake by a boat tour if you wish.

Once you arrive in Esperance, spend the day exploring Cape Le Grand National Park . Lucky Bay Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia.

It’s famous for its white sand, turquoise water, and kangaroos which frequent the beach.

A great way to see all the highlights of Esperance is to do the Great Ocean Drive. It’s a 40-km loop that starts and ends in Esperance.

Along the Great Ocean Drive is the Observatory Point Lookout, Twilight Beach, Twilight Cove, Ten Mile Lagoon, Lucky Bay Brewing Company, and the Pink Lake.

You can follow the  Great Ocean Drive route  or just pick and choose the attractions you want to see while you’re here.

Check out our full list of the  best things to do in Esperance .

After enjoying Esperance, it’s time to head back to Perth. It’s an 8 hour drive on the inland route. You can do it all at once, but we recommend stopping halfway in Hyden.

You’ll reach Hyden in 4 hours. While you’re here you have to check out Wave Rock. This giant slab of granite that was supposedly formed 130 million years ago is actually shaped like a huge wave.

It has formed this way naturally over time, and it’s one of the coolest natural attractions along the route. It’s worth stopping in Hyden just to see it.

From Hyden, it’s just a 4 hour drive back to Perth! You’ve finished the southern section of this road trip.

You can choose to spend some time relaxing in Perth, or just continue straight on to the northern section.

Northern Route

This next Western Australia road trip route goes from Perth up to Broome.

As you head north towards the Coral Coast, the waters of the Indian Ocean get warmer and you’ll find the marine life is flourishing.

You’ll also see lots of dramatic natural landscapes within all the national parks and coastal drives.

The Coral Coast is majestic, colourful, and full of life. It begins in Cervantes, a small town 2 hours north of Perth and ends up in Exmouth.

Read next: Check out our comprehensive Perth to Broome road trip itinerary with more info, or continue reading below for an overview of what you should do on this part of the drive!

From Perth it’s only a 2.5 hour drive to Jurien Bay. On the way you can make a few cool stops if you’d like.

If you already have your vehicle, then you can keep on driving from the southern loop.

But if you are looking to pick up wheels here, grab a campervan from Perth and you’ll be good to go.

Stop in Yanchep National Park to explore the forest, go wildlife watching, stretch your legs on some walking trails, and seek out some limestone caves.

Lancelin is another unique stop because it has sand dunes! You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the Sahara Desert here.

If you have a 4WD you can go off roading on the Lancelin sand dunes. Or you can  rent a sandboard for $12.50  and have some fun.

But the absolute best stop is Nambung National Park, which is a real highlight of Western Australia.

The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park is an otherworldly natural sight. This arid desert is full of natural limestone rock formations that were formed somewhere between 25,000 and 30,000 years ago.

The Pinnacles are a fascinating sight, and could be considered a must-see on road trips through Western Australia.

Once you arrive in Jurien Bay, enjoy the relaxed pace of this chill beach town. Walk along the white sandy beach and go for a snorkel or swim.

Camp near the beach at Sandy Cape Recreation Park and watch the stars.

After a good night’s sleep, there is one amazing adventure to do in Jurien Bay before you continue on the road: a sea lion tour!

A colony of sea lions lives on Essex Rocks, which is a 15-minute boat ride away from Jurien Bay.

Book a boat tour  so you can visit the colony and go snorkelling and swimming with some friendly sea lions.

After swimming with sea lions, drive 2 hours north from Jurien Bay towards Geraldton.

Geraldton is a pretty quiet town that is a popular stop on a road trip of Western Australia.

Spend the day visiting the cafes, markets, museums, beaches, and swimming holes in the area.

There are a few nice caravan parks in Geraldton as well, where you can rent a cabin or park your campervan.

Tomorrow you’re heading to Kalbarri National Park, which is full of fun things to do.

It’s a 2-hour drive from Geraldton to Kalbarri, a resort town framed by rugged coastal cliffs and oceans filled with wildlife.

On the way to Kalbarri you’ll pass by another pink lake called Hutt Lagoon. This lake is still pink due to the presence of a special algae, so check it out if you haven’t yet gotten a cool photo of a Western Australia pink lake.

Once you arrive in Kalbarri, spend some time admiring the stunning coastline. Visit Red Bluff, Natural Bridge, and Island Rock for impressive views of the jagged rocks towering over the ocean.

You can also head into Kalbarri National Park, which has lots of great hiking trails and some iconic landscapes.

The Z Bend Lookout is a short day trail that is quite popular.

The real highlight of Kalbarri National Park is the short, loop trail to Nature’s Window.

This is a large natural arch made of layers upon layers of dusty red sandstone. The arch creates “Nature’s Window” where you can look through over the rivers, forests, and cliffs of the national park.

Check out our list of the  best places to visit in Australia  for more travel inspiration!

Continue driving north for 4 hours until you reach Shark Bay, then spend the day exploring this very special area of Australia.

Shark Bay on the Coral Coast is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site . It is the most westerly point of Australia, and is made up of numerous islands, reefs, national parks, beaches, and more.

Shark Bay is also home to the world’s largest and richest seagrass beds, where you can find large numbers of dugongs grazing in the waters.

There are so many other cool things to see in Shark Bay. Visit Hamelin Pool to see the oldest life forms on earth: a type of living fossil known as stromatolites. These algae colonies are millions of years old.

Another highlight of the area is Shell Beach. This is one of the few places on earth where you can find a beach with billions of tiny shells in place of the sand.

After admiring Shell Beach, visit Francois Peron National Park to see the vibrant natural colors, from the red cliffs and white sandy beaches to the turquoise waters.

Monkey Mia is a small, quiet area of Shark Bay famous for its marine life. From a huge population of wild bottlenose dolphins, to manta rays, turtles, dugongs, and more, Monkey Mia is a great spot for wildlife watching.

Denham is the gateway town to the nature of Shark Bay, so you can find accommodation here unless you want to camp at a more remote campground in Francois Peron National Park. The Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort is another nice place to stay.

After marveling at the wildlife and colorful nature around Monkey Mia, Shark Bay, and the national park, drive 5 hours to Coral Bay.

On the way you can stop at the Quobba Blowholes to watch the water shoot out of natural rock crevices and up into the air.

Coral Bay is a charming spot on the Coral Coast, so enjoy your day here before heading up to Exmouth tomorrow.

There are a few nice caravan parks near the beach such as Bayview Caravan Park and People’s Park.

The Ningaloo Reef acts as a barrier from the Indian Ocean so the water here is calm, clear, and peaceful. The conditions are perfect for snorkelling, diving, fishing, kayaking, or stand up paddle boarding.

If you want a real treat, you can  tour the reefs of Coral Bay  on a glass bottom boat.

A highlight of the area is Skeleton Bay, a nursery for reef sharks. Stop here to add another species to your list of animals you’ve seen on this road trip of Western Australia!

From Coral Bay it’s 2 hours to Exmouth, one of the best places to visit on a road trip of Western Australia.

Stop by the  Ningaloo Visitor Centre  when you arrive for maps and information. You’ll spend a full day in Exmouth tomorrow exploring the beaches and reefs of Cape Range National Park so make sure you get some rest today in preparation for an incredible day.

Read more about the ultimate Perth to Exmouth road trip if you’re not planning on heading further north.

Exmouth is a major tourist town that marks the gateway to the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area.

The waters are filled with coral reefs and marine life, and the land is surrounded by the gorges and cliffs of Cape Range National Park.

It’s a stunning area, and it’s sure to be a highlight of your road trip.

Easily the best thing to do in Exmouth is swimming with whale sharks. These gentle giants roam the warm waters of the Ningaloo Reef, alongside humpback whales and manta rays. You can book a tour to snorkel with the ocean animals during the whale shark season (March through August).

Book your whale shark tour  a few months in advance because they sell out quickly!

Other amazing things to do in Exmouth include snorkeling at Turquoise Bay or Sandy Bay, or going hiking on the Yardie Gorge Trail or the Mandu Mandu Gorge Trail.

After a big day of snorkeling or hiking, get ready for an 8 hour drive to one of Australia’s most phenomenal national parks. Be sure to fill up on petrol, water, and snacks before you leave.

Once you arrive in Karijini National Park, stop at Visitor Centre in Tom Price which is the highest town in Western Australia. Here you can get maps of the park and stock up on more supplies if needed.

If you have a camper van, a great place to spend the night is the free camping ground near Hamersley Gorge. If you aren’t camping,  Karijini Eco Retreat  is a gorgeous place to stay.

Start your day in Australia’s second largest national park with an early morning swim in Hamersley Gorge.

There is so much to see and do in  Karijini National Park , so it’s a good idea to pick which hikes you’re doing the night before

That way you aren’t scrambling to make decisions and you can make the most of your day in the park.

The park is most well known for its rich red hues, swimming holes, and gorges. Some of the best gorges to visit include Knox Gorge, Joffre Gorge, Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge, and Dales Gorge.

Each one has a challenging hiking trail that can be done in a few hours or more depending on your fitness level.

You probably won’t be able to hike every single gorge in one day, so take your pick of which hikes you’d like to tackle.

You can also just visit lookouts to see the gorges without a strenuous hike if you prefer. Fortescue Falls, Fern Pool, and the 2km Gorge Rim Trail are also highlights of the park.

