The ultimate Perth to Broome road trip: a 12-day WA itinerary

Leah McLennanBy Leah McLennan
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Next time you think road trip, go big and pick up some wheels in Perth for an epic 12-day trip north along the Western Australian coastline.

From white beaches, coral reefs and charming fishing towns to rugged national parks, plunging waterfalls and ancient Indigenous rock art, a Perth to Broome road trip boasts a myriad of landscapes and marine life.

Over almost two weeks and a whopping 3200 kilometres, explore the best of this remarkable stretch of Australia, including swimming with whale sharks, flying over pink lakes and devouring fresh tropical fruits and crayfish.

a car driving along the Coral Coast Highway
Drive the scenic Coral Coast Highway from Perth to Exmouth. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Day one: Perth to Geraldton

Distance: 420 kilometres

After leaving laid-back Perth, head north on Indian Ocean Drive for two hours towards the fishing town of Cervantes.

View of Perth skyline at sunset
Farewell the city lights of Perth and begin your road trip to Broome.(Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Explore the 30,000-year-old limestone structures at Lake Thetis  before devouring some fresh seafood at the legendary Lobster Shack .

Refreshed, continue north to Greenough, where you can spot the iconic leaning trees from the highway.

Leaning trees near Greenough, WA
Marvel at the curious species of leaning trees as you drive by.

Arrive in Geraldton with enough time to explore the city’s diverse beaches. Choose from the soft white sand of Back Beach, surfing at Sunset Beach, or floating in the sheltered waters of Town Beach.

Woman walking past Yamaji Art Centre, Geraldton
Check out the sights in town before cooling off at Geraldton’s beaches. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Must-see

The Pinnacles of Nambung National Park

Two hours’ drive north of Perth, The Pinnacles are other-worldly limestone structures that were formed 25,000 years ago.

the limestone formations at The Pinnacles of Nambung National Park
The Pinnacles are limestone formations within Nambung National Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Ellendale Pool

Swim in the stunning natural waterhole Ellendale Pool on the Greenough River, 45 kilometres south-east of Geraldton.

Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park

Hop on a light aircraft  and fly 60 kilometres west of Geraldton to the Abrolhos Islands for a spot of snorkelling and diving.

an aerial view of the coral reefs at Abrolhos Islands, west of Geraldton
Off the west coast of Geraldton lie the spectacular Abrolhos Islands. (Image: Tourism Western Australia and @stevefraserphotography)

Accommodation tip: Mantra Geraldton

Day two and three – Geraldton to Monkey Mia

Distance: 433 kilometres

Grab coffee at Geraldton’s Flowvitality and head to the bubblegum-pink Hutt Lagoon , a marine salt lake. Nestled between the lagoon and the beach, you’ll find the quaint fishing town of Port Gregory, where you can grab an ice cream at the general store.

a car driving along Hutt Lagoon, near Port Gregory
Hutt Lagoon features a bubblegum-pink marine salt lake. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

From Hutt Lagoon to Kalbarri National Park takes about an hour to drive (or longer if you stop in the seaside town of Kalbarri for a bite at The Gorges Cafe ).

A group at Natures Window in Kalbarri National Park
Take the Loop Walk in Kalbarri National Park to see the iconic Natures Window. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

At Kalbarri National Park, either bushwalk, gorge hike or canoe (or drive to a lookout) to admire the beautiful gorges and dazzling wildflowers.

a wildflower near Kalbarri National Park
Wildflowers bloom near Kalbarri National Park. (Image: Greg Snell)

Four hours’ drive further north, Monkey Mia comprises white sandy beaches, rusty red sand dunes and water teeming with dolphins, dugongs, sharks and more.

Must-see

Dolphin experience

Get up early to join the rangers’ briefing session on the Monkey Mila boardwalk before meeting the wild Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins .

a woman paddling on the calm waters of Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Monkey Mia
Paddle through Shark Bay World Heritage Area at Monkey Mia. (Image: Tourism Western Australia and @helen_jannesonbense)

Cruise to spot dugongs

View vulnerable dugongs from a wildlife cruise  on a sailing catamaran, also check for turtles, manta rays and sharks.

a sea turtle swimming in Monkey Mia
Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles at Monkey Mia. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Hamelin Pool

Looking like giant boulders, the stromatolites of Hamelin Pool are living fossils, examples of what life on Earth was like 3.5 billion years ago.

stromatolites at Hamelin Pool
Find the oldest stromatolites at Hamelin Pool. (Image: Tourism Western Australia and credit @tom_tit_)

Accommodation tip: RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort  

Emu with young at RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort
Local visitors make themselves at home in RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Day four – Monkey Mia to Carnarvon

Distance: 352 kilometres

Located on the edge of the mighty Gascoyne River delta, Carnarvon  is where banana, mango and papaya plantations thrive on fertile land. If you adore tropical fruit, take a tour of one of the plantations or visit the Gascoyne Growers’ Market .

