Are you hoping to visit Kalbarri? Kalbarri is a picturesque coastal town in Western Australia, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Situated at the mouth of the Murchison River, Kalbarri offers a blend of rugged landscapes, vibrant marine life, and fascinating cultural experiences.
We created this Kalbarri guide to help people learn more about the local area and to help people like you plan a visit. If reading this guide inspires you to explore Kalbarri with D’Guy Journeys, then check out our Kalbarri Trips.
Kalbarri is located approximately 570 kilometres north of Perth, making it a popular stop along Western Australia’s Coral Coast. The most common way to reach Kalbarri is by driving from Perth, which takes around 6 to 7 hours. You can break up the route with stops in locations such as the Pinnacles Desert or Geraldton, or even embark on a multi-day tour along the coast, such as our 7-day Exquisite Coral Coast Tour from Perth to Kalbarri.
If you’d prefer not to drive a long route, you can also fly into Geraldton Airport from Perth. From there, it’s a 1.5 to 2-hour drive north by car or private charter. Should you need travel assistance while in town, you can make use of our Kalbarri Shuttle Service, as we offer pickups from local accommodations and trips to Kalbarri National Park.
Kalbarri’s history is as layered as its dramatic cliffs and gorges. The region has been home to the Nanda people, known as the saltwater people, for hundreds of years. Their connection to the land is reflected in Dreamtime stories and heritage sites found throughout the area, and their deep cultural ties continue to shape the identity of Kalbarri today.
European exploration began in the 17th century, with Dutch ships charting the coast. In fact, the Batavia, one of the most famous shipwrecks in Australian history, ran aground near the Abrolhos Islands just south of Kalbarri in 1629. The Kalbarri region was later settled in the mid-20th century as a fishing village, eventually growing into a beloved holiday town.
The development of Kalbarri National Park in the 1960s helped establish the region as a tourism destination, with its spectacular gorges and rugged coastline drawing visitors from around the world.
Kalbarri enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is between April and October, when temperatures are more comfortable for exploring. This also coincides with two highlights of the year in Kalbarri — wildflower season and whale watching season.
From July to October, the region bursts to life as thousands of wildflowers bloom. You can admire these blooms in Kalbarri National Park and beyond, and even join our Kalbarri Wildflower Tour, where we take you to local wildflower hotspots. From June to November, humpback whales migrate in vast numbers past Kalbarri, turning the town and surrounding cliffs into the perfect location for wildlife watching.
Keep in mind that if you travel to Kalbarri in the summer between December and February, daytime temperatures can often exceed 35°C. While this may be great for beach visits and water sports, some trails in the park may be closed to hikers.
Australia’s Kalbarri National Park is a must-visit destination if you’re staying in the town of Kalbarri. Featuring dramatic river gorges, scenic coastal cliffs, and diverse wildlife, for many Kalbarri is an absolute revelation when they visit. The Kalbarri Skywalk provides breathtaking views over the Murchison River, with two cantilevered platforms extending over the gorge. The Skywalk also includes informative signage about the region’s geology and indigenous heritage.
There are numerous attractions within the national park itself, including the spectacular Nature’s Window. This natural rock formation perfectly frames the Murchison River, making it an unmissable photo opportunity. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can embark on the 9-kilometre Loop Trail along the river from the Nature’s Window.
Nearby at the Z-Bend Gorge, you can go abseiling down the red rocks for a thrilling experience. If you’d prefer a more relaxing excursion, you can also enjoy the views at Z-Bend Lookout instead, and pack a picnic to enjoy nearby.
For those who enjoy panoramic vistas, Meanarra Hill is another excellent spot. The hill, located between the town and the national park, offers sweeping views of the town, river, and coastline, perfect for sunrise or sunset photography.
Adventure seekers can indulge in various activities in and near Kalbarri. The Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs are a sight to behold, as well as a popular spot for whale watching. Along the coastline, you can see how the ocean has eroded the rock to create stunning formations. From Red Bluff Lookout, towering 100 metres above sea level, you’ll find one of the best vantage points from which to see the migrating humpback whales. For a unique perspective, consider a coastal hike along the Bigurda Trail, which offers beautiful views and opportunities to spot native flora and fauna.
