by Dawn Teh
posted on 24 July 2024
A Perth to Monkey Mia road trip offers up some of the most stunning views of the Western Australian coastline and unforgettable wildlife experiences (get ready to meet some friendly dolphins). But that’s not all. You’ve also got the iconic Pink Lake, quirky outback towns, and several national parks to explore.
This guide covers:
- An overview of the Perth to Monkey Mia road trip
- Choose your Perth to Monkey Mia road trip route
- Must visit stops along the Perth to Monkey Mia drive
- Things to remember before you set off
- Frequently asked questions
An overview of your Perth to Monkey Mia Road Trip
- Perth to Monkey Mia drive distance: The direct drive from Perth to Monkey Mia is a driving distance of 847 km, but if you want to make detours along the way then your drive will be longer.
- Perth to Monkey Mia drive time: The most direct route takes 8 hours and 52 minutes but could be longer if you factor in detours to various attractions.
- Choose your itinerary:
- The 4-day route takes you along the WA coast and covers the main attractions of the road trip.
- The 6-day route also starts out along the coast but takes you inland on the way back. You’ll also get to spend an extra day in the Shark Bay area.
- Top attractions:
- Shark Bay World Heritage region
- Dolphin encounters at Monkey Mia
- Kalbarri National Park
- Hutt Lagoon Pink Lake
Drive map: Perth to Monkey Mia
Driving conditions: What is the road like from Perth to Monkey Mia?
The main highway from Perth to Monkey Mia is sealed and well-maintained, so you can expect a smooth and easy drive that’s easy to navigate.
However, you will encounter some sections of unsealed roads leading into natural attractions (e.g. in Kalbarri National Park). These are usually dirt or gravel roads that are compacted, so most vehicles should be able to handle the drive. Be sure to drive with care – slow down and avoid potholes while passing through unsealed roads.
Within the Shark Bay region, certain areas can only be accessed by four-wheel drive vehicles (like Dirk Hartog Island and anywhere past Peron Homestead on Francois Peron National Park). There are 4WD tours in these areas if your vehicle is a 2WD. Monkey Mia and Denham are accessible by 2WD.
Petrol stations and EV chargers between Perth and Monkey Mia
You’ll find petrol stations conveniently located throughout the drive from Perth to Monkey Mia. Some are along the highway while others are in the towns along the way.
Bear in mind that the distance between petrol stations can be far at some points(40-60 km). So, research how far your next refuelling stop will be to ensure you have enough to make it there. It’s best to keep some offline maps of the petrol stations as well because mobile reception can be patchy in remote parts of WA.
If you’re driving an electric vehicle, EV fast chargers can be found throughout the drive as well. But you’ll also need to take note of the distance between each charger (which can be around 100 km at times) to ensure you have enough range.
What to bring on this road trip
- Navigation Tools: GPS device or smartphone with offline maps (phone reception can be patchy along the way).
- Vehicle Preparations: Spare tyre, tire-changing tools, and emergency road assistance kit (jumper cables, reflective triangle, fire extinguisher).
- Comfort Items: Comfortable driving attire and shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm with high SPF, insect repellent, neck pillows, blankets, and reusable water bottles.
- Accommodation and Sightseeing: Tent and camping gear (if planning to camp), printed reservations for accommodation along the way.
- Drinks and Food: Cooler box, drinks, snacks, portable stove, cookware (if self-catering), utensils, dishware, and garbage bags for cleanup.
- Safety and Health: First aid kit, prescribed medications, basic over-the-counter meds (pain relief, allergy meds), copies of personal identification, and medical records if needed.
- Clothing and Personal Items: Apart from your usual clothes, bring swimwear for coastal stops, and towels.
Want to tackle the Perth to Monkey Mia road trip in the perfect car? Hire a car on Turo in Perth – choose from a range of SUVs, 4WDs, people movers, and more.
Discover stunning Perth to Monkey Mia road trip routes
You’ve got two route options for a Perth to Monkey Mia road trip depending on how much time you have and what attractions you’d like to see.
- Route 1 (4 days) is a condensed trip that showcases the top stops along WA’s coast
- Route 2 (6 days) has a more relaxed pace, and you’ll get the best of both the coastal and inland routes.
