Before hitting the road, check out our list of top things to do on the Coral Coast Highway. Whether you’re exploring the surreal Pinnacles Desert, sandboarding the Lancelin Sand Dunes, spotting dolphins in Shark Bay, or snorkeling alongside whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef, this journey offers unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Packed with hidden gems and unique activities from Perth to Exmouth, our Coral Coast Highway Guide will help you plan your perfect itinerary.
1. Lancelin Sand Dunes: ride the waves of soft white sand
Location: Lancelin (Wangaree)
Driving distance: 1.5 hours from Perth
Best for: Sandboarding, 4WD adventures, panoramic views 
Kickstart your trip with an adrenaline-fueled stop at the Lancelin Sand Dunes – the largest in Western Australia. Towering at 45-degree angles, these snow-white dunes provide an exciting playground for sandboarding and off-road adventures. Climb to the top for sweeping views of Lancelin’s coastline before heading north to your next stop.
2. The Pinnacles: otherworldly rock formations
Location: Nambung National Park
Driving Distance: 2.5 hours from Perth
Best for: Photography, nature walks, wildlife spotting 
One of Western Australia’s most iconic attractions, the Pinnacles Desert features thousands of limestone pillars rising from golden sands. These formations, created over 25,000 years, offer a surreal landscape best visited at sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. Wander the Pinnacles Loop Walk and keep an eye out for native wildlife like emus and kangaroos.
3. Jurien Bay: swim with playful sea lions
Location: Jurien Bay
Driving Distance: 3 hours from Perth
Best for: Swimming with sea lions, fishing, skydiving, hiking 
Jurien Bay is one of the best places in Western Australia to experience a sea lion encounter in the wild. The Jurien Bay Marine Park is home to the world's rarest sea lion species - the Australian sea lion, with one of their key breeding grounds located just offshore. Join a guided sea lion tour for the unforgettable chance to swim alongside these playful and curious marine creatures. To protect their habitat, strict wildlife interaction guidelines apply, including maintaining a safe distance, avoiding island landings and never touching the sea lions.
4. Hutt Lagoon: the pink lake of dreams
Location: Between Geraldton (Jambinu) and Kalbarri (Wurdimarlu)
Driving Distance: 5.5 hours from Perth
Best for: Photography, drone shots, natural wonders 
A vibrant pink lake? Absolutely! Hutt Lagoon’s striking colour comes from high salinity and algae, shifting from bubblegum pink to deep red depending on the season and sunlight. For the most intense colors, visit between 10am and 2pm on a sunny day.
5. Kalbarri National Park: nature’s grand masterpiece
Location: Kalbarri (Wurdimarlu)
Driving Distance: 6 hours from Perth
Best for: Hiking, dramatic landscapes, wildflowers (July–October) 
Home to rugged gorges, soaring cliffs and seasonal wildflowers, Kalbarri National Park is a paradise for adventure lovers. Hike to Nature’s Window, a rock arch framing the Murchison River, or walk out onto the Kalbarri Skywalk (Kaju Yatka) for breathtaking views over the gorges.
6. Monkey Mia: meet the friendly dolphins
Location: Shark Bay
Driving Distance: 8.5 hours from Perth
Best for: Dolphin encounters, relaxing beach days 
A bucket-list experience, Monkey Mia is world-famous for its wild bottlenose dolphins, which swim close to shore daily. Located in the UNESCO-listed Shark Bay World Heritage Area, Monkey Mia is a must-visit for families and nature lovers.
As these dolphins are wild, their visits vary in timing and numbers. However, they usually appear several times a day, mostly in the mornings. Interactions are strictly regulated, with rangers selecting a few lucky visitors to hand-feed them a small amount of fish. However, swimming with or touching them is prohibited by law to protect their welfare. Beyond the dolphins, Monkey Mia offers pristine beaches and rich marine life. You may see dugongs, sharks, rays, turtles and a variety of fish. There are also cultural experiences with the Malgana people, Traditional Owners of the region.
7. Exmouth & Ningaloo Reef: swim with gentle giants of the sea
Location: Exmouth
Driving Distance: 13 hours from Perth
Best for: Snorkeling, whale shark swims, marine life encounters 
The Ningaloo Reef (Nyinggulu) is one of the most pristine fringing reefs in the world, teeming with turtles, manta rays, and tropical fish. Between March and August, visitors can embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience – swimming alongside gentle whale sharks. From June to October, you might also spot humpback whales on their migration.
8. Cape Range National Park: wild beauty at its best
Location: Near Exmouth
Driving Distance: 13.5 hours from Perth
Best for: Hiking, wildlife spotting, rugged scenery 
Discover a dramatic landscape of limestone canyons, secluded beaches, and abundant wildlife in Cape Range National Park. Take a boat tour through Yardie Creek Gorge, hike Charles Knife Canyon, or spot kangaroos, emus and echidnas in their natural habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Coral Coast Highway
How long does it take to drive the Coral Coast Highway from Perth to Exmouth?