Dales Camping Area is another lovely camping spot in the park if you’d like to spend the night somewhere new. It needs to be booked in advance.

From Karijini it’s a 6.5 hour drive to Eighty Mile Beach. 

We suggest driving though Port Hedland, which is a good place to stop for petrol, food, water, and any other supplies. 

There isn’t heaps to do in Eighty Mile Beach besides enjoying the long, peaceful stretch of sand.

Go swimming, fishing, birdwatching, or walking. Definitely watch the sunrise or sunset over the ocean. 

If you have a 4WD you can drive along the beach. The Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park is a convenient place to stay. You can park your camper van at a powered or unpowered campsite, or rent a cabin for the night. 

Time to head to the last destination on your road trip of Western Australia! Broome is about 4 hours north of Eighty Mile Beach. 

Broome is the gateway to the Kimberly Region of northern Australia. The tropical resort town is best known for its pearl farms and the beautiful Cable Beach where you can ride camels at sunset. 

Some of the other  best things to do in Broome  include visiting the museums and Aboriginal art galleries, going whale watching, and checking out the views at Roebuck Bay. 

Further west from Broome lies the Gibb River Road, a scenic drive through the heart of the Outback.

Consider heading that way if you have more time to road trip, as it’s a unique part of Australia that has some beautiful gorges and lakes. 

After enjoying Broome, you have finished the most epic road trip of Western Australia!

If you have your own camper van or car, consider continuing north towards Darwin and Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory. You’ve already made it this far, why not see more of the best places in Australia?

If you have a rental vehicle to return, or you’re done road tripping and you have responsibilities to get back to, get ready for a big drive back to Perth.

It’s almost a 23 hour drive from Broome to Perth via the National Highway. This route cuts inland so it’s a bit faster than heading back along the coast.

Don’t forget you can also look into one-way campervan rentals for a slight premium if that suits your itinerary more.

Hopefully this guide will help you on your next adventure out in Western Australia!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Thanks so much for this brilliant guide. We are going over in about 3 months and your excellent summary of the region will form the basis of our itinerary. Cheers.

I love the way you guide me as a reader. Amazing photos and you have a great adventure to the beautiful places. Thank you for sharing. This is what you meant by adventure, but getting there is the best part of the trip.

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Vaccines, tests and why 5 February: all you need to know on WA opening up

Here’s what you need to do before travelling to Western Australia and while in the state, which is to open its borders next year

Western Australia’s premier, Mark McGowan, has announced the state’s border will reopen on 5 February when double-dose vaccination is predicted to hit 90%, allowing for quarantine-free travel to the state.

Here’s what you need to know before you book travel into WA.

What do I need to do before travelling from interstate?

All interstate travellers 12 years and older must be double-vaccinated, obtain a G2G pass and return a negative PCR test 72 hours before departure, unless you are ineligible or medically exempt. You will also need to carry out another PCR test within 48 hours of arriving in the state.

There are different rules depending on the time you are intending to spend in WA.

If you are travelling into WA for six days or more, then you must receive a negative PCR test within 72 hours of departure and undertake a PCR test within 48 hours of arrival into the state.

If you are planning on spending five days or less in WA, then you must receive a negative PCR test within 72 hours of departure and you will not be required to undertake any tests once you have arrived in WA.

Anyone travelling who experiences symptoms of Covid must get tested immediately.

Unvaccinated travellers will not be permitted to enter WA unless they are ineligible or medically exempt.

What if I am travelling internationally?

Double vaccinated international travellers will not be required to quarantine but will need to return a negative PCR test 72 hours prior to arrival in the state. International travellers will also need to undertake another PCR test within 48 hours of arriving in Perth and on day six.

If travellers are not vaccinated or have not received an approved vaccine, they will still need to undertake 14 days of quarantine at a hotel or at a designated facility. The cost of quarantining will be paid by the traveller.

“There will be a cap on the unvaccinated, one that is significantly lower than the cap now in place,” McGowan said.

What are the public health rules in WA?

Face masks are required on public transport, taxis or rideshares, at airports, on flights, in hospitals, and aged care or corrections facilities.

Proof of vaccination is required for major events with 1,000 or more patrons, such as nightclubs and Perth’s casino.

QR code check-ins must be used through the SafeWA app. Conditions will remain for entry into some Aboriginal communities.

When do I need to provide proof of vaccination?

You will need to provide proof of vaccination when you travel into WA, attend events with more than 1,000 patrons and attend major stadiums, including Optus Stadium, RAC Arena, HBF Park and HBF Stadium.

Why was 5 February chosen?

The date was chosen based on advise provided by health professionals and projections that 90% of people older than 12 will be double-dose vaccinated by 5 February.

“We are very confident that by 5 February we will hit double-dose vaccination for the entirety of Western Australia ,” McGowan said.

What are the vaccination rates like in WA?

Statewide, more than 200,000 people still need to get their second vaccination dose to reach the 90% mark.

Currently, 57% of the Aboriginal population have received their first dose and about 40% are fully vaccinated. More than 90% of people aged 50 and over are fully vaccinated; about 82% of the 40-something population are fully vaccinated; 75% of 30–40-year-olds are fully vaccinated; for the 20-something cohort, 60% are fully vaccinated; for those aged 16 to 19 years, 63% are fully vaccinated; and half of all kids aged 12 to 15 have been vaccinated.

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WA's travel rules ease from today, so what's changing and will my G2G application be approved?

After months of waiting, WA's border restrictions have finally eased, although a full reopening is still on hold indefinitely.

Premier Mark McGowan has said these adjustments balance safety and compassion and will help delay widespread community transmission of Omicron in WA until more people have had their booster.

While thousands are expected to flock to Western Australia from today, there will be plenty whose trips have been cancelled by the new rules.

So what are they? And when might they change?

Can I come to WA?

The first step is always to get a G2G pass approved.

For that, you'll have to fit into one of these categories:

• Returning West Australians with "strong recent connections"
• People with "direct legitimate family connections" with WA
• Anyone travelling on compassionate grounds, including for funerals, or to see someone in palliative care or who is terminally ill
• Families of approved travellers
• People needing "urgent and essential" medical treatment
• People with "specialist skills not available in WA", including health and emergency services
• People required to attend court matters, judicial officers and staff of courts, tribunals and commissions.

There's also a catch-all category for people in "extraordinary circumstances", who can have their entry approved by either the State Emergency Coordinator or the Chief Health Officer.

But, you won't be allowed in if you have COVID, any COVID symptoms, are a close contact or are waiting for a test result to come back.

What is a 'strong recent connection' or 'legitimate family connection'?

The government's resources describe a "legitimate family connection" as "a relationship akin to a direct relative, including an adopted family situation".

Travel on compassionate grounds is also limited to people visiting a "direct lineal relative".

A government spokesperson confirmed to the ABC that this generally means someone who's one step away, like a parent or sibling, as well as grandparents.

For other family members, you'll have to show some kind of strong link.

And if you were thinking of using your distant third cousin to get into WA, Police Minister Paul Papalia already ruled that out.

To show a "strong recent connection", you'll need to have had your "ordinary place of residence" in WA in the past two years, and be returning to live in Western Australia permanently.

And if you're hoping your specialist skills will be enough to get you in, you'll need to prove they are time-critical and not reasonably available in WA.

WA Police confirmed almost 25,000 G2G applications had been approved, as of 8am Friday, for arrivals on or after February 5.

It accounted for about 60 per cent of the total number of applications for travellers hoping to cross through WA's new hard border, with the remaining applications rejected or still pending.

What are the rules if I'm travelling from interstate?

The main requirements are:

• Being double-dose vaccinated, or triple-dose if it's been at least three months since your second jab
• Proof of a negative rapid antigen test within 24 hours of your departure
• Quarantine in a "suitable place" (basically, somewhere where you can have your own bedroom) for 14 days
• Get a PCR test within 48 hours and on day 12.

Children aged under 12 won't have to show proof of vaccination or a negative RAT, but will have to comply with all other requirements.

Once you arrive, you'll be processed at the airport by WA Police who will check your G2G pass, but be warned that this could take some time.

A big change this time around is that everyone in the same home as you will also have to self-quarantine and get tested on day 12 with you.

You'll all have to use the G2G Now app to prove you're in quarantine, and police may come check on you.

What if I live in WA and go on holiday interstate?

That depends on if you'd be covered by any of the exemption categories.

If you've left WA to reconnect with family, or you've primarily lived in WA within the last two years, you should be fine.

"An expansion of compassionate guidelines ensures people who leave WA after February 5 for specific family or compassionate reasons and have a significant connection to WA and a legitimate right to return are offered a pathway for return to WA," the official advice states.

Can people come over for my wedding?

Maybe, depending on who they are.

If they're your direct family they should be given the all clear, but for friends, it's a bit of a different story.

If they have family connections here in WA, or they've primarily lived here in the past two years, they can apply to enter on those grounds.

Anyone else will be out of luck, unfortunately.

Can I drive across the border?

People can drive across the border at the Eucla/Eyre Highway checkpoint, with some conditions.

Trucks will still be allowed to enter through the Kununurra checkpoint, as well as people living in border communities, but not ordinary travellers.

What about if I'm coming in directly from overseas?

