posted on June 13, 2024
Boasting some of Australia’s most incredible scenery and natural beauty, the West Coast Australia road trip promises to be an unforgettable journey. You’ll take in sweeping views of wildflower-carpeted national parks and unique rock formations before soaking up tranquil waters as you delight in secluded beaches with turquoise waters and charming fishing towns.
Thankfully, we’ve done the hard work for you with the ultimate West Coast Australia road trip itinerary that is sure to satisfy your needs and travel preferences.
In this complete guide, we’ll be covering:
- An overview of the West Coast Australia road trip
- Top tips for driving along Australia’s West Coast
- Top driving itineraries for the West Coast Australia drive
- The top places to stop along Australia’s West Coast
- How to plan the perfect family road trip along Australia’s West Coast
- Perth road trip guide
Plan your drive: An overview of the West Coast Australia road trip
- Route options:
- Perth to Shark Bay (7 days): 3,403 kilometres, 36 hours total driving time
- Perth to Broome (17 days): 5,356 kilometres, 58 hours 18 minutes total driving time
- West Coast Australia distance and drive time: 2,045 kilometres, 22 hours 27 minutes total driving time along the most direct route from Perth to Broome (National Highway 95)
- Top stops: Cape Range National Park, Kalbarri National Park, Margaret River, Nambung National Park, Rottnest Island, William Bay National Park, Karijini National Park, and Fitzgerald River National Park to name a few.
- Best time to drive Australia’s West Coast: Peak tourist season occurs during summer, so it’s generally recommended that you make the drive along the West Coast during spring which offers milder temperatures and fewer crowds between September and November. Western Australia’s iconic wildflowers are also in bloom during this time, making the landscapes a particularly stunning sight that is known to draw photographers and nature lovers alike.
What to know before you go: Top tips for your Western Australia road trip
From breathtaking coastal views to diverse, rugged landscapes and sprawling national parks, Western Australia has countless attractions to explore. While you can expect smooth and well-maintained roads throughout the drive, consider these top tips to maximise your journey.
- Depart early: Avoid driving at peak hours when the roads are likely to be congested. Our tip? Leave before 7 am to ensure you’re not rushed and have time for detours and stops along the way while also beating the traffic!
- What to bring: With plenty of national parks and walking trails, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for exploring the outdoors. Pack sunscreen and a hat to enjoy the countless coastal beaches safely, along with water and snacks. Consider optional add-ons from your Turo host, like GPS navigation, beach umbrellas, or camping gear.
- Mobile reception: You can generally expect reliable mobile reception on Australia’s West Coast; however, you may have poor reception when taking scenic detours or exploring national parks.
- Best vehicle to drive: With sealed roads, a small compact vehicle or car will easily get you to wherever you want to go along Australia’s West Coast. Whether you want the comfort of a larger SUV or want to trial a sleek EV, on Turo you can easily find the perfect drive to tackle this road trip.
Choose your West Coast Australia driving itinerary
With sprawling national parks, charming coastal towns, and some of Australia’s most diverse landscapes by way of walking trails and secluded beaches, the West Coast Australia drive is an unforgettable road trip no matter which itinerary you choose.
Option 1: Perth to Shark Bay via Margaret River
- Driving time: 36 hours total driving time
- Driving distance: 3,403 kilometres
- Day-by-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Perth to Bunbury (170 kilometres, 1 hour 53 minutes)
- Day 2: Bunbury to Margaret River (102 kilometres, 1 hour 20 minutes)
- Day 3: Margaret River to Albany (343 kilometres, 3 hours 55 minutes)
- Day 4: Albany to Esperance (481 kilometres, 5 hours 5 minutes)
- Day 5: Esperance to Kalbarri (1,246 kilometres, 13 hours 2 minutes)
- Day 6: Kalbarri to Shark Bay (304 kilometres, 3 hours 6 minutes)
- Day 7: Shark Bay to Perth (757 kilometres, 7 hours 52 minutes)
- Best for: Families and nature lovers looking for a week-long getaway taking in the top sights and attractions along WA’s south west edge.
