If you’re travelling along Western Australia’s Coral Coast and have only one day in Kalbarri, you can make it a day you’ll never forget. Kalbarri may be small, but it delivers big on natural beauty and adventure. With its rugged inland gorges, towering seaside cliffs, and laid-back vibe, it’s the kind of place where you can start your day hiking alongside an ancient river and end it sipping wine while watching the sun set into the sea.
The team at D’Guy Journeys are not only Kalbarri locals, but passionate guides sharing our home with visitors through our Kalbarri Trips. Should you only have a day in Kalbarri, we’ve created this itinerary packing in the top sights, scenic trails, and lunch spots. If you have any questions about our tours, just get in touch!
Morning: Catch the Sunrise at Nature’s Window
There are few better ways of seeing Kalbarri than through Nature’s Window. The most iconic landmark in Kalbarri National Park, Nature’s Window is a natural rock arch that perfectly frames the Murchison River below. It’s especially stunning at sunrise. Arrive early to beat both the heat and the crowds and watch the golden morning light bring the sandstone colours to life.
The short one-kilometre return walk to Nature’s Window is well worth the early rise, and if you’re up for more of a challenge, the Loop Trail offers a spectacular nine-kilometre circuit through the gorge. To learn more, read our Guide to the Nature’s Window Walk Trail!
Once the sun has risen, there’s more to explore beyond Nature’s Window. Z-Bend Lookout offers one of the most dramatic views in the park, showcasing the sheer curve of the gorge carved by the Murchison River. Adventurous visitors can descend into the gorge on the Four Ways Trail and explore the rugged landscape further.
While in Kalbarri National Park, you simply cannot miss the Kalbarri Skywalk. Opened in 2020, it’s become one of the most prominent attractions in the park. Take a stroll along the walkways which extend 100 metres above the ground for an unparalleled view of the landscape! If you’re particularly short on time, our two-hour Kalbarri Skywalk Tour is the perfect option to see this extraordinary lookout point.
Midday: Have Lunch in Kalbarri Town
After a morning of hiking and soaking in gorge views, you’ll no doubt have worked up an appetite. While you can take a picnic to enjoy in the park, there are also a number of places to try out in town. Here are our top suggestions:
Kalbarri Skywalk Café
If you want to spend more time in the park, you can grab a bite to eat at the Kalbarri Skywalk Café. Perched on the edge of the Murchison River Gorge, this café is the ideal spot to refuel after exploring Kalbarri. Their menu features a selection of freshly made sandwiches and wraps, along with homemade pastries and cakes. Pair your meal with a strong cup of coffee brewed from locally roasted beans or choose from a variety of cold drinks to cool off.
Finlay’s Kalbarri
A local institution, Finlay’s Kalbarri is known for its relaxed, open-air setting and on-site microbrewery. The menu is full of fresh, locally sourced seafood — try the cockles or the ever-popular fish and chips, washed down with one of their house-brewed beers. If you’re lucky, there might even be live music while you eat!
The Gorges Café
Located near the Kalbarri Foreshore, The Gorges Café is a favourite spot for both locals and visitors seeking a leisurely lunch. Highlights include fresh salads, gourmet burgers, and paninis. Don’t miss their in-house sweet treats and milkshakes, perfect for a little midday indulgence.
For even more food options, check out our Local’s Guide to Dining in Kalbarri!
Afternoon: Explore the Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs and Ocean Vistas
After lunch, make your way south of town to discover the dramatic beauty of the Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs. These towering formations stretch for over 13 kilometres, where red sandstone meets the deep blue sea, creating a stunning contrast.
Start at Natural Bridge, a natural arch carved by the sea over millions of years. From there, walk along the trail or take a short drive to Island Rock, a free-standing pillar that rises from the ocean like a sentinel. Further along the coastline, Eagle Gorge offers a chance to spot wedge-tailed eagles soaring overhead, and even a small beach if you’re in the mood to cool your feet.
If you’re feeling active, you can tackle the Bigurda Trail, an eight-kilometre one-way hike that follows the cliff tops between Natural Bridge and Eagle Gorge. With ocean views, wildflowers, and even the occasional wildlife, this trail offers an immersive coastal experience. If you need a lift to or from the hike, you can also make use of our Kalbarri shuttle service.
Don’t forget to stop at Red Bluff Lookout, one of the best vantage points for spotting dolphins and migrating humpback whales in season!
Evening: Watch the Sunset from Meanarra Hill
As the day winds down, head to Meanarra Hill Lookout for the best sunset views in all of Kalbarri. Just a few kilometres out of town, this high point offers sweeping panoramic views over Kalbarri, the mouth of the Murchison River, and the Indian Ocean beyond.
As the sun dips low, the landscape is bathed in striking light, turning the surrounding bush and river into a spectacular composition of colours. Bring a picnic and some wine and toast to your unparalleled excursion in Kalbarri!
Discover Kalbarri in One Day with D’Guy Journeys!
If you want to make the most of your time in Kalbarri and explore in the company of an expert guide, then join one of our Kalbarri Day Tours! We’ll take you to the best spots in the area, sharing our local knowledge and intriguing anecdotes.
Whether you want to go exploring as part of our Kalbarri Inland and River Gorges Tour or our Coastal Cliffs and Pink Lake Tour from Kalbarri, we’ll ensure you don’t leave Kalbarri without having seen all our town has to offer. Should you be interested in learning more, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.