Route 1: 4-day Perth to Monkey Mia road trip
Drive time: 18 hours 54 minutes
Driving distance: 1,820 km
Day by Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Perth to Kalbarri (6 hours 6 minutes, 572 km)
- Day 2: Kalbarri to Monkey Mia (4 hours 1 minute, 399 km)
- Day 3: Monkey Mia to Geraldton (4 hours 27 minutes, 432 km)
- Day 4: Geraldton to Perth (4 hours 28 minutes, 419 km)
Best for: Dolphin encounters, quaint towns, ocean scenery, and a quick trip to Monkey Mia.
Day 1: Perth to Kalbarri
Set off from Perth bright and early, and hit the open road north towards the coastal town of Kalbarri (about 6 hours away by car). On the way, stopover at historic towns like Guilderton and Geraldton where you can also have lunch. Rest for the night in Kalbarri and enjoy a sunset overlooking the ocean.
Top attractions:
- Guilderton: Stop by where the Moore River meets the Indian Ocean.
- Geraldton: Visit the HMAS Sydney II Memorial, Point Moore Lighthouse, and the Museum of Geraldton — you’ll find interesting archeological finds like shipwrecks and exhibits featuring the region’s rich aboriginal history.
- Hutt Lagoon: Take a detour to see the famous pink lake, known for its stunning hues caused by algae and bacteria.
- Kalbarri: Stop by some of the stunning natural attractions on the way into town including Eagle Gorge Lookout, Pot Alley, Mushroom Rock, and Red Bluff Lookout.
Where to eat:
- Cafe Fleur (Geraldton)
- Quiet Life Coffee (Geraldton)
- Soul Food Cafe and Tea House (Geraldton)
- Finlay’s Kalbarri (Kalbarri)
- Upstairs Restaurant (Kalbarri)
Where to stay:
You’ll find a range of accommodation options in Kalbarri ranging from 4-star resorts to farm stays and caravan parks.
- Kalbarri Edge Resort
- Gecko Lodge
- Murchison House Station (Camping farm)
- Kalbarri Red Bluff Tourist Park (Camping ground)
Day 2: Kalbarri to Monkey Mia (or Denham)
Today is all about exploring the untouched beauty of Kalbarri National Park. You’ll want to start your day early to squeeze in popular attractions like Nature’s Window, Z-Bend, The Loop walking trail, and Kalbarri Skywalk for spectacular river and gorge views. After lunch, you’ll make the 4-hour drive along the North West Coastal Highway to Monkey Mia (or Denham) and settle into your accommodation. Monkey Mia is the more famous town, but only has one option for accommodation (RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort). Denham has more facilities with various hotels and caravan parks to choose from. If you can, try squeezing in a relaxing swim or simply chill on a beach around the area as you enjoy unforgettable views of the sunset.
Top attractions:
- Nature’s Window: This natural sandstone arch serves as an interesting visual frame for the Murchison River.
- Z-Bend Lookout: Gaze out over the Murchison River Gorge at this lookout.
- The Loop: This is a challenging (but rewarding) 9 km walk near Nature’s Window.
- Kalbarri Skywalk: This lookout is perched 100 meters above the Murchison River Gorge where you’ll find sweeping views of the park.
- Denham: Check out Eagle Bluff Lookout and Shell Beach on your way in (as the name suggests, it’s a beach made out of tiny shells).
Where to eat:
- Shark Bay Pizza (Denham)
- The Little Shop (Denham)
- Boughshed Restaurant (Monkey Mia)
Where to stay:
You’ll find a few accommodation options in Denham ranging from 4-star resorts to caravan parks. You can also choose to stay at the Monkey Mia’s only resort.
- Shark Bay Seafront Apartments (Denham)
- Tasman Holiday Parks (Denham)
- RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort (campsites also available)
Day 3: Monkey Mia to Geraldton
Start your day early with the famous Monkey Mia dolphin experience, where you can watch wild bottlenose dolphins come close to shore. It’s best to arrive between 7:30 am and 7:45 am as that’s when the dolphins usually come by. In the afternoon, you can begin your 5-hour drive back south to Geraldton with a stop by Hamelin Pool on the way down.
Top attractions:
- Dolphin Experience: Interact with the playful Monkey Mia dolphins under the guidance of rangers (fees apply).
- Optional Water Activities: Kayaking or sailing in the clear waters.
- Hamelin Pool: Hamelin Pool Stromatolites Boardwalk and Telegraph Station.
