Perth to Exmouth road trip: 14-Day itinerary + 3-week 4WD Guide
If you’re planning a Perth to Exmouth road trip, you’re looking at one of the best coastal drives in Australia. This stretch goes through the heart of Western Australia’s Coral Coast, and it has everything you’re looking for! Rugged cliffs, pink lakes (that are actually pink), marine life encounters, white sandy beaches, red dirt and turquoise water.
This isn’t just a drive from A to B. It’s a journey through some of Western Australia’s most diverse landscapes. This Perth to Exmouth road trip itinerary follows the iconic Coral Coast route and is one of the best road trips in Western Australia.
And honestly, this is one of those road trips that can be as simple or as adventurous as you want it to be. You can follow the sealed roads, stay in local accommodation and still see the major highlights. Or you can bring (or rent) a 4WD, lower your tyre pressure and add a few proper off-road detours in the mix. You can hire 4WDs from Perth with Allstar Camper Hire. Just mention “Bush and Bay” when booking!
This Perth to Exmouth itinerary is designed for both 2WD and 4WD vehicles. You can either explore this part of WA in a campervan or a 2WD and stay overnight in accommodation, while you’ll still experience the highlights. But you can also travel in a 4WD and camp. We’ll tell you where to find the best spots!
The important thing is: you do not need a 4WD to do a Perth to Exmouth roadtrip. But if you have one, it absolutely opens up some of the best parts of the journey, especially around Shark Bay (Francois Peron National Park and Dirk Hartog Island), Coral Bay and the Ningaloo Coast.
We’ve done this route multiple times, and this guide is exactly how we’d plan a Perth to Exmouth roadtrip if we only had two weeks, without rushing, without overcomplicating it and without missing the good stuff.
This is not a race to Exmouth. If you treat it like one, you’ll miss the point. The magic of this route is in the stops along the way. The small coastal towns, the changing colours, the roadside lookouts, the snorkels you didn’t expect to be that good, and the moments where the red dirt suddenly meets the clearest blue water you’ve ever seen.
Quick Overview: Perth to Exmouth Roadtrip
Before we get into the itinerary, here’s what you need to know:
- Distance: ~ 1,250 km one way
- Drive time: Around 13 – 15 hours total (without stops)
- Recommended times: 14 days (with a 2WD), 3-weeks with a 4WD
- Vehicle: 2WD friendly, with optional 4WD detours
- Accommodation: Up to you – hotels, AirBnb, apartments, caravan parks or national park camps.
Don’t try to do this in less than 7-8 days. It stops being a road trip and it turns into a long drive.
If you only have one week, either fly into Exmouth and explore Ningaloo properly, or choose a shorter road trip from Perth to Kalbarri or to Shark Bay instead. Trying to squeeze Perth to Exmouth into one week is not impossible, but it’s not enjoyable. You’ll spend too much time in the car and not enough time actually experiencing the places you came for.
Do you need a 4WD for a perth to exmouth road trip
| FEATURE | 2WD | 4WD |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Sealed roads only | Access to beaches, national parks & remote tracks |
| Route flexibility | Limited to main highlights | Full Coral Coast Experience |
| Francois Peron National Park | ⃠ Not accessible | ✓ One of the best parts of the trip |
| Dirk Hartog Island | ⃠ Not accessible | ✓ Optional adventure |
| Quobba & Red Bluff | ⚠︎ Limited access | ✓ Easy access (conditions dependent) |
| Ningaloo Coast Camping | ⃠ Not accessible | ✓ Beach camping & remote spots |
| Cost | Lower (fuel & rental) | Higher (fuel, hire insurance) |
| Comfort | More accommodation options | Camping-focused experience |
| Driving difficulty | Easy | Moderate (sand, corrugations) |
| Best for | First time visitors, shorter trips | Adventure travellers, 3-week minimum |
You do not need a 4WD to do a Perth to Exmouth road trip. The entire route can be done in a 2WD, and you’ll still see some of the best highlights along the Coral Coast.