To start, you'll have to meet the Commonwealth's requirements , which include being double-dose vaccinated at least seven days before travelling and returning a negative COVID-19 test (unless you've recently had COVID). 

You'll also have to fit within WA's international arrivals cap, which the government says will remain at 265 people each week.

The 14-day quarantine requirement remains, but with a slight tweak.

The first seven days will have to be in a government-run hotel quarantine facility, which will cost $180 a day for one person, or $1,260 for a week.

If you return negative PCR tests on days one and six though, you might be able to quarantine elsewhere.

Either way, you'll be tested again on days nine and 12.

If you self-quarantine in the second week, anyone you're staying with will also have to quarantine and be tested on day 12.

If you arrive in Australia in another state and then travel to WA though, you'll be treated as a domestic traveller and will be able to skip hotel quarantine.

Mr McGowan has admitted there are "some inconsistencies" under the rules , but said it would "serve the greater good" by reducing strain on the state's hotel quarantine system until a purpose-built facility is ready.

Can university students come in?

The rules for international students have changed a few times, so you'd be forgiven for being a bit confused.

On Tuesday, the government confirmed international students had to be in Australia by today  to be allowed into WA.

They'll then be treated as domestic travellers and be subject to the same rules as anyone else.

Any students arriving past that point, at this stage, are out of luck.

When will this change?

When the Premier announced these changes, he said everything would be reviewed later this month.

There is evidence that shows the community's overall immunity from boosters will soon start to wane , but Mr McGowan said this week he is in no rush to change the rules . 

"Obviously we'll set a date, [but] when it's appropriate to do so," he said on Thursday.

"I know some people want us to rush decisions. I've found rushing decisions on this to be unwise."

Won't the Premier just change his mind and close borders again?

When asked whether West Australians can trust any of his future announcements, Mr McGowan said the current situation justified the last-minute change.

"We've had to delay the date, and that's because we want to save West Australian lives," he said.

"We're not just going to deliberately open the border and have scores of people, potentially hundreds of people, die because I wasn't prepared to wait a little while."

The Premier has insisted that border rules wouldn't necessarily be made redundant if case numbers continue to rise in WA.

But as we've seen throughout the pandemic, there's no predicting what happens next.

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Western Australia Road Trip: Tips, Advice & Warnings 2024

They call it Australia’s last frontier , a land of photogenic landscapes, endless desolate roads, remote outback areas, unforgettable sunsets, incredible natural wonders, and beautiful beaches. 

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If you’re interested in getting off the beaten track and exploring in a way you would never be able to in a bustling big city, then Western Australia road trips will present lots of opportunities.

Infatuated by the romantic image of traversing the lesser-explored state of Western Australia , we set off on a 10-day Western Australia road trip .

We researched the routes and attractions, calculated driving times and planned stopovers. We knew going into it that we were in for a road trip; Western Australia has no other means of transport but to make the best road trips. Like sponges, we soaked up every bit of information we could.  We listened to locals’ advices for road trips and made sure to visit their favourite spots . We felt ready, and in theory, we were.

But in reality, no trip, no matter how well planned out and researched, is ever a smooth sail. So, just like many other road trips,  we made a plethora of little mistakes along the way .

So consider us your knight in shining armour, here to save you from making the same silly mistakes! Here are  a few things we wish we had known  before embarking on our road trips in Western Australia- our top 9 Western Australia travel tips.

Traveling Soon?  Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

Best Time to go on a Western Australia Road Trip

During our Western Australia itinerary research, we learned that  May-June was the best time to visit Western Australia . The summer heat, which can sometimes get up to 35-40 degrees, had just subsided, bringing the  daily averages down to very manageable 25-30 degrees.

The water was still warm, 25-27 degrees,  and despite the fact that May and June are known to be the rainiest months of the year, we lucked out with clear blue skies for the entire duration of our trip. We packed for the hot summer climate, prepared to spend 10 days bumming around in bathing suits, shorts, and singlets.

READ NEXT: A Comprehensive Road Trip Checklist

Western Australia Road Trip Tips, Advice & Warnings

1. pack warm clothes.

Like most people, the weather in Western Australia caught us by surprise. At night, the  temperatures  in Perth and along the coast  drop down to 10-18 degrees.

So, if you are travelling to Western Australia between the months of May to November  pack at least a few warmer pieces of clothing  to keep you cozy at night and warm after a swim in the ocean.

2. Make More Time For Daylight Activities

Driving at night in WA is a terrible idea.  “The wildlife roams freely in the outback,”  they said,  “it is best if you don’t drive between dusk and dawn.”  Some campervan and car rental companies even forbid driving at night altogether. (Ours didn’t, although they too recommended that we don’t do it).

We didn’t initially didn’t plan to drive at night at first but ended up pushing the boundaries and driving after dusk a few times. We found that by driving in the evening we could split up our long 7-10 hour drives into more manageable 3-5 hour drives and  avoid losing too much precious daylight on the road.

3. Use Common Sense Driving After Dark

But,  we weren’t careless by driving after dusk . We drove well below the speed limit and only for a few hours after sunset. We kept our high beams on at all times, keeping our eyes peeled on the road and the wildlife that did sometimes pop out from the bushes.

In some places, like the Cape Range National Park near   Exmouth ,  we had to slow down to 40km/hr to avoid running into 40 kangaroos  that we counted chilling on the side of the road. It pays for one to know what is slow travel. Be extremely careful if you are considering driving at night. Know your own limits, and never drive while tired!

4. Research Your Route

When it comes to self-drive trips, Western Australia certainly makes it a unique experience. While it makes sense to start at one end of the West Coast and finish at the other, this isn’t realistic for most people because of the route.

If you have a week to spare before starting the drive from Perth to Exmouth, we highly recommend exploring the stunning coastline that lies further south. Drive from Perth via Hyden or Kalgoorlie over the next few days. Don’t miss the impressive Wave Rock on your way, Wave Rock is a natural wonder formed around 130 million years ago, it is said that Wave Rock is towering about three storeys high.

Google maps  and Google navigation is the best thing for driving routes in Western Australia. For those planning to explore Western Australia by car,  it’s an invaluable resource.

Even if you don’t have mobile reception or WIFI connection on the road, you can hook up to wifi at your hotel  pre-load the maps/route  and use GPS to get from point A to point B with great ease. However,  don’t trust Google in Western Australia.

5. Speed Limits In Western Australia

It seems that Google navigation hasn’t quite figured out the speed limits on some roads in W.A., labelling many 110km/hr roads as 60km/hr or even less.

The good news is that it’s always a mistake that will benefit you.  What may look like a 10-hour drive on Google Maps  (Exmouth to Karijini National Park, for example) is actually only 550kms and with a speed limit of 110kms/hr, it really  is only a 6-hour drive.

That’s 4 extra hours you can now spend exploring the park, or chilling out on the beach in   Exmouth .  Thanks for an unexpected surprise, Google!

6. Gas Stations Can Be Few And Far Between

Gas stations (or roadhouses, as they call them here) in remote areas of W.A. can be very spread out, with  some being 200-300 km apart,  so err on the side of caution and fill up when you can. We learned this the hard way, pushing our luck a bit too far when making our way from   Kalbarri National Park  to Coral Bay.

We bypassed the gas station in Kalbarri, thinking that with over half a tank of fuel we’ll be fine and ended up barely making it to the next roadhouse.  The last thing you want is to run out of fuel in the middle of nowhere , so play it safe and fill up whenever you can.

When the road looks this deserted for hours on end, the idea of being stuck on the side of the road sounds rather unpleasant.

7. Rent A 4WD Vehicle

Embarking on a Western Australia road trip is one of the best ways to explore this remote region of Australia. You aren’t going to find many other alternatives in Western Australia. Whether you plan on travelling in a car or a campervan, make sure you are comfortable driving on the left side of the road and be sure to invest in a 4WD vehicle. 

Car rentals in Western Australia aren’t cheap. Even for a non-4WD car without any of the bells and whistles, you could still be looking at a minimum of AUD 70 per day.

Check car rates and car availability with our recommended provider:

WANT TO EXPLORE AUSTRALIA BY CAR? Get the best car rental rates by booking ahead! Discover Cars compares prices across all major car rental companies, so you are guaranteed to get the best deal.

8. Pick A Car That’s Fuel Efficient

If you are navigating around W.A. by car you’ll know that  fuel usage can have a huge impact on the total cost of your trip . If a campervan is your choice of transportation, you may be surprised to learn (we were) that driving at 80-90kms/hr is more efficient than going at the 110km/hr speed limit.

Based on our experience,  driving at slower speeds can give you 50-100kms extra per tank  which is better for the environment too since you will be filling up less. So if you are trying to conserve slow down! You’ll not only save on gas, and achieve a greener road trip but will also be more likely to avoid an accident with wildlife on the roads.

9. Tips For A More Eco-Friendly Western Australia Road Trip

Choose eco-friendly hotels and restaurants while you’re on the road. Or even better,  try camping, and supporting local farmers markets.

Of course, where you decide to stay isn’t the only thing to take into account when it comes to making sure your road trip is as eco-friendly as you can make it.

