39 Top Things to do in Geraldton

Geraldton, a vibrant coastal city along Australia’s Coral Coast, offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and excitement for all kinds of travellers.

Whether you're on a budget, looking for romantic experiences, seeking water adventures, or wanting to explore the city at night, Geraldton has something for everyone. Here’s your go-to guide for making the most of your time on your next visit to this seaside city.

How to get there? Geraldton is roughly a 4.5-hour drive north of Perth or a quick 50-minute flight with Qantas or Nexus Airlines.

What to do and when in Geraldton:

• Free things to do
• Romantic things to do
  
• Water experiences
• Things to do at night
• Historic and cultural experiences
• Things to do with kids

Free things to do in Geraldton

• Stroll along the Foreshore

Geraldton's picturesque foreshore is perfect for a leisurely walk, picnic, or swim. With pristine beaches, playgrounds, and public art installations, it’s an ideal spot to relax and take in ocean views.

• Sunset at the Horizon Ball

A great spot on the Geraldton foreshore to admire a West Australian sunset over the Indian Ocean is at the Horizon Ball. The Horizon Ball was installed in 2019 and provides a beautiful view of the sunset – with all the colours reflecting around the orb structure.

• Visit Ellendale pool

Ellendale Pool is a lovely spot to stop for a picnic by the water or a kayak along the banks. Not only ideal for day trips Ellendale Pool is also a fantastic overnight camping spot. A bonus the campsites are free and dog friendly! Please book in advance to avoid disappointment.

• Pink Lake

Whether you choose to drive the hour out to Hutt Lagoon or take a scenic flight over with Shine Aviation, you won’t be disappointed. Whether you choose to drive the hour out to Hutt Lagoon or take a scenic flight over it with Shine Aviation, or Kalbarri Scenic Flights you won’t be disappointed. The natural magenta hue of the sprawling lake must be seen to be believed. Hot tip: plan your visit for a sunny day and aim for lunchtime to see the lake at its most vibrant.

• Explore Point Moore Lighthouse

Get up close to Western Australia’s oldest lighthouse. The lighthouse is not open to the public; however, you can walk around the bottom of the lighthouse and read the interpretive plaque which provides some interesting facts about the lighthouse and its history. The views of the ocean from the lighthouse are stunning.

• Visit the Leaning Trees

The leaning Eucalyptus Camaldulensis or Red River Gum trees of Greenough have been buffeted by the strong southerly winds. They have grown almost on their sides, offering a unique photo opportunity to capture this natural phenomenon. There is a dedicated parking area along Brand Highway to capture these unique trees.

• Greenough River Nature Trail

Just outside of Geraldton is the Greenough River Nature Trail. This trail captures stunning views of the river while protecting the vulnerable environment. From the river mouth to Rudd’s Gully is roughly 3.5km. Spot local wildlife along the way and take a dip at the end of the trail at Devlin Pool to cool off.

• Chapman River Regional Park

Stretch your legs on the Chapman River Regional Park bush trail, a scenic walk teeming with native flora and birdlife. Ideal for nature lovers, this hidden gem offers a peaceful escape just minutes from town.

Romantic things to do in Geraldton

• Explore the Chapman Valley

Wildflowers, the Moresby Ranges, and never-ending 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 landscape from Mills Lookout. While you’re in the area, stop by the local lavender farm or enjoy a meal at the Burnt Barrel.

Admire the stunning array of colourful Wildflowers (July-October), or Mountain bike / walk through nature on The Chapman River Nature trail at Nanson. Along the trail are boxes and habitats supplied for the endangered Ringtail Possum and Carnaby Black Cockatoo. With trail makers and interpretive signage.

• Take home gorgeous pearls from the Abrolhos islands

Wanting to take home a souvenir to remember your holiday or treat someone to a gift? The Abrolhos Islands pearls are the perfect choice. Shop at Chimere Pearls and Latitude Jewellers in Geraldton for the perfect memento or gift.

