For me a road trip through sparsely populated, wide-open landscapes, offers one a true sense of freedom, excitement, surprise and reward. The opportunity to discover incredible sights and attractions, enjoy unique wildlife, visit secluded beaches and explore quaint towns and villages is so appealing. Driving through those big open vistas, meeting the locals and having fun, is what I call: An Awesome Holiday.

Beach Ningaloo Reef – Courtesy: Tourism Australia

Western Australia (WA) has so much to offer everyone that loves to travel, to explore. Planning a road trip in WA is dependent on two main constraints: time and budget. If you have plenty of both there are Awesome wineries, incredible nature reserves, amazing wildlife, a beautiful coastline and an enormous outback to explore.

Don’t get me wrong, a few nights in a bustling city never goes amiss. Perth offers visitors a great base to settle into this ‘chilled out’ and stunning country. This is where our road trip will start from. If you share a similar passion for enjoying epic road-trips, then read on, Western Australia is for you.

City Break in Perth

I would suggest a few days in Perth, immerse yourself in the culture, there is loads to ‘see and do’ in this spectacular city. Visit uncrowded beaches along the Perth coastline, chill in a trendy café or bar, or enjoy a cycle alongside the Swan River. Perth is laid-back, fun and a safe city to explore.

Perth Western Australia

When in Perth a visit to Rottnest Island is a ‘must do’. Catch the ferry across to this car-free island and meet a cute quokka. This island is a protected reserve and home to 63 beautiful beaches.

The city offers excellent bike paths and fantastic weather almost all-year round making it ideal for cycling. Cycle the paths that follow the Swan River, such a beautiful ride and so scenic, oh, and mostly flat. An added incentive is that the area is home to some of the country’s best wineries and micro-breweries.

Cycling along Swan River Perth

After a few days in Perth I would suggest time it’s to pick up a camper van or your car-hire and hit the road.

The Route:

Your journey will take you north along the uncrowded and unspoilt Coral Coast. With the new direct non-stop Qantas flight from London’s Heathrow Airport into Perth the Coral Coast is destined to become a very popular destination for tourists, for many a good reason, it’s Awesome.

The Coral Coast officially starts around 200 miles north of Perth at Cervantes which is where I would base myself for the first night. From Cervantes the Coral Coast stretches around 700 miles north to Exmouth; gateway to the magnificent Ningaloo Reef. If time is your enemy, there are daily flights which will get you into Exmouth in just over an hour.

Cervantes

Cervantes is a great place to base yourself for the first few nights. The Pinnacles limestone formations in the Nambung National Park are a must ‘see; in the area.

Google Map Perth to Cervantes

The Pinnacles create an almost ‘moon-like’ landscape in the Nambung desert. The Nambung National Park is one of the few national parks in Australia that remain open after sunset and trust me, it is well worth hanging around.

The Pinnacles, Nambung National Park. Courtesy: Tourism Western Australia

Firstly, the sunset is a stunning spectacle casting haunting shadows amongst the pinnacles, quite remarkable. It is however when the night closes in that the true magic begins. The night sky shows off its dazzling display of sparkling stars; it is one of the best places on earth to enjoy spectacular star gazing.

Oh yes, and whatever you do, don’t ride out of town without stopping at the Lobster Shack for a meal; the best seafood ever.

Lobster Shack, Cervantes, WA. Courtesy: Tourism Australia

Geraldton

Our second suggested place to stay is Geraldton. This awesome city has established itself as a trendy seaside centre blessed with beautiful beaches and a warm, windy climate, making it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts.

During August and September, visit the Coalseam Conservation Park to witness the beauty of the carpets of colourful flowers that bloom after the rains. 

Google Map Cervantes to Geraldton

Just south of Geraldton is Greenough. The town is known for its unique leaning trees, the picturesque river, as well as the Greenough Wildlife Park.

Sixty kilometres off-shore from Geraldton are the Abrolhos Islands, a chain of 122 islands. Explore the islands flora and fauna including endangered sea lions and extremely rare birdlife, nesting on the islands’ beaches. Ideal for snorkelling on the reef to see the 1429 Batavia ship-wreck.

