The largest city on the Coral Coast, Geraldton has established itself as a contemporary coastal hub of cafés, shops, street art and galleries. The city’s beaches and sunny climate make it a hot-spot for water sport enthusiasts and visitors looking to soak up the sun on pristine beaches. The city is a 4.5 hour drive or 50 minute flight with Qantas from Perth.
Geraldton is a fantastic base from which to explore the Coral Coast region. Only a short drive to the south, experience Greenough’s historic charm and picturesque river. Fly or cruise 60km off the coast to witness the stunning Abrolhos Islands. Travel one-hour east to Mullewa – a wildflower hotspot.
Just 60km off the coast, the Abrolhos Islands is Geraldton’s very own aquatic playground – one of Australia’s top spots for fishing, diving, windsurfing and swimming, or just relaxing on white sandy beaches. Enjoy a scenic flight or stay on-board a live-abroad cruising tour. The Islands are only the second location in Australia to be awarded a Hope Spot location by Mission Blue, whose role is to determine vital ecosystems and ignite support to safeguard them as marine protected areas.
Those in search of cultural experiences will be fascinated by the ancient culture of the local Indigenous Yamatji people, visit the Yamatji Art Centre or experience the Yamatji Drive Trail. Just 20 minutes south of Geraldton, discover Greenough’s historic charm, uncrowded beaches and the picturesque natural features of Ellendale Pool.
Visit during Spring and you’ll also be treated to some of the State’s most stunning displays of wildflowers accessible out of Geraldton in the surrounding towns of Mullewa and Mingenew.
For those interested in Maritime History, Geraldton is a must-do destination.Visit the awe-inspiring HMAS Sydney II Memorial, built to honour the lost sailors of the HMAS Sydney maritime disaster in 1941. Explore the WA Museum of Geraldton, a state-of-the-art facility gracing the Batavia Coast Marina which showcases the region’s rich maritime, natural and cultural history.
Take a tour of the magnificent St Francis Xavier Cathedral, with its Byzantine style architecture of this cathedral is one of Monsignor Hawes’ greatest masterpieces. For a more modern masterpiece, visit the Horizon: Public Art piece, the city of Geraldton's newest #Instaworthy location, on the Beresford Foreshore at the bottom of Dean Street.
Check out the red and white striped Point Moore Lighthouse, Australia's first all steel tower built on the mainland of Australia, back in 1878.
Be it an art and jewellery exhibit, weekend music festival, muster and rodeo, writers’ weekend, comedy festival, or The Wind on Water (WoW) Festival in early April, Geraldton has that extra something happening whenever you choose to visit.
Best Time to Visit Geraldton: Year-Round
Best Time to Visit the Abrolhos Islands: March-October
