3 day Perth to Kalbarri road trip
The Kalbarri region is a favourite family holiday destination also known for its adventure experiences on the water and land-based attractions.
- Suggested Time: 3 days
- Perth to Kalbarri
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Situated where the Murchison River meets the Indian Ocean, Kalbarri National Park has a soaring river and several walking trails, iconic landmarks such as Nature's Window and the Kalbarri Skywalk. Witness over 1000 species of wildflowers from July to September and enjoy protected swimming bays like the Blue Holes.
Day One
Perth to Kalbarri (Approx. 573 km – 6hrs) - COASTAL ROUTE
Start your trip north of Perth on the Mitchell Highway turning into the Indian Ocean Drive which gives way to the coastal beach towns of Cervantes, Jurien Bay, Green Head and Leeman. If you're an adventure seeker, consider stopping in Jurien Bay to skydive over the coastline.
Whilst travelling north to Kalbarri, consider having lunch or a snack-stop in Geraldton at Piper Lane, Jaffle Shack or Skeetas. Don't need food but do need to shop? Visit Latitude Gallery to see the Abrolhos Island pearl up close!
At Northampton, you're almost there! Turn onto the Coastal Scenic Drive.
Be sure to stop in for a photo at Port Gregory’s stunning pink lake called Hutt Lagoon (just south of Kalbarri). Whilst heading into the town of Kalbarri on the George Grey (Coastal Scenic) Drive, check out the stunning views from the Coastal Cliffs look outs.
Enjoy dinner at Finlay's where you will experience Kalbarri's fresh seafood caught that day and served up to you!
Day Two
Kalbarri
Wake up early and join a cray pot-pulling tour (November to June) or end the day on a sunset whale watching charter (late June - November).
Kids love nothing more than to head down to the Kalbarri foreshore (near the Grey and Wood St intersection) for their chance to feed the cheeky local pelicans. Be there by 8.45am and watch the pelicans compete for a fishy treat.
Explore the magnificent Murchison River gorges of Kalbarri National Park by walking trails, enjoy action-packed activities on offer such as abseiling, quad biking, canoeing, sandboarding or perhaps join the Kalbarri wilderness cruises on the Murchison.
Have your photo taken in the iconic natural red rock Nature’s Window frame in Kalbarri National Park and check out the new Kalbarri Skywalk precinct and Skywalk Cafe open from 7.30am to 2pm daily.
Visit Rainbow Jungle - the Australian Parrot Breeding Centre is a beautiful parrot habitat, where you will find the largest parrot free-flight aviary in the country.
Day Three
Kalbarri to Perth (Approx. 587 km – 6.5hrs) - INLAND/WILDFLOWER ROUTE
During Wildflower season (July to September), take the Ajana-Kalbarri Road out of Kalbarri, then travel south on the North West Coastal Highway for some wildflower spotting. Wildflowers generally line the road during the flowering season. Additionally, keep an eye out for Australian Wildlife, including Thorny Devil lizards, Echidnas and Kangaroos plus many species of birds.
On the Highway, consider stopping in to the award-winning Oakabella Homestead - Heritage Tourism at its finest. Stop in for lunch or some light refreshments including their famous Devonshire tea (the scones are amazing!).
Before turning off to take the inland road back to Perth, consider stopping in to Dongara-Port Denison and visit Illegal Tender Rum Co for a rum tasting. Then continue south, turning onto the Brand Highway which takes you through the towns of Eneabba and Badgingarra - home of stunning Wildflower displays by the roadside and in National Parks. If you're in a 4WD and want to spend some time in the dunes, consider 4WDing at Hill River.