5 Reasons to Head North of Perth for a Long Weekend
13 September 2023
The best coastal Western Australia road trip for a long weekend
We must admit, marking all the public holidays in our diaries at the start of a new year has become a yearly ritual, because who doesn’t love planning ahead! If you’re looking for the best coastal Western Australia road trips, look no further….with less traffic, less car time and so much to discover, Indian Ocean Drive along the Coral Coral Highway has some quaint, coastal towns waiting to welcome you. Check out the list of 2024 Western Australia public holidays below and start planning!
As P!ink once said, just give me a reason…so here are 5 reasons why you should pack the bags and enjoy a road trip north of Perth for your next long weekend adventure. If these top 5 charming coastal towns aren’t enough of a reason to convince you to head north for your next long weekend in Western Australia, then check out this Instagram Trail Map by @CJMaddock, who have pin pointed the best insta-worthy locations along the Turquoise Coast.
1. Cervantes
If you’re wanting to spend less time driving and more time relaxing, then Cervantes located just 2 hours’ drive north of Perth is the ideal long weekend location for you. Don’t forget to stop in at The Pinnacles, located in Nambung National Park just 25 minutes from Cervantes. This coastal fishing town has everything you need for a relaxing short break getaway. If you don’t visit the Lobster Shack, have you really experienced Cervantes? Be sure to snag a beachfront table and settle in for an afternoon of seafood and wine as you enjoy the fresh sea-breeze and picture-perfect ocean views. If you’re looking for accommodation then check out the Pinnacles Edge Resort or RAC Cervantes Holiday Park.
2. Jurien Bay
Continuing north an extra 30 minutes from Cervantes, Jurien Bay is Western Australia’s family favourite destination for a reason. A slightly larger town and population than Cervantes, Jurien Bay is the perfect long weekend getaway. Not only are the beaches picturesque as the white sandy beaches meet the turquoise seas but the town is filled with an array of cafes, breweries and eating spots perfect for any group or family. Looking for Jurien Bay accommodation? We recommend booking ahead with Jurien Bay Tourist Park or Jurien Bay Motel Apartments. If you’re looking for an experience, we highly recommend jumping on tour with Jurien Bay Oceanic, Turquoise Safaris or Sea Lion Charters to experience the friendly sea lions who call Jurien Bay Marine Park home. Ready to get the blood pumping? Skydive Jurien Bay is a bucket list experience to add to your long weekend plans or go wildflower hunting (July – October) at Lesueur National Park, near Jurien Bay. We recommend booking ahead with Jurien Bay Tourist Park or Jurien Bay Motel Apartments. If you have accommodation sorted (by this we mean those who have caravan and camping gear), be sure to book your spot at the stunning Sandy Cape.
3. Green Head
Continue your coastal road trip along Western Australia’s Indian Ocean Drive until you reach Green Head, just under 3 hours’ drive north of Perth. A coastal delight, known for its scenic bays, crystal clear beaches and a popular choice for those who love bushwalking. Green Head is an idea long weekend road trip destination for those looking to escape the crowds. There is so much to explore and an abundance of bays for you to relax for the day, be sure to add Dynamite Bay to your itinerary and if you’re up for a hike, Three Bays Walk Trail is a great 2.8km hike boasting stunning views over the Indian Ocean with several lookouts with seating along the way. We highly recommend visiting Point Louise for panoramic ocean views, just a few minutes north of town.
4. Leeman
Heading north a further 10 minutes from Green Head, you will stumble upon the tight-knit crayfishing town of Leeman. More than just a small coastal town, Leeman is an ideal location for your next long weekend coastal road trip especially if you’re looking for some quality down time and to enjoy your natural surrounds. Home to Stockyard Gully National Park, you can spend the day exploring the fascinating ancient river systems of the Stockyard Gilly caves below ground or simply enjoy Leeman for its white sandy beaches and protected bays. If you’re an avid fisherman or diver then make the most of Leeman’s first-class jetty and boat ramp.
5. Dongara-Port Denison
True coastal village charm awaits just under 4 hours’ drive north of Perth as the Irwin River meanders between the twin towns of Dongara-Port Denison. Offering a laid-back family holiday, Dongara-Port Denison is the perfect long-weekend getaway for those looking to slow down and escape everyday reality. Our top tips when visiting? Stop off at Illegal Tender Rum Co and treat yourself to a gin tasting or jump on a local tour with Elyce from New Leaf Connect and have her show you everything Dongara-Port Denison has to offer plus so much more.
2024 Western Australia Public Holidays
| New Year's Day | Monday 1 January |
| Australia Day | Friday 26 January |
| Labour Day | Monday 4 March |
| Good Friday | Friday 29 March |
| Easter Sunday | Sunday 31 March |
| Easter Monday | Monday 1 April |
| ANZAC Day | Thursday 25 April |
| Western Australia Day | Monday 3 June |
| King's Birthday | Monday 23 September |
| Christmas Day | Wednesday 25 December |
| Boxing Day | Thursday 26 December |
