If you’re looking to see Western Australia’s incredible attractions and coastlines, there’s no better way to do it than on a road trip from Perth to Kalbarri. Kalbarri is approximately 572 kilometres north of Perth, making it a six-hour drive without stops. But with so many things to see and do along the way, you’re definitely going to want to make more than a bathroom stop.
At D’Guy Journeys, we run multi-day tours departing from Perth to Kalbarri as part of our Kalbarri Trips, so we know this route like the back of our hand. We’ve created this epic Perth to Kalbarri road trip itinerary if you want to make the journey yourself but are still deciding your path.
Keep reading for our adventurous route, or feel free to contact us if you’d like to know about our Kalbarri tours.
Day 1: Perth to Pinnacles Desert and Jurien Bay
The first day of our road trip itinerary from Perth to Kalbarri will see you exploring some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Western Australia. An absolutely unmissable stop is the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park, just two hours from Perth. Pinnacles Desert is defined by its towering limestone formations, which reach up to 3.5 metres tall. Enjoy the drive trail that travels through this stark region and take your camera to capture some awe-inspiring photographs.
Continuing from Pinnacles Desert, you will reach Jurien Bay in just 30 minutes. The coastline here is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, diving, and fishing, and is famous for its sea lions. Jurien Bay is also a prime destination for skydiving! With plenty of accommodation options, you can spend the night here in comfort.
Distance: 229 kilometres
Driving time: 2.5 hours
Day 2: Jurien Bay to Geraldton
Departing from Jurien Bay, the next stop on the itinerary is the coastal town of Geraldton. With a history dating back to the mid-1800s, Geraldton is teeming with historic sites and attractions. One of the most notable is the HMAS Sydney II Memorial, honouring the loss of sailors aboard the HMAS Sydney II, which was destroyed by a German raider in 1941.
Geraldton is home to more iconic landmarks, such as St Francis Xavier Cathedral and the Point Moore Lighthouse. However, one of its more recent attractions is the Horizon Sculpture, also known as the Big Marble. This artwork filled with water creates an optical illusion of the surrounding landscape and is one of the most recognisable features of Geraldton today.
You can spend the day in Geraldton exploring its heritage or snorkelling and diving along its shores. For more adventures, you can also venture inland to visit the tranquil Ellendale Pool.
Distance: 227 kilometres
Driving time: 2.5 hours
Optional: Spring Detour from Geraldton to Mingenew and Mullewa
While you can continue from Geraldton to Kalbarri, in the springtime you’re definitely going to want to extend your trip. Between July and October, Wildflower Country comes alive, turning the landscape into a floral spectacle.
Two of the most notable towns in Wildflower Country are Mullewa and Mingenew, both of which are just an hour’s drive from Geraldton. Mullewa is known as one of the few places where the rare wreath flower blooms, while Mingenew is famed for its carpets of everlastings. You can visit both in one day during a 3-hour roundtrip drive from Geraldton.
Distance: 286 kilometres
Driving time: 3 hours
Day 3: Geraldton to Pink Lake and Kalbarri
Whether you include Wildflower Country in your itinerary or not, you can continue your journey from Geraldton to the must-see Pink Lake. While its actual name is Hutt Lagoon, “Pink Lake” has stuck thanks to the dazzling bubblegum-coloured waters! The Pink Lake got its colour from carotenoid algae that live in its saline waters and is certainly the most Instagrammable part of your road trip.
Your last stop, Kalbarri, is just 30 minutes from Hutt Lagoon. However, the adventure doesn’t end here. Kalbarri is bursting with attractions and activities, such as the Kalbarri Skywalk, Nature’s Window, and Coastal Cliffs. Spend your time here immersed in natural wonder and take inspiration from our Top 5 Things to Do in Kalbarri as Recommended by Locals. Stay for a day or a few, and return to Perth when your journey is fulfilled!
Distance: 155 kilometres
Driving time: 2 hours
Travel with D’Guy Journeys from Perth to Kalbarri!
If this road trip sounds right up your alley but you don’t want to drive, D’Guy Journeys has the tour for you. Our Kalbarri Escape 3-Day Tour from Perth travels to Kalbarri and back, with time spent in Kalbarri National Park, Pink Lake, Geraldton, and Pinnacles Desert. Should you want an even longer excursion, you can join our Exquisite Coral Coast Tour from Perth to Kalbarri which spends 7 incredible days exploring all the best Western Australia offers.
However you want to make your journey, the team at D’Guy Journeys is here to help guide you along the way. If you have any questions about our tours, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