• Choose a  hybrid model or energy-efficient vehicle  whenever possible.
• Get your car serviced prior  to your Australian road trip, and  check your oil and tire pressure regularly  for better fuel efficiency.
• When it’s hot out  roll down the windows  instead of using A/C.
• Avoid single-use plastics , and minimize packaging by  using reusable grocery bags or water bottles  when you need to restock food and refreshments.
• Bring your friends!  It’s always better (and more fun!) to travel with a full car of people. A five-person vehicle is more eco-friendly than travelling with a couple of two-seaters.

10. Don’t Forget To Enjoy Nature

If you haven’t felt too inspired to try camping before, just remember that  it’s the best way to experience some of Western Australia’s natural events.

If you’re in the northwestern portion in March through October,  you could see the Staircase to the Moon.  Look up at the sky when the full moon rises, and see the optical illusion that turns the mudflats into a staircase towards the sky.

If you’re aiming more for a spring road trip,  then you’ll be there at the perfect time to watch the native birds migrate home from their winter ranges.  From ducks to parrots to the well-known kookaburra, there won’t be a shortage.

11. Black Flies Are A Real Pest

We knew that pesky black flies were common in Northern Territories, in places like Alice Springs and  Uluru , but we were not prepared to encounter them in Western Australia.  We were swarmed by hundreds of flies (literally!)  as soon as we entered   Kalbarri National Park ,  located just 600kms north of Perth.

12. Invest In A Fly Net

The flies were so annoying that we had to use our clothing to create makeshift head covers to get us through the first few hours in the park. We soon discovered that  fly nets can be purchased in any local grocery/convenience shops and at most gas stations in the area.

The nets are stupidly expensive at $7, but it’s a small fee to pay for being able to enjoy the parks without 100 flies on your face.  The money is well worth it, so don’t hesitate to spend it upfront.

13. You Can Sandboard At The Lancelin Sand Dunes Without A Tour

The small fishing town of Lancelin is surrounded by sand hills, sprawling and enormous; they’re the biggest dunes of their kind in Western Australia. Soft, nearly pure white, and free of any vegetation,  the dunes are a sight to see on their own,  and that isn’t even getting into the sand dune surfing opportunities. If you find yourself stuck and wondering what to do in Western Australia,  hire a board in town , and you’ll realize why Lancelin is one of our must-see places to visit in Western Australia.

We found out that  sandboards can be hired from the gas station and a few other shops in town . Excited that our research didn’t lie, we grabbed 2 boards from the first place we came across, the Lancelin gas station.

We paid $20 AUD/board for 2 hours only to later discover that the  7 Lucky shop down the street offered the boards for half the price  and has a variety of sitting and standing boards available. We kicked ourselves for not shopping around and getting ripped off, silly tourist style.

So if sandboarding in Lancelin is on your to-do list for WA, forego booking an expensive tour and  head straight to the 7 Lucky store on Cunliffe St for the best selection of boards at cheap prices.

Then head straight to the dunes (the guys inside 7 Lucky can point them out for you) and  give yourself at least 3-4 hours at the dunes . Time flies when you are having fun!

For Western Australia travel tips for experiencing Lancelin Sand Dunes, including directions to the site and where to park, check out the comprehensive guide on the   Lancelin Tourism Website .

14. Don’t Miss The Pinnacles In Cervantes

Cervantes itself is mostly a sleepy fishing town along the Coral Coast, but it’s also where you’ll find  Nambung National Park , home to the beautiful Pinnacles. The Pinnacles are limestone formations up to 5 metres (16 feet) high and up to 30,000 years old.

The Pinnacles in Cervantes is one of Western Australia’s best-kept secrets. Knowing that the  Pinnacles are best enjoyed at sunset,  from other Western Australia travel tips we got from friends and locals, we arrived in Nambung National Park, home of the Pinnacles Desert, just as the sun was dipping below the horizon.

We imagined the Pinnacles to be a small patch of desert in the middle of the park, a place that you can check out in 15 minutes or less and were surprised to find out that  the Pinnacles Desert is actually a 1.5km trail .

Walking the trail should take approximately 45 mins-1 hour, but if you add the time for photos and exploration and you are looking at at least a 2hrs adventure.  It’s a beautiful way to fill an evening  while you decide what to do in Western Australia.

And turned out, the Pinnacles were worth every minute! We wish we had arrived at the park earlier, giving ourselves ample time to  explore the pinnacles before sunset without feeling rushed.

15. Food & Wine Stop in Margaret River

You don’t need to venture far from Perth for some adventure, especially if you’re a fan of good food and drinks. Just take a three-hour drive near Perth to the renowned Margaret River wine region, Margaret River is famous for its chardonnays and cabernets. Nearby towns like Pemberton and Manjimup offer other delights, and you can meet passionate producers by exploring coastal trails around Margaret River.

16. Take Your Time

If there is one piece of advice we could give to anyone travelling to Western Australia, it would be to  give yourself lots of time to explore this side of the country . 

There are too many things to do in Western Australia to list them all here. Take some extra time to explore this beautiful part of the world, filled with all the national parks, wineries, beaches, and natural wonders as you travel up the southwest. 

We knew that a 10-day trip was ambitious, but we didn’t realize how rushed it would be. Sure, we got to see everything on our itinerary, but it was exhausting!

There are simply too many   amazing places to see in Western Australia , and with an added travel time you really do need at least 2-3 weeks in your Western Australia itinerary to properly explore the region.

READ NEXT:   Essential Road Trip Accessories

Must-See Destinations

There are a few destinations on your Western Australia road trip that you absolutely should not miss. If you’ve found yourself at a loss trying to plan for things to do in Western Australia, then this isn’t exactly a road map of Western Australia, but  this list can make for a good starting point. 

South of Perth

Embarking on a road trip along the coast south of Perth in Western Australia offers a diverse mix of experiences, highlighted by iconic destinations like  Albany, Esperance (South West Edge), William Bay National Park,  and  Fitzgerald River National Park. 

In Albany, travellers can explore the rich history reflected in its colonial architecture and panoramic views from rugged cliffs, including a visit to the historic Whaling Station or a stroll along the iconic Albany Wind Farm. Esperance enchants visitors with its pristine white sand beaches, such as Twilight Cove and Lucky Bay, where kangaroos often laze on the sand, creating unique photo opportunities. William Bay National Park showcases remarkable rock formations like the Elephant Rocks, perfect for climbing and exploring, and the tranquil Green Pool, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Meanwhile, Fitzgerald River National Park beckons with its extraordinary biodiversity, offering opportunities to spot rare flora and fauna while hiking along scenic trails or enjoying a leisurely picnic amidst stunning coastal landscapes. Each of these destinations promises unforgettable experiences, combining natural beauty with cultural intrigue along the captivating coastal journey.

As one of the most remote cities on earth, Perth is  a bit quirky compared to most cities.  It’s cosmopolitan but still laid back, and the people in Perth are some of the nicest you’ll ever meet. Like any other city of its size, you’ll find plenty of Western Australia attractions, and you’ll have to pick and choose what you want to do, but whether you’re taking in the scenery at Kings Park or taking selfies with the quokkas on Rottnest Island,  you’re almost guaranteed to have a good time.

Hutt Lagoon

Hutt Lagoon is one of the most incredible sights you’ll ever see, looking more like something out of a fairy tale,  even if it doesn’t necessarily smell like a fairy tale , cementing it as one of our must-see places to visit in Western Australia.  The water is bright pink , and it’s surrounded by a powerful chemical smell. Despite everything your eyes and nose try to tell you, though, Hutt Lagoon is perfectly natural, thanks to the algae that live there.

Kalbarri National Park

Considering Kalbarri National Park largely consists of the coast, coastal cliffs, and a massive river gorge, it’s no surprise that it’s a sight to behold. Most well-known of Kalbarri National Park’s scenery is Nature’s Window,  a natural rock arch that frames the Murchison River Gorge like an enormous window.

Ningaloo Reef & Shark Bay

A road trip along the coast of Western Australia wouldn’t be complete without exploring the wonders of Shark Bay, a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  famed for its diverse marine life and striking landscapes. 

Ningaloo Reef,  located within the broader region of Shark Bay, offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the wonders of marine life, including the renowned whale shark season from March to July. During this time, visitors flock to Ningaloo to swim alongside these gentle giants in the nutrient-rich waters. 

Additionally,  Shark Bay  boasts a spectacular whale-watching season from June to November, providing an opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales as they migrate along the coast. Beyond marine encounters, Shark Bay offers a host of other attractions, including the unique stromatolites of Hamelin Pool, the rich Aboriginal heritage of the area, and the breathtaking vistas of Francois Peron National Park.

READ NEXT:  Responsible Way Of Swimming With Whale Sharks In Ningaloo Reef

Karijini National Park

Australia isn’t exactly lacking when it comes to national parks, but Karijini National Park still manages to be one of the best. It can be a bit of a pain to get to, as the roads are bumpy enough you’ll find yourself wishing for an off-roading harness, but  the scenery and the stunning gorges make it one of the most amazing places  to visit in Western Australia and more than make up for a few bumps in the road.

Located at the end of your  Perth-to-Broome drive , Broome is a must-see stop on your road trip largely because of Cable Beach.  This white sandy beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Australia  and one of the most gorgeous Western Australia attractions, and we fell in love with it even after just 2 days. It’s perfect for paddleboarding and surfing, and  if you’re on the beach at low tide  then you can explore all sorts of rock formations and tide pools. If you linger until the evening, then you’ll be in for one of the most amazing sunsets you’ve ever seen.

