The Ultimate Western Australian Road Trip Guide for 2026

Western Australia isn’t a quick weekend escape… It’s red dirt highways, turquoise reef lagoons, remote 4WD tracks, cattle stations, and distances so big they completely change the way you plan a trip.

If you’re dreaming of red dirt roads, remote campfires and endless horizons, Western Australia might just become your favourite destination in the country.

Western Australia is the best state for an unforgettable road trip. Driving through the red dirt of the Pilbarra, set up camp next to an iconic Boab Tree in the Kimberley, or right at the beach with the colourful Ningaloo Reef right in front of you, or drive on one of the pristine beaches of Esperance, this guide will help you plan it properly.

We’ve explored WA for over a year in our 79-series LandCruiser with our Tommy Camper, exploring everything from the remote Kimberly to the popular beaches in Esperance. And this page brings everything together in one place.

This is Western Australia.

How to Travel Western Australia

How long do you need to explore Western Australia?

The time you need to explore Western Australia really depends on how much of the state you want to see, how fast you want to travel, and the amount of time you actually have.

If you’re coming from abroad or you’re short on time, you can still experience some incredible parts of Western Australia in two to three weeks. Many travellers choose to focus on one region, for example:

• Coral Coast Road Trip from Perth to Exmouth
• South West road trip from Perth to Esperance
• Kimberley Road trip from Broome to Kununurra

If your dream is to experience the best of Western Australia, including the Coral Coast, Exmouth, Karijini, the Kimberley and the South Coast, you should ideally allow 3 to 6 months.

Where are you going?

Click on your destination.

Best time to visit Western Australia

Something people often get wrong. We can’t emphasize enough how important it is to follow the seasons. Especially here in WA. If you plan your trip at the wrong time of year, you might end up with a disgusting amount of flies, cyclones, road closures, etc. This will make or break your road trip. Knowing when to go is crucial for the best experience.

Depending on where you’re planning to go, the time of year matters. 

The best way to travel Western Australia

The best way to explore Western Australia is by 4WD. The state is enormous, and many of the most incredible places are only accessible via unsealed roads, remote tracks or beach access routes.

Travelling with a 4WD gives you the freedom to reach remote national parks, beach camps and outback tracks that most visitors would otherwise miss. 

If you’re visiting Australia and don’t have your own vehicle, renting a fully equipped 4WD camper is one of the easiest ways to experience WA properly. You can choose a setup that includes a rooftop tent or camper like ours, allowing you to combine transport and accommodation while travelling.

You can check availability for 4WD hire here:

It would mean a lot if you mention Bush and Bay when reaching out to them. Sometimes we receive a small referral for sending travellers their way, and it helps support the work we put into creating detailed guides like this. It doesn’t cost you anything, but it does help keep this blog alive, so we can continue sharing honest travel advice from the road.

Plan your trip to Albany

Albany is one of our favourite destinations in Western Australia. Located around 4.5 hours south-east of Perth, this historic coastal town is known for its spectacular beaches, rugged coastline, fascinating history and easy access to some of Western Australia’s best national parks

Whether you’re exploring the dramatic cliffs of Torndirrup National Park, relaxing on some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches or hiking through the nearby Stirling Ranges, Albany offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s also an excellent base for exploring the wider Great Southern region, including Bluff Knoll, The Stirling Ranges and Denmark.

➤ If you’re looking for inspiration, our complete Things to do in Albany guide covers the best attractions, beaches, walks, scenic drives, cafes and hidden gems to plan your visit.

Best time to visit Albany

Albany is a fantastic destination year-round, but each season offers a different experience.

Summer (December to February) brings warm weather, making it ideal for swimming, beach hopping and exploring the coastline. Keep in mind that Albany can be quite windy during summer.

➤ Read our complete guide to the best beaches in Albany to discover our favourites and decide which beach deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Autumn (March to May) is our favourite time to visit. Temperatures are pleasant, the crowds have eased and it’s perfect weather for hiking and exploring the national parks.

Winter (June to August) is cooler and wetter, but it’s a beautiful time to experience the dramatic Southern Ocean, cosy cafes and the start of whale season.

Spring (September to November) is another great time to visit, with colourful wildflowers blooming throughout the region, mild temperatures, and excellent whale-watching opportunities.