• Wildflower hunting

East of Geraldton you will find yourself in Wildflower country, which blooms in Spring (July-October). Take any stress out of planning and jump on a guided tour with New Leaf Connect or Midwest Adventure Tours. Or explore our self-drive itineraries.

Two notable locations for everlasting carpets are Coalseam Conservation Park and Depot Hill but the town of Mullewa is a perfect place to base yourself if you choose to extend your visit. With 5 walking trails and 2 of those being dedicated wildflower trails, it is the spot to be.

Pop into the Helen Ansell Art Gallery while in town to pick up a coffee, a sweet treat and some beautiful art pieces. Heading further east somewhere between Mullewa and Pinder you may come across the rare, endemic ‘wreath flower’ dotted along the gravel roadside. If you don’t have time for the full wildflower country a beautiful lookout roughly 30 minutes from Geraldton is Mills Lookout, overlooking the gorgeous undulating farmlands.

• Sail along the coast

Jump on a cruise along the coast of Geraldton, spotting dolphins and other wildlife while enjoying the coastal breeze. With tours offered during the day and for sunsets, it’s a memorable way to spend time with your partner.

• Breakfast Date

Needing a spot for a morning date and love food as much as we do? You’ll love Flow Vitality Café. A cute café in Geraldton, with a great variety of options, quality produce and a welcoming atmosphere.

• Visit the local distillery

Support the local 30 Knots Distillery, where they brew and bottle all their spirits in-house. Meaning they take the utmost pride in every single batch, and you will not leave disappointed. With a bar area attached to the cellar door, patrons can sit back on the deck enjoying one of the tipples, feast on delicious share plates featuring all Western Australian produce and soak up the good vibes.

Water Experiences to do in Geraldton

• 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. Want a more immersive experience? Embark on a liveaboard/ cruise adventure with Apache Charters, Blue Juice Charters, Eco Abrolhos Cruises or Pelican Charters.

• Windsurfing and Kitesurfing

That famed southerly mightn’t spell great news for sunbathers when it blows in, but it's natural fuel for all our windsurfing and kitesurfing friends. 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. Geraldton is best known for all of its fantastic water-based activities – including swimming, snorkelling, diving, SUPing, windsurfing, kite surfing and jet skiing. The best time to visit for this experience is during the Summer.

• Ultimate Water Sports Geraldton

Offering an array of exciting water sport activities from the protected bay in central Geraldton this is a great way to spend your day. Available from November to April you can experience jetpacks, jet skis, tubing, kayaking, and the list goes on.

• Pull a Cray

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 Eco Abrolhos Cruises. After a scenic cruise outside the harbour, head out to the pots to pull your very own cray. Choose to cook it up then and there or take your catch home to whip it up your way.

• Chapman Valley Fishing Park

Conveniently located a short 25-minute drive north of Geraldton, the Chapman Valley Fishing Park is the perfect place to spend your day. Through their catch-and-release activities, you can cast a line for silver perch and black bream all year round, or try for barramundi in Summer. No experience is necessary. Equipped with a café and plenty of picnic and barbeque areas, the park is an easy place to laze away some of the days hours.

Things to do in Geraldton at night

• St Francis Xavier Cathedral

The St Francois Xavier Cathedral was completed in 1938, blending Romanesque and Byzantine styles to create this striking architectural design by Monsignor John Hawes. The Cathedral is open to the public from 7am – 5:30pm daily (except public holidays) but is truly spectacular to admire at night. Lit up this majestic design becomes eerie and alluring from all angles and can be beautifully captured beneath the night sky.

• Stargazing

Two notable locations for stargazing near Geraldton are Greenough and Mullewa. Distanced from the city's lights and surrounded by masses of open land these are great locations to park up and admire the milky way and stars.

• Sunset dining at Skeetas

Open all day the Skeetas restaurant and cafe offers a wonderful seaside dining experience. Right on the water, you can enjoy a beautiful sunset over the ocean while delving into a delicious dinner with accompanying beverages. A lovely way to spend an evening in Geraldton.