This week-long getaway will take you through some of Western Australia’s most diverse landscapes as you journey through coastal towns and stunning national parks. Renowned for its wines, be sure to give yourself enough time in Margaret River to savour local wines with winery tours and tastings. The Margaret River Chocolate Factory is also a must for those with a sweet tooth, while you’ll also find plenty of beaches along the way including Surfers Point and Prevelly Beach. Nature lovers can also journey to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse for panoramic views from the southwesternmost point of Australia.
Before arriving in Albany, consider making a detour to Walpole for the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk. Once in Albany, you’ll have your pick of outdoor activities, from visiting historic sites like the Old Gaol Museum, Albany Wind Farm, and Torndirrup National Park, which have iconic coastal views and unique attractions, including The Gap and Natural Bridge.
The drive to Esperance is long but delivers spectacular scenery around every turn as you make your way onto the Great Ocean Drive. This coastal town is known for its white sandy beaches and charming locals. Visit Cape Le Grand National Park and Lucky Baym, where you’ll spot kangaroos on the beach and the Pink Lake. At Kalbarri, explore the incredible Nature’s Window and Z-Bend Gorge in the national park or canoe along the Murchison River.
From there, you’ll head to World Heritage-listed Shark Bay where you can interact with dolphins at Monkey Mia, visit a beach made up entirely of shells at Shell Beach or see the ancient stromatolites at Hamelin Pool. Then, you’ll begin the drive home. It’s a long one, so be sure to take plenty of rest stops along the way.
Option 2: Perth to Broome – the ultimate West Coast adventure
- Driving time: 58 hours 18 minutes total driving time
- Driving distance: 5,356 kilometres
- Day-by-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Perth to Rottnest Island day trip
- Day 2: Perth to Margaret River (271 kilometres, 3 hours 3 minutes)
- Day 3: Margaret River to Albany (343 kilometres, 3 hours 55 minutes)
- Day 4: Explore Albany
- Day 5: Albany to Bremer Bay (180 kilometres, 1 hour 58 minutes)
- Day 6: Bremer Bay to Esperance (388 kilometres, 4 hours 5 minutes)
- Day 7: Explore Esperance
- Day 8: Esperance to Wave Rock (382 kilometres, 3 hours 55 minutes)
- Day 9: Wave Rock to Cervantes (533 kilometres, 5 hours 39 minutes)
- Day 10: Cervantes to Monkey Mia (685 kilometres, 7 hours 8 minutes)
- Day 11: Monkey Mia to Coral Bay (581 kilometres, 5 hours 52 minutes)
- Day 12: Coral Bay to Exmouth (152 kilometres, 1 hour 35 minutes)
- Day 13: Explore Exmouth
- Day 14: Exmouth to Karijini National Park (618 kilometres, 7 hours 4 minutes)
- Day 15: Karijini National Park to Burrup Peninsula (351 kilometres, 4 hours 49 minutes)
- Day 16: Burrup Peninsula to Port Hedland (268 kilometres, 3 hours 3 minutes)
- Day 17: Port Hedland to Broome (604 kilometres, 6 hours 12 minutes)
- Best for: Nature lovers, solo travellers, and couples looking for the ultimate West Coast Australian adventure.
After a ferry to Rottnest Island and enjoying the sights of Perth, you’ll make your way to Margaret River before arriving in Albany. Consider stopping at Hamelin Bay along the way, where you can spot stingrays swimming in the shallow waters by the beach. In Albany, you’ll have plenty to explore by way of coastal delights.
You’ll find secluded beaches at Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, while Emu Point is known for its calm waters and BBQ facilities, which make it a great picnic destination. From June to October, you can also spot humpback whales at King George Sound. There’s also the Bald Head Walk Trail at Torndirrup National Park for those who want panoramic ocean views.
From Bremer Bay, head to Esperance, where you’ll find natural beauty in all its glory, with an abundance of beaches and national parks. Be sure to visit Cape Le Grand National Park where you’ll find Lucky Bay, Hellfire Bay, and can also make the incredible hike to Frenchman Peak with unbeatable views of the coastline.