Culturally the region offers no less than 14 local Aboriginal sites which are of significance to local Aboriginal people on the Yamaji Drive Trail.

Horrocks

Just an hour north of Geraldton is Horrocks Beach, you will definitely want to stop off here. This Coral Coast hideaway has the most spectacular beach, voted the Australia’s #1 Mainland Beach for 2018 by Brad Farmer; Tourism Australia’s beach ambassador.

Port Gregory

Continue north from Horrocks up to Hutt Lagoon at Port Gregory. The beach here is so awesome; the lake is pink, hence the name: Pink Lake. The Hutt Lagoon is a fantastic area to chill out and enjoy the views and refreshing waters.

Kalbarri

I would make Kalbarri my next stop-over. This quaint town with friendly folk is an awesome area to explore. Get up early and take a ‘pot-pulling tour’ to catch your own Western Rock Lobster. There are also quad-bikes to rent and go explore the Kalbarri National Park. The Wagoe Beach is stunning, and the Murchison River is great to explore on a river cruise or by kayak.

Look out for Humpback Whales (July – November).

Shark Bay (Monkey Mia)

This is a World Heritage area. I would make Shark Bay my next port of call and I would try and spend at least 2 nights here. You have probably read about it, seen it on TV, or remember someone telling you about the dolphins at Monkey Mia.

Sunrise at Monkey Mia

Monkey Mia Bay is where wild bottlenose dolphins come in every morning and you can get up close and personal with them. It’s surreal, an Awesome experience and something you should try and do.

Dolphins at Monkey Mia. Credit Tourism Australia

Carnarvon

This is a spectacular little town is a 4-hour drive from Shark Bay. Known for its spectacular beaches, banana plantations, tropical fruits, fine seafood and warm climate. Carnarvon is situated in the heart of the Gascoyne Region and is the gateway to Australia’s Ningaloo Coast.

Ningaloo Reef

Oh my God, what a paradise this is. Renowned for the ‘Big 3’, this coral reef is sublime, the beaches divine. Known as a fringing reef you simply grab your snorkel and mask and walk into the Indian ocean. It’s like being in a massive sea tank, it is unbelievable.

The Ningaloo Reef is the largest fringing reef (a coral reef that lies close to the shore) in the world. So, what are the ‘Big 3’:

Whale Sharks

I do not know why they included the word ‘shark’ in their name. The Whale Shark is huge, gentle and an amazing creature to swim with. At Ningaloo Reef you can do just that; swim with a Whale Shark.

The season through which they migrate is from March to July

Whale Shark Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth. Courtesy: Tourism Australia

Humpback Whales

When the Whale Sharks move on, the Humpback Whales move in. You can expect to see these magnificent creatures between July and November. However, the best months are August – September.

Giant Manta Rays

Manta Rays are not dangerous and can be seen all-year round. They are usually very curious and swim around the divers. The best time to see them is from mid-May through to mid-September, when their numbers increase significantly, and the mantas become more curious and willing to engage with snorkellers and divers.

Turtles

The Shark Bay Marine Park north to the Ningaloo Reef is some of the world’s major breeding areas for sea turtles. The turtle nesting season is between December and March, and after a six-week period hatching occurs. Generally, turtle hatchlings can be seen from February to March.

Top Turtle Hatching Spots include Shark Bay, Dirk Hartog Island, Carnarvon and The Nursery at Point Quobba and Gnaraloo. Maud’s Landing at Coral Bay and Five Mile Beach, Worbiri Beach and Jurabi Turtle Centre at Exmouth.

Turtle Ningaloo Reef

Coral Bay

Words like ‘paradise’ come to mind but this is truly an awesome destination. It’s worth doing a Manta Ray tour, there’s a resident population at Coral Bay. Also kayak and snorkel around the Blue Maze and Asho’s Gap, Awesome.

Exmouth

Maybe a last night or few nights (better idea) at Exmouth or straight to the Learmouth Airport if you are flying back to Perth. 

Exmouth is the gateway to nearby Ningaloo Marine Park with its coral reefs, colourful fish, migratory whale sharks and humpback whales. The nearby Cape Range National Park has rock wallabies, red kangaroos, emus and euros (wallaroo). The Park boasts spectacular rocky gorges carved by ancient rivers.

