Kalbarri

Kalbarri is Western Australia's outdoor holiday playground and home to the ancient Kalbarri National Park.

The town is encircled by two distinctly different landscapes, to the east of the town the 400 million year old gorges of the Kalbarri National Park and to the west the towering Coastal Cliffs which plummet into the ocean below. Kalbarri offers a wealth of activities and attractions from swimming, surfing, hiking, fishing and whale watching. Meet Kalbarri’s resident pelicans each morning at 08:45am, as they make their way to the grassed area on the foreshore near the intersections of Grey and Wood Streets. Here, local volunteers feed the pelicans whilst spectators watch on. Fun fact: This tradition began with a local Kalbarri fisherman who cleaned his catch and threw the scraps to the pelicans, now known as The Pelican Café Kalbarri, located just across the road.

If you are looking for fresh, local seafood and a locally brewed bevy, then head to Finlay's Kalbarri. Enjoy the rustic dining experience along with locally brewed beer from the on-site microbrewery. With large eucalyptus trees providing shade from the warm summer sun, authentic dirt floors and eclectic furniture, Finlay’s provides the perfect outdoor setting for a uniquely Australian dining experience. The newly developed Nature Playground on the Kalbarri Foreshore is an ideal activity for families. The playground features an impressive flying fox and wooden lookout tower, with shady trees protecting the children from the sun. Parents can relax at picnic tables, with cafés and restaurants nearby.

🏆 Gold Winner – WA Top Tourism Town Awards 2024, 2025 & 2026

Kalbarri National Park

Kalbarri National Park is a short drive out of town offering superb walking trails and boasts awe-inspiring displays of wildflowers from July to October each year. Best known for the iconic Nature's Window and new Skywalk, there are 14 sites within the Park including easy trails like Ross Graham Lookout and Hawk's Head Lookout, and the more adventurous hiking trails of The Loop and Z Bend. There are a range of land and water tours to help you enjoy the Park.

A scenic flight over the National Park's Coastal Cliffs offers a dramatic perspective and a true impression of the area’s immense scope and scale. Witness the wonders of the Kalbarri National Park, nearby Pink Lake and the Houtman Abrolhos Islands from the best possible vantage point - the air!

Wildflowers

From July until October, around 1000 species of wildflowers progressively burst into bloom around Kalbarri and within Kalbarri National Park, particularly along the tops of coastal cliffs and gorges. Many species are endemic to the region including the Kalbarri spider orchid, cats paw and Murchison rose. You can find out what's blooming here, and contact the Kalbarri Visitor Centre for more detailed information on where to find seasonal wildflowers.

Swimming, surfing and fishing

Blue Holes Beach is renowned for its exceptional snorkelling and thriving marine life. The area is a protected fish habitat, featuring sections of reef that are permanently submerged by the ocean (sub-tidal) as well as areas that are exposed at low tide (intertidal). In order to preserve the unique environment at Blue Holes, fishing is totally banned. Make the most of the clear, tranquil waters of Chinaman’s Beach on the Murchison River. This swimming spot in the heart of Kalbarri is popular among families due to its safe swimming conditions

Jacques Point, (locally known as “Jakes”) is renowned for its superb left-hand reef break along the point and is a favourite among experienced surfers. Spectators can join in on the action by watching from the beach, and less experienced surfers can opt to surf in Jakes Bay.

Fishing in Kalbarri boasts some of WA’s best shore and boat angling. Try estuary fishing for whiting and black bream or drop a net to yield blue swimmer and mud crabs. Fishing charters are popular, satisfying both the serious angler and the novice. They regularly return with a bounty of fish including mackerel, tuna, snapper, dhufish, coral trout and bald chin groper. Note: There is an annual West Coast Demersal fishing ban from Cervantes to Kalbarri from 15 October to 15 December inclusive. Visit fish.wa.gov.au for further information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kalbarri? Kalbarri is located on Western Australia's Coral Coast, approximately 6.5 hours' drive north of Perth. Situated where the Murchison River meets the Indian Ocean, Kalbarri is surrounded by dramatic coastal cliffs, spectacular river gorges and the iconic landscapes of Kalbarri National Park.

What are the top attractions? Kalbarri offers a diverse range of natural attractions and outdoor experiences, including:

• Kalbarri Skywalk, featuring breathtaking views over the Murchison River Gorge.
• Nature's Window, one of Western Australia's most photographed natural landmarks.
• Pink Lake (Hutt Lagoon), famous for its vibrant pink hues just south of Kalbarri.
• Natural Bridge, Island Rock and the Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs, showcasing the power of the Indian Ocean.
• Murchison River cruises and kayaking experiences, offering a unique perspective of the region's landscapes and wildlife.

How many days should I spend in Kalbarri? We recommend spending a minimum of three days in Kalbarri to experience the region's highlights. This allows time to explore Kalbarri National Park, discover the stunning coastline, enjoy river-based adventures and experience the local dining and hospitality offerings.

When is the best time to visit? The best time to visit Kalbarri is generally between March and October, when temperatures are milder and conditions are ideal for exploring the outdoors. Spring is particularly spectacular, with colourful wildflowers blooming throughout the region, including many species that are endemic to the region. Summer can be very hot, and some walking trails within Kalbarri National Park may close during periods of extreme heat for visitor safety.

Can you swim at Kalbarri beaches? Yes. Kalbarri offers several beautiful swimming beaches and coastal spots to enjoy.

• Blue Holes is one of the most popular family-friendly swimming locations, with protected reef areas providing calmer conditions.
• Lucky Bay (Kalbarri), accessible via 4WD, offers a remote beach experience with crystal-clear waters and excellent fishing opportunities.
• Jake's Point is internationally recognised as one of Western Australia's premier surf breaks and attracts surfers from around the world.

As with all coastal environments, visitors should check local conditions and follow safety advice before entering the water.

Is Kalbarri suitable for families? Absolutely. Kalbarri is often known as Western Australia's favourite outdoor holiday playground, offering adventures and experiences for all ages. Families can enjoy safe swimming beaches, river cruises, nature walks, wildlife encounters, playgrounds and the unforgettable Kalbarri Skywalk. One of the town's most beloved traditions is the daily pelican feeding, where visitors can learn more about these iconic birds while getting up close to local wildlife.

How far is the Pink Lake from Kalbarri? Pink Lake is roughly 45mins from Kalbarri town.