Two hours north of Perth, Australia’s aptly named Coral Coast features some of the world’s most impressive bays, wildlife, landscapes, white sandy beaches, coastlines and reefs. The surrounding regions are home to some of Australia’s most recognised national draw cards, including the Pinnacles, Kalbarri National Park, Ningaloo Reef and Shark Bay.
Attractions
Travelling via the Indian Ocean coastline from Perth, arrive at the top of Ningaloo Reef at Exmouth. One of the largest and near-shore fringing reefs on earth, and extending for 300 kilometres, the marine paradise is easily accessed by simply stepping off the beach – just pack a mask and snorkel. Geraldton is the only city on the Coral Coast and its region holds must-see attractions including Ellendale Pool, the Albrohos Islands and Coalseam Conservation Park which comes alive with wildflowers between late July and early October.
Kalbarri National Park has many unique sites to explore, including the twin skywalks over the Murchison River Gorge’s cliffs, inland gorge sites and Red Bluff Beach popular for swimming and fishing. Australia’s largest bay, Shark Bay stretches for over 1000km and hosts the oldest living fossils on earth, the Hamelin Pool Stromatolites, the world’s smartest wild dolphins at Monkey Mia and Dirk Hartog Island. The Pinnacles Desert of Namburg National Park showcases natural prehistoric sculpture in the form of limestone structures, some up to 3.5 metres formed 25,000 to 30,000 years ago.
Stay
Whatever scenery you prefer, beach, town, bush or outback, Coral Coast accommodation options cater to all tastes. Experience the bush at its best with a homestead stay at Bullara Station Stay between Coral Bay and Exmouth, offering self-contained cottages, king single rooms and a caravan and camping ground. An ark for endangered wildlife, stay in an unspoilt part of the world on Dirk Hartog Island Eco Lodge, complete with fire pit and views over Shark Bay. Broadwater Resort Hotel meets the coast and ‘city’ being only a short walk from the marina or the town centre.
Dine
Eat and drink your way through the Coral Coast by indulging in the fresh produce and seafood on offer. Lobster Shack in Cervantes offers a complete pot to plate lobster appreciation, with lunch served 11am-3pm and tours of the lobster factory from 12-3pm. Sample some Dongara Crayfish, Mid West olives and Dongara Bakery bread at Southerlys Harbour View Bar and Restaurant while taking in the Indian Ocean across Port Denison marina. For more casual dining, stop in for breakfast or lunch at the Jaffle Shack at Geraldton. Savoury and sweet jaffle options, great coffee served from a shack on the beach at the Geraldton foreshore.