From there, you’ll head inland to the wheatbelt as you make your way to Wave Rock where you’ll see sprawling wheat fields. In Cervantes, you’ll find the incredible Pinnacles Desert which feels like stepping into a sci-fi movie. You can also make a detour to Lancelin with its white sand dunes, but you’ll need a 4WD to drive across any. At Monkey Mia, you’ll find more beaches and relaxing waters in which dolphins are frequent visitors. From there, visit the incredible Coral Bay, where you can enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving or relax on the sand as you take in the picturesque coral reef.
In Exmouth, you’ll be able to enjoy the incredible Ningaloo Reef, where you can take Manta Ray tours from May to November, swim with whale sharks from March to August, and enjoy snorkelling at Turquoise Bay with its crystal-clear waters. The Ningaloo Marine Park can even see you get up close and personal with turtles, dolphins, and colourful fish. Cape Range National Park is also a must-visit with the rugged landscapes of Charles Knife Canyon and the challenging Mandu Mandu Gorge hike with its breathtaking views.
From there, explore more natural beauty at Karijini National Park with its dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and ancient landscapes. You’ll then visit Burrup before making your way to Port Hedland and Broome.
Want to secure the perfect drive for your West Coast Australia road trip? With Turo, you’ll find unique cars you can’t find anywhere else, ready to be delivered to you from a local Turo host. Find your drive on Turo.
Top places to stop along Australia’s West Coast
Best beaches on the West Coast of Australia drive
Skip the swimming pool and cool off at these secluded beaches and sparkling swimming spots along the incredible West Coast.
- Cottesloe Beach: This iconic beach is just 15-minutes from the Perth city centre. With stunning views of the Indian Ocean, it’s the perfect location for those seeking a dip in relaxing waters before enjoying local produce from the nearby cafes and restaurants.
- Lancelin Beach: Famous for its sand dunes, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for sandboarding, off-road driving, and quad biking, making this beach unique for its surrounding landscape. The clear waters are still great for snorkelling and swimming, though!
- Hangover Bay: Located within Nambung National Park, this beach is known for its long stretch of white sand and turquoise waters. Sheltered waters make it the ideal spot for snorkelling, swimming, and dolphin sightings.
- Jurien Bay: With its turquoise waters and white sandy shores, Jurien Bay is a must for those taking a road trip through Western Australia. Enjoy snorkelling, swimming, or a picnic on the shores.
- Twilight Beach: Located in Esperance, this beach was voted one of the best in Australia and is known for its ideal swimming and surfing conditions. With stunning scenery and a tranquil atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to come and relax during your travels.
- Eighty Mile Beach: Situated along the Great Northern Highway between Port Hedland and Broome, enjoy a pristine coastline and stunning sunsets over the Indian Ocean. With plenty of marine life and camping facilities, Eighty Mile Beach is the perfect destination for travellers of all kinds as you enjoy this iconic beach spot.
- Cable Beach: Located near Broome, Cable Beach is known for its clear waters and sunset camel rides which make for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy sunsets over the Indian Ocean, water sports like kayaking and swimming in the calm waters, while foodies can enjoy the many beachfront restaurants and cafes available.
Best national parks and hiking trails on the West Coast drive
Fancy a hike? Check out these national parks and hiking trails dotted along the stunning West Coast drive.
- Yanchep National Park: Just a 40-minute drive from Perth, Yanchep National Park boasts stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. You’ll be able to visit the incredible caves including Crystal Cave with its limestone formations and stalactites. You can also walk along the Koala Boardwalk to view koalas in their national habitat or enjoy a hike along the Ghost House Trail.
- Nambung National Park (The Pinnacles Desert): Renowned for its unique landscapes, Nambung National Park is a must for anyone passing through Western Australia. Visit the Pinnacles Desert, where you can take in the fascinating limestone formations that are even more magical at sunrise or sunset. You can also visit Hangover Bay to swim and Kangaroo Point to enjoy panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. You’ll find plenty of walking trails and diverse landscapes to explore.
- Kalbarri National Park: With rugged coastal cliffs and breathtaking gorges, Kalbarri National Park is a must-visit for anyone passing through the mid-west region of Western Australia. You’ll find plenty of lookouts including Eagle Gorge, Island Rock, and Castle Cove with their walking trails and panoramic views.
