Cocoon Yourself In Nature: 16 Kununurra Accommodation

The East Kimberley’s gateway town of Kununurra is a remarkable place to spend a few days before or after a red-dirt outback adventure.

On the traditional Aboriginal land of the Miriwoong Gajerrong, Kununurra was created as a service town for the bold Ord River Irrigation Scheme. Here you can connect with Indigenous culture, munch on local mango, chia and bananas, and explore some of Western Australia’s most remarkable natural attractions, including World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park and its beehive-shaped Bungle Bungle Range. Whether you’re in the mood for something super luxe or feeling like immersing yourself in nature, here’s a wrap of the best Kununurra accommodation.

1. Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments

Two words: tropical escape. Kununurra’s newest and only executive-style, self-contained accommodation offers a selection of studios and one to three-bedroom apartments.

the Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments — Book a stay in one of the suites at Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments.

Crawl into a cabana beside the stunning resort-style pool and depart feeling totally refreshed. The pool, gardens, seclusion… and free airport (transfers during office hours) seal the deal.

the pool at Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments — Start the day with a refreshing morning dip.

2. Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park

An attractive caravan park set on the green lawns alongside Lily Creek Lagoon, Kimberley Waterfront Holiday Park has waterfront villas, poolside cabins and powered caravan sites. For your downtime jump in the pool or grab a local mango smoothie from the onsite coffee shop. You will find a rare finch aviary, three guest laundries and a modern outdoor kitchen with barbeques for a cook-up.

3. Kununurra Country Club Resort

Centrally located and friendly on the wallet, the Kununurra Country Club Resort has 88 comfortable rooms and a large pool.

outside of the restaurant at Kununurra Country Club Resort — Drop by the restaurant at Kununurra Country Club Resort.

Kelly’s, the sprawling onsite restaurant, dishes up meals featuring locally grown chia, chickpeas and tropical fruit, while the drinks’ menu boasts a range of products from the nearby Hoochery Distillery. Complimentary airport pickups and parking right outside the door sweeten the deal.

the Kelly's Bar & Grill at Kununurra Country Club — Breakfast is served at the onsite restaurant, Kelly’s Bar & Grill.

4. The Kimberley Grande Resort

Just a five-minute walk from an ideal picnic spot at Celebrity Tree Park, this 73-room resort has a 25-metre pool, sports bar and bistro. Rooms are huge and feature varying combinations of up to three single beds, a king bed, a family room with a king and bunk bed and spa suites for those who want to live it up a little. Safety can be an issue in this area, hence the hotel has regular security patrols throughout the night and signage in the room reminding guests to lock their doors.

the premier king room at The Kimberley Grande Resort — Enjoy modern comforts at The Kimberley Grande Resort.

5. Ivanhoe Village Caravan Resort

If you’re seeking a peaceful stay within walking distance of the town centre, make a beeline for the friendly Ivanhoe Village Caravan Resort .

the cabin at Ivanhoe Village Caravan Resort — Bed down in a cosy cabin at Ivanhoe Village Caravan Resort.

You’ll find two camp kitchens, 133 powered sites and 20 sites with ensuites, plus a range of self-contained cabins, including two-bedroom villas. Furry friends are welcome at this resort.

cabins at Ivanhoe Village Caravan Resort — The resort has plenty of cabins to choose from.

6. Ord Valley Delight

An easy 10-minute drive from Kununurra, this gem of a campground sits on a farm that overlooks the stunning Ord Valley. Here, the peace and serenity are only broken by the odd gentle mooing of a friendly poddy calf.

an aerial view of Ord Valley Delight — A stay at Ord Valley Delight offers remote camping like no other. (Image: Steph Connell)

With five tent sites, Ord Valley Delight will suit the self-contained camper who can manage without any facilities – don’t forget to bring your own water. Pets are welcome. This is a hosted stay through Hipcamp.

a woman sitting in front of a campfire at Ord Valley Delight — Light a campfire at sundown. (Image: Steph Connell)

7. Hairy Dogs Fishing Camp

One for the fishers out there. Hairy Dogs Fishing Camp is located on the banks of the Ord River, an hour from Kununurra. Home to barramundi, lots of crocodiles and birdlife, you’ll feel close to nature at this campsite with river views.

an aerial view of Hairy Dogs Fishing Camp — Drive across scenic landscapes towards the Hairy Dogs Fishing Camp. (Image: Jillian Robinson)

With plenty of trees for shade, a plunge pool, potable water and an ablution block with showers and flushing toilets, you’ll be a very comfy fisher/camper indeed. This is a hosted stay through Hipcamp.