Take a trip out to Yardie Creek, which flows between sheer cliffs and do a guided boat tour from where you can enjoy the tranquillity of the gorge and view the wildlife in its natural setting. Visit the amazing Turquoise Bay, made famous for its crystal clear waters, turquoise seas and white sandy beaches.

If you are lucky enough to have the time available, then hit the pedal and carry on up the coast to Broome. If not, Learmouth Airport at Exmouth offers regular daily flights back to Perth and other destinations in Australia. 

Broome

If riding a camel along the beach is one of those things you just need to try, then head on up to Broome. I would recommend a slight detour into Karijini National Park.

Google Map Exmouth to Broome

Self-drive Western Australia

Watch out for my next blog post, I am going to to move across to Awesome South Australia. 

Awesome@Travel

The post Western Australia Self-Drive first appeared on Awesome Travel Holidays.

Western Australia has so much to offer that planning a holiday is all about trying to decide what to see and do with the time you may have available. There are so many options, experiences, attractions, and places to visit.

The good news for us travellers is that Qantas has just brought this Awesome state ‘Down Under’ closer to us all. Today passengers on-board the new Qantas Dreamliner will be enjoying the inaugural non-stop flight from London Heathrow Airport directly into Perth.

Qantas aircraft getting a really ‘cool’ paint job

When to Visit Western Australia

Western Australia is a year-round holiday destination. The summers can be hot especially the further north you venture. The south has more of a Mediterranean climate. Generally, the seasons will offer the following:

Summer (Dec- Feb)

Summer temperatures average 30°C/86°F between November and April. Maximum temperatures during the height of summer can reach and sometimes exceed the 40°C/104°F mark.

Winter (Jun-Aug)

During winter the temperatures are usually around 19°C. Minimum temperatures occasionally drop to near 0°C on clear nights. During winter Perth goes through lengthy dry spells but when it does rain, it pours.

Spring (Sep-Nov) and Autumn (Mar-May)

These are my ideal times to visit Western Australia. The climate I find is perfect, not too hot and the changing seasons offer so much variety. If you love flowers then you need to plan a trip in Spring, particularly October and November as this is the best time to see the famous wildflowers.

Picture: WA Flowers in bloom – Courtesy: Australia’s Coral Coast

Getting to Perth, Western Australia

From London’s Heathrow Airport you can be in Perth in just 17 hours, non-stop on the new Qantas Dreamliner. The flight arrives into the domestic terminal in Perth allowing you to clear customs and immigration and making any domestic connections seamless.

Other routes to Australia via the Qantas hub in Singapore connect you to a multitude of Australian cities. When travelling with Qantas if you are intending to use domestic connections go for an ‘Explorer’s Fare’ this offers you additional luggage allowance and discounted fares on most domestic routes and even onto New Zealand.

Qantas code share with Emirates, so if you prefer a connection through Dubai, that will also give you access to an ‘Explorer Fare’.

There a many other carriers to get you ‘Down Under’ through the middle East with Emirates, Etihad, Qatar or Oman Air. Alternatively look at Singapore Air, Cathay Pacific, Malaysia Air, Thai Airways, Virgin and British Airways amongst many other possibilities.

Picture: Perth Night Skyline

Perth

Perth is the capital city of Western Australia and is the most isolated capital city in the world with a population of over 1,000,000 people. This vibrant city is nestled on the banks of the Swan River, between the Indian Ocean and the Nullarbour Desert.

Perth has a population of around 2.1 million, making it the fourth largest city in Australia. Perth is an exciting, modern city with excellent access to a variety of outdoor activities and attractions. The city offers a laid-back culture with an active beach scene and awesome nightlife.

There are stunning beaches close by the city, ideal for swimming, surfing and snorkelling. Popular beaches include: Cottesloe, try the Fish and Chips from Amberjack’s – delicious. Mettams Pool is the spot to head for snorkelling and Leighton Beach is the place to head if you enjoy kite-surfing.

