The dramatic coastal cliffs of Kalbarri's Red Bluff offer amazing views over the Indian Ocean.
Towering 100 metres over the ocean below, Red Bluff is the ideal spot to see humpback whales on their annual migration along the Kalbarri coastline. You'll be amazed by the landscape of Red Bluff - delicate threads of red rock look like tears frozen in time in formations believed to be 400 million years old.
Named by Dutch explorer Willem de Vlamingh in 1697, the spectacular coastal cliffs extend 13 kilometres through Kalbarri National Park.
As well as panoramic views, the area offers secluded beaches popular for swimming, snorkelling and lazing. Other nearby dramatic coastal landmarks include Mushroom Gorge, Rainbow Alley and Pot Alley.
You can drive there from the Kalbarri township on dirt roads which are accessible by conventional vehicles. Kalbarri is a seven hour drive from Perth or you can fly there in about two hours.
Coastal Cliff Sites
Kalbarri's Coastal Cliffs feature magnificent, towering cliffs which plummet down to the ocean waves 100 metres below. Starting at Red Bluff, just south of Kalbarri town, the dramatic coastal cliffs extend 13km to the National Park's southern boundary. These National Park sites are free to visit. Numerous sign-posted pathways and lookouts provide safe exploration of the ruggedly beautiful coastline. Migrating whales can often be seen from the Coastal Cliffs between June and November.
At the southern end of the coastal cliffs, visitors can enjoy the Natural Bridge and Island Rock. With stunning coastal views a short walk from their respective carparks, visitors can look out over the Natural Bridge in search of marine life, including whales and dolphins. The resilient Island Rock was once part of the shoreline and now stands as a solitary 'sea stack' against the forces of the ocean. Island Rock is reminiscent of the Twelve Apostles.
Take in views from the Eagle Gorge lookout, named after the wedge-tailed eagles that nest in the gorge. These magnificent birds can often be seen soaring through the sky in search of prey. For anyone seeking a little extra adventure, follow the stepped rocky path to discover a secluded beach.
The Birgurda Trail (the Indigenous name for a small kangaroo, which can sometimes be sighted along the trail) in an 8km (one-way) trail connecting the Natural Bridge with Eagle Gorge. It provides stunning coastal views with great photo opportunities. Halfway along the trail, make sure to stop at the Grandstand to peer into Kalbarri's deep cavernous cliffs from the walkway above. This unique walk showcases a vast array of wildflower species from July to November, with pods of dolphins and migrating humpback whales also a common sight.
Pot Alley was named by local cray fishermen after losing many craypots to this hazardous cove. Enjoy the spectacular ocean scenery amidst the expansive rugged gorges, or walk the short track to the remote beach below. Slightly north of Pot Alley, informative signage takes you back 400 million years as you wander along the marked circuit that connects Rainbow Valley and Mushroom Rock. Allow between one and two hours for the walk, where you can marvel at the varied geological formations and see kangaroos feeding (best seen at dawn and dusk) amongst the coastal heath.
Red Bluff beach is a popular location for fishing and swimming. Featuring a picturesque white sandy beach, contrasted against striking rust red rocks, Red Bluff is particularly spectacular at sunset or for whale watching from the Red Bluff Lookout. Hike down from the Lookout to Red Bluff beach along the beach trail, also known as Gaba Gaba Yina, to see amazing views across the Indian Ocean and impressive rock formations, and reward yourself with a swim at the bottom. Please note: this track is steep with loose surfaces.