8. The Cambridge Kununurra

One to watch, The Cambridge is in the process of becoming a bigger and better hotel complex, with major works planned through to 2024/25. Within walking distance to the town centre and an easy five-minute free shuttle from Kununurra Airport, Cambridge is shaping up to be fit for royalty. Watch this space for reopening dates.

9. Kimberley Croc Motel

Located in the centre of Kununurra, Kimberley Croc Motel has lush tropical gardens, a pool and basic but clean and comfy rooms. With a supermarket across the street and a fish and chips shop attached to the facility, dining is fuss-free. Pets are welcome in specific rooms at this quiet and secure property.

10. Hotel Kununurra

Locally known as ‘The Pub’, Hotel Kununurra was established in the 1960s and has been a mainstay of the local population since. Today, the pub still remains a beloved meeting place for the local community. If you like a bit of old-fashioned hotel charm, pop by for a stay in one of the single, double or family rooms. Everything you need is close at hand.

11. Discovery Parks – Lake Kununurra

Located on the shores of Lake Kununurra, this spacious park offers a range of caravan park sites and modern cabin accommodation . Facilities include a large pool, tennis courts, and BBQ areas. It’s an ideal spot for fishing, boating and birdwatching or just unwinding.

12. Kimberley Coastal Camp

Access by light aircraft, float plane and helicopter, Kimberley Coastal Camp is nestled on the pristine shores of the Admiralty Gulf. Accommodation is in beachfront bungalows, all with water views, sleeping two lucky people king or twin share.

an aerial view of the pool at Kimberley Coastal Camp — Step outside your accommodation for a splash in the pool.

With a limit of just 16 guests at a time, this camp is the ideal place to hide away from the crowds and spend your time fishing, viewing ancient rock art or simply chilling out.

the boat at Kimberley Coastal Camp — Rent a boat for fishing at Kimberley Coastal Camp.

13. Faraway Bay

Located 280 kilometres northwest of Kununurra and only accessible by helicopter or light aircraft, Faraway Bay is nestled on a rocky hilltop overlooking the turquoise Timor Sea.

a woman sipping coffee at Faraway Bay — Sip coffee by the waterfront at Faraway Bay. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Here, you will find ancient rock art, abundant fresh and saltwater fishing and a plethora of wildlife. Scattered amongst the natural bushland, the eight spacious cabins are simple but elegant and feature private outdoor showers with ocean views.

14. Berkeley River Lodge

Only accessible by air, getting to Berkeley is half the adventure . Situated on sandhills overlooking the entrance to the Berkeley River, the villas have superb 180-degree views of the coast.

aerial coastal views at Berkeley River Lodge — Stay near the coast at Berkeley River Lodge. (Image: Wildman Productions)

Each retreat has an ensuite, open-air free-standing bathtub, dramatic glass frontage, air-con and is in walking distance to the pool and restaurant.

the infinity pool at Berkeley River Lodge — Soak up staggering views from the infinity pool. (Image: Emily Abay)

15. El Questro

Located 110 kilometres west of Kununurra, El Questro Wilderness Park encompasses thermal springs, salt flats, deep gorges and rainforests.

a couple sitting outside their tent at El Questro Wilderness Park — Get cosy in a luxury safari tent at El Questro Wilderness Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

It also boasts an excellent range of accommodation – from the super luxe Homestead to camping beside the river and pre-erected tents, this 700,000-acre slice of Kimberley wilderness has an accommodation option to suit every budget.

an aerial view of the El Questro Wilderness Park — Immerse in the Kimberley wilderness.