Where to eat:
- Red Car Cafe (Meadow)
Where to stay:
You’ll find a wide range of accommodation options in Geraldton ranging from 4-star resorts to budget stays and caravan parks.
- Ocean Centre Hotel
- Geraldton Belair Gardens Caravan Park
- Geraldton’s Ocean West Holiday Units
- Geraldton Backpackers on the Foreshore
Day 4: Geraldton to Perth
On your final day, it’s time to head back to Perth, but not before making some exciting stops that you missed on the way up north. Stop by the beautiful coastal towns of Jurien Bay and Cervantes to admire the local marine life and stunning beaches. Plus, don’t forget to visit the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park for an other-worldly experience walking amongst thousands of ancient limestone spires.
Top attractions:
- Jurien Bay: Ideal spot for a quick swim or snorkel and spotting sea lions.
- Cervantes: Stop by Lake Thetis to see the ancient stromatolites.
- The Pinnacles Desert: See the unique natural landscape of limestone pillars rising from the sand in Nambung National Park.
Where to eat:
- Family Affair Cafe (Jurien Bay)
- Seashells Cafe (Cervantes)
- Lobster Shack (Cervantes)
Route 2: 6-day Perth to Monkey Mia road trip
Drive time: 18 hours 45 minutes
Driving distance: 1,786 km
Day by Day Itinerary:
- Day 1: Perth to Geraldton (4 hours 28 minutes, 414 km)
- Day 2: Geraldton to Denham (4 hours 11 minutes, 408 km)
- Day 3 and 4: Explore Monkey Mia, Shark Bay, and Francois Peron National Park
- Day 5: Denham to Dongara (via Hutt Lagoon) (5 hours 47 minutes, 553 km)
- Day 6: Dongara to Perth (via New Norcia) (4 hours 13 minutes, 392 km)
Best for: Dolphin encounters, wildlife spotting, and the best of both coastal and inland towns.
Day 1: Perth to Geraldton (via Cervantes)
Your adventure begins with an scenic coastal drive from Perth to Geraldton along Indian Ocean Drive, covering approximately 420 kilometers. You’ll pass by quaint seaside towns like Cervantes and Jurien Bay and the intriguing Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park. Here, you can marvel at the ancient limestone pillars rising mystically from the sandy desert,
Top attractions:
- The Pinnacles Desert: See the unique natural landscape of limestone pillars rising from the sand in Nambung National Park.
- Cervantes: Stop by Lake Thetis to see the ancient stromatolites.
- Jurien Bay: Ideal spot for a quick swim or snorkel and spotting sea lions.
Where to eat:
- Seashells Cafe (Cervantes)
- Lobster Shack (Cervantes)
- Family Affair Cafe (Jurien Bay)
Where to stay:
- You’ll find a wide range of accommodation options in Geraldton ranging from 4-star resorts to budget stays and caravan parks.
- Ocean Centre Hotel
- Geraldton Belair Gardens Caravan Park
- Geraldton’s Ocean West Holiday Units
- Geraldton Backpackers on the Foreshore
Day 2: Geraldton to Denham (Stopping by Kalbarri National Park)
Start your day early and explore the untouched beauty of Kalbarri National Park. Some of the best attractions include Nature’s Window, Z-Bend, The Loop walking trail, and Kalbarri Skywalk which will give you a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the Murchison River and surrounding bushland. After lunch, you’ll make the 4-hour drive to Denham and settle into your accommodation. On the way in, stop by Shell Beach to see a beach that’s full of shells instead of sand. Then, you can round up the day with a sumptuous meal at one of the local restaurants and check out the turquoise waters of the Little Lagoon.
Top attractions:
- Nature’s Window: This natural sandstone arch serves as an interesting natural frame for the Murchison River.
- Z-Bend Lookout: Gaze out over the Murchison River Gorge at this lookout.
- The Loop: This challenging (but rewarding) 9 km walk should only be attempted if you’re prepared. Consider taking a hike if time and fitness levels permit.
- Kalbarri Skywalk: This lookout is perched 100 meters above the Murchison River Gorge where you’ll find sweeping views of the park.
- Denham: Check out Shell Beach (as the name suggests, it’s a beach made out of shells) and the Little Lagoon.