How long do you need in Albany?

To experience the best of Albany, we recommend spending at least three to five days. This gives you enough time to explore the stunning coastline, visit Torndirrup National Park, hike one of Western Australia’s most iconic walks – the Bald Head Walking Trail -, relax on several beaches and enjoy the local cafes and restaurants.

➞ If you’re also planning to hike Bluff Knoll, explore the Stirling Ranges or visit nearby Denmark, we’d recommend allowing five to seven days so you don’t have to rush.

Road trips and itineraries

Albany is one of the highlights of the southwest and features on many Western Australia road trips. It’s commonly combined with destinations such as Denmark, Esperance, Bremer Bay and the Stirling Ranges.

➤ Our 14-Day Perth to Esperance Road Trip Itinerary includes Albany as one of the major stops, taking you along Western Australia’s spectacular south-west coastline.

Camping in Albany

Albany offers plenty of accommodation option, from beachfront caravan parks to bush campgrounds and holiday parks.

➤ If you’re travelling with a campervan, caravan or rooftop tent, our complete camping in Albany guide covers the best campgrounds, caravan parks, free camps and tips for camping around Albany.

Visit Broome

Broome is a tropical getaway to the Kimberley and one of the most unique destinations in Western Australia. Sitting on the edge of the Indian Ocean, this historic pearling town is famous for its turquoise water, contrasting red cliffs and white sandy beaches, and the iconic Cable Beach, where you can ride camels while watching one of the most spectacular sunsets in WA.

Many travellers arrive in Broome expecting nothing more than a beach holiday, and quickly realise there’s much more to it. From the iconic Cable Beach camel rides to the natural phenomenon of Staircase to the Moon, the region blends coastal beauty with some fascinating cultural history.

➤ If you’re planning a trip here, start with our Broome Travel Guide, which covers everything you need to know before visiting.

Broome is also the starting point for exploring the Dampier Peninsula, a remote and incredibly beautiful part of the Kimberley, where red dirt tracks meet untouched coastline and Indigenous communities. If you are travelling with a 4WD, this region completely changes the experience of Broome and is something we’d highly recommend.

Best time to visit Broome

The best time to visit Broome, Western Australia, is during the dry season from May to September.

During these months, the weather is warm but comfortable. Humidity is low, and conditions are ideal for exploring the region. It’s the perfect time for beach days, fishing, camping and exploring the Dampier Peninsula and the famous Horizontal Falls.

➤ We also recommend checking out our detailed Broome Map to help you plan your trip and understand how spread out the region actually is.

Avoid travelling through the North West of Western Australia between November and April. During the wet season, humidity becomes extremely high, heavy rain can cause flooding and many remote roads and 4WD tracks close temporarily. Cyclones can also form along the coast during this period.

How long do you need in Broome?

Most travellers spend two to five days exploring Broome. If you’re mainly interested in relaxing, watching the famous Cable Beach sunsets, exploring the town and learning about its pearling history, two or three days is usually enough.

➤ We’ve put together a detailed 3 Days in Broome itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

However, if you’re planning to explore the peninsula, you’ll want to allow four to five days. The Dampier Peninsula, located north of Broome, is one of the most beautiful and remote coastal regions in Western Australia. 

You’ll also want extra time if you plan on visiting some of the incredible Broome beaches beyond Cable Beach.

➤ You can read more in our guide to the best Broome Beaches.

Road trips & itineraries

Broome is often included as part of larger Western Australia and Kimberley Road Trips. Many travellers arrive in Broome after driving across the Pilbara or completing the Gibb River Road.

One of the most incredible experiences near Broome is visiting the famous Horizontal Falls in the Buccaneer Archipelago. Often described as one of the worlds’ greatest natural wonders. The powerful tidal currents create a waterfall effect as huge volumes of water push through narrow gaps in the rock formations.

➤ You can read more in our detailed guide to Horizontal Falls, including what to expect and whether it’s worth it.

Broome itself also has far more to offer than most people initiallye xpect. Beyond the beaches, there are incredible sunsets, historic pearling sites, local breweries, cultural experiences and some fantastic trip neary.

➤ We cover all of our favourite experiences in our guide to the best Things to do in Broome.