The Murchison River is central to Kalbarri’s charm. Kayaking or paddleboarding along the river allows for close encounters with birdlife and other wildlife, and you can even join a guided wilderness cruise. Fishing enthusiasts will also find plenty of opportunities, whether from the beach, river, or on a chartered boat.
If you’re looking to get into the water, there are a number of beaches to choose from. Not to be missed is Blue Holes Beach, a haven of marine life. This sheltered beach has natural rock pools, where you can swim and snorkel among corals, crustaceans, and up to 70 species of fish.
Surfers should head to Jacques Point, better known as Jake’s Point, for the best waves in Kalbarri. With its big swells, experienced surfers will love this break. If you want to watch the surfers in action, you can admire them from a lookout point while keeping your eye out for bottlenose dolphins.
For a truly unique experience, you can see Kalbarri from the air with Kalbarri Scenic Flights! With tours flying over the Murchison River, coastal cliffs, Pink Lake, and more, there’s no better way of getting to know the region.
There’s so much to do with Kalbarri as a base, and if you’d rather arrange all your own experiences and you don’t want to drive everywhere, leave it with us as we’ve been driving the remote roads of Kalbarri for more years than we’d like to admit…
While Kalbarri is known for its outdoor adventures, you simply must immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of the area. The town is named after a local indigenous man of the Mruchison tribe, as well as an edible seed. According to a Dreamtime story, the region was forged by the Beemarra serpent, which traveled down the Murchison River to follow the sounds of the ocean waves. There are 209 Aboriginal sites registered in the Kalbarri area today, and the Kalbarri Skywalk features beautiful indigenous art related to the history, mythology, and wildlife of the region.
To get a taste of local life, there’s no better place than Finlay’s Kalbarri. This restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors, serving up fresh seafood and delicious drafts from their microbrewery. The vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by the welcoming staff and frequent live music.
For breakfast, lunch, and anything in between, the Gorges Café always satisfies customers with their fresh coffees and hearty menu. And for a one-of-a-kind breakfast experience, make sure to head to the Pelican Cafe, from where you can see the morning feeding of the local pelicans.
After a day of exploring, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite by dinner. The Kalbarri Edge Resort Restaurant serves up a delectable à la carte menu, while the Upstairs Restaurant provides the perfect views with which to wind down with a glass of wine. For a more detailed overview of where to eat, read our Local’s Guide to Dining in Kalbarri.
Kalbarri caters to a wide range of travellers, whether you’re looking for family-friendly accommodation or a touch of luxury. Campers and caravanners are well catered for, with spots like Kalbarri Anchorage Holiday Park and Kalbarri Red Bluff Tourist Park offering powered sites and scenic locations on the riverfront and coastline.
For comfortable, self-contained accommodation with resort amenities, Kalbarri Palm Resort and Kalbarri Edge Resort are two great options. Both offer pools, kitchenettes, and central locations close to shops and attractions.
If you’re looking for something deluxe, the Pelican Shore Villas offer modern amenities and a stay right on the oceanfront. And if you want a more intimate stay, Sol’s Palace provides stylish accommodation with a private pool.
For a more detailed overview, read our Ultimate Guide to Kalbarri Accommodation: Where to Stay for Every Budget.
Kalbarri serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby areas. One of the most famous of these is Hutt Lagoon, more commonly known as the Pink Lake. This bubblegum-pink lake has to be seen to be believed! Just a 40-minute drive south of Kalbarri, it’s an unmissable attraction on Australia’s West Coast.
About a two-hour drive away from Kalbarri, the town of Geraldton is known for its maritime history, vibrant arts scene, and plentiful opportunities for watersports like snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
Continuing on from Geraldton, the towns of Mullewa and Mingenew bloom with incredible floral displays in the spring. Mullewa offers a glimpse into the region’s pastoral heritage and is famous for its stunning spectacle of wildflowers, while Mingenew puts on a similar floral show together with its incredible stargazing opportunities.
Kalbarri is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that blends natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. Plan your visit to Kalbarri and make the most of everything this remarkable town has to offer. And if you want to visit in the company of expert locals, browse our range of Kalbarri Trips, which take you from Kalbarri National Park to the Pink Lake and beyond. Any questions about our Kalbarri guide or tours? Don’t hesitate to get in touch!