Where to eat:
- Shark Bay Pizza (Denham)
- The Little Shop (Denham)
Where to stay:
You’ll find a few accommodation options in Denham ranging from 4-star resorts to caravan parks. You can also choose to stay at the Monkey Mia’s only resort.
- Shark Bay Seafront Apartments (Denham)
- Tasman Holiday Parks (Denham)
- RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort (campsites also available)
Day 3 and 4: Explore Monkey Mia, Shark Bay, and Francois Peron National Park
Start off your day with the highlight of the road trip — an early morning encounter with the famous Monkey Mia dolphins (it’s best to arrive between 7:30 am and 7:45 am). After that, you’ll have many attractions to choose from including scenic flights over Shark Bay, 4WD tours around Francois Peron National Park, snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters, or simply enjoying a leisurely day by one of the many beautiful beaches around the area.
Top attractions:
- Monkey Mia Dolphin Experience: Interact with the playful Monkey Mia dolphins under the guidance of rangers (fees apply).
- Denham: Learn more about the local history and wildlife at Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery & Visitor Centre and Ocean Park Aquarium.
- Shark Bay: A UNESCO World Heritage site and part of Western Australia’s Coral Coast, Shark Bay is home to an abundance of coral and marine life including dugongs, dolphins, and sea turtles. Take a scenic flight over the bay for breathtaking views.
- Francois Peron National Park: Take a 4WD tour (or drive your own 4WD) and enjoy the natural arid bushland that stretches on for miles. Don’t miss a visit to Skipjack Point Lookout and Peron Homestead to learn more about what life was like in the past when the place was a sheep station.
- Dirk Hartog Island: Take a guided nature walk, marine safari, or 4WD tour across the island to see the historical Cape Inscription lighthouse, untouched natural landscapes, and a host of local wildlife (like dolphins, turtles, and manta rays). You can either take the island barge to transfer you and your 4WD onto the island or simply hop on the Island Life Adventures vessel from Denham and enjoy a full-day tour with local guides.
- Water Activities: Kayaking, sailing, snorkelling, and diving. Check out the Shark Bay World Heritage page for more details on where to do each of these activities around the area.
Where to eat:
- Boughshed Restaurant (Monkey Mia)
- Ocean’s Restaurant (Denham)
- Coffee Mia (Denham)
- The Inscription Bar & Cafe (Dirk Hartog Island)
Day 5: Denham to Dongara (Stopping by Hutt Lagoon)
It’s time to leave the picturesque region of Shark Bay and make your way back to Perth. You’ll stop by some geological wonders along the way including the Hamelin Pool stromatolites and the Hutt Lagoon with its distinctive pink waters. You’ll round up the day at the town of Dongara, where you can discover historical buildings, secluded beaches, and breathtaking views at the Irwin River Lookout.
Top attractions:
- Hamelin Pool: Hamelin Pool Stromatolites Boardwalk and Telegraph Station.
- Hutt Lagoon: Take a detour to see the famous pink lake, known for its unique colour caused by algae and bacteria.
- Russ Cottage: An old cottage showcasing what life was like for rural workers who lived in Dongara in the 1800s.
- Big Crayfish Dongara: Snap a photo with this large crayfish sculpture.
Where to eat:
- Seaspray Cafe (Dongara)
- Pannarai – Cafe & Restaurant (Dongara)
- Sunset Takeaway Diner & Rosie’s Chicken (Dongara)
Where to stay:
You’ll find a few accommodation options in Dongara ranging from 4-star resorts to caravan parks.
- Seaspray Beach Holiday Park (camping available)
- Dongara Tourist Park
- Lazy Lobster Holiday Units & Chalets
Day 6: Dongara to Perth (Stopping by New Norcia)
On the final day of your road trip, make your way from Dongara back to Perth. Make an unforgettable stop at New Norcia which is Australia’s only monastic town. Founded by Spanish Benedictine monks, this town is still a functioning monastery today and you can find a museum that offers fascinating insight into the history of the area.
Top attractions:
- New Norcia Museum and Art Gallery: Discover the rich history of this unique monastic town and view the impressive collection of religious art.
- Town tour: Take a guided tour of the town where you’ll stop by the Abbey church, old flour mill, and many more sites that are rich in history and culture.
