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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8 secret places in Western Australia you need to know about

    Kate BettesBy Kate Bettes
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    WA might be enormous, but the right insider knowledge brings its mysteries a whole lot closer.

    “Western Australia is a land of record-breakers,” says Carolyn Tipper, a Travel Director working on AAT Kings Western Australia tours. “It has the second-longest fault line, the second-largest meteorite crater, the second-fastest flowing river—it just keeps surprising you. And every area has its charm.”

    From tropics to deserts, Australia’s largest state is a land of extremes. You can’t see all of Western Australia in a lifetime, but with the right guide, you can discover its hidden pockets of magic.

    Carolyn wishes to reach her guests’ hearts. “I want them to enjoy and be in awe,” she says. “I want them to have the holiday of a lifetime.”

    1. Mimbi Caves

    You wouldn’t expect a Great Barrier Reef in the outback – but that’s what you’ll find at Mimbi Caves. Once part of a 350-million-year-old reef, these caves hold marine fossils, ancient Indigenous rock art, and Dreamtime stories shared by a Gooniyandi guide.

    “That’s when the real connection happens,” says Carolyn, who has taken guests through on the AAT Kings Wonders of the West Coast and Kimberley tour . “When guests connect, not just with the land, but with the people who have called it home for tens of thousands of years.”

    Eye-level view of traveller exploring Mimbi Caves.
    Walk through ancient limestone passages. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

    2. Kalbarri National Park

    Nothing prepares you for the Kalbarri Skywalk: a 25-metre platform jutting over Murchison Gorge, 100 metres above the red cliffs and river below. From July to October, join the AAT Kings Untamed Pilbara and West Coast tour to see over 1000 wildflower species paint the park, and listen as an Indigenous guide shares their uses, bush foods and medicine plants.

    “I want our guests to have an emotional experience,” says Carolyn. “It’s not just about seeing the land, it’s about stepping into the stories.”

    An aerial view of the Kalbarri Skywalk, one of the secret places in Western Australia, with visitors on the edge.
    Stand on the Kalbarri Skywalk in Western Australia. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

    3. Hamelin Bay Wines

    Margaret River isn’t just a top wine region – it’s a winner in every category. Where the Indian and Southern Oceans collide, granite cliffs rise, limestone caves sprawl and Karri forests tower. It almost distracts from the world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

    Almost.

    Out of over 100 cellar doors, AAT Kings pick Hamelin Bay Wines as a favourite. Hosted tastings of small-batch wines on the Western Wonderland tour end with a group meal. The menu shifting with the seasons.

    “Get off the beaten track to one of WA’s most relaxed venues for some amazing red and white signature wines,” explains Carolyn, “accompanied with upmarket pub food.”

    Spectacular views.

    A person raising a glass of Chardonnay against a glowing Western Australia sunset.
    Sip world-class wines at Hamelin Bay in Western Australia. (Image: Getty)

    4. Wildflower Guided Walk, Kings Park

    Western Australia is home to 12,000 native plant species – 3000 bloom in Kings Park’s Botanic Garden. Stroll past Kangaroo Paw, Banksia and blooms from the Goldfields, Stirling Ranges and Kimberley. “The diversity of Western Australia is immense,” says Carolyn, who leads guests through on the South Western Escape tour .

    Couple enjoying the view from the Lotterywest Federation walkway at Kings Park and Botanical Garden.
    Wander among thousands of native plant species. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

    5. Hoochery Distillery

    Did you know that between Kununurra and Emma Gorge lies the state’s oldest continuously operating distillery? Well, the oldest legal one. Set on a family farm, Hoochery Distillery was hand-built using materials found on the property, conjuring up award-winning rum from local sugarcane, wet season rainwater and yeast.

    Today, visitors can sample a hearty nip of rum, along with whiskies and gins – all crafted using traditional, labour-intensive methods. It’s the ideal way to soak up the ‘spirit’ of the Kimberley on the AAT Kings’ Untamed Kimberley tour .

    People enjoying a rum tasting at one of the secret places in Western Australia.
    Sample award-winning rum. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

    6. Geraldton

    The wildflowers of the Midwest will make your heart blossom. In Geraldton, the Helen Ansell Art Gallery brings the region’s botanicals to life in vivid colour and intricate detail. In nearby Mullewa, wander bushland trails lined with everlastings and native blooms. Further afield, Coalseam Conservation Park bursts into carpets of pink, white, and yellow each spring. Do it all on the Wildflower Wanderer tour with AAT Kings.

    woman walking through Wildflowers, Coalseam Conservation Park
    Chase vibrant wildflower trails. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

    7. El Questro

    Wake up after a night under the stars at Emma Gorge Resort, ready to explore the mighty beauty of the El Questro Wilderness Park. With deep gorges, thermal springs, and cascading waterfalls, time slows here.

    Join the AAT Kings’ Wonders of the West Coast and Kimberley tour to drift through Chamberlain Gorge, where sheer sandstone walls glow burnt orange in the sun, archer fish flick at the surface, and rock wallabies peer down from ledges above. Then, step into Zebedee Springs, a secret oasis of warm, crystal-clear pools among prehistoric Livistona palms – a moment of pure, wild stillness.

    Emma Gorge Resort at El Questro.
    Wake to adventure at Emma Gorge Resort. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

    8. Lake Argyle

    Once vast cattle country, Lake Argyle now sprawls like an inland sea – Western Australia’s largest freshwater lake, created by the damming of the Ord River. Scattered with over 70 islands, its glassy waters teem with life, like freshwater crocodiles, barramundi, bony bream, sleepy cod and over 240 bird species. That’s nearly a third of Australia’s avian population.

    Glide across the lake’s surface on a cruise as part of AAT Kings’ Untamed Kimberley tour , where the silence is only broken by the splash of fish and the call of birds. For Carolyn, this place is a perfect example of how WA’s landscapes surprise visitors. “Lake Argyle is a big puddle of water that became a game-changer,” she says. “Seeing it from a boat, coach, and plane is mind-blowing. It puts time, isolation and the sheer scale into perspective.”

    Aerial View of Triple J Tours on the Ord River, near Kununurra.
    Glide past islands on Western Australia’s largest freshwater lake. (Image: Western Australia)

    Discover more of Western Australia’s hidden gems and book your tour at aatkings.com.