Camping near Broome

If you’re travelling Western Australia with a 4WD, there are some fantastic camper opportunities around Broome and along the Dampier Peninsula.

One of the most well-known spots is James Price Point, located north of Broome along the Dampier Peninsula. Famous for its dramatic red cliffs and incredible sunsets.

There are also several caravan parks around Broome itself, which are a great option if you want easier access to Cable Beach, restaurants, and the town. During peak season, caravan parks often book out quickly, so it’s worth planning ahead.

➤ We cover all the best options in our complete guide to Camping in Broome.

Explore the Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park)

Tucked away in the remote Kimberley region, Purnululu National Park is one of the most unique and unforgettable landscapes in Australia.

The park is best known for the Bungle Bungle Range, a series of striped sandstone domes that look almost unreal when you first see them. But there’s more to this place than just the domes. Deep gorges, narrow chasms and remote bush camping make it a destination that feels completely different from anywhere else in Western Australia.

Getting here takes effort, but that’s exactly what makes it so special.

➤ For everything you need to plan your trip, read our complete guide to Purnululu National Park.

Best time to visit the Bungle Bungles

The best time to visit the Bungle Bungles is during the dry season between May and September. During this period:

• Roads into the park are open
• Temperatures are more manageable
• Walking conditions are safer

Early in the season (May-June), the landscape is slightly greener after the wet season, and some creek crossings may still hold water. By August and September, conditions are drier, roads are rougher, and the park feels more exposed.

One important thing to keep in mind is the heat. Even in the dry season, temperatures can climb quickly during the day, especially when hiking the southern section among the domes.

Timing also matters for specific experiences. For example, Echidna Chasm is best visited around midday when the sun reaches into the narrow gorge. It only lasts a few minutes, but it’s one of the highlights of the park.

How long do you need in the Bungle Bungles?

To properly explore Purnululu National Park, you’ll want at least 2 to 3 days.

With two days, you can cover the main highlights, but it will feel tight. Three days gives you enough time to explore both the northern and southern sections without constantly watching the clock.

The park is split into two very different areas:

• The northern section: known for Echidna Chasm and Mini Palms Gorge
• The southern section: where you’ll find the Bungle Bungle domes, Cathedral Gorge and Piccaninny Creek.

These are around 47 kilometres apart, which takes roughly 80 minutes to drive on park roads. That’s why most itineraries involve moving from one section to the other, rather than going back and forth.

➤ For an easy-to-follow day-by-day plan, follow our Bungle Bungles itinerary.

Road Trips & Itineraries

Most travellers visit the Bungle Bungles as part of a larger Kimberley road trip.

Common routes include:

• Kununurra – Bungle Bungles – Halls Creek
• The Gibb River Road – Bungle Bungles detour
• A full Kimberley Roadtrip

Because of its remote location, visiting Purnululu National Park requires planning ahead. You won’t just “pass through” this destination. It’s a dedicated stop that adds time to your trip. The access road (Spring Creek Track) is around 53 kilometres long and can take up to 3 hours to drive. It’s slow, corrugated and requires a high-clearance 4WD.

➞ For road conditions and preparation, read our Bungle Bungles 4WD guide.

➞ To visualise the layout, use our Bungle Bungles map.

Camping in the Bungle Bungles

Camping is the best way to experience the park. Staying inside Purnululu National Park gives you access to early mornings and late afternoons, when the light is at its best and temperatures are more manageable.

There are two main campgrounds:

• Kurrajong Campground (north) – Best location to explore Echidna Chasm and Mini Palms Gorge
• Walardi Campground (south) – Best location to explore the Bungle Bungle range and Cathedral Gorge

Choosing where to stay depends on your itinerary. Most travellers spend one night in each section to minimise driving. If you don’t have a 4WD, you can stay at the caravan park outside the park and join a guided tour or scenic flight instead.

➤ For detailed information, read our Bungle Bungles camping guide.

Visit Esperance

Esperance is one of the most beautiful coastal destinations in Western Australia. Located on the state’s south coast, this region is famous for its incredibly white beaches, crystal clear turquoise water and beautiful national parks.

The coastline around Esperance looks almost unreal at times. Places like Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park are often ranked among the whitest beaches in the world, and it’s not uncommon to see kangaroos relaxing on the beach.