Where to eat:
- Salvado Roadhouse Cafe
Must visit spots on your Perth to Monkey Mia road trip
The most difficult thing about planning your Perth to Monkey Mia itinerary will be deciding which amazing attractions to stop by. From pink lakes and rugged landscapes to unique wildlife encounters, here are the top spots you won’t want to miss.
The Pinnacles Desert
The thousands of limestone spires (some reaching up to 5 meters in height) at The Pinnacles Desert will leave you feeling like you’ve just landed on Mars. After you’re done with a stroll through the desert, visit the Pinnacle Desert Discovery Centre to learn more about the geology and history of the place.
Jurien Bay
This coastal town is renowned for its marine life, pristine beaches, and adventure activities. Visit Jurien Bay Marine Park with sea lions, see the town from a different perspective with a Skydive at Jurien Bay, or simply enjoy a peaceful day at the beach. Fishing enthusiasts can look forward to casting a line off the famous Jurien Bay Jetty.
Kalbarri National Park
A must-see for its river gorges, coastal cliffs, and wild floral displays that bloom in spring. Hike the trails, visit Nature’s Window, and marvel at the river gorges and sky-high coastal cliffs of Kalbarri National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for echidnas, kangaroos, and other wildlife in the area.
Hutt Lagoon
Also known as the Pink Lake, Hutt Lagoon is known for its vibrant pink hue due to the algae growing in the water. This is a great photo opportunity, especially at midday when the colours intensify.
Hamelin Pool
See living dome-shaped living fossils known as stromatolites that dot the shore can be seen from the boardwalk. The Hamlin Pool Telegraph Station is also an interesting museum where you can learn more about the history of telecommunications in this remote part of Western Australia.
Denham
Denham is a tranquil beachside town and is the perfect place to base yourself as you explore the Shark Bay region. Visit Shell Beach on your way in and stop by the Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery Centre once you reach the town centre to discover more about local marine life, history, and more.
Shark Bay
Located within the Shark Bay World Heritage area, you’ll find iconic towns like Monkey Mia and Denham, national parks, as well as many opportunities to experience its diverse marine life and stunning natural landscapes.
Monkey Mia
Monkey Mia undeniably the highlight of the whole trip as it’ll be the place where you’ll get to meet some of the local friendly population of wild bottlenose dolphins. Apart from marine life encounters, you can sail into the sunset on a cruise or enjoy a relaxing day on the pristine beaches.
Things to remember before you set off
- Plan your breaks: You’ve got quite a distance to cover on this road trip, so aim to have at least a 15-minute break for every two hours of driving.
- Have emergency supplies: Make sure you leave some non-perishable food and abundant water in your vehicle in case of any mishaps.
- Plan your fuel stops: There are enough fuel stations and EV chargers along the way for this road trip, but you won’t find them around every corner like you do in the city.
- Coverage for towing: Make sure your car insurance policy includes towing and emergency assistance. Verify that it extends to the remote areas outside of Perth City.
- Share your travel plans: Prior to your trip, update friends or family about your itinerary. You can even arrange to touch base at each significant stop, so they know you’re safe.
- Perform a pre-trip vehicle check: Do a basic inspection of your vehicle before setting off, including the tyres, radiator coolant level, brakes, and lights.
Perth to Monkey Mia: Frequently asked questions
Where to stay between Perth and Monkey Mia?
Some of the best towns to stay at between Perth and Monkey Mia include Geraldton, Dongara, and Kalbarri.
How much does a trip to Monkey Mia cost?
You can expect to pay between approximately $1000 to $2000 for a 4-day trip to Monkey Mia – costs will depend on your mode(s) of transport, how many stops you make along the way, accommodation types, and more.
Do I need 4WD to travel from Perth to Monkey Mia?
You do not need a 4WD to drive from Perth to Monkey Mia – the roads are all sealed along the way. However, you’ll need a 4WD if you want to explore Dirk Hartog Island and Francois Peron National Park. Don’t have a 4WD? There is also the option to go on a 4WD tour if you want to see these parks of the Shark Bay region with a guide.
Rent your own 4WD, SUV, people mover or any other type of vehicle on Turo today and set off on your Monkey Mia adventure.
Dawn Teh
Dawn, an ex-psychologist and avid travel writer, blends her expertise in human behaviour with her passion for adventure. Her writing reflects a unique perspective on personal growth, wanderlust and what it is that helps humans thrive. Her current mission is to live the van life and tour the Australian outback with her family.
