Ultimate Self-Drive Road Trip

Travel north from Perth towards the scenic Indian Ocean Drive (which continues north from Wanneroo Road). The first leg of the Coral Coast Highway takes you through the coastal towns of Cervantes, Jurien Bay, Green Head, Leeman, Dongara, Port Denison and Greenough.

Your first stop is Cervantes and the splendour of the nearby Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park. The road into the Pinnacles is sealed, and there is a car park within walking distance of the towering limestone structures. You can learn more about the mystical formations at the Desert Discovery Centre. In nearby Cervantes, enjoy a crayfish lunch, a swim at Hangover Bay or Thirsty Point, go sandboarding in the sand dunes, or discover the thrombolites at Lake Thetis, just south of the town.

Continuing north, there is no shortage of locations to stop into or activities to enjoy. Join a sea lion tour from Jurien Bay, have a go at skydiving, or relax on the pristine beaches of Sandy Cape Recreational Park. Go fishing, swimming or snorkelling in Green Head. Picnic in Lesueur National Park, which comes alive with colour during wildflower season (late-July to October). Go 4WD-ing and caving in Stockyard Gully National Park (4WD-access only) near Leeman. Or join a guided Distillery Tour to find out about all things rum at Illegal Tender Rum Co in Dongara.

As you continue on your way to Geraldton, you'll pass through the historic town of Greenough. Take in the bizarre sight of the leaning trees, before arriving to Australia's Coral Coast's only city. Gateway to Chapman Valley, Ellendale Pool, the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, Wildflower Country, and boasting year-round sunny and warm weather, there is no shortage of things to see and do in and around Geraldton. Treat yourself to some of the freshest seafood in WA, particularly the region's famous western rock lobster, and enjoy Geraldton's cafe culture by eating out at one of the numerous spots such as Piper Lane, Skeetas or the Jaffle Shack.

Check out the street art around Marine Terrace and visit local jewellery shops to see the colourful pieces made from Abrolhos black pearls. Between July and September, the greater Geraldton region is home to expansive displays of wildflower carpets and individual species, many of which are endemic to WA. Make sure to head up to the impressive HMAS Sydney II Memorial for sunset, to soak up sweeping views across Geraldton and the Indian Ocean.

Overnight: Geraldton

Spend your morning strolling along Geraldton's Foreshore discovering the history of Geraldton and the mutinous Batavia story at the Museum. Delve into the region's rich cultural heritage at the Yamaji Art Centre, or follow the Yamaji Drive Trail to discover sites of significance to the local Aboriginal people. There's something for adventure seekers too; go jet-skiing on Geraldton's city beach, take a scenic flight or joy ride over the Pink Lake (Hutt Lagoon) and nearby Houtman Abrolhos Islands, or join a full day tour or multi-day liveaboard cruise to the Islands to go fishing, snorkelling and diving.

Departing Geraldton, continue north to the tropical fruit town of Carnarvon - a popular holiday spot for those chasing the winter sun. Sample the abundance of fresh flavours at the local mango and banana plantations, or take a detour and follow the Gascoyne Food Trail along the affectionately named the Fruit Loop (don't forget to visit the #Instafamous Cactus Garden). Visit the Space and Technology Museum to learn about the fascinating connection between Western Australia and NASA's manned Space Program, and discover the Gascoyne region's five Aboriginal language groups, their culture and their history at Gwoonwardu Mia - Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage & Cultural Centre. Take an evening stroll along the Fascine, enjoying magnificent sunset views, before heading out to dine on fresh local produce.

Overnight: Carnarvon