➤ If you’re planning a trip, start with our complete guide to Beaches in Esperance, where you’ll find all our favourite beaches that are worth visiting.

Highlights around Esperance are:

• Cape Le Grand National Park
• Lucky Bay
• Wharton Beach
• The Great Ocean Drive Esperance
• Cape Arid National Park – 4WD paradise

Best time to visit Esperance

The best time to visit Esperance is between November and April. Warm temperatures are ideal for swimming, snorkelling and beach days. However, the south coast can also be quite windy during the summer months. 

Summer is the most popular time to visit Esperance. It’s peak season, beaches and town will be busy, so be prepared.

How long do you need to see Esperance?

You can spend anything between three days and two weeks exploring Esperance and its surrounding coastline.

If you’re short on time, a few days will allow you to explore the highlights around Cape Le Grand National Park, such as Lucky Bay, Hellfire Bay and Thistle Cove. 

➤ For more detailed information, read our complete guide to Cape Le Grand National Park

If you want to go beach camping and explore more remote beaches, it’s easy to stay longer and discover more of the region.

Road trips & itineraries

Esperance is often included in South West and southern Western Australia road trips.

We’re currently working on a few detailed guides for exploring the region:

Camping in Esperance

Esperance is an incredible destination for camping.

From epic national park camps, to easy free camps or caravan parks in town, there are options for every traveller. Just be prepared to book early. Popular campgrounds such as Lucky Bay and caravan parks book out months in advance, particularly during summer and school holidays.

➤ Read our Esperance Camping Guide to find the camping options that suit you best.

Explore Coral Bay, Exmouth & the Ningaloo Reef

Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef are often the highlight of any Coral Coast Road Trip. Sitting on the tip of the North West Cape, this remote coastal town is the gateway to one of the most incredible marine ecosystems in Australia.

Unlike the Great Barrier Reef, the Ningaloo Reef sits right off the shoreline, which means you can simply walk in from the beach and snorkel straight over coral gardens, colourful fish, turtles and even reef sharks.

With turquoise water, white sandy beaches, rugged ranges and world-class marine life, it’s one of those places where people arrive for a few days and end up staying much longer.

➤ If you’re planning a trip, start with our complete guide to the “best things to do in Exmouth” to get a full overview of the region and its highlights.

Best time to visit Coral Bay, Exmouth & the Ningaloo Reef

The best time to visit Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef is between March and October. 

After spending six weeks exploring the area, we’ve found that the absolute best months are April and May. During this time, the temperatures are comfortable, the winds are usually lighter, and conditions are ideal for snorkelling, beach camping, and heading out on the boat. Locals often refer to May as “Magic May”, and once you experience it, it’s easy to understand why.

➤ For a full month-by-month breakdown, read our detailed guide on the best time to visit Exmouth.

Even though September and October are popular months, strong winds often sweep across the Coral Coast at this time. Windy conditions make boating, snorkelling and beach camping more challenging.

Another reason many travellers visit Exmouth is for the famous whale shark season, which runs between March and August. Swimming alongside these gentle giants is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have on the Ningaloo Reef.

How long do you need in Coral Bay, Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef?

You could easily spend months exploring Coral Bay, Exmouth and the Ningaloo Coast, but most travellers don’t have that kind of time.

Because so many activities here revolve around the ocean, your plans often depend on the weather and wind conditions.

➤ If you want to structure your trip, follow our Exmouth itinerary, which breaks down exactly how to spend 3 to 5 days in the region.

If you want to explore properly, go snorkelling, spend time fishing, visit Cape Range National Park and go beach camping along the Ningaloo Coast, we’d recommend allowing at least one to two weeks.

Snorkelling at Ningaloo Reef

One of the biggest reasons people travel here is for the reef itself.

Ningaloo Reef snorkelling is easily one of the best experiences in Western Australia, with many spots accessible straight from the beach.

From drift snorkelling at Turquoise Bay to the crystal-clear waters of Oyster Stacks, there are plenty of incredible locations to explore.

➤ For a full breakdown of the best locations, read our guide to Ningaloo Reef snorkelling spots in Exmouth.

Road trips & itineraries

Coral Bay and Exmouth are the northern highlights of the famous Perth to Exmouth Road Trip, one of the best coastal drives in Western Australia.