But if you have a 4WD, it completely changes the experience. you’ll be able to access remote national parks, beach camps and some of the most unique parts of this coastline, especially around Shark Bay and the Ningaloo.
If you’re planning to follow the 3-week Perth to Exmouth itinerary, a 4WD is highly recommended.
14-day Perth to Exmouth roadtrip itinerary
This itinerary is designed to balance driving and experience. You’ll move north at a steady pace, with enough time to actually enjoy each destination.
The biggest mistake people make with a Perth to Exmouth roadtrip is treating the drive north as something to “get through”. Don’t do that. The drive is the trip. Exmouth is the grand finale. But the places along the way are what makes this itinerary worth two full weeks.
2-week Perth to Exmouth 2WD & 4WD Itinerary map
Day 1: Rottnest Island
Start your Perth to Exmouth roadtrip with a full day on Rottnest Island. Yes, it’s technically offshore, but skipping it while you’re in Perth would be a mistake.
Hire (electric) bikes, ride the loop, swim or snorkel in clear water, and… you’ll probably end up taking a quokka selfie whether you planned to or not.
This is a full day, so ideally, you stay overnight in Perth the night before and after, and start the drive tomorrow.
Rottnest Island is one of the easiest ways to start this trip with a proper “wow” moment. The beaches are ridiculously clear, the island is easy to explore by bike, and it gives you a very different experience before you head into the long coastal drive north.
If you only have 14 days total and you’ve already been to Rottnest before, you can skip this day and use it later in Kalbarri, Shark Bay, Coral Bay or Exmouth. But if this is your first time in WA, I’d keep it in.
Cost:
- Ferry to Rottnest Island: From around $65 per adult, depending on operator, departure point and season.
- Bike hire: From around $35 per adult for a day hire
Some ferry operators offer ferry and bike packages from around $125 per adult for 2026 pricing, so check whether a package is cheaper than booking separately.
Day 2-3: Indian Ocean Drive
This is where your Perth to Exmouth roadtrip properly begins. From Perth CBD, it’s approximately a 1,5 hour drive to the first stop: Lancelin Sand Dunes
Stop 1: Lancelin Sand Dunes
The Lancelin sand dunes are exactly as you imagine them to be. The Sahara, but in white. Endless sand dunes, windy, and the white sand is something else. You can easily stop and stare here, or go on an adventure with your 4WD.
This is one of the easiest adventure stops to add to your Perth to Exmouth roadtrip because it’s close to Perth, easy access and works for both 2WD and 4WD travellers. You don’t need to overthink it. Stop, take your shoes off, walk up the dunes, and enjoy the view.
- 4WD optional – there are Quad tours available if you’d like to experience the sand dunes when you’re not travelling with a 4WD
- Hire sandboards if you’re feeling energetic
If you’re travelling in a 2WD, you can still enjoy the view, hire some sandboards or hop on a tour to fully experience the sand dunes.
If you have a 4WD, this is your first proper play area. Deflate your tyres and go for a drive through the sand dunes, it’s magical!
Just don’t be overconfident here. Sand driving looks easy, but it isn’t. Lower tyre pressure, keep your momentum, avoid sharp turns in soft sand, and don’t drive beyond your ability. If you’re new to sand driving, this is a good place to start, but not a place to show off.
Cost:
- Sandboard hire: ~$10 for an hour
- Quad and sandboard tours: Between $150 and $200
Stop 2: The Pinnacles
Depending on the road condition of the loop that goes through Nambung National Park, you can either drive or walk through thousands of limestone formations. When we explored the Pinnacles, the drive was 4WD only due to some deep potholes, but you can park your car at the visitor centre and walk to – in my opinion -the prettiest part of The Pinnacles.
We’d recommend going early in the morning or late in the afternoon. It’s one of those places that can feel average in harsh midday sun, and completely magical in soft light. If you can time it for golden hour, do it.