The direct drive from Perth to Exmouth is approximately 13 hours (1,270 km), but we recommend taking 7-10 days to fully experience the Coral Coast Highway. This allows time to explore the Pinnacles, swim with sea lions at Jurien Bay, visit the pink Hutt Lagoon, spot dolphins at Monkey Mia, and snorkel at Ningaloo Reef without feeling rushed.
What is the best time of year to drive the Coral Coast Highway?
The ideal time to visit the Coral Coast is between April and October (autumn to spring). During these months, you'll enjoy mild temperatures perfect for outdoor activities, and it's also whale shark season at Ningaloo Reef (March to August). Winter months (June to October) offer the bonus of wildflower season at Kalbarri National Park and humpback whale sightings. Summer (December to February) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, making outdoor activities less comfortable.
Can you do the Coral Coast Highway in 5 days?
While technically possible, 5 days would be very rushed for the Perth to Exmouth route. You'd spend most of your time driving rather than experiencing the attractions. If you only have 5 days, consider exploring just the southern section (Perth to Kalbarri) or the northern section (Geraldton to Exmouth). This gives you more time to actually enjoy swimming with sea lions, exploring the Pinnacles, and snorkelling at Ningaloo Reef rather than just ticking boxes.
Is the Coral Coast Highway suitable for caravans and campervans?
Yes, the Coral Coast Highway is well-maintained and suitable for caravans and campervans. The main route follows sealed roads (Indian Ocean Drive and North West Coastal Highway). However, some attractions like the Lancelin Sand Dunes and certain areas of Cape Range National Park may require 4WD or have restrictions for larger vehicles. Caravan parks and camping facilities are available at most major stops including Lancelin, Cervantes, Jurien Bay, Geraldton, Kalbarri, Shark Bay and Exmouth.
Do I need a 4WD for the Coral Coast Highway?
A 4WD is not essential for the main Coral Coast Highway route, as the primary roads are sealed and suitable for regular vehicles. However, a 4WD is recommended if you want to explore the Lancelin Sand Dunes, access remote beaches in Cape Range National Park, or venture off the main highway to secluded spots. Most key attractions including the Pinnacles, Monkey Mia and Ningaloo Reef are accessible by 2WD vehicles.
How much does it cost to do the Coral Coast Highway road trip?
The cost varies depending on your accommodation choices, activities and travel style. Budget travellers can expect to spend approximately $150 - $200 per person per day (camping, self-catering, minimal activities), while mid-range travellers should budget $250 - $400 per person per day (motels, some dining out, key activities like whale shark tours). Premium experiences with resort accommodation and all activities can cost $500+ per person per day.
Are there fuel stations along the Coral Coast Highway?
Yes, but they're spaced further apart than in metropolitan areas. Major fuel stops include Lancelin, Cervantes, Jurien Bay, Geraldton, Kalbarri, Denham (Shark Bay), Carnarvon and Exmouth. The longest stretch between fuel stations is approximately 150-200 km, so always refuel when you see a station, especially before heading to remote areas. Fuel prices increase the further north you travel, so factor this into your budget.
Are there EV charging stations along the Coral Coast Highway?
Yes, EV charging infrastructure is growing along the Coral Coast, though charging stations are less frequent than fuel stops. Key charging locations include Lancelin, Cervantes, Geraldton, Carnarvon, and Exmouth. Distances between chargers can exceed 150 km, so EV drivers should plan routes carefully based on their vehicle's range. We recommend downloading apps from Plugshare or Chargefox to identify charging stations and plan stops in advance. Always charge to 100% at each stop to maximize your range.
What should I pack for a Coral Coast Highway road trip?
Essential items include sunscreen (SPF 50+), reef-safe sunscreen for swimming, a wide-brimmed hat, swimwear, snorkelling gear, sturdy walking shoes, a refillable water bottle and a camera. Between April and October, pack layers as mornings and evenings can be cool. Don't forget your driver's license, travel insurance details and any necessary medications. For remote sections of the highway, bring extra water, snacks, and a first aid kit. A portable phone charger is also recommended as mobile reception can be patchy in some areas.
Plan your Coral Coast adventure with BKB Holidays
Experience the best of Western Australia’s Coral Coast with one of our self-drive packages. Please contact our Reservations Team for more information. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of sandboarding, the tranquillity of pink lakes or the magic of marine encounters, this road trip promises memories that will last a lifetime.
We also have a range of holiday packages for other regions of Western Australia. Let BKB Holidays help you create an exceptional holiday filled with unique and unforgettable experiences.
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Alternatively, contact our travel specialists on 1300 357 057 or email web@bkbholidays.com.
Image credits: Tourism Western Australia