Continue Further: Gibb River Road 

Consider travelling further to  Gibb River Road , an iconic outback route known for its rugged beauty and remote wilderness. Stretching over 660 kilometres through the heart of the Kimberley region, Gibb River Road offers intrepid travellers a chance to immerse themselves in the untamed landscapes of Australia’s northwest. 

Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking gorges, cascading waterfalls, and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites. From the towering cliffs of Windjana Gorge to the turquoise pools of Bell Gorge, each stop along Gibb River Road unveils a new facet of the region’s natural wonders. While the road can be challenging with its corrugations and river crossings, the rewards of exploring this remote and pristine wilderness are immeasurable, making Gibb River Road a must-visit destination for adventurous travellers seeking an unforgettable outback experience.

Have You Ever Traveled To Western Australia? What Tips Would You Share With First-Time Visitors To The Region?

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About The Author

Oksana & Max St John

11 thoughts on “western australia road trip: tips, advice & warnings 2024”.

Great you made it to the west and learn’t some invaluable tips. Some good ones too! Funnily, I’ve spent months in Western Australia, living in Broome and Perth and tripping in between and never had a problem with the flies like that. And I wouldn’t advise to drive at night but it sounds like you made good work of it!

The flies were the worst in Kalbarri National Park, and Cape Range National Park. Karijini wasn’t that bad, and there were certainly no flied in Coral Bay, Broome or in the other towns. And yes, everyone said the same thing to us about driving at night, but we gave it a go and it worked great for us. Maybe we were just lucky 🙂

Pleeeaaase don’t encourage people to drive on country roads at night. You may have had a good run, but this advice comes from people who have lived in WA their whole lives and know the dangers based on this lifetime of experience. The number of dead kangaroos along the road (45 counted on my last trip) shows how likely you are to hit an animal. Until you’ve hit a 90kg kangaroo travelling at high speeds please reconsider this advice.

Love the post; good on you guys for having a great time here. The flies vary a lot from year to year; sometimes they are shocking and other times they are almost non existent. Kalbarri can be terrible for them though, but most of WA doesn’t have them anywhere near as bad.

10 days is an impressive effort; I reckon you could easily spend 10 weeks!

No mention of roo bars on the car! I wouldn’t drive at night without a roo bar. And dusk and dawn are when the kangaroos move around. We hit a big one coming back from Carnarvon as we drove around a bend in the road, which stranded us 120 kms north of Geraldton. We caught him mid hop and he pushed the fan belt into the radiator.

Thanks for the comment, Steph. Our campervan didn’t come with a roo bar, so that was definitely not an option for us. Scary to hear about your accident. I guess we were pretty lucky, as we didn’t have any close encounters during our time in WA. Thanks for higlighting the dangers to others.

You guys had a good time and I’m impressed you saw so much in such a short time. As a seasoned West Aussie allow me the privalidge of encouraging you to head inland on your next trip and explore Kalgoorlie.

Kal as the locals call her has a facinating history centered on an Irishman named Patty Hannon who found gold in the 1870’s. Mine is a story of cultures and why the population of our state are the most assimulated and integrated community on the planet.

You see WA’s white population prior to Patty was just 15,000 people, mostly British colonialist, freemen and convicts. When Patty found gold the population swelled to 250,000 with people coming from every corner of the globe. When the gold ran out 75,000 people remained and the amazing process of the intergration of cultures began and still influences our culture to this day.

In Kal you can see the cultural blend it in the architecture and the people alike, Tribal Aboriginals are regulars in the town during the day and their community products are available in some shops.

The region known as the goldfields has numerous attractions from natural wonders like Red Hill in Kambalda to Lake Ballard near Menzies. The facinating shopping precinct of Bolder. Watch them blast at the superpit gold mine and the historic Hay St brothels. You can even do a real underground gold mine tour and feel the rumblings of nearby mines as they blast.

Stop in at Coolgardie Rock shop on the way in to Kal and buy a gold panning dish and try some prospecting of your own or brows this local prospecter’s latests gold finds. Camel rides, Broad Arrow hotal and so much more.

Hope you visit again.

We travelled all over west Australia and took wonderful pictures of the beaches, animals, wineries and the different cities. We even spotted a real shark at Hamelin Bay

Sounds like you had a great experience!

Re Ningaloo Reef: PLEASE never ever tell anyone …..”you can walk right from the beach onto the reef.” I’ve had the opportunity to snorkel over Ningaloo and it was by far the most pristine snorkel experience I have ever had. Absolutely beautiful!. Having said that, you don’t want anyone even touching the reef with their hands or flippers, let alone stand or walk on it. Reefs are living organisms. People kill them by touching them. In the various reef systems I have snorkeled throughout the Caribbean and the Hawaiian Islands the reef has been vastly destroyed by people sitting, standing, walking or anchoring boats on them. Can’t tell you how very discouraging it is go snorkeling over nothing but dead reef. Fringing reefs are often found closer to shore than barrier reefs. All the more reason why people need to know to snorkel responsibly, i.e. go to a place where you can swim out to the reef and swim above it where you have enough water above the actual reef to allow you to swim and use your flippers/fins without ever kicking or touching any part of the reef.. This is the number one rule of snorkeling any reef.

Hi Marie, I think you may be misunderstood our intention with that comment. Perhaps, the wording was unclear, but the comment “you can walk right from the beach onto the reef” was in no way meant to imply that you can literally walk on top of the reef and ruin it. The intention was to note that the reef is very close and does not require you to jump into a boat to get there. If you read a few more articles from our blog, you’ll quickly learn that we are very passionate about the environment and always encourage our readers to explore the underwater world with great care and responsibility, to never touch the reef or any wildlife for that matter, to be extremely cautious when navigating the reef and be respectful of all species that call it home. I’m sorry that our intention and our advice weren’t clear in this piece and thank you for clarifying. Yes, if you do end up snorkelling at Ningaloo Reef, please do so with great care, and ask the local operators for the best places to get to the reef offshore.

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Cape Le Grand National Park, WA

14-day road trip through Western Australia's South West Edge

Experience the extraordinary landscape of the South West in one great road trip.

Written in partnership with Tourism Western Australia 

Take the time to relax, soak up the scenery and discover the incredible food and wine on offer in Western Australia's South West region. Experience The South West Edge on this 14-day adventure that traverses 1,200 kilometres (745 miles) from Perth to Esperance , showcasing the best of the region, while ensuring ample time to indulge in life's simple pleasures.

"The South West Edge is one road trip everyone should add to their travel list." Jarrad Seng, Australian photographer and filmmaker

Day 1: Explore Perth’s Rottnest Island & Fremantle 

Quokka, Rottnest Island, Western Australia © James Vodicka

Jump on The Rottnest Express for a short ferry ride from Fremantle to the picturesque Rottnest Island ; home to the world's cutest and extremely photogenic marsupial, the quokka. Arrive at the sweeping white sands of Thomson Bay, one of the 63 beautiful beaches on the island. Walk off the beach to Thomson Bay Settlement to grab a coffee, pick up maps and hire bikes to explore the rest of the car-free island. Don’t forget your snorkel mask – Rottnest has beautiful marine life, easily accessible from the islands’ beaches and bays.

Before getting the 45-minute ferry back to the mainland, hop on a Rottnest Wild Seafood Experience Tour for a sensational sundowner cruise serving freshly caught delicacies.

When back on the mainland, stay the night at Hougoumont Hotel Fremantle or Be.Fremantle in the historic town of Fremantle.

Day 2: Fremantle to Bunbury

Willow Bridge Estate, Ferguson Valley, Western Australia © Frances Andrijich

Enjoy the gourmet café culture of Fremantle for breakfast and browse local boutiques for unique or vintage finds. Then jump in your car and head 167 kilometres (103.7 miles) to Bunbury via the rolling hills of the Ferguson Valley.

Discover the secret spots along the Valley on a customised tour with South West Tourist Services or Hinterland Escapes . Explore boutique wineries and breweries, or tackle the scenic hiking and mountain bike trails of Wellington Forest National Park, stopping at Black Diamond Lake near Collie for a view of vivid turquoise waters. 

Roll into Bunbury, where you can purchase fresh local produce from farmers’ markets, meet native animals at the Bunbury Wildlife Park, shop the boutiques and spot vibrant street art. Spend the evening immersed in the city’s nightlife at one of the many bars and restaurants overlooking one of Bunbury’s famous three waters – the bay, inlet and ocean – before returning to your accommodation at Bunbury Seaview Apartments or Discovery Parks Bunbury Foreshore .

Day 3: Bunbury To Yallingup

Injidup Natural Spa, Yallingup, Margaret River, Western Australia © Jarrad Seng / Tourism Western Australia

Spot migrating humpbacks, southern right, and sometimes blue whales from high vantage points along the coast or on a whale watching tour with Naturaliste Charters between August and October.

Begin your morning with a Dolphin Eco Cruise or head over to the  Dolphin Discovery Centre  at Koombana Bay in Bunbury, where wild bottlenose dolphins come into shore every morning between September to April to interact with humans. Make sure you're here by 9am, wade into water up to your knees and the dolphins will swim around you.