- Francois Peron National Park: While somewhat more remote in the pristine wilderness region of Gascoyne in Western Australia, this national park boasts red cliffs, sandy bays, and an abundance of wildlife. You’ll find kangaroos, emus, echidna, and a range of bird life. Guided tours are also available for those wanting to learn more about the park’s cultural significance for the local Malgana Aboriginal people.
- Cape Range National Park: With unique landscapes, pristine beaches, and marine life, you’ll find Ningaloo Reef, Turquoise Bay, and plenty of scenic lookouts that include Charles Knife Canyon and Yardie Creek Gorge in this stunning national park.
Tip from the author: Entry to national parks in Western Australia will require an entry fee that can be purchased online. You’ll need to pay $17 per vehicle for a standard vehicle or consider buying a park pass that includes a 4-week, 14-day, or 5-day option. More details can be found at the Parks WA website.
Best foodie destinations on the West Coast drive
Specialising in seafood and local produce, this road trip treats you to countless culinary delights. From charming cafes to top dining destinations, be sure to add these foodie stops to your radar when making the drive along the West Coast.
- Pinjarra Bakery: This iconic bakery is home to some of Australia’s best pies! For anyone travelling through Western Australia, be sure to check out this bakery that serves up classic pies including potato beef, and curry beef, to desserts like vanilla slice.
- Little Creatures Brewery: This brewery in Fremantle is home to delightful craft beers and friendly staff. Take a tour, sip some delightful beverages, and soak up the atmosphere.
- Longview: For those in Cottesloe, soak up views of Rottnest or sunset over the Indian Ocean as you dine at the incredible Longview. The cafe serves family favourites and great coffee, so you’ll find something to please everyone on this menu.
- Morries in Margaret River: This local favourite serves up an incredible menu featuring woodfired bread, an unforgettable lamb rump, and Shark Bay prawns. With a delightful wine list to match, you’ll be in food heaven.
- Sandpiper Tavern & Pizzeria: For those wanting some pizza, don’t skip this establishment in Jurien Bay. With amazing dishes and even better cocktails, it’s a must visit for anyone passing through.
- Ningaloo Bakehouse & Cafe: This charming spot is the perfect place for breakfast or lunch before hitting the road. Arm yourself with some coffee and a sweet or savoury dish, or stay and enjoy the charming locals and friendly staff.
How to plan the perfect family road trip for the West Coast
Travelling with little ones during the school holidays? The road trip along the West Coast of Australia is perfect for the whole family. We’ve rounded up some top tips to help prepare you for the road ahead.
- Pack snacks and water: While you won’t have too many hours on the road, keep the little ones fed and hydrated by stocking up on nutritious snacks like nuts, fruit, crackers, and sandwiches.
- Book accommodation in advance: This is especially important during the peak summer season, as leaving accommodation to the last minute often means fewer options and more expensive rates.
- Plan pit stops at parks or playgrounds: Need to take a break between destinations? There are plenty of parks and kids’ playgrounds to pull into on the way to help tire the kids out during your road trip.
Perth road trip guide: keep the drive going
Don’t want to hand back the keys to your hire car? Keep the drive going with one of these epic road trip itineraries from Perth.
- The ultimate Perth to Exmouth road trip
- The ultimate Perth to Adelaide road trip
- The ultimate Perth to Albany road trip
- The best day trips from Perth
- Perth to Melbourne drive
- Perth to Broome road trip
- Perth to Esperance road trip
- Perth to Darwin road trip
Final advice for the West Coast Australia drive of a lifetime
Ultimately, the drive along Australia’s West Coast is all about soaking up the natural beauty of Western Australia, delighting in the local flavours, and exploring the outdoors as you visit top beaches and national parks along the way.
Jess Campbell
Jess is Sydney-based and loves the outdoors. While she likes to think she has what it takes to compete on ‘ALONE’, her survival skills need some work. Born in Singapore and raised in South Africa, she’s hiked across Ireland, surfed in Hawaii, spent six months in Kenya and covered much of Africa. Having spent a year in the north of Spain, she’s resolved to come back to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Until then, you can find her providing the best snacks and playlists on Aussie road trips.
