10 of the best things to do in Geraldton

From water activities and wildflowers to cray fishing and day-tripping, Geraldton is a city that’s got it all.

Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do there on your next visit.

Go for a (wind)surf

That famed southerly mightn’t spell great news for sunbathers when it blows in, but it's natural fuel for all the windsurfing and kitesurfing fiends. Any stretch of the Geraldton coastline is surfable when the wind picks up, but Coronation Beach is a favourite local haunt. BYO board, or hire one from town.

Head on a hunt for wildflowers

An hour out of town, somewhere between Mullewa and Pindar, you’ll find more than just carpets of pink and white everlastings. Come spring, the gravel roadside is dotted with rare, endemic ‘wreath flowers’. Two of the five walk trails in Mullewa are dedicated wildflower walks, both located just outside the main townsite.

Visit the Abrolhos Islands

Known for its brilliantly white sand, clear waters, and fascinating history of shipwrecks and mutinies, the Houtman Abrolhos Island chain – 60km off the shores of Geraldton – is a paradise waiting to be discovered. Reach the islands by air or by fast ferry, and enjoy a day of swimming, snorkelling, and sea lion-spotting.

Check out the pink lake

Whether you choose to drive the hour out to Hutt Lagoon or take a scenic flight over it, you won’t be disappointed. The natural magenta hue of the sprawling lake has to be seen to be believed. Hot tip: plan your visit for a sunny day to see the pinks at their most vibrant.

Drive the Yamaji Drive Trail

Beginning on the Geraldton Esplanade and culminating at Butterabby Graves site south of Mullewa, the 195km Yamaji Drive Trail stops at 14 sites of significance to the Yamaji people. Split the drive into two to allow enough time at each stop, overnighting in the historic town of Greenough

Explore the Chapman Valley

Wildflowers, the Moresby Ranges, and neverending fields of golden canola; you can find it all in the Chapman Valley. Take a day trip northeast of Geraldton to see the stunning country vistas from Mills Lookout. While you’re in the area, stop by the local lavender farm and microbrewery.

Uncover the region’s history

The wider Geraldton region has a fascinating history, remnants of which remain on display at the Museum of Geraldton. Learn of the culture and traditions of the Yamaji people, find information about ancient landforms in the region, and – in the dedicated Shipwreck Gallery – discover the archaeological riches of four dutch shipwrecks off the city’s coast.

Pull a crayfish pot

The western rock lobster is WA’s most valuable single-species fishery, and Geraldton is a hub for the industry. Get a taste of the cray fishing process (and the product) on a tour with Offshore Charters WA. After a scenic cruise outside the harbour, head out to the pots to pull a cray. Choose to cook it up then and there, or take your catch home to whip it up your own way.

Try your hand at ‘jetpacking’

Strap on one of Ultimate Watersports Geraldton’s jet packs and get a glimpse at where the future of water-based sports is headed. Powered by a fire hose, you’ll be (safely) propelled metres above the bay. For a less adrenaline-filled experience, give one of their foil boards, SUP boards, or kayaks a go instead.

Rest up at Ocean Centre Hotel

After a full day’s exploration, retire in comfort on the beachside at Ocean Centre Hotel. Across the road from the foreshore and a short stroll away from the Northgate Shopping Centre or town, you’re within reach of everything you need. If you don’t want to go anywhere, the hotel’s Sirocco Bar and Cafe have you covered, too.

For more on what to do, where to stay, and where to eat in Geraldton, visit here.