Drive 57 kilometres (35.4 miles) to Busselton , which sits on a white sandy beach on the north-facing shoreline of the tranquil waters of Geographe Bay, a popular family holiday destination. Swing among the trees on a high ropes course at Forest Adventures set among the last remaining tall tuart forest in the world. Or take a stroll or ride the train for 1.8 kilometres (1.1 miles) over the Indian Ocean on the beautifully restored historic jetty , the longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere. At the end, visit the Underwater Observatory and Interpretive Centre, where you’ll descend eight metres below the surface to see one of Australia’s greatest artificial reefs alive with corals, sponges, fish and invertebrates living in the warm Leeuwin Current.

Spend the afternoon exploring Yallingup’s sensational coastal spots including Canal Rocks and the marvellous Injidup Natural Spa.

Have a dinner of fresh local produce at the seaside  Goose Beach Bar and Kitchen or Bunkers Beach Cafe before driving 32 kilometres (20 miles) to Seashells or  Smiths Beach Resort  in Yallingup; an environmentally sensitive resort with villas, apartments, beach shacks and beach houses, and a member of  Small Luxury Hotels of the World . Stay here for the next two nights. 

Day 4: Yallingup to Margaret River 

Amelia Park, Margaret River, Western Australia © Australia's South West

Book a tour with Top Drop Tours and spend the day exploring the beautiful Margaret River wine region, whose 150 wineries produce more than 20 percent of Australia's premium wine (Margaret River cabernet sauvignons and chardonnays are particularly impressive).

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll be picked up by your tour guide for a day-long tour visiting some of the region's wineries. These may include Leeuwin Estate , Voyager Estate , Vasse Felix (one of the first wineries in Margaret River, with a designer lounge bar and views across the region), the biodynamic  Windows Estate , run by married couple Chris and Jo Davies who manage the entire viticultural process, or  Wills Domain , owned and operated by the Austrian Haunold family and offering some of the region's best food.

You'll also visit a range of gourmet producers along the way, like Ginversity . On your way, pick up a collection of cheese, bread, pâté, biscuits, olives and chocolates and enjoy a gourmet picnic back in your suite this evening. Or if you’re staying at Smiths Beach Resort, have a drink at the brilliant wine bar, then dine on ocean views with a side order of superb food at the on-site restaurant.

Day 5: Explore the Margaret River region

Koomal Dreaming, Margaret River, Western Australia © Archie Sartracom

Explore by foot

Why not explore by foot along part of the 135-kilometre (83-mile)  Cape to Cape Track , which treads along ocean cliffs, behind powdery beaches and through tall forests.

Go for a swim just in front of the resort at Yallingup, where the water (protected by the surrounding reef) is flat, rip free and laps against a stretch of powdery sand. Then drive five minutes north to explore  Ngilgi Cave’s  huge cavern of illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. You can also do an Aboriginal cultural tour here with Josh from  Koomal Dreaming . Feel the powerful vibrations of the didgeridoo as it fills the natural amphitheatre of the cave, learn to create fire as generations past have done, and learn about the ways of life of the world's oldest living culture.

Next, head 43 kilometres (26.7 miles) west of the Margaret River township to watch pro surfers in action at Surfers Point and drive four kilometres (2.5 miles) south to  White Elephant Café , where you can enjoy a delicious brunch overlooking calm  Gnarabup Beach .

After lunch, take a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) lesson with  Stand Up Surfing , go rock climbing or abseiling, or take a kayak along the Margaret River with Margaret River Discovery Co .

There's nothing like a refreshing beer after the beach, and luckily there are plenty of craft breweries to choose from. Try the  Brewhouse  (in Margaret River township),  The Beer Farm , and  Black Brewing Co . End your day with a polished great-value pub meal at  Settlers Tavern  in Margaret River township. Or for authentic Japanese cuisine you can't do better than  Miki's Open Kitchen .

Stay overnight at Margarets In-Town Apartments or Eight Willows Retreat .

Day 6: Margaret River to Pemberton

Gloucester Tree, Pemberton, Western Australia © Australia's South West

Head 40 kilometres (25 miles) south to  Augusta , where an unusual microclimate means the local weather is almost always a few degrees warmer than the rest of the region. When you arrive, jump on a two-hour  whale watching tour . It’s said that humpback whales come here to flirt with each other, so you're likely to see plenty of action when they're visiting between August and October, such as tail slaps and breaches.

Have lunch in town;  Blue Ocean  serves up freshly caught fish in a humble fish-n-chips shop. Then drive eight kilometres (five miles) to Cape Leeuwin, where the Indian and Southern oceans meet at the south-western tip of Australia. The  Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse  is one of Australia's best land-based vantage points for spotting humpback and southern right whales on their annual migration.

From here, drive 135 kilometres (84 miles) into the forest around  Pemberton , a former logging town surrounded by soaring white-trunked karri trees. You can actually climb three karri trees, which have such great views over the area that they were originally used as fire lookouts. If you’re feeling extra active, ride one of the many mountain bike trails around the area or walk a small part of the 1,000-kilometre (600-mile)  Bibbulmun Track , one of the world's great long distance walking trails, which runs from Perth through the Southern Forests and along the coast from  Walpole  to  Albany . The section around Denmark runs along coastal heathland awash with wildflowers in  spring .

Make an appointment to visit pretty  Picardy Wines , which makes superb pinot noir. If you are into truffles, it's worth taking a 31-kilometre (19-mile) detour to the  Truffle & Wine Co  to enjoy wine and truffle tasting at Western Australia's largest truffle farm. 

Stay overnight at RAC Karry Valley Resort in Pemberton. 

Day 7: Pemberton to Denmark

Greens Pool, Denmark, Western Australia © Australia's South West

Walk through giant trees

After visiting the Valley of the Giants, descend to the boardwalks below and explore the  Ancient Empires Walk  through a grove of veteran tingle trees, some more than 400 years old.

Take a four-wheel drive tour of the world’s largest moving sand dune system — Yeagarup Dunes — with Pemberton Discovery Tours before travelling 162 kilometres (100 miles) to the former lumber milling town of Walpole. Join an eco-cruise on the Walpole inlet with WOW Wilderness Cruises for breathtaking views of Mount Chudalup.

Have a coffee at  Four Sisters Coffee Shop  in Walpole before you visit the  Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk , a 40-metre (131-foot) high walkway through the forest's canopy designed to move – which is fun or scary, depending on your perspective – with the majestic red-barked tingle eucalyptus trees that are found nowhere else in the world. They also just happen to be some of the tallest trees on earth. 

Next, drive 45 kilometres (28 miles) along spectacular coastal scenery to  William Bay National Park , where you'll find the giant granite boulders of Elephant Rocks, and the turquoise waters and white sandy beaches of Greens Pool.

Check in to a lovely cedar chalet at the  Karma Chalets  in the birdlife-rich hills behind Denmark and enjoy a relaxing massage at the Karisma Spa. At night, frogs will sing you to sleep.

If you have longer, stay another day in Denmark to explore the family-owned wineries along the 34-kilometre (21-mile) Scotsdale Scenic Drive . Otherwise, get a good night's sleep before heading to Albany tomorrow.

Day 8: Denmark to Albany 

The Gap, Albany, Western Australia © Airloft

Have breakfast at a Denmark favourite,  Mrs Jones Café , before driving 54 kilometres (33 miles) to Albany. Call ahead to book a cellar door tasting at bucolic organic winery  Oranje Tractor  on the way. Birdwatchers should also stop at Wilson Inlet (11 kilometres, or seven miles, east of Denmark) to twitch for blue splendid wrens, ospreys, parrots, red-tailed and white-tailed black cockatoos, and purple-crowned lorikeets.

Albany is where the first European settlers set foot in  Western Australia  in 1826 and much of their legacy remains today, with colonial buildings housing museums, galleries and restaurants. Step back in time at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station at Discovery Bay or visit the  National Anzac Centre , a state-of-the-art interpretive museum that uses multimedia, interactive technology and historical artefacts to pay tribute to the Australian and New Zealand forces who served in the First World War.

Have lunch at its  Garrison Restaurant , then explore the  Albany Heritage Park , a reserve that stretches from the shores of  Middleton Beach  to the port of Albany.

You can also visit the nearby Australian Wildlife Park , where you'll see kangaroos, bandicoots and wombats, or stop in at the beautiful Regional Wildflower Garden . From here, follow Frenchman Bay Road for eight kilometres (five miles) to Torndirrup National Park and The Gap . This natural gap in the granite cliff has a thrilling see-through skywalk platform extending out 10 metres (33 feet) over the cliff's edge, so you can walk out and look down at the pounding waves below. The Gap , a thick, horizontal column of rock, is a few steps away.

On the return to Albany, visit  Limeburners  distillery to sample whisky made with locally sourced peat while you watch out the window for dolphins in the bay.

Enjoy an inventive dinner of Vietnamese-French inspired fare at  Liberte at the London  and stay at The Beach House at Bayside, an upmarket bed and breakfast behind the sand dunes of Middleton Bay, or Quality Suites Banksia Gardens .