• Sundays by the Sea (Jan-May) - Free Event

Soak up the sunset vibes at Sundays by the Sea, a free live music event held on the Geraldton Foreshore from January to May. Bring a picnic, grab a bite from the food trucks, and enjoy the ocean breeze as local artists set the perfect Sunday soundtrack

Historic and Cultural experiences in Geraldton

• Museum of Geraldton

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the Museum of Geraldton celebrates the rich heritage of the land, sea and people of the Mid-West region. Discover ancient landforms, Yamaji history and culture, and the region’s unique natural landscapes and marine environment. Open 7 days from 9:30am and offering a daily guided tour at 11:30am there is so much to see and discover.

• Yamaji Art Centre

The Yamaji Art Centre is a 100% Aboriginal owned and operated art centre, in Geraldton. The centre provides professional services to support and develop Aboriginal artists living in the Lower Murchison region of Yamaji Country with a focus on sustaining cultural maintenance and art practice while creating economic benefits. Yamaji Art Centre gives visitors an insight into the heritage and cultural stories of the Yamaji people and an opportunity to purchase authentic artworks and pieces.

• HMAS Sydney II Memorial

For a moving tribute to the sailors who lost their lives on HMAS Sydney II during World War II visit the HMAS Sydney II Memorial on Geraldton's Mount Scott. You can learn more about this important chapter in Australia's history at the Wall of Remembrance which bears the names of the 645 men who lost their lives. The memorial is made up of five symbolic elements and is located on Gummer Avenue, overlooking the city centre. Volunteer tours run daily.

• 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 at Ellendale Pool - A stunning waterhole with free camping available.

• Geraldton Old Gaol

Step back in time at the Geraldton Old Gaol, a former prison now home to a collection of artisan studios and local crafts. Wander through the historic cells and discover unique handmade treasures.

• Geraldton Regional Art Gallery (GRAG)

Visit GRAG, a hub for contemporary art, and pick up a public art map to explore Geraldton’s vibrant street murals and sculptures.

• Batavia Long Boat Replica
  

History buffs won’t want to miss the Batavia Long Boat Replica, showcased on the last Sunday of each month. A fascinating insight into one of Australia's most infamous shipwreck stories.

• Laneway Studios
  

Check out Laneway Studios, an art collective featuring a gallery shop and working studios where you can see local artists in action.

Things to do with kids in Geraldton

• Geraldton Foreshore

A great way to keep the kids entertained without breaking the bank is to visit the Geraldton Foreshore. With a free water park, multiple playgrounds, facilities and amenities and of course the beach, the kids will be kept very busy.

• Greenough Wildlife and Bird Park

Visit the Greenough Wildlife and Bird Park – 30km South of Geraldton, where visitors have the chance to feed a kangaroo, hold a friendly lizard and meet dingos. Open daily, except Wednesdays.

• Port Bus Tours

Curious about Geraldton’s bustling port? Hop on a Port Bus Tour to see the inner workings of one of WA’s busiest harbors. Tours run every second Wednesday of the month from 10:00 am – 11:00 am, costing $10 per person. Bookings via Visit Geraldton.

• Waterpark & Playgrounds

Cool off at the Geraldton Foreshore Waterpark, a hit with little ones on a warm day, or explore one of the many nearby playgrounds.

• Skate Park

Thrill-seekers can test their skills at Geraldton Skate Park, a popular spot for skating, BMX, and scooters.

• Miniature Railway – Spalding Park

For a fun family outing, take a ride on the Miniature Railway at Spalding Park, a charming little track that delights kids and train enthusiasts alike.

• BMX Trail – Spalding Park

Adrenaline junkies will love the Pump and Jump Track at Spalding Park, designed for BMX riders of all levels.

• Fishing & Sea Lions on the Esplanade

Cast a line off Geraldton Esplanade and keep an eye out for the local sea lions basking in the sun – they’re known to put on a show!