You can stay overnight at Jurien Bay, an easy, relaxed coastal town with some great restaurants, and a good place to reset.
Jurien Bay is also known for its sea lion experiences. Hop on a tour for the full experience.
Cost:
- The Pinnacles Desert: You’ll need a national parks pass to enter – starts from $30
- Jurien Bay Sea Lion tour: between $150 – $250
Day 4-5 Kalbarri
This is a drive and stock up day. After two hours, you’ll pass through Geraldton, the last bigger regional centre before the road starts feeling more remote, so use it properly. Here you’ll find nice cafés, petrol stations and grocery stores like Aldi, Coles, Woolworths, etc. If you need to stock up for the upcoming week, this is your best bet.
Hutt Lagoon (Pink Lake)
Hutt Lagoon is another hour and 15 minutes from Geraldton, and well worth a stop. The colours of Hutt Lagoon change depending on light and season. But for us, it was the first pink lake in Australia that was actually bright pink. There are designated lookouts and pull-off areas where you can take a photo.
Hutt Lagoon is more like a quick stop rather than a full-day destination.
Explore Kalbarri National park
Kalbarri National Park is one of the highlights of this Perth to Exmouth roadtrip. And it deserves a full day on your itinerary. If I were planning this for a friend, I’d say: sunrise at Nature’s window, followed by the iconic Skywalk, mid-morning hike through ancient gorges of the Murchison River, lunch and rest in town, then sunset at the coastal cliffs.
➞ If you want to explore this area properly, read our full Kalbarri National Park guide and things to do in Kalbarri, including the best hikes and viewpoints.
Cost:
- Kalbarri National Park: WA parks pass
If you’re visiting multiple national parks on this Perth to Exmouth roadtrip, look into a WA Holiday Parks Pass instead of paying individual entry fees each time. WA parks passes are available for different durations.
Day 6-8: Shark Bay
This is where your Perth to Exmouth roadtrip starts to feel more remote. The distances get longer, the towns get smaller and the landscapes become more unique.
First stop: Shell Beach
From Kalbarri National Park, it’s a 3-hour drive to Shell Beach. And while some people argue it’s not worth stopping over, I’ve honestly never seen a beach like this. You’re passing by anyway when travelling to Monkey Mia and Francois Peron National Park. It’s a quick stop, but it’s genuinely unique.
Shell Beach stretches for over 100 kilometres and is made entirely of tiny white shells instead of sand. The water is incredibly clear, and because of the high salinity, you’ll actually float more easily here than at any other beach.
It’s not a place you’ll spend hours, but it’s absolutely worth pulling over.
Stay at Monkey Mia or Denham.
Monkey Mia is famous for dolphin encounters. But… It’s controlled and touristy. We didn’t like it, as it felt too busy for us. We prefer seeing dolphins and other marine life in the wild. But for many, it’s a place to tick off.
If you’re after a quieter base, Denham is a better option. It’s less busy, more relaxed, and still gives you access to all the Shark Bay highlights. But if seeing dolphins up close is high on your list, then Monkey Mia is still worth considering.
4WD Day trip to Francois Peron National Park
Francois Peron National Park is where red dirt meets turquoise water. This was for us the first place where we truly felt remote in Western Australia. The track to Cape Peron is soft and bumpy, so if you’re new to 4WDing, this is going to be a challenge. Deflate your tyres, take it slow but keep momentum, especially in soft sandy sections.
This is one of the best 4WD experiences of this entire Perth to Exmouth itinerary. The contrast between the red sand dunes and the bright blue water is something you don’t really see anywhere else.
Plan this as a full day. Bring plenty of water, snacks, recovery gear and allow more time than you think you need.
If you don’t have a 4WD, you can either skip it or book a tour to explore this National Park. If you can, do it. It’s stunning.