This route follows the stunning Coral Coast, passing through national parks, coastal towns, pink lakes and some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

If you’re planning a road trip, follow our detailed itineraries to build your route and include time in Exmouth.

Camping in Coral Bay, Exmouth & Ningaloo Reef

Camping around Coral Bay, Exmouth and the ningaloo requires a little bit of planning. This region has become extremely popular over the past few years, and many campsites can book out up to six months in advance.

If you already have know when you’ll be travelling, and booking are open, it’s best to secure your campsite early. 

During our six weeks in the region, we stayed in a mix of places including caravan parks in Exmouth town, beach camps along Ningaloo and Coral Bay, campsites inside Cape Range National Park and station stays just outside town. 

Each option offers a completely different experience, so it really comes down to what kind of trip you’re after. If you’re planning to camp here, these guides will help you choose the right spot:

Explore Francois Peron National Park

Francois Peron is one of the most unique destinations along Western Australia’s Coral Coast. Located in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, this remote peninsula is known for its striking contrast of deep red sand, white beaches and bright turquoise water.

It’s a place that feels untouched. Once you leave Denham and enter the park, the landscape quickly changes, and you’ll find yourself exploring remote tracks, quiet beaches and some of the most scenic coastal areas in Western Australia.

➤ Start your trip with our complete Francois Peron National Park guide.

Best time to visit Francois Peron National Park

The best time to visit Francois Peron National Park in Western Australia is between April and October, when temperatures are milder and conditions are more comfortable for both camping and exploring.

During these cooler months, daytime temperatures are ideal for spending time outdoors, and the sand tracks are generally easier to manage. It’s also the best time for camping, with cooler nights and more stable weather conditions.

Summer (December to February) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35 degrees. With very little shade throughout the park, the heat can make both driving and camping uncomfortable, especially during the middle of the day.

How long do you need to explore Francois Peron National Park?

You can explore parts of Francois Peron National Park in a single day, but to really experience what makes this place special, we’d recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days. That gives you enough time to drive through the park without rushing, spend some time at iconic stops like Cape Peron, and enjoy off-grid camping.

➤ If you’re planning a trip, follow our 1, 2 or 3-Day Francois Peron National Park itinerary.

Road trips & Itineraries

Francois Peron National Park is one of the standout stops along the famous Perth to Exmouth road trip, and often one of the most memorable. This section of the Coral Coast offers a completely different experience compared to other coastal towns. Instead of easy access and sealed roads, you’ll go on a true off-grid adventure.

➤ If you’re planning a trip north, check out our detailed itinerary: 2-week Perth to Exmouth road trip

Camping in Francois Peron National Park

Camping is the best way to experience Francois Peron National Park. From staying with an off-road caravan near the sheltered waters of Big Lagoon, or take your setup further north to Bottle Bay or beach camping at Herald Bight, each campsite offers a completely different experience.

➤ For more information about camping options, read our Francois Peron National Park Camping Guide.

4WD access and tracks

Exploring Francois Peron National Park requires a high-clearance 4WD, and driving on soft sand is all part of the experience. Track conditions can vary depending on weather and traffic, and some sections can be more challenging than others. Especially when you drive north of Big Lagoon.

➤ If you’re planning to drive through the national park, read our Francois Peron National Park 4WD guide for practical tips and what to expect on the tracks.

The Gibb River Road

The Gibb River Road is one of Australia’s most iconic outback drives and a bucket-list adventure for anyone travelling through Western Australia’s Kimberley region. Stretching roughly 660 kilometres between Derby and Kununurra, this legendary 4WD track takes you through some of the most rugged and spectacular landscapes in the country.

Originally built as a cattle route in the 1960s, The Gibb River Road now attracts travellers looking for remote gorges, swimming holes and epic bush camping that gives you that true Kimberley outback experience.

➤ Start planning your trip with our complete Gibb River Road guide, covering road conditions, permits, fuel stops and everything you need to know before you go.

Along the way, you’ll discover incredible places like Bell Gorge, Manning Gorge, Galvans Gorge and El Questro, each offering its own unique scenery. Many travellers also choose to detour north to the remote Mitchell Falls, one of the Kimberley’s most famous natural attractions. 