Carnarvon also boasts some mind-blowing natural wonders, such as blowholes, freshwater pools and nearby gorges.

a woman standing on Bilung Pool
Just off the Carnarvon Mullewa Road, you’ll find Bilung Pool. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Must-see

Rocky Pool

Surrounded by lush grassy banks and shady eucalypts, Rocky Pool  is a tranquil swimming hole and picnic spot.

Point Quobba, Blowholes

Arrive at the Blowholes  on the incoming tide (when they perform at their best) to see jets of water erupt into the air, sometimes up to 20 metres. Don’t miss the nearby coral-filled lagoon, the Aquarium .

an aerial view of the beach at Red Bluff, Quobba Station north of Carnarvon
Capture the rugged scenery at Red Bluff, Quobba Station north of Carnarvon. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Kennedy Ranger National Park

Located 230km inland from Carnarvon, the dramatic views in Kennedy Ranger National Park  are simply spectacular. For those who like bush campsites, settle into Temple Gorge campground for the night.

Accommodation tip: BIG4 Plantation Caravan Park

Day five and six – Carnarvon to Exmouth

Distance: 364 kilometres

World-famous Exmouth is home to whale sharks, manta rays, turtles and humpback whales. Dive, snorkel or drift over Ningaloo Reef in a glass bottom boat to explore the World Heritage-listed reef that is jam-packed with over 500 species of fish and 300 species of coral.

A woman snorkels with a whale shark in Ningaloo
See whale sharks up close at Ningaloo Reef. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Before you reach Exmouth, you might want to take a few detours – catch a wave at Gnaraloo Bay or go snorkelling at Quobba Station .

Must-see

Cape Range National Park

Hikers will marvel at the rugged limestone range and arid coastal plain of Cape Range National Park , 50 kilometres south of Exmouth.

an aerial view of Charles Knife Gorge in Cape Range National Park
Charles Knife Gorge in Cape Range National Park is spectacular from above. (Image: Tourism Western Australia and credit @apertunity_)

Bill’s Bay

Dive or snorkel off the beach at Bill’s Bay or visit the deeper waters to view dugongs, manta rays and whale sharks.

Vlamingh Head Lighthouse

Hop on the Scenic Lighthouse Drive and head up the hill to Vlamingh Head Lighthouse. With panoramic views of the ocean, it’s a fantastic spot for sunset drinks.

Accommodation tip: Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef

Day seven and eight – Exmouth to Karijini

Distance: 658 kilometres

From the dreamy blue and clear waters of Exmouth to the deep red colours of Karijini National Park in a day. What more could a traveller ask for?

Head to the bucket-list Karijini to see awe-inspiring gorges of ancient rock, cool swimming holes and showering waterfalls. Visit the Karijini Visitor Centre , walk the Dales Gorge trail and take a dip in the pools of Fern Pool, Fortescue Falls and Circular Pool.

two people enjoying their time in Circular Pool, Karijini National Park
Plunge into the Circular Pool at Karijini National Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

You might want to break up this 655-kilometre drive with a stop at the beautiful Cheela Plains Station  (don’t miss the sublime carrot cake).

an aerial view of Cheela Plains Station
Discover the natural wonders at Cheela Plains Station. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Must-see

Hamersley Gorge

A favourite of many travellers to Karijini National Park, Hamersley Gorge  boasts a lush, turquoise spa pool.

Joffre Gorge

Don’t miss checking out Joffre Gorge , a spectacular curved waterfall forming a natural amphitheatre.

a person soaking in the swimming hole at Joffre Gorge, Karijini National Park
Joffre Gorge is an impressive sight at Karijini National Park. (Image: Tourism Western Australia and credit @cjmaddock)

Accommodation tip: Karijini Eco Retreat

Day nine and 10 – Karijini to Port Hedland

Distance: 316 kilometres

Port Hedland is famous for its massive resource industry. Think big ships, long trains and salt piles. But it’s also rich in Indigenous culture, pioneering history and is a great spot for fishing and crabbing.

If you’re keen to extend an adventure to the Pilbara, the main towns to explore beyond Port Hedland are Onslow, Point Samson Peninsula, Dampier and Karratha.

an aerial view of Cape Keraudren, east of Port Hedland
Cape Keraudren boasts a picturesque beach with clear blue waters just east of Port Hedland. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Must-see

Lisa’s Kangaroo Retreat

If you have kids – or you just love kangaroos – a tour of Lisa’s Kangaroo Retreat is a must-do in Port Hedland.

Port Hedland Salt Industry Tour

Don’t leave town without taking a 90-minute Salt Industry Tour  to learn how salt is grown and harvested.