➞ If you’re planning to camp or drive here, read our full Francois Peron National Park 4WD guide for track conditions, tyre pressure and campsite tips.
Cost:
- Monkey Mia: Day Permit $15 per person and $5 per child (fees in 2026)
- Francois Peron National Park: National Parks pass
- Francois Peron 4WD tour: Around $250 per adult
Day 9: Quobba Blowholes
It’s a drive day, but definitely worth it. Today you’ll be driving about 4,5 hours.
The first stop is at the iconic King Waves Kill sign; it’s a must.
Blowholes
This is not just a sign for tourists. It’s real. People underestimate the ocean here. Stay well back from the edge to watch the blowholes, watch the swell and don’t take unnecessary risks for a photo.
The Aquarium
Just a little bit further, you’ll find the “Aquarium”. A drift snorkel which is surprisingly good, depending on conditions. If conditions are right, this can be one of the most unexpected highlights of your Perth to Exmouth roadtrip. But if it feels unsafe, skip it. There’s plenty more snorkelling ahead.
You can either camp at Point Quobba Campground or find accommodation in either Carnarvon or a bit further north in Gnaraloo Homestead,
Cost:
- Snorkelling and blowholes are free
Day 10-11: Coral Bay
Coral Bay is a tiny beach town, but a place that immediately feels like a tropical holiday. If you have a 4WD, go to Five Fingers Reef for the day, park up on the beach and go snorkelling.
If you don’t have a 4WD, you can enjoy Coral Bay itself, snorkel straight off the beach and book a “swim with manta rays” tour.
Cost:
- Swim with Manta Rays tour: between $250 – $400
Day 12 – 14: Exmouth & Cape Range National Park
Only 1,5 hours from Coral Bay and you’ve made it to Exmouth! You’ve reached the final days of your Perth to Exmouth Roadtrip.
This is the reward at the end of the journey. Everything you’ve been building up to. The Ningaloo Reef, incredible snorkelling, wildlife encounters and some of the best beaches in Western Australia.
You can base yourself in Exmouth, here you’ll have the highest chance of finding accommodation. If you’re camping with either a campervan or 4WD, you can either mix it up with caravan parks in Exmouth town (east) or Yardie Creek Homestead (west), or camp at Cape Range National Park or at the Ningaloo.
If you want convenience, stay in Exmouth town. If you want to wake up closer to the reef, camping or staying on the Cape Range side is hard to beat.
➤ Before you go, read our guides on things to do in Exmouth, Cape Range National Park camping guide and best time to visit Exmouth to plan this part properly.
While you’re in Exmouth, there are a few must-do experiences:
Whale Sharks
First of all, swim with whale sharks. It’s one of the best tours we’ve ever done in our lives. Swimming alongside the largest fish in the ocean is something you don’t forget. The tours are well organised, eco-certified, and give you multiple opportunities to swim with whale sharks throughout the day. The season runs from March till July.
Cost: Between $450 – $750
Epic Sunsets
- Watch the sunset at Charles Knife Canyon when you’re on the Exmouth town side, and watch the sky turn pink over the Exmouth Gulf.
- Head to Vlamingh Head Lighthouse to see that classic west coast sunset over the ocean. You might spot some humpback whales on the horizon while they pass by between June and November.
Cost: Free
Cape Range National Park
You’ll find a mix of hikes and incredible snorkelling spots within Cape Range National Park. We’d highly recommend doing the drift snorkel at Turquoise Bay and Oyster Stacks (depending on the tides, as it’s only accessible with high tide)
- Turquoise Bay is easily one of the best snorkelling spots in Australia. The drift snorkel is simple but unforgettable. Enter at the southern end, float with the current and exit before the sandbar. Always check conditions before entering the water.
- Oyster Stacks is smaller but packed with marine life. Go at high tide for the best experience and clearest water.