16. Lake Argyle Resort – Discovery Parks

‘Caravan park’ and ‘world-class pool’. It’s not often that you get those two phrases in one sentence, but Lake Argyle Resort and Caravan Park does exactly that with its 35-metre infinity edge pool.

a woman sitting on the edge of the infinity pool at Lake Argyle Resort — Sit on the edge of the pool and take in the incredible landscape. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

With unrestricted views across Lake Argyle, this watery paradise is one of the Kimberley’s most Instagrammed. Sleeping options include plenty of grassy powered and unpowered sites, studio cabins and one-to-four-bedroom luxe villas with lake views.

an aerial view of Lake Argyle Resort — Make Lake Argyle Resort your next paradise retreat. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

The East Kimberley should be on every bucket list, and here’s why.

Livistona palms soar out of chasms the colour of Valencia oranges. Shady waterholes beckon travellers daring to venture off the bitumen. From the air, fruit farms give way to vast plains that meet rolling hills and fascinating geological formations centuries in the making. The East Kimberley is one of Australia’s most treasured wilderness areas, but don’t be fooled by its rust-coloured roads. This north-eastern corner of Western Australia is home to some of Australia’s most iconic stays by Discovery Resorts that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

A group of people enjoy an intimate dining experience at El Questro Homestead. — Dine in the heart of nature.

Your guide to Lake Argyle

The backstory

With rolling hills that glow amber at sunrise and glassy water that reflects the Kimberley’s bright blue sky, a visit to Lake Argyle is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As Australia’s second-largest man-made freshwater lake, travellers flock here to soak in the views from boats, helicopters and Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle .

The latter is a lakeside oasis, a resort where travellers crossing from Western Australia into the Northern Territory (or vice versa) converge. Fifty minutes’ drive south of Kununurra, the property is perched atop a cliff overlooking the sprawling Lake Argyle.

Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle was originally built in the late 1960s to provide accommodation for builders of the Ord River dam, which formed Lake Argyle. In the decades that followed it had several owners, until a Kununurra local took the reins in 2004 and reinvented the property with luxury villas and its now world-famous infinity pool. The iconic property was added to the Discovery Resorts portfolio in 2021, undergoing a major upgrade that took the resort from a beloved campground to an all-encompassing resort with premium waterfront villas.

A boat glides across the expansive waters of Lake Argyle, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Kimberley. As part of the Discovery Holiday Parks experience, this unforgettable journey offers adventure and relaxation. — Glide across the vast, shimmering waters of Lake Argyle.

The rooms

A lakeside resort like no other, Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle offers something for everyone, from campsites to villas and cabins . The Deluxe Lakeview Cabins have views of the opposing cliff and are surrounded by bush, ensuring plenty of privacy, while both the Deluxe and Standard Cabins are ideal for families, with contemporary furnishings and one, two or four bedrooms. The campsites also come in a variety of sizes.

The facilities

There’s no doubt the biggest drawcard to Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle is the lake, 20 times the size of Sydney Harbour. One of the best ways to experience it is on the Kimberley Durack Sunset Explorer Cruise , during which you’ll see freshwater crocodiles nesting along the banks (it’s home to 30,000 freshies) and even get the chance to swim in their waters. The cruise also takes in Mt Misery, towering above the original and now submerged Argyle Downs Homestead.

If you have young children who need to get to bed early, a great alternative is the three-hour Lunch Explorer Cruise . You’ll tour around the lake’s bays as you learn about the local wildlife before stopping at a remote island for a swim.

Refuel between adventures at the onsite pub-style eatery, The Lake Argyle Cafe. The cafe is the heart of the resort, bringing together friends new and old over a steak, cold beer and live music. Hours vary with the seasons, but rest assured you’ll be able to enjoy a good feed year-round, with a well-stocked general store also open during the day.

Cool off from a day of exploring in the striking infinity pool with some of the best views in the country (you’ll find sweeping views of the lake below). Or enjoy a flight with HeliSpirit, or clear your mind during a yoga class on the lawn.

