Western Australia’s Coral Coast is a dream for photographers. From the deep red gorges of Kalbarri to the bubblegum-pink hues of Pink Lake, every stop offers a new Instagram-worthy moment.
At D’Guy Journeys, we’ve travelled the length and breadth of the Coral Coast as part of our Kalbarri trips, encountering some of the most spectacular photo ops as we go. Whether you’re chasing dramatic vistas, floral carpets in bloom, or unique landmarks, this guide covers the must-visit photo spots of the Coral Coast, with tips for timing, angles, and lighting. If you have any questions about our tours in the meantime, just get in touch!
Kalbarri Skywalk: Scenes that Take Your Breath Away
Perched 100 metres above the Murchison River, the Kalbarri Skywalk is one of the most impressive photo spots in the region. Located in Kalbarri National Park, the two cantilevered platforms extend out over the river gorge, offering panoramic views of the layered sandstone cliffs below.
For the best photographs, arrive early for soft morning light over the gorge. You can use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the overhang, or even a drone. However, above the gorge is a truly unmissable photo opportunity: the night sky. The Skywalk offers one of the best stargazing locations on the Coral Coast, which you can see for yourself as part of our Kalbarri Stargazing Tour.
Nature’s Window: The Picture-Perfect Frame of Kalbarri
Nature’s Window is a natural rock arch in Kalbarri National Park that perfectly frames the rugged canyon below. Arguably Kalbarri’s most photographed landmark, it’s a must-visit location, especially for golden hour lighting.
Try to time your visit just after sunrise for those beautiful warm hues without the crowds. Bring a tripod for stability so you can shoot from inside the arch to frame the gorge. It’s also a great idea to place people in the window for scale and create a sense of movement and activity. If you want to go deeper into the gorge, you can also embark on a hike from Nature’s Window. Check out our Guide to the Nature’s Window Walk Trail in Kalbarri National Park to learn more.
Western Australia’s Wildflower Country: A Blooming Canvas
From July to October, the Coral Coast bursts to life as hundreds of wildflowers bloom. Everlastings, orchids, and even rare wreath flowers blossom, transforming Western Australia into a tapestry of color that’s ripe for photography. Some of the top spots for wildflowers include Mingenew, Mullewa, Coalseam Conservation Park, and Kalbarri. You can learn more details with our guide to the Best Wildflowers in Western Australia.
When photographing flowers, try shooting at a low angle to create depth. Using a macro lens or portrait mode on your phone will help highlight individual flowers. The best time to photograph them is on a clear day when the flowers are open, and in the morning or afternoon when the light is soft.
Pink Lake: An Unmissable Natural Wonder
Located just south of Kalbarri near Port Gregory, Hutt Lagoon, most commonly known as the Pink Lake, is one of the Coral Coast’s most surreal landscapes. Its striking pink hue comes from beta-carotene-producing algae and can shift from bubblegum to lilac depending on the time of day and weather.
For the best photographs, visit during mid-morning or early afternoon on a clear, sunny day when the pink colors are at their most vibrant. If you have a drone, an aerial photo of the lake is unparalleled. If you want a photo of yourself with the lake, make sure to wear contrasting colors like white, black, or blue to pop against the pink.
Hutt Lagoon isn’t the only one to be found in the region. Read our guide to Western Australia’s Incredible Pink Lakes to learn more!
Horizon Ball: Geraldton’s Mesmerising Sculpture
In Geraldton, the Horizon Ball is a giant, clear sculpture created by artist Lucy Humphrey which offers a captivating optical illusion by the sea. The 1,5 metre sphere contains 1,800 litres of water inside, creating surreal reflections of the surroundings. It sits on the Beresford Foreshore, mirroring the sky, sea, and landscape, perfect for photographers looking to play with symmetry and illusion.
Visit at sunrise or sunset for dynamic lighting and vivid color reflections, or get creative with your angles for unique perspectives. You can even take a playful self-portrait that would be the selfie of all selfies!
Photography Tips for the Coral Coast
- Golden hour is best: Both sunrise and sunset offer the ideal lighting conditions for most destinations, enhancing the colors of the landscape.
- Keep a lens cloth handy: Sand, salt spray, and wind are common here and may dirty your lens.
- Respect nature and other visitors: Stay on marked paths and don’t disturb wildflowers. Be respectful of other visitors and make sure to share the space.
- Bring a backup battery: The Coral Coast is remote with few places to recharge. Bring a spare battery for your camera or a power bank for your phone.
Discover the Coral Coast with D’Guy Journeys
If you want to focus on the photography while someone else does the driving along the Coral Coast, then join D’Guy Journeys for one of our Kalbarri Trips! Not only do we visit all of the locations mentioned here, we’ll also provide you with expert knowledge and insider tips to enhance your experience. Whether you’re a smartphone shooter or a DSLR enthusiast, the Coral Coast is any photography lover’s dream. If you’re ready to start shooting in the company of our guides, get in touch with us today.