Accommodation tip: Hedland Hotel

Day 11 and 12 – Port Hedland to Broome 

Distance: 609 kilometres

Renowned for its beaches and rich and colourful history, Broome may be small but it sure packs a punch. Bordered by the aquamarine waters of the Indian Ocean and the creeks and mangroves of Roebuck Bay, Broome offers wide empty beaches, wildlife and breathtaking colours. Throw fantastic accommodation, unmissable markets and plenty of things to do into the mix, and you’ll soon know why Broome attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Must-see

Eighty Mile Beach

If you want to stretch out your odyssey a little longer, stay a few nights at Eighty Mile Beach  to soak up the endless stretches of white sand, turquoise water and excellent fishing and birdwatching.

the pristine shoreline of Eighty Mile Beach
Stroll along the pristine sand of Eighty Mile Beach. (Image: Cjmaddock)

Cable Beach by camel

Cable Beach is the one and only place to take a camel ride in Broome, and frankly, you couldn’t hope for a more glorious backdrop.

Camel ride on Cable Beach Broome
Ride a camel along Cable Beach. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Horizontal Falls

For many Broome visitors, spending time at the tidal waterfalls deep in the Buccaneer Archipelago is the ultimate Kimberley experience.

an aerial view of Jetwave Pearl along Horizontal Falls, Talbot Bay
Experience the majestic Horizontal Falls. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

And just when you think it can’t get any better, Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures offers a new package that includes a night on board the luxurious Jetwave Pearl.

a seaplane at Horizontal Falls, Talbot Bay
A seaplane will deliver you to your accommodation at Horizontal Falls. (Image: Tourism Western Australia

Accommodation tip: Eco Beach Resort

For more WA road trip inspiration, read our itineraries for Darwin to Broome and Broome to Exmouth via Warlu Way.
Leah McLennan
Leah McLennan is a freelance writer based in Darwin. She was a journalist in Sydney for over a decade and counts her time as travel editor for Australian Associated Press as one of the highlights of her career. From exploring remote campsites in the Top End with her family, to seeking out new art galleries in faraway cities, she’ll grab an adventurous or arty travel experience within her reach.
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7 Kimberley experiences that need to be on your bucket list

    Australian TravellerBy Australian Traveller
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    From thundering waterfalls to ancient Indigenous art, Kimberley’s raw beauty will take your breath away.

    Wild, pristine, and shaped by nature, the Kimberley Coast is one of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes. A remote and rugged frontier that remains a bucket list destination for many travellers. Its most breathtaking attractions – including Montgomery Reef, King George Falls and Horizontal Falls – are accessible only by sea or air, making a guided expedition cruise aboard Silversea’s luxury expedition ship, Silver Cloud, the ideal way to explore it.

    From its intricate intertidal zones to ancient rock art, extreme tides and rare wildlife found nowhere else in Australia – or the world – this journey offers an unparalleled exploration of one of Earth’s last true wildernesses.

    Why Silversea?

    Silversea offers a 10-day expedition departing Broome, or an extended 16-day expedition voyage from Indonesia, including landings on the hidden gems of Palopo Sulawesi and Komodo. Accompanied by expert guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology, guests gain a deeper understanding of the Kimberley’s dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage and extraordinary biodiversity.

    Silversea offers one of the experiential travel industry’s leading crew-to-guest ratios. Along with all-suite accommodation (80 per cent with private verandah), 24-hour butler service, a swimming pool and four dining options. Silver Cloud also has an experienced crew of multilingual expedition guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology to enhance your Kimberley Experience.

    silversea cruise ship pool deck
    Take a dip in the pool deck.

    1. Koolama Bay

    ​​Before visitors see King George Falls, they hear them – a growing rumble in the distance, steady and foreboding as the Zodiac glides through the gorge, the sound echoing off sheer rock formations. At 80 meters tall, the twin cascades carve through the red cliffs, churning the waters below in a spectacular finale – but Koolama Bay holds secrets beyond its striking scenery.

    Named after a ship that beached here following an aerial attack by Japanese bombers in World War II, the bay may seem desolate, yet it teems with life. With Silversea’s expert guides on their 10-day Kimberley itinerary, guests gain a sharper eye for its hidden wonders – rock wallabies darting across the cliffs, crocodiles lurking among dense green mangroves, and high above, the silhouette of a bird of prey circling the sky.

    King George Falls at koolama bay excursion on Silversea Kimberley Cruise
    Take a shore excursion to see King George Falls.

    2. Freshwater Cove / Wijingarra Butt Butt

    Connect with Country on a wet landing at Freshwater Cove, also known as Wijingarra Butt Butt. Considered one of the most special experiences on both the 16-day and 10-day Kimberley cruises, Silversea guests are welcomed by the traditional Indigenous custodians of the land, painted with traditional ochre, and invited to take part in a smoking ceremony.