A wander through King’s Park offers awesome views of the city and the Botanic Gardens are amazing. Head up north to Scarborough if clubbing is your scene and North Beach rocks; full of cafes, bars and awesome restaurants.

A ‘must do’ when in Perth is a visit to the ‘car-free’, Rottnest Island. Catch the ferry across and meet a cute quokka. This protected reserve is home to 63 beautiful beaches. The Basin is regarded as one of the best beaches while Strickland Bay is known for its surf breaks and Radar Reef for its reef breaks.

Picture: Idyllic Beach on Rottnest Island – Courtesy: Tourism Australia

The many uncrowded beaches along the Perth coastline define the lifestyle: Perth is laid-back, fun and a safe city to explore.

History

Historically, the Perth region was home to the indigenous Nyoongar people who have been living in the area for the at least the past 40,000 years. The British settlers established a colony in 1829, naming it “Perth” after the city of Perth, Scotland.

From 1850, an influx of convicts boosted the size of the colony. The discovery of gold in the 1890s triggered a boom and other subsequent mineral discoveries, has been the key to the economy of Western Australia.

Getting around Western Australia

Driving

In Australia you drive on the left, the same side as the UK. The roads are in excellent condition and you can enjoy a journey of a life-time. Self-drive offers a multitude of routes and many Awesome sights, towns and attractions to plan a memorable journey through this incredible landscape.

Campervan (RV) is a popular way to explore this massive state and allows you to take advantage of the many national parks and secluded beach areas at your own pace.

Picture: Australian Road

Coach

If you hate driving, but you want to see the countryside, opt for a coach tour. There are excellent providers offering anything from direct transfers to amazing tours. A coach tour is great way to make mates while travelling or if you simply need a cost-effective means of transport from one point to another. The advantage of a guided tour is the wealth of local knowledge that comes along with the crew.

By Air

Domestic flights are affordable and the quickest way to traverse the large distances especially if you are bound with time restrictions. A flight from Perth to Learmouth Airport at Exmouth, for example, can cost as little as £35 if you purchase a Qantas ‘Explorer Fare’.

Western Australia Highlights

The wildflowers that erupt after the rains best time to see them is Oct – Nov

The Pinnacles Desert in the Nambung National Park

Picture: The Pinnacles, Western Australia

Geraldton‘s Northern Beaches – awesome for snorkelling

Horrocks voted Australia’s #1 Mainland Beach for 2018

The Pink Lake at Hutt Lagoon

Shark Bay — on the westernmost point of Australia, the small town is known for stromatolites and the dolphins at Monkey Mia. Get up early and go meet these gorgeous wild creatures, its truly an awesome experience.

Picture: Dolphins at Monkey Mia, WA – Courtesy: Tourism Australia

Kalbarri National Park — explore vibrantly coloured gorges and cliffs sculpted by the Murchison River as it flows to the sea

Coral Bay and Exmouth — 1250km from Perth, are gateways to the magnificent Ningaloo Reef

*Ningaloo Reef is the world’s largest fringing reef and has to be on your itinerary for the following good reasons:

Dive amongst the Whale Sharks best from March to July

Between July and November marks the Humpback Whales season; the best months are August – September.

Giant Manta Rays are resident all-year round but the best months for interaction is from mid-May through to mid-September

The Turtle hatching season is a great time to experience these awesome creatures

Picture: Whale Shark, Ningaloo Reef, WA – Courtesy: Luxury Lodges of Australia

Karijini National Park features huge canyons and gorges, awesome hiking trails through majestic scenery

Margaret River is renowned as a fine wine and a stunning surfing region

Mount Augustus is often claimed to be the largest monolith on Earth, rivalling the better-known Uluru in Northern Territory for size

Purnululu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the mysterious Bungle Bungle dome formations

The Southern Forests region, known for its lush ancient forests around Denmark and Pemberton where towering karri and marri trees fringe the rugged coastline of D’Entrecasteaux National Park

Picture: The night sky in The Pinnacles WA

Watch out for my next blog posts for Western Australia which is going to focus on three Awesome Road-Trips. My favourite way to explore a destination – self-drive.

Awesome@Travel

The post Western Australia first appeared on Awesome Travel Holidays.