Best of Western Australia

The tour starts in Perth at 8:30 am, where our guide holds a welcome meeting. We then follow the Coral Coast north, passing among the biggest dunes along this coast before reaching Nambung National Park, where we explore the limestone formations of the Pinnacles.

We continue north to Cervantes, home to a famous lobster shack. Here, you have the option of a lunch of Western Rock Lobster, looking out over the Indian Ocean. We then travel through Jurien Bay, with the chance of spotting local marine life, before visiting the historic Leaning Trees of Greenough.

On arrival in Geraldton, we take an orientation drive past the city’s sights, including the HMAS Sydney Memorial. Your evening is then free to settle in, with dinner and drinks of your choice and the chance to get to know your fellow travellers.

Please note: driving distance today is approximately 440 km, with short, easy walks and lookout points.

We drive north to Northampton, a historic town, where we visit the Ku’arlu Mangga (Good Nest) Community Art Gallery and meet local First Nations artists. Continuing to Hutt Lagoon, we see the Pink Lake, a favourite with photographers for its changing shades of pink.

On arrival in Kalbarri, you have time to relax. In the evening, we head out on a Sunset Coastal Cliff Cruise, seeing Kalbarri’s red cliffs from the water at sunset.

Please note: driving distance today is approximately 170 km.

Please note: today includes two short guided walks totalling 5 km; anyone unable to walk that distance can wait for the group to return.

We begin in Kalbarri National Park, home to the Kalbarri Skywalk and Nature’s Window, set above the ancient Murchison River Gorge, with views stretching over the gorge country. We then continue north towards the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.

Along the way, we visit Hamelin Pool Marine Nature Reserve to see the ancient stromatolites, known as “living fossils,” then stop at Shell Beach, a distinctive shoreline made up wholly of countless small cockle shells.

On reaching Monkey Mia, our evening brings a First Nations cultural experience, connecting with the stories, traditions and cultural knowledge of the Nhanda and Malgana people through storytelling, music and bush tucker.

Please note: driving distance today is approximately 400 km, with short, easy walks and lookout points.

Please note: your guide can assist with recommendations and bookings for tomorrow’s optional free day.

Today is free to explore the Shark Bay World Heritage Area. You can relax on the beach, take a coastal walk, hire a kayak or make use of the facilities at your accommodation. At sunset, you can enjoy a walk along the beach.

For those wanting more of the region, the following options are available.

Sunset Wildlife Cruise
You can opt for a scenic evening cruise that shows off the marine life of Shark Bay.

Marine Life Experience
You have the option to join a marine life experience, with the chance to spot dolphins, turtles, rays and the elusive dugong.

Steep Point & Dirk Hartog Island Sightseeing and Snorkelling Adventure
You can opt to join a sightseeing and snorkelling adventure to Steep Point and Dirk Hartog Island.

Francois Peron National Park 4WD Adventure
You have the option to join a 4WD adventure across coastal landscapes in Francois Peron National Park.

Please note: your guide can assist with recommendations and bookings for optional activities.

Please note: there is no driving today, only short, easy walks and lookout points.

We start the day with a wildlife encounter, as WA Parks and Wildlife experts introduce us to the bottlenose dolphins at Monkey Mia and share insights into these marine mammals and their coastal environment.

Leaving Shark Bay behind, we travel through the Gascoyne region towards Carnarvon. If time permits, there is an optional visit to the local aquarium, at your own expense, to learn about the marine life of the Coral Coast. In Carnarvon, we visit Gwoonwardu Mia, the Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage and Cultural Centre, gaining insight into the heritage of First Nations peoples and their lasting connection to this ancient land.

We continue along the Gascoyne Food Trail, past local growers of bananas, mangoes, avocados and other seasonal produce. If time permits, we visit the Carnarvon & District History Museum before settling in to our accommodation. This evening, you can relax, take a stroll or enjoy local dining options in Carnarvon or Coral Bay.

Please note: driving distance today is approximately 350 km, with short, easy walks and lookout points.

We begin in Coral Bay, home to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, the largest fringing reef anywhere. We join a 2-hour glass-bottom boat tour and snorkel experience, seeing as many as 250 coral species and 500 fish species.

Further along the coast, we visit Vlamingh Head Lighthouse for sweeping views, before settling into Exmouth for the night.

Please note: driving distance today is approximately 490 km, with short, easy walks and lookout points.

Today is free to explore the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area, whether you are after a marine encounter or the rugged scenery of Cape Range. You can also enjoy scenic walks, hikes and lookouts along the coast.

The following options are available.

Seasonal Whale Shark or Humpback Cruise and Swimming Experiences
You have the option to join a seasonal cruise, with the chance to swim alongside whale sharks or watch humpback whales.

Exmouth Glass Bottom Semi Submersible Snorkelling and Reef Viewing Tour
You can opt to explore the coral gardens of Ningaloo Reef on a semi-submersible snorkelling and reef viewing tour.

Yardie Creek Boat Tours
You have the option to join a boat tour at Yardie Creek in Cape Range National Park.

Please note: your guide can assist with recommendations and bookings, but advance planning is essential as availability is limited and public transport in Exmouth is extremely limited.

Please note: there is no driving today, only short, easy walks and lookout points.

Our 8-day journey along the Coral Coast comes to an end in Exmouth this morning. After breakfast at your accommodation and check-out, you are free to continue your onward travels, at your own arrangements and expense.