Cost: National Parks Pass
Accommodation vs Camping
From hotels and motels to apartments, cabins and holiday parks, you’ll find something at every major stop along this route. Places like Kalbarri, Denham, Coral Bay and Exmouth all have a wide range of options depending on your budget. Note that it can get busy during peak times, so book ahead if you can.
If you’re travelling in a 2WD or prefer comfort, staying in accommodation is the easiest option and doesn’t take away from experience. If you’re set up properly with a campervan or 4WD, camping adds a completely different side to the trip.
Cost breakdown of this 2-week Perth to Exmouth roadtrip
Fuel
As a rough guide, fuel prices generally increase the further north you travel. Fill up in larger towns like Perth, Geraldton and Carnarvon where possible, as smaller roadhouses are usually more expensive.
Accommodation
Depending on your budget.
- $100 – $150 per night: basic motels, cabins and caravan parks
- $150 – $300 per night: apartments, hotels
- +$300: peak season prices
Tours
- Swim with whale sharks sits between $450 – $750
- Swim with manta rays between $250 – $400
- Sea lions tour: between $150 – $250
These tours are some of the highlights of any Perth to Exmouth itinerary. But they do add up quickly. If you’re working with a tighter budget, choose one key experience. I’d personally recommend the whale shark tour.
Park fees
National Park passes are required. You can buy them online here.
3-week Perth to exmouth road trip: 4WD itinerary
If you have a 4WD and more time, this 3-week Perth to Exmouth road trip itinerary lets you slow down and experience the Coral Coast properly.
Perth to Exmouth 3 week itinerary overview:
Here’s how I recommend breaking up your Perth to Exmouth adventure:
- Days 1 – 3: Lancelin & Jurien Bay
- Days 4 – 6: Geraldton & Kalbarri
- Days 7 – 10: Shark Bay & Francois Peron National Park
- Days 11 – 14: Quobba & Red Bluff
- Days 15 – 17: Coral Bay
- Days 18 – 21: Exmouth & Ningaloo
Day 1 – 3: Perth to Lancelin, Jurien Bay & Sandy Cape
Include Sandy Cape Recreation Park for camping. It’s one of our favourite stops on the Perth to Exmouth drive. Beach camping, good fishing, and a beautiful spot to relax (when it’s not windy). I’d recommend two nights here so you’re not constantly packing up and getting the full experience, without feeling rushed.
Day 4 – 6: Geraldton & Kalbarri
Camp at Lucky Bay Campground for two nights. You can either camp behind the dunes close to the toilets, where it’s a bit sheltered from the wind. If the weather allows, drive to Lucky Bay lagoon and camp right at the beach. It’s pure magic. Snorkelling, SUP or fishing, this place has it all.
Day 7 – 10: Francois Peron National Park & Dirk Hartog Island (optional)
Add 2 to 3 nights in Francois Peron National Park to fully experience this part of the Coral Coast without rushing it in a day trip.
➤ Read our Francois Peron National Park Camping Guide and 4WD Guide (track conditions, tyre pressure, etc.)
You can also include the useless loop to the most Western point of Australia. From there, you can take your 4WD onto the barge and explore Dirk Hartog Island (optional).
Days 11 – 14: Quobba, Red Bluff & Gnarloo
Add Red Bluff to your itinerary. The road can be corrugated, so take it steady. Red Bluff feels like you’re driving into a surf movie from the 70s. The surf is epic! Rocks, shallow water, and a fast lefthander are for the experienced surfer only. If not, sit back and watch. Sunsets here are some of the best on the Perth to Exmouth drive. Soak it all in.
Days 15 – 17: Coral Bay
Add extra snorkelling time at Five Fingers Reef or camp at 14 mile beach to fully experience Coral Bay.
Days 18-21: Exmouth & Ningaloo
Add a few nights camping at the Ningaloo, go snorkelling from the beach or enjoy a few days off-grid at one of the epic camps along the Ningaloo Coast.
Is the Perth to Exmouth road trip worth it?
