Embark on an unforgettable road trip along Western Australia’s spectacular coastline, where rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and unique national parks await.
The journey from Perth to Broome covers vast distances, offering travelers a chance to experience the untamed beauty of the region. From snorkeling in secluded bays to exploring ancient trails, each stop along the way reveals a new side of Australia’s diverse wilderness. Taking a slow and steady approach to this road trip allows for a deeper connection with the landscapes and ensures you don’t miss any of the must-see highlights.
Perth to Broome Travel Guide: Key Highlights & Distances
Best Travelling Dates: April to November
Please note: Distances and travel times are estimates only and may vary due to alternative routes, weather and road conditions. Please check with Main Roads Western Australia for updated information before commencing your journey.
Perth
Western Australia’s vibrant capital is often dubbed the “sunniest city in Australia.” Though geographically isolated, it’s a lively hub filled with art galleries, historic neighborhoods, and an abundance of trendy cafés and restaurants. Perth is also renowned for its natural beauty, with sandy beaches and lush parks surrounding the city. As the gateway to the vast landscapes of Western Australia, it’s an ideal starting point for your adventure.
Pinnacles Desert
Distance from Perth: 2 hr 20 min (191km)
Located in Nambung National Park, the Pinnacles Desert is one of Western Australia’s most iconic natural attractions. This surreal landscape features thousands of towering limestone formations, some reaching up to 3.5 meters in height, formed over 25,000 years ago. Visitors can drive through the golden dunes and admire the striking contrast between the desert and the deep blue ocean in the distance. Wildlife such as kangaroos and emus are commonly spotted in the park, adding to the magic of this unique stop.
Jurien Bay
Distance from Pinnacles Desert: 38 min (43 km)
With its white sandy beaches and stunning marine park, Jurien Bay is a favorite coastal escape. The town is home to the endangered Australian sea lion, which can often be seen sunbathing along the shore. The nearby Lesueur National Park is another must-visit destination, especially during wildflower season between August and November when over 1,000 species of flora bloom across the landscape.
Geraldton
Distance from Jurien Bay: 2 hr 4 min (196 km)
Geraldton is a bustling coastal city known for its rich Aboriginal heritage, stunning pink lakes, and nearby islands teeming with marine life. The Abrolhos Islands, located 60 km offshore, are a paradise for snorkelers and divers, often compared to the Galápagos Islands due to their incredible biodiversity. Geraldton is also famous for its fresh seafood, particularly its locally caught crayfish.
Kalbarri
Distance from Geraldton: 1 hr 46 min (156 km)
Situated at the mouth of the Murchison River, Kalbarri is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The striking cliffs, deep gorges, and famous Nature’s Window rock formation make this a must-see destination. Visitors can hike scenic trails, spot humpback whales along the coast, or explore the vibrant wildflower displays that carpet the area in spring.
Shark Bay
Distance from Kalbarri: 3 hr 2 min (304 km)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shark Bay is a vast and ecologically significant region featuring rare flora, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking coastal scenery. It’s home to unique seagrass meadows, endangered mammals, and thriving marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and rays. The protected waters and stunning beaches make this an ideal stop to immerse yourself in nature.
Denham
Distance from Shark Bay: 43 min (70 km)
Denham is a charming seaside town and the gateway to Shark Bay. With its calm waters, scenic walking trails, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for unwinding. The nearby Nicholson Point trail offers birdwatching opportunities, while Steep Point provides one of the best coastal viewpoints in the region.
Monkey Mia
Distance from Denham: 18 min (25.5 km)
Famous for its wild dolphin encounters, Monkey Mia is a highlight for many road-trippers. The area boasts stunning beaches, red sand dunes, and thriving marine life. Guided tours provide an opportunity to see rays, turtles, and sharks up close, while the Wulyibidi Yaninyina trail offers a scenic walk along the coastline’s striking dunes.
Carnarvon
Distance from Monkey Mia: 3 hr 35 min (352 km)
A fertile oasis known as Western Australia’s “food bowl,” Carnarvon is famous for its fresh produce, particularly bananas, mangoes, and seafood. Visitors can explore historic sites, scenic waterways, and the town’s relaxed coastal vibe.
Coral Bay
Distance from Canarvon: 2 hr 28 min (238 km)
Coral Bay is a paradise for ocean lovers, offering direct access to the breathtaking Ningaloo Reef. With crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, it’s a prime spot for snorkeling, diving, and swimming with whale sharks—the gentle giants of the sea.
Exmouth
Distance from Coral Bay: 1 hr 34 min (152 km)
A gateway to the Ningaloo Marine Park and Cape Range National Park, Exmouth is a must-visit for those wanting to experience Western Australia’s stunning underwater world. The town is a hotspot for humpback whale migrations and offers incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities.
Karajini National Park
Distance from Exmouth: 7 hr 45 min (640 km)
Western Australia’s second-largest national park is a geological marvel, featuring ancient rock formations, deep gorges, and secluded waterfalls. A visit to Karijini offers incredible hiking trails, natural swimming holes, and a chance to witness landscapes that have remained unchanged for billions of years.
Port Hedland
Distance from Karajini: 3 hr 45 min (343 km)
A major hub for Western Australia’s mining industry, Port Hedland is also a great place to experience local heritage and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy fishing, turtle nesting, and whale watching while exploring this historic town.
Eighty Mile Beach
Distance from Port Hedland: 2 hr 39 min (252 km)
Stretching over 200 km, Eighty Mile Beach is one of the longest uninterrupted coastlines in Western Australia. It’s a prime location for fishing, birdwatching, and witnessing breathtaking sunsets over the ocean.
Broome
Distance from Eighty Mile Beach: 3 hr 56 min (376 km)
The final destination on this epic journey, Broome is a tropical paradise known for its laid-back vibe, red cliffs, and famous Cable Beach. Whether you choose to relax on the pristine shores, explore the unique landscape, or learn about the region’s pearl-diving history, Broome is the perfect end to an unforgettable road trip through Western Australia.