Day 9: Albany to Bremer Bay

Mt Toolbrunup Summit, Stirling Range National Park, Western Australia © Australia's South West Inc.

Go for a walk or swim along Middleton Beach, and if you are here on a Saturday, browse the  Albany Farmers Market , one of the best artisan markets in Australia.

Next, drive 49 kilometres (31 miles) inland to  Porongurup National Park . Here you'll find the  Granite Skywalk , a suspended walkway that rises 670-metres (2,200-feet) above sea level to offer panoramic views of your remarkable surrounds. Return to your car and continue along Chester Pass Road.

Reward yourself with lunch at boutique Porongurup wineries like Castle Rock Estate or Zarephath Wines . 

If you are a wildflower enthusiast, birdwatcher or hiker, you may wish to continue onwards to  Stirling Range National Park where you can climb one of Western Australia’s highest peaks, Bluff Knoll, known for its sweeping views of the Stirling Range National Park.

Drive for about 1.5 hours to reach the small seaside town of Bremer Bay. Stay at the  Bremer Bay Resort , where the Mount Barren Restaurant offers panoramic views across the bay.

Day 10: Bremer Bay to Hopetoun 

Orca, Naturaliste Charters, Bremer Bay, Western Australia © Keith Lightbody

Did you know?

Fitzgerald River National Park is recognised as one of the most biodiverse botanical regions on earth. Nearly 20 per cent of Western Australia’s native flora species occur here, many of which can only be found in the park. 

Bremer Bay is one of only three places in Australia where southern right whales come in large numbers to calve. Between June and October you can watch them frolicking in the water from purpose-built platforms on the shore at Point Ann, 63 kilometres (39 miles) from town, on the west side of the Fitzgerald River National Park .

From February to April you can also join  Naturaliste Charters  off the coast at Bremer Bay to watch the gathering of the largest pod of orcas in the southern hemisphere. This incredible sight is only a recently discovered phenomenon and little is known about why it takes place. 

Even if it's not whale watching season, you should stop here: the national park is one of the most significant biospheres in the world and a plant lover's dream, with 62 plant species found nowhere else on earth. It also has prolific native wildlife (look out for kangaroos), several beautiful beaches (go swimming at  Barrens Beach ), hiking trails, the beautiful hills of Hamersley Dunes and on-site accommodation at  Quaalup Homestead Wilderness Retreat .

Make your way to Ravensthorpe — known for its spectacular displays of wildflowers during spring — and discover the locals’ secret hotspots on a tour during the Ravensthorpe Wildflower Festival .

Stay for the night in Hopetoun at Wavecrest Village Tourist Park or Hopetoun Motel & Chalet Village .

Day 11: Explore Esperance and Lucky Bay 

Lucky Bay, Esperance, Western Australia © Australia’s Golden Outback

The exquisite town of Esperance is a 182-kilometre (113-mile) drive from Hopetoun. Arrive to the stunning pure white sand shores of Esperance Bay, fringed by more than 100 islands that make up the Recherche Archipelago (known locally as the Bay of Isles), where whales, seals and dolphins can often be seen in the translucent waters.

Lucky Bay is arguably Esperance's biggest drawcard. It's 60 kilometres (37 miles) out of town at  Cape Le Grand National Park . Hop in your car or join an Esperance Eco Discovery Tour and head to the world's only full-size replica of Stonehenge,  Esperance Stonehenge  (it's as quirky as it sounds). Then continue to the national park, a place of white sand beaches, freshwater pools, massive granite outcrops and, in spring, carpets of native wildflowers. 

Day 12: Esperance

Twilight Cove, Great Ocean Drive, Esperance, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia

This morning you can leave the car keys in your room, as you'll be picked by your Aboriginal guide for a eco-cultural discovery tour of the area with Aboriginal-run company Kepa Kurl. This memorable half-day experience will give you some truly interesting insights into how the local Aboriginal Noongar people have hunted and gathered food here for thousands of years. You'll see plenty of native wildlife and some Aboriginal rock art as well as getting a great orientation to the area.

Returning to town about midday, hop in your car and head to  Yirri Grove , a restaurant in an olive grove 20 minutes out of town (open Fridays to Mondays only; alternatively, grab ingredients for a picnic from one of the four supermarkets in town). After you've eaten, get a feel for the area's beauty on the  Great Ocean Drive , a 38-kilometre (24-mile) loop from town that showcases the sugary beaches and translucent waters of the area. Be warned; you won't be able to stop yourself from pulling over every few minutes to take photo after photo. Along the way, look out for  Twilight Bay  – a firm favourite for its translucent, turquoise waters, sculpted rock formations, picnic tables and showers – and the breaks at West, Fourth and Observatory beaches, where local surfers can often be seen enjoying the water.

Day 13: Explore the Rainbow Lakes

Rainbow Lakes, near Esperance, Western Australia © Golden Outback

Today, you're taking to the skies on a scenic flight over a myriad of rainbow--coloured lakes with Fly Esperance . Embark on an 80-minute adventure over a series of warm-hued waterholes sprinkled among a sea of green grass in Cape Le Grand National Park . Along the way, witness Esperance's township and dramatic blue coastline from above as well as the iconic white sands of Lucky Bay. As you approach the lakes, notice the colours ranging from honey yellow to marshmallow pink and everywhere in between. The best time for spotting the most vibrant shades is from April to January each year, but you're sure to catch brilliant sights on this scenic flight year-round. End your day with a hearty dinner at the excellent Loose Goose restaurant.

Day 14: Esperance to Perth

Wave Rock, Hyden, Western Australia © Australia's Golden Outback

Return your hire car at Esperance airport before boarding your 90-minute flight to Perth. Or if you’d prefer to soak up more of the South West, drive back to Perth via Hyden or Kalgoorlie over the next few days – the choice is yours.

If you travel through Hyden, be sure to visit the impressive Wave Rock on your way. Thought to have formed some 130 million years ago, the Wave Rock is entirely natural and measures about 15 kilometres (9.3 miles and roughly three storeys) in height. It’s the perfect end to your Instagram highlights reel.

If you travel back to Perth via Kalgoorlie, immerse yourself in outback history; dine in quirky outback pubs, feast your eyes on the Super Pit gold mine, or try your hand at prospecting with Gold Prospecting Kalgoorlie .

Overnight at Wave Rock Hotel in Hyden or Hospitality Kalgoorlie, SureStay Collection by Best Western .

This article was written in partnership with Tourism Western Australia. For more information about road trips in Western Australia, go to w esternaustralia.com .

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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Apr 4, 2024 • 5 min read

Sandboarding at Lancelin Sand Dunes © Jessica Lockhart

Lonely Planet Destination Editor Jessica Lockhart went to Western Australia for the wildflowers, but was won over by Perth’s immersive Indigenous experiences, stunning scenery and innovative culinary scene. Here, she shares how she spent her week — and why Perth is perfect at any time of year.

Since moving to Australia from Canada in 2015, I’ve dedicated the better part of the last decade to exploring some of the country’s most remote corners – from the rugged peaks of Flinders Island to the Torres Strait Islands. Yet, somehow, I’d never been to Perth /Boorloo. So when Tourism Western Australia invited me for a visit, I jumped at the opportunity.   

My visit coincided with Perth’s inaugural EverNow Festival, which celebrates the arrival of Kambarang—one of the six seasons in Indigenous Noongar culture. Typically lasting from October to November, Kambarang is when Perth’s coastlines, wetlands, and forests start to erupt in riotous color. One of the largest displays of blooming wildflowers on Earth, Western Australia has some 12,000 native flower species, 60% of which are endemic.

While I was fortunate to see this incredible display of biodiversity, I also discovered that the thriving coastal city is worth visiting any time of year. It might have been my first trip to Perth, but it certainly won’t be my last. 

Where did you stay? What was the vibe?

I checked into  Warders Hotel , a boutique hotel directly beside the historic Fremantle Markets. Originally built in 1851 as accommodation for the Fremantle Prison’s Warders (prison guards), the carefully preserved limestone cottages have plush beds, marble bathrooms, contemporary artwork and an aperitivo bar for good measure. Soundproofing makes the rooms an oasis of calm despite being within walking distance from the South Terrace’s restaurants and the ferry to Wadjemup/Rottnest Island . But if I’m being honest, it was the in-room sparkling water on tap that won me over. (It’s really the simple things, folks.)

Favorite activity from the trip?

“Ethereal,” “immersive” and “memorable” might sound like marketing jargon, but they’re the words I keep coming back to when I try to describe the brand-new EverNow Festival. 

Held annually in October, it’s an opportunity to engage with First Nations culture in an entirely new way. Rather than overwhelming its attendees with a huge program, EverNow curated its content to feature three hero events: SongCircle (a contemporary Indigenous dance performance with music by Maatakitj ), Fire Gardens (a fiery kinetic display of 7,000 giant candles) and Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak (a journey through Kings Park , where the trees were used as a canvas for digital light projections). 

What was the most under-the-radar activity you enjoyed?

Even if you don’t manage to make it to Perth in time for EverNow Festival, there are countless ways to learn from and engage with the Traditional Custodians of the land. For example, every Saturday at 11am, you can watch Noongar performers outside the WA Museum Boola Bardip for free. 

