Kalbarri is a truly spectacular getaway where the Murchison River meets the sea. You'll love its natural wonders, stunning coastline, soaring river gorges, exciting National Park and protected swimming bays. From strolling the foreshore to abseiling down rugged gorges and everything in between, its no wonder Kalbarri has been a favourite holiday destination for generations.
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What to see and do:
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The Kalbarri townsite is nestled at the river mouth which offers protected swimming beaches. You can lay back on the grassed parkland which lines the entire foreshore and enjoy views over the river mouth and ocean. If you feel more active take in the views as you stroll along the foreshore path. The grassed areas feature playgrounds, barbeque facilities and picnic tables. Just walk across the road to the shops for anythingelse you need throughout the day.
Kalbarri's coastal gorges feature magnificent, towering cliffs that plummet to the eternal crash of waves below. During the annual humpback whale migration from around July to November, you can often spot whales just metres from the cliffs as they partake in the spectacular acrobatic action for which they're renowned. From Red Bluff, named by Willem de Vlamingh in 1697, the spectacular coastal cliffs extend 13km to the Park's southern boundary.
Just south of the townsite is the snorkeling paradise Blue Holes. Dozens of rock pools and swimming holes offer protected snorkelling and a beautiful array of marine life.
Jaques Point is renowned among surfers for its superb reef break. Waves break along the point, meaning spectators on the beach can gain close up views of the surfing action. Jacques Bay offers a safer wave for less experienced surfers and white sandy beaches for sun lovers.
Beginning in late June, the sandplain heath of Kalbarri National Park virtually erupts into a lush Garden of Eden. From then until the end of November (a full five months!) nearly 800 species of West Australian native wildflowers progressively burst into bloom for all the world to see.
Each morning at 8:45am, head to the grassed area between the river mouth and the Visitor Centre for your chance to feed the pelicans. Find out more about these majestic birds as you throw them a morning snack.
Deep water adjacent to the shoreline and coastal cliffs provide an ideal environment for fishing. Tailor and mulloway are the main targets for shore anglers while estuary fishing may also produce catches of whiting. Fishing charters are extremely popular, satisfying both the serious anglers and the novice. Blue swimmer and mangrove crabs are also regularly found in the river.
With so much to explore in Kalbarri, you dont need to do it on your own. Tour operators provide a host of activities including: Canoeing, quad biking, hiking or abseiling in the river gorges, boat charters for whale watching, river or sunset cruises, or get above it all with a scenic flight. Horse riding, camel treks, paddleboat, windsurfing and dinghy hire are all available. Call into the Kalbarri Visitor Centre for more information.