Two people unwind in an infinity pool, overlooking stunning Lake Argyle at Discovery Holiday Parks. — Take a dip in the infinity pool and soak in breathtaking Lake Argyle views.

Your guide to El Questro

The backstory

One of the most famous stays in Australia is El Questro . A former cattle station, it’s evolved into one of the country’s most recognisable tourism destinations over the past 30 years, and is now embarking on a new chapter to elevate the region’s rich First Nations culture.

The property draws travellers seeking to reconnect with nature and the beauty of this country. Wild in spirit but immaculate in style, El Questro is a 283,000-hectare property like no other; surrounded by dramatic gorges, impressive mountain ranges, thermal springs, secluded waterfalls and even rainforest, it’s the perfect base for adventurous souls.

A person floats leisurely in the river at Discovery Holiday Parks, immersed in nature’s tranquillity. — Float along Zebedee Springs and immerse in nature.

The rooms

Across the sprawling El Questro are three properties catering to the wide variety of travellers who journey this way. The most impressive is the luxurious Homestead , where 10 suites perch at the edge of a burnt-orange cliff, with cantilevered bedrooms over the peaceful Chamberlain River. The adults-only, all-inclusive Homestead is a member of the prestigious Luxury Lodges of Australia collection and offers a backdrop of thick bushland; riverside, you’ll find an immaculate lawn and a shaded pool that lures guests out of their rooms.

At Emma Gorge , travellers will be immersed in the beauty of the Cockburn Ranges, falling asleep to the sounds of wildlife in safari-style tented cabins. This is where you come if you want to completely connect with your environment while retaining a few creature comforts. The Emma Gorge Tented Cabins sleep three or four people and feature private ensuites and ceiling fans.

Families also love The Station , home to simple yet comfortable air-conditioned rooms, as well as a large, leafy campground. Sitting by the Pentecost River, The Station is open from April to October and has a range of accommodation, from unpowered and powered campsites to air-conditioned tents for two people and a Gardenview Family Room for five.

Two people stand beside a suite perched on the edge of a striking burnt-orange cliff, gazing out over the serene Chamberlain River below. — Take a breather with stunning views of nature all around.

The facilities

Located in the heart of the Kimberley, El Questro retains its strong connection with its Traditional Owners, the Ngarinyin people. A highlight of a stay here is the Injiid Marlabu Calls Us experience ; over two hours, guests are immersed in the soul of Country by witnessing ancient healing rituals, listening to generational stories and learning about the land’s ancestral heritage.

Other experiences include bird watching, cruising through Chamberlain Gorge, hiking through Emma Gorge, horse riding, four-wheel-driving and soaking in Zebedee Springs. At the properties, you can also cool off in the pools, and relax in the restaurants or at private dining locations. A bonus of staying at The Homestead is the exclusive service of El Questro’s dedicated reservations team, who will craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your travel tastes.

A group of people stand beside a tree, with a car parked nearby, taking in the surrounding natural beauty. — Experience thrilling nature activities.

Book your East Kimberley adventure today with Discovery Resorts.

Cocoon yourself in nature at these top Kununurra accommodations

The East Kimberley’s gateway town of Kununurra is a remarkable place to spend a few days before or after a red-dirt outback adventure.

1. Freshwater East Kimberley Apartments

2. Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park

3. Kununurra Country Club Resort

4. The Kimberley Grande Resort

5. Ivanhoe Village Caravan Resort

6. Ord Valley Delight

7. Hairy Dogs Fishing Camp

8. The Cambridge Kununurra

9. Kimberley Croc Motel

10. Hotel Kununurra

11. Discovery Parks – Lake Kununurra

12. Kimberley Coastal Camp

13. Faraway Bay

14. Berkeley River Lodge

15. El Questro

16. Lake Argyle Resort – Discovery Parks

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Inspire your senses with these iconic East Kimberley stays

The East Kimberley should be on every bucket list, and here’s why.

Your guide to Lake Argyle

The backstory

The rooms

The facilities

Your guide to El Questro

The backstory

The rooms

The facilities