One of my favorite experiences, though, was an art workshop in Kings Park led by Wadjuk man Justin Martin of Djurandi Dreaming . After a short tour of the park, he busted out the paint and canvases. Then, we sat in the grass and got down to business, using linework traditionally found in Aboriginal artwork to paint animals of significance to us. As I sketched out a fish, Martin shared stories of his people, explaining that “moieties” (spirit animals) like the ones we were drawing are given to individuals by Elders based on their characteristics.

What was the most scenic experience of the trip?

The Pinnacles, located within Nambung National Park, is a solid 2.5-hour drive north of Perth, but if you’re going to make a one-day trip from the city, make it this one. Almost alien in nature, these towering limestone structures—believed to be around 30,000 years old—seem to stretch beyond where your sight ends. Add some emus and kangaroos to the scene, and it’s a quintessentially Western Australia moment.

The best time to visit is at sunset when "magic hour" transforms the desert into a landscape of golden hues and long dark shadows before unveiling an unfiltered night sky. Pair it with an astrophotography session (like that offered by Lumineer Adventure Tours ), and you’ll walk away with some of the best photos from your trip. 

It’s a long day, but seeing wildflowers and sandboarding at the Lancelin Sand Dunes en route helped keep the energy levels high. 

Best thing you ate? 

Do I have to pick just one thing? Because every single thing that Dale Tilbrook handed me delighted and challenged my tastebuds. The Wardandi Bibbulmun woman is widely considered the “bush tucker queen,” with unparalleled knowledge of Australia’s native foods. She’s even collaborated with other makers in the region, including with nearby Old Young’s Distillery to develop its Six Seasons Gin.

During approachable two-hour tastings in her Swan Valley art gallery, visitors get a chance to sample everything from quandongs (a sour desert fruit with notes of peach) to Geraldton wax (a zesty evergreen and one of WA’s famed wildflowers). 

Tasting the raw ingredients also gave me a better appreciation for my six-course degustation at Wildflower . The Perth restaurant changes its tasting menus based on the six Noongar seasons, with foraged native ingredients like warrigal greens, desert lime and line-caught fish taking center stage. 

What was the most touristy thing you did? 

Bridge climbs might be all the rage (we’re looking at you, Sydney Harbour Bridge ), but Perth has its own adrenaline offering: Climbing atop the 60,000-seat Optus Stadium, which was named “the most beautiful stadium in the world” by the prestigious Prix Versailles for Sports. 

It’s hard to admire all that beauty, though, when you’re peeing your pants as you dangle on a gangway 140 feet (42 meters) above the ground. I’m told this terrifying ordeal is supposed to be the selling point of the Ozone’s Vertigo experience. Uh, yeah, no thanks. 

It turns out this wasn’t my jam (much to the amusement of everyone else on the tour) – but I’ll concede that the incredible views of the city and over the Swan River are unmatched. It also wins bonus points for being fully accessible to wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. 

Next time, though? I’ll be packing an extra set of undies.  

Jessica Lockhart visited Perth at the invitation of Tourism Western Australia. Lonely Planet does not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.   

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Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse you can see across the U.S. today

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 8, 2024 / 12:06 PM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crosses North America today, with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show where and when astronomy fans can see the big event  as skies darken in the middle of the day on Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse will first appear along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then travel across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon will fully block out the sun , according to NASA. The path will range between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse will start over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that will experience totality is Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT on April 8, according to NASA. From there, the path will continue into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse will exit continental North America around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality includes portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. are included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others will see a partial eclipse. Here are some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — if the weather cooperates :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse will reach totality across the path

The eclipse will begin in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the next few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. You can also  check your ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse will reach you if you're on, or near, the path of totality — or if you'll see a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse will you see if you live outside of the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse will cover a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may spot a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer you are to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that will be hidden.

NASA allows viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun will be covered in their location.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality have a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You can check the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where will the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, will get to experience totality for the longest. Totality there will last 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes long, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. come close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, will have a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

After the April 8 eclipse, the next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse than the upcoming one on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse, but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

More from CBS News

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S. after today?

Is it safe to take pictures of the solar eclipse with your phone?

See the list of notable total solar eclipses in the U.S. since 1778

Places to visit

Western Australia brims with diverse experiences across its five regions. Sample the dynamic eating and get among the culture scene in Perth and its surrounds. Taste your way through the South West, where award-winning wineries nestle against dramatic coastlines. Gaze at fiery red cliffs and turquoise waters in the North West, dive into Ningaloo Reef (Nyinggulu) and encounter awe-inspiring marine life on the Coral Coast, or immerse yourself in ghost towns and gold rush history in the Golden Outback.

Tourism Western Australia acknowledges Aboriginal peoples as the traditional custodians of Western Australia and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We celebrate the diversity of Aboriginal West Australians and honour their continuing connection to Country, culture and community. We recognise and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by First Nations peoples across many generations in shaping Western Australia as a premier destination.

The total solar eclipse is Monday: Where will clouds, rain ruin the sky spectacle?

We're almost there.

In just two days, for just the  second time in seven years , day will suddenly become night for a few brief, wondrous minutes as the orbiting moon blocks the sun's light along  a southwest-to-northeast path across the continent .

Meteorologists continue to refine their forecasts for the total solar eclipse , and now have a pretty good idea of where the spectacle will be most (and least) visible.

Here's the latest forecast:

Where will the solar eclipse be visible?

Federal forecasters said Saturday afternoon that the best chances for clear viewing of the total eclipse are in northern New England. There is also a possibility of clear viewing from northern Arkansas to central Indiana, the National Weather Service said, "but this is the area of greatest uncertainty due to potential high clouds."

"Clouds can break for some sunshine, just in time for the afternoon viewing from Chicago to Cleveland. A narrow region of good viewing is expected to open up for cities like Kansas City, Indianapolis, and St. Louis," AccuWeather lead long-range forecaster Paul Pastelok said.

The weather service also warned of possible (20% to 30% chance) rain showers during totality in Texas, Oklahoma, southern Arkansas, Ohio, northwestern Pennsylvania and western New York.

Outside the path of totality, which stretches from Texas to Maine, "the best locations for viewing should be across the Southwest, out of the mountains," Pastelok said. Other good spots include "California, again, out of the mountains, New England, and parts of the mid-Atlantic and Southeast."

"Cities like Los Angeles, El Paso, New York City, Boston and Raleigh should all have nice views of the eclipse from start to finish," he added.

Where will it be cloudy?

Unfortunately for folks in the path of totality, clouds may impede viewing "from Texas into southern Arkansas, and across Ohio, northwest Pennsylvania, and New York," the weather service said.

Elsewhere, for the partial eclipse, AccuWeather long-range expert Joe Lundberg added that "other areas with poor viewing conditions will be from Wisconsin westward through South Dakota and Nebraska to Washington and Oregon."

What time is the solar eclipse? 

The eclipse will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT and end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT, but the exact time of the eclipse varies by where you are in its path.  You can search by zip code  to find the exact time for your location. 

What is the path of totality?

The  path of totality  is the area where people on Earth can see  the moon completely cover the sun  as the moon's shadow falls upon them. Space.com describes it as "the cone-shaped inner (umbral) shadow of the moon projected onto the Earth's surface."

To view all of the stages of a total solar eclipse, you must watch it from somewhere along that path of totality, NASA said. Viewers outside this narrow, roughly 115-mile wide path will only see a partial eclipse of the sun.

You probably don't have to worry about your dogs and cats during the eclipse

Don't worry, your dog and/or cat will likely be oblivious to the eclipse, according to Pasco , a science education company.

"It is unlikely that dogs and cats will react to solar eclipses, as they typically do not have a strong biological or behavioral response to changes in light or natural phenomena like eclipses," Pasco reports.

Just in case, Pasco recommends you keep your pets inside during the eclipse and distract them with toys or treats. Same thing works for people if necessary.

Eclipse boosts travel as Americans chase rare celestial event

The upcoming eclipse is proving to be a good omen for travel firms, as some parts of the United States that fall in the "path of totality" see unprecedented demand for lodging from eager Americans waiting to catch a glimpse of the celestial event.

Airbnb listings along the U.S. path of totality, or the narrow strip stretching from Texas to Maine from where people will be able to view the sun's corona, have seen occupancy levels skyrocket to nearly 90%, the vacation rental firm said.

Occupancy for all active rental listings across the path in the United States, Canada and Mexico was at 92.4% for the night of April 7, up sharply from about 30% a few days prior, according to travel data firm AirDNA.

"It is a nice bump in demand in a relatively slow period of the year. Typically April isn't a high point for short-term rental demand," said Jamie Lane, chief economist at AirDNA.

Beware of potential storms during eclipse travel

Sunday and early Monday, severe thunderstorms bringing hail, strong wind and possibly a tornado could disrupt travel from the western Plains to the Midwest, Pastelok of AccuWeather said. Travel could also be impacted due to visibility with winds kicking up dust and creating a fire risk.

Meanwhile, people driving from the Rockies to the path of totality could face slick roads and wintry conditions, according to AccuWeather.

After the eclipse on Monday evening and Tuesday, federal forecasters warn of a high chance of thunderstorms in parts of the Southern Plains and lower Mississippi Valley. Flash flooding is also possible, "which could lead to hazardous travel after the eclipse," the weather service said.

Contributing: Reuters