➤ To decide which stops are worth your time, check out our guide to the best Gibb River Road gorges along the route.

Driving the Gibb River Road isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about the journey. Slowing down, exploring the gorges, camping under the stars and experiencing the Kimberley’s wild landscapes properly.

➤ Use our Gibb River Road map to plan your stops, fuel and camps before you go.

Best time to visit the Gibb River Road

The only time to visit Western Australia’s North West and the Kimberley region is during the dry season from May to September.

During these months, the weather is far more comfortable, humidity is lower and the roads are generally open and accessible. Daytime temperatures are warm but manageable, and the cooler evenings make it perfect for camping.

Travelling during the dry season is essential because many of the Kimberley’s remote track, including the Gibb River Road, close during the wet season.

➤ For more detailed seasonal conditions and planning tips, refer back to our complete Gibb River Road guide,

How long do you need to explore the Gibb River Road?

To properly experience the Gibb River Road, you should allow a minimum of 14 days.

This gives you enough time to explore the major gorges, swim in the famous pools and spend a few nights at some of the iconic Kimberley cattle stations along the route.

If you want to travel slower and include Mitchell Falls along the Kalumburu Road, we recommend around three to four weeks. The track to Mitchell Falls might be short in distance, but it’ll take much longer than you initially think. 

➤ See exactly how to plan your time with our 14-Day Gibb River Road Itinerary.

Rushing the Gibb River Road means missing what makes it so special. The best experiences often happen when you take your time.

Road trips & itineraries

If you’re planning to tackle this iconic Kimberley track, our detailed guide will help you prepare and plan your route.

You can follow our detailed 14-Day Gibb River Road Itinerary, which covers the best stops, gorges and campgrounds along the way.

Camping on the Gibb River Road

Camping is one of the best parts of travelling the Gibb River Road. From riverside free camps and national park campgrounds to working cattle stations, there are plenty of incredible places to stay along the way.

➤ Find the best places to stay in our Gibb River Road camping guide, including free camps, station stays and National Park options.

➤ Planning to stay at El Questro? Read our full El Questro Camping guide for campsites, permits and things to do.

Explore Kalbarri

Kalbarri is one of those places along Western Australia’s Coral Coast that surprises a lot of travellers. From dramatic coastal cliffs to ancient river gorges, it packs a huge amount of scenery into a relatively small area.

Best time to visit Kalbarri

The best months to visit Kalbarri are between May and August. During these cooler winter months, temperatures are mild and perfect for hiking through Kalbarri National Park without the intense summer heat.

Winter is also when the famous Western Australian wildflowers begin to bloom across the region, usually between July and September. The landscapes around Kalbarri transform into colourful carpets of flowers, which makes scenic drives and walks even more spectacular.

Summer (December to February) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often pushing above 40 degrees. While the coastal breeze helps a little near town, hiking in the national park during the middle of the day is not advised. Within the gorges, temperatures can easily reach 50 degrees.

➤ For a full breakdown of what to see and do, check out our Kalbarri Travel Guide.

How long do you need to explore Kalbarri?

You can spend anything between one day and a full week exploring Kalbarri, depending on how much time you have.

If Kalbarri is simply a stop on your way north along the Coral Coast, one or two days is usually enough to see the highlights. You can visit Kalbarri National Park, check out the famous Nature’s Window, walk onto the Kalbarri Skywalk, and take the coastal drive south of town. 

➤ If you’re planning your time here, follow our Kalbarri itinerary to plan your days.

Road trips & itineraries

Kalbarri is one of the standout stops along the famous Perth to Exmouth road trip, one of the most popular drives in Western Australia. This Coral Coast road trip takes you through a mix of coastal towns, national parks, remote beaches and spectacular landscapes as you travel north from Perth to Exmouth.

Some of the highlights along the way include:

• The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park
• The coastal cliffs and gorges of Kalbarri National Park
• The turquoise waters of Shark Bay
• The red dirt tracks of Francois Peron National Park
• The incredible marine life of Ningaloo Reef

If you’re planning a trip north, check out our detailed itineraries for the region:

Both of these routes include Kalbarri as one of the key stops along the Coral Coast.