Yes, without a doubt! The Perth to Exmouth road trip is one of the best drives in Australia. You’ll go from white sand dunes to red outback landscapes, to some of the best snorkelling in the country at Ningaloo Reef.
If you take your time, this isn’t just a road trip. It’s one of the most rewarding ways to experience Western Australia.
What to bring on this Perth to Exmouth Roadtrip
To fully experience the best of this itinerary, here’s what you need to bring:
- Snorkelling gear – most snorkelling spots are remote and there’s no gear hire available
- Wetsuit – depending on the time of year and how comfortable you are in cooler waters
- Plenty of water: especially for long drives and national parks visit
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, long sleeves
- Survival First Aid Kit – Get 10% off on your order using the discount code BUSHANDBAY
- Snacks & food
Know before you go
Fuel Stops
A good rule is to fill up whenever you have the chance in larger towns, rather than waiting until you’re running low.
Phone reception
Expect good reception in towns, but patchy or no signal in national parks and remote coastal areas.
Wildlife
Kangaroos, emus and other wildlife are common along this route, especially in low light conditions. Avoid driving at dusk and dawn.
Road Conditions
While the main road from Perth to Exmouth is fully sealed, some detours, beaches and national parks require a 4WD. Always check local conditions, especially after rain.
Insurance
If you have hired a 4WD, chances are that insurance is included. Always double-check with the company to make sure you’re covered.
If you travel in your own 4WD, make sure you check your insurance before you go. Some sections of this Perth to Exmouth itinerary, including Francois Peron National Park, Coral Bay and parts of the Ningaloo, feature remote tracks, corrugations and soft sand, so it’s a good idea to check your 4WD and paperwork are ready for off-road driving before you set off. We travel with Club 4X4 just for that reason.
Why the Perth to Exmouth drive is a must-do
The Perth to Exmouth road trip is more than just a drive north. It’s one of those trips that you’ll remember a lifetime. The red dirt under your tyres, salt in your hair, and the constant contrast between the outback and the reef.
If you only have three weeks in Australia and want something that feels adventurous, but still achievable, this Perth to Exmouth road trip is, in our opinion, the perfect introduction to Western Australia.
Take it slow. Book ahead where needed. Respect the ocean. Air down your tyres when you should. And leave each place better than you found it.
If you’re planning your own Perth to Exmouth adventure and have other questions, head over to our Coral Coast travel guides, or watch our YouTube episodes to get a better idea of the region.
Happy travels!
FAQs – Perth to Exmouth Road Trip
What’s the best time for a Perth to Exmouth road trip?
April and May are ideal. Less wind, comfortable temperatures, and good water visibility. Winter (June – August) is great for hiking, has cooler nights, but the wind will pick up and it can make or break your experience, especially if you plan on going beach camping.
What vehicle do I need for Perth to Exmouth?
You can drive the sealed sections in a 2WD, but to follow this exact Perth to Exmouth 4WD itinerary, especially for Francois Peron, Red Bluff, Coral Bay and Ningaloo camps, you’ll need a proper 4WD.
Do I need permits?
Yes, you’ll need: A WA national parks pass, camping permits for Cape Range National Park, the Ningaloo, 14-mile beach, and Sandy Cape.
Book ahead, especially during school holidays and in peak season (winter).
The content on Bush and Bay is based on our personal experiences and opinions. While we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date information, travel conditions and recommendations may change over time. We do not take responsibility for any decisions or actions made based on our content. Always conduct your own research and consult with professionals where necessary. Bush and Bay may earn a small commission from affiliate links, but this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. We only endorse products and places we have personally tested and believe in.
Testimonials do not contain any financial product advice and are based on the individual’s circumstances. Issued by Club 4X4 Pty Ltd as an AR of Lifestyle Insurance Group who is acting (under its own AFSL) on behalf of the insurer QBE Australia Limited. Excesses, limits and exclusions apply. Always read the PDS & TMD at club4X4.com.au.
