Are you dreaming of a road trip that winds through some of Australia’s most breathtaking scenery? Adventure awaits on your very own Perth to Exmouth tour!
This route takes you through a stunning variety of landscapes, from Perth’s lively urban scene to Exmouth’s untouched beaches and rugged terrain.
This guide will help you create your own Perth to Exmouth tour itinerary, ensuring you don’t miss any highlights along the way.
Overview of the Perth to Exmouth Route
The Perth to Exmouth route covers about 1,250 kilometres of diverse and stunning landscapes. This route takes about 12-14 hours of driving time and offers a mix of coastal views, desert landscapes, and beautiful towns.
Flexibility is key, allowing you to tailor the trip to your interests. Whether that’s exploring national parks, enjoying local cuisine, or simply taking in the scenic drive, you can take your pick!
Along the way, you’ll discover what’s between Perth and Exmouth, uncovering the unique charm and beauty that makes Western Australia a top destination for road trip enthusiasts from all over the world.
Planning Your Trip
The best time to start a Perth to Exmouth tour is between April and October, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. This period also aligns with the whale shark season, offering an incredible opportunity to swim with these gentle giants near Ningaloo Reef.
Before setting off, make sure your vehicle is ready for the journey. A 4WD (Four-wheel drive) is recommended for off-road adventures, while a regular car is fine for the main route. Keep in mind that if you do enjoy 4WD, Western Australia has some of the best terrain and tracks in Australia.
Make sure you pack the essentials like water, sunscreen, and a first aid kit, and plan your fuel stops as distances between service stations can be long in some parts.
Key Stops and Attractions Along the Way
Perth: Starting Point
Start your adventure in Perth, Western Australia’s vibrant yet laid-back capital. Explore Kings Park, one of the world’s largest inner-city parks, and take a stroll along the Swan River.
Visit Fremantle for its historic sites and bustling markets, and don’t miss out on the beautiful beaches like Cottesloe and Scarborough.
Perth also has a super dynamic food scene, so take the time to enjoy some local cuisine before hitting the road.
Lancelin
A short drive north brings you to Lancelin, famous for its sand dunes.
Try sand boarding for an adrenaline rush or relax by the coastal scenery. The white sand dunes against the backdrop of the blue ocean create a picturesque setting perfect for photography.
The Pinnacles Desert, Nambung National Park
The Pinnacles Desert is a must-visit with its unique limestone formations rising dramatically from the yellow sand. This surreal landscape is perfect for photography and exploring on foot.
The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the light enhances the eerie beauty of the Pinnacles, casting long shadows and highlighting their textures.
Depending on how early you arrive in the morning or early evening, you can experience extraordinary stargazing and astrophotography opportunities.
Geraldton
Continue to Geraldton, where you can visit the HMAS Sydney II Memorial and enjoy the beautiful beaches.
Geraldton is also known for its fresh seafood, so take the opportunity to try some local dishes.
The town has a rich maritime history, and a visit to the Western Australian Museum is worthwhile for those interested in learning more about it.
Kalbarri National Park
Kalbarri National Park offers stunning hiking trails, gorges, and scenic views. Nature’s Window and the Z Bend are popular spots for breathtaking photographs.
The park is also home to the Murchison River, where you can enjoy activities like kayaking and canoeing. The Kalbarri Skywalk, a recent addition, offers panoramic views of the gorges and surrounding landscapes.
Shark Bay
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shark Bay is home to Monkey Mia, famous for its dolphin interactions. The clear waters and diverse marine life make it a great spot for snorkelling and wildlife watching.
In addition to dolphins, Shark Bay is known for its dugongs, turtles, and a variety of bird species.
The Hamelin Pool Stromatolites, one of the oldest forms of life on earth, are also located here and are a fascinating natural wonder.
Coral Bay
Coral Bay is the gateway to Ningaloo Reef. Spend time snorkelling among the coral gardens and colourful fish. If you’re visiting between March and June, you might even spot whale sharks.
Coral Bay’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty. The shallow waters of Bill’s Bay are ideal for families and beginner snorkelers.
Arriving in Exmouth
Exmouth is the final destination on your Perth to Exmouth tour. Wondering where Exmouth is? Exmouth is located on the north-western tip of the Cape Range Peninsula in Western Australia, about 1,250 kilometres north of Perth.
This charming town is the perfect base for exploring Ningaloo Reef, where you can snorkel, dive, or simply relax on the pristine beaches.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Cape Range National Park, which offers stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. The park’s rugged limestone ranges, deep canyons, and pristine beaches are home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and a wide range of bird species.
In Exmouth, you can take part in guided tours to swim with whale sharks or manta rays, or simply enjoy the vibrant marine life through a glass-bottom boat tour.
Information from travellers that I have talked to says an essential tip is to go to Exmouth for Whale Shark swims rather than other locations that are advised online and that Exmouth has more tour options and is closer to the main section of the Reef.
Essential Travel Tips: Perth to Exmouth Tour
When planning your Perth to Exmouth tour, consider the various accommodation options along the route, from camping grounds to hotels. In Exmouth, you’ll find a range of choices to suit all budgets.
Plan for a trip duration of at least 7-10 days to fully enjoy the journey and its attractions. Dining options range from coastal cafes to fine dining, and it’s wise to carry some snacks and water for the longer stretches between towns.
Fuel stops are available in major towns along the route, but it’s always a good idea to refuel whenever you have the chance, especially in more remote areas. Make sure to check the opening hours of petrol stations, as some may close earlier than expected.
Start your Perth to Exmouth adventure and discover the wonders of Western Australia. For more travel guides and tips, visit my blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Notable stops include Lancelin, The Pinnacles Desert, Geraldton, Kalbarri National Park, Shark Bay, and Coral Bay.
Absolutely! The diverse landscapes and unique attractions make it a memorable experience.
No, there isn’t a train service between Exmouth and Perth. The journey is best done by car.
The best time to visit Exmouth is between April and October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
Between Perth and Exmouth, you’ll find many stunning stops like Lancelin, The Pinnacles Desert, Geraldton, Kalbarri National Park, Shark Bay, and Coral Bay.
The lively little city of Exmouth has around 3000 people and is accessed via a gateway to the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Ninggulu coast. Ningaloo Marine Park features the world’s best coral reef and varied marine life.
This post may contain affiliate links. This means if you click through and make a purchase I may receive a small payment at no extra cost to the reader.