Camping Guides

Kalbarri is also a fantastic destination if you love camping. From beachfront camps to caravan parks in town with all the comforts. For a full breakdown of the best camps in the region, check out our Kalbarri Camping Guide.

Explore Karijini National Park

Karijini National Park is easily one of the most spectacular landscapes in Western Australia. Located in the heart of the Pilbara, this ancient outback landscape is famous for its deep red gorges, crystal-clear but ice cold rock pools, waterfalls and some of the most memorable hikes in the country.

It’s the kind of place that completely surprises first-time visitors. If you love adventure, hiking and remote camping, Karijini National Park is an absolute must-visit when travelling through Western Australia. 

➤ For everything you need to plan your trip, read our complete guide to Karijini National Park.

Best time to visit Karijini

The best time to explore Karijini National Park is during the dry season between May and September. 

During these months, daytime temperatures are comfortable for hiking and exploring the gorges, while nights are cooler (yes, it can go below zero at night!). The dry season also means the tracks are generally easier to access and the conditions are much safer for exploring the gorges.

Avoid the wet season between November and April. Temperatures can become extremely hot, humidity increases and sudden rainfall can cause gorges to flood. Flash flooding is a real risk in Karijini, which is why many gorge walks close during this time of year.

And then there are the flies. Anyone who has visited the Pilbara in the hotter months knows exactly what we’re talking about. Travelling in the dry season is the way to go.

How long do you need to explore Karijini National Park

To properly explore Karijini National Park, we recommend allowing 3 to 5 days. 

This gives you enough time to visit the park’s most famous gorges, including Hancock Gorge, Weano Gorge, Dales Gorge and Hamersley Gorge, while still having time to relax and enjoy the incredible natural swimming pools. If you want help structuring your days, follow our Karijini Itinerary.

Road trips & itineraries

Karijini National Park is often included in a larger Western Australia road trip. From Exmouth, it’s a 7-hour trip to Karijini National Park, and about 10 hours from Broome. It’s a fair bit out of the way, but well worth exploring.

Camping in Karijini National Park

Camping is, without a doubt, one of the best ways to experience Karijini.  Waking up in the middle of the Pilbara, surrounded by red dirt landscapes and vast open skies, is something pretty special that we haven’t experienced elsewhere. You’ll find a national park campground inside Karijini (Dales Campground), which gives you easy access to some of the park’s most iconic spots.

But… There are also some fantastic free camping options just outside the park. Karijini has one of the most epic free camps we’ve come across in Western Australia.

➤ If you’re planning to camp in the region, read our camping in Karijini guide.

The Kimberley

The Kimberley region in Western Australia is one of the last true wilderness areas left in the country. Covering a vast and remote corner of the state, the Kimberley is famous for its iconic Boab Trees, beautiful landscapes, ancient gorges, waterfalls and 4WD tracks.

Travelling through the Kimberley feels like stepping into another world. The red dirt, rivers, hidden waterfalls and some of Australia’s most spectacular natural attractions make this region an unforgettable destination.

From the Famous Gibb River Road to the iconic Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park, the Kimberley offers incredible adventures for travellers willing to venture off the beaten track.

Best time to visit the Kimberley

The only time to visit Western Australia’s North West and the Kimberley is during the dry season from May to September. 

During these months, most remote tracks and national parks are open. The days are warm, the nights are cool, which make it perfect for camping, hiking and exploring the region.

Between November and April, the Kimberley experiences its wet season. Heavy rainfall can flood rivers and roads, making many areas inaccessible.

How long do you need to explore the Kimberley?

The Kimberley is enormous, and to see the highlights properly, you should allow at least three to four weeks.

This gives you enough time to explore iconic places like the Gibb River Road, El Questro, Mitchell Falls and Purnululu National Park, home of the famous Bungle Bungles range.

Many of the Kimberley’s best experiences involve slow travel, hiking into gorges, swimming in remote natural pools and driving long distances on corrugated roads. Allowing a few weeks ensures you can enjoy the journey without rushing.

Road trips & itineraries

A Kimberley Road trip is one of the ultimate Australian Adventures. Most travellers explore the region by 4WD, which is the only way to see the beauty of this region properly.

If you’re planning a trip through the Kimberley, these guides will help you get started:

These routes cover many of the Kimberley must-see destinations and help you plan a realistic travel pace.