    Located on the mainland near Montgomery Reef, Wijingarra Butt Butt holds deep cultural significance to the local Indigenous community. Here, rock formations along the shore represent spiritual ancestors, and guests are guided to a nearby rock overhang filled with ancient art, where traditional owners share the stories and meaning behind these sacred paintings.

    welcome to country on freshwater cove during silversea kimberley cruise
    Take part in a smoking ceremony. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

    3. Vansittart Bay (Jar Island)

    Modern history, ancient culture and mystery converge in Vansittart Bay, which is also known as Jar Island. Here, the first thing to catch the eye is the dented, silver fuselage of a World War II-era C-53 plane – a striking relic of the past. Yet, the true cultural treasures lie just a short hike away where two distinct styles of Indigenous rock art – Gwion Gwion and Wandjina – can be found.

    The Wandjina figures, deeply connected to Indigenous traditions, stand in stark contrast to the enigmatic Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) paintings, which date back more than 12,000 years. Significantly different in form and style, the two different styles create a striking juxtaposition, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s rich and complex past.

    aerial view of Vansittart Bay, See it in you Silversea Kimberley Cruise.
    Explore ancient Gwion Gwion rock art at Vansittart Bay. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

    4. Horizontal Falls

    Part illusion, part natural phenomenon, the Kimberley’s much-lauded Horizontal Falls aren’t a waterfall, but a tidal and geographic spectacle that visitors have to see to comprehend. Known as Garaanngaddim, the phenomenon occurs when seawater rushes through two narrow gaps- one just twenty metres wide, and the other seven metres in width, between the escarpments of Talbot Bay.

    With each tidal shift,  the force of the water creates whirlpools, furious currents and the illusion of a horizontal cascade as thousands of gallons of water are pushed and pulled in through the gap every six hours with relentless movement, making this one of the Kimberley ’s most mesmerising natural wonders.

    Horizontal Falls are described as "One of the greatest wonders of the natural world". They are formed from a break in-between the McLarty Ranges reaching up to 25m in width. The natural phenomenon is created as seawater builds up faster on one side of the gaps than the other, creating a waterfall up to 5m high on a King tide.
    Watch whirlpools and furious currents collide. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

    5. Montgomery Reef

    As the tide turns in Montgomery Reef, magic happens. With the Kimberley’s legendary tides varying up to ten metres, at low tide the submerged reef almost appears to rise from the depths: exposing up to four metres of the sandstone reef.

    The impact is otherworldly: as the water drains, waterfalls cascade on either side of the channel,  turtles left exposed scramble and dive, and fish leap in search of sanctuary in shallow pools. Meanwhile, the dinner bell rings for the migratory seabirds dugongs, reef sharks and dolphins that scavenge and feast in the area.

    Using zodiacs, guests cruise through one of the world’s most significant inshore reef systems navigated by experienced guides, exploring the most intricate and fascinating parts of a 300-square-kilometre-wide biodiversity hotspot.

    aerial view of boat going along Montgomery Reef
    Witness seabirds, dolphins and reef sharks on the hunt.

    6. Mitchell Falls by Helicopter

    Experiencing the Kimberley by sea allows you to feel the power of the tides, but travelling by helicopter reveals the sandstone tapestry of the Kimberley, a landscape geologists believe is over 1.8 billion years old.

    One of Silversea’s most popular optional excursions , guests who opt to fly into the interior from the onboard helipad soar up above the rust-coloured landscape of the Mitchell plateau, taking in one of Australia’s most scenic waterfalls: Mitchell Falls, a series of four emerald-coloured pools gently cascades into each other, before plunging down to the river below.

    Seeing the landscape from above reveals a landscape weaved and shaped by the power of the freshwater wet season, juxtaposed to the constant lapping of the relentless and powerful tide on the coast.

    aerial view of mitchell falls on silversea helicopter excursion
    See emerald pools cascade into the river below. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

    7. Indigenous Art Caves, Wandjina Art

    The Kimberley Region of Western Australia is home to some of the most striking and significant

    Indigenous rock art in Australia. Dotted throughout the landscape are caves, cliffs and rock overhangs depicting the striking, ethereal image of Wandjina, the rainmaker spirit and creation being central to many of the Dreamtime stories in this region.

    Some of the paintings are regularly repainted by traditional custodians, while others are believed to be over 4,000 years old. Each artwork serves as both a cultural record and a living connection to the past, offering a rare opportunity to engage with the enduring traditions of the Kimberley’s Indigenous communities.

    Freshwater Cover Rock Art the kimberleys
    Walk among cultural records preserved in stone. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

    See the best of this incredible part of the world on a Silversea Kimberley cruise. Book your 10- or extended 16-day expedition voyage at silversea.com