Camping in the Kimberley

Camping is one of the best ways to experience the Kimberley. Many of the region’s most beautiful places are only accessible by 4WD, and spending the night in these remote landscapes is part of what makes the journey so special.

Along the Gibb River Road, you’ll find a mix of station stays, bush camps, and national park campgrounds. Some of the most well-known places to stay are El Questro, which offers access to stunning gorges and thermal springs.

In Purnululu National Park, camping allows you to wake up close to the famous striped domes of the Bungle Bungle Range.

If you’re planning a Kimberley adventure, these camping guides will help you prepare:

Plan your trip to Margaret River 

The Margaret River region is one of Western Australia’s most famous coastal destinations. Known for its iconic surf breaks, world-class wineries and pristine beaches, Margaret River is located about three hours south of Perth and combines a stunning coastline with rolling vineyards, towering karri forests and a thriving food scene.

While Margaret River is often associated with wine tasting, there’s much more to explore beyond the cellar doors. The coastline is spectacular, with turquoise water, rugged cliffs and famous surf breaks like Surfers Point. You’ll also find beautiful caves, forest walks and some incredible coastal drives throughout the region.

The Margaret River region can easily be a weekend getaway from Perth, or part of a bigger Western Australian Road Trip. It’s a fantastic destination to slow down, explore the coast and enjoy some of the best food and wine in the state.

➤ Our complete guide to Things to Do in Margaret River covers our favourite beaches, wineries, caves, coastal walks, restaurants and other places worth adding to your itinerary.

Best time to visit Margaret River

Margaret River can be visited year-round, but each season offers a slightly different experience.

Summer (December to February) is ideal if you’re planning a coastal holiday. The weather is warm, perfect for swimming, beach days and enjoying the many outdoor restaurants and wineries. However, summer can also be quite windy along the coast, so it’s something to keep in mind when planning those beach days.

Autumn (March to May) is a beautiful shoulder season. The weather can be a bit hit and miss with the occasional rain or wind, but you’ll find fewer crowds and plenty of sunny days to explore the region.

Winter (June to August) brings cooler temperatures and more rainfall. While this can be a cosy time to visit wineries and restaurants, it’s generally not the best time for camping due to the wetter weather.

Spring (September to November) is another great time to visit. Wildflowers begin to appear across the region and temperatures are mild, making it a great time for hiking, exploring the coastline and enjoying the outdoors. 

How long do you need in Margaret River?

To see the highlights of Margaret River, two to five days is usually enough. This gives you time to explore the region’s famous beaches, visit a few wineries and discover some of the beautiful natural attractions nearby. Many travellers also enjoy taking their time to explore the small coastal towns surrounding Margaret River, such as Yallingup, Busselton and Dunsborough.

A weekend is enough for a quick introduction, but we recommend allowing at least four or five days if you want to visit the beaches, wineries and other highlights without feeling rushed.

➤ Read more about our recommended 4-day Margaret River itinerary in our complete Things to do in Margaret River Guide.

Road trips & itineraries

Margaret River is often included in South West Western Australia road trips, especially when travellers combine it with other iconic coastal destinations such as Denmark and Albany.

It’s also one of the first major stops on our Perth to Esperance road trip, which follows the South West coastline through places such as Pemberton, Denmark, and Albany before continuing towards Esperance.

➤ This 4WD road trip guide includes a suggested two-week itinerary, the best places to stop, and practical tips to plan the journey.

Camping in Margaret River

There are plenty of camping options throughout the Margaret River region, from caravan parks to national park campgrounds, working farms and peaceful bush camps.

Where you choose to stay will depend on whether you want to be close to Margaret River town, within walking distance of the beach or surrounded by the forests and vineyards further inland.

➤ Read our complete Camping in Margaret River guide for our favourite campgrounds, caravan parks, farm stays and tips for camping in the region.

Tips for planning a western australia road trip

A few tips that will make your WA adventure much smoother:

• Plan fuel stops
• Distances between towns can be huge.
• Carry extra water
• Especially if travelling remote areas.
• Book popular campsites early
• Places like the Ningaloo, Cape Range National Park and Cape Le Grand book out quickly during peak season. 
• Drive to conditions
• Some remote roads can change quickly depending on weather.