The Perth to Kalbarri road trip is one of my favourite road trips from Perth. The main reasons being the drive is possible to do in one day, there are great stops along the way and Kalbarri has so many spectacular natural attractions to explore.
Read on for the ultimate Kalbarri guide with all you need to know about this epic road trip.
This article was first published in March 2023, and last updated in November 2023
Getting to Kalbarri from Perth
Perth to Kalbarri Distance
The distance from Perth to Kalbarri is 570 kilometres, which is about a 6-hour drive.
I recommend driving to Kalbarri to get the most out of your visit there, as public transport within Kalbarri is non-existent.
Click here to compare prices on rental cars
The drive from Perth to Kalbarri is sealed the whole way, so you can easily do it in a small or 2WD car.
Just double-check if you are hiring a car about taking it on unsealed roads, such as in the national park where there are gravel roads in some places.
However, even most of the roads within Kalbarri National Park are sealed, so it shouldn’t be an issue.
Perth to Kalbarri Road Trip Map
The best and most scenic route to Kalbarri takes you along the coast on the Indian Ocean Drive highway. As mentioned, this road is fully sealed and accessible with a 2WD.
An alternative route is to take Brand Hwy leaving Perth, and passing through Gingin on the way.
Click the image below to open an interactive map, which includes the main sightseeing stops on the Perth to Kalbarri drive.
Getting to Kalbarri by Bus
TransWA offers a coach service from Perth to Kalbarri, starting from East Perth bus terminal and hugging the coast to Kalbarri with stops on the way.
At time of writing in 2023, the bus departs three days a week (Mon, Wed, Fri) from Perth at 8.30am, arriving into Kalbarri at 4.55pm.
Flights
There are no direct flights from Perth to Kalbarri. However Qantas flies daily from Perth to Geraldton.
From here, you can hire a car and drive 30 minutes further north to Kalbarri.
Perth to Kalbarri Tours
This guided tour from Perth to Exmouth includes a night stopover in Kalbarri, with a morning exploring the highlights of Kalbarri National Park. This touris the best way to experience the wonders of Australia’s Coral Coast.
Best Time to Visit Kalbarri
The best time to visit Kalbarri is from April to October due to the milder temperatures.
The most popular time to visit Kalbarri is in the Australian winter months from June to August. July is extra busy due to the Western Australian school holidays.
From November to March, Kalbarri is very hot and windy. While you can still visit during this time, just make sure you are prepared for the very hot weather with lots of water and sun protection (and fly nets!).
The Loop walk in Kalbarri National Park closes after 7am during this period due to the heat, so you’ll need to start hiking early.
When visiting in April, we had warm but windy days. The flies can also be pretty terrible in Kalbarri, you may want to bring a fly net for your comfort.
September is another great time to visit Kalbarri, thanks to the abundance of wildflowers in the region and migrating humpback whales that you might be able to spot in the distance.
Perth to Kalbarri Road Trip Itinerary
This itinerary can be done in as little as 4 days (3 nights).
Jowever, I recommended spending at least 5 days (4 nights) in total, which will allow time for Perth to Kalbarri stops.
These are the main stops and attractions to see on the drive from Perth to Kalbarri. This itinerary also works in reverse for the Kalbarri to Perth drive.
Let’s dive into all the best things to do on the way to Kalbarri!
Lancelin Sand Dunes
The first major sight on your way north from Perth are the Lancelin Sand Dunes. Lancelin Sand Dunes also one of my favourite day trips from Perth.
You can go sandboarding in the dunes, or explore the white peaks on a quad bike.
Read all you need to know about Lancelin sand dunes in my dedicated guide here.
The Pinnacles and Cervantes
If you prefer to skip the sand dunes, keep on heading directly north to the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park.
This unique attraction of towering limestone pinnacles rising from a desert are a very popular stop on the way to Kalbarri.
A National Park entrance fee of $17 per vehicle (2023) is payable. At the Pinnacles you can either drive the 4.5km loop track, or park at the Discovery Centre and take the signposted walking trail.
If driving, there are pull over bays to get out and explore by foot too.
Leaving the Pinnacles, it is a short drive to Cervantes. Spend the night in Cervantes, or continue on northwards to Jurien Bay.
Accommodation is fairly limited in Cervantes, I recommend the Pinnacles Edge Resort (best for couples) or RAC Cervantes Holiday Park (best for families)
Browse all accommodation options in Cervantes
Other things to do in Cervantes include visiting the highly-rated Lobster Shack for a meal, taking a swim at Hangover Bay and visiting the stromatolite micro-organisms at Lake Thetis.
Jurien Bay
Jurien Bay is another small coastal town 20 minutes north from Cervantes. There is a larger range of accommodation and dining options in Jurien Bay compared to Cervantes.
Jurien Bay is perhaps best known for its sea lions, which you can go swimming with!
Check out my detailed guide on swimming with the sea lions, and more things to do in Jurien Bay.
I recommend staying at the Jurien Bay Motel Apartments, which are a great spot for a one-night stopover on your way to Kalbarri. They are a clean, comfortable, convenient and affordable base for exploring Jurien Bay, and the kitchenette was great for cooking a dinner at home.
Browse all accommodation options in Jurien Bay
The popular Sandy Cape camping ground is just 15 minutes up the road if you prefer bush camping (limited facilities) mere steps from the beach.
Dongara / Port Denison
Dongara is a nice spot to stretch your legs and grab a snack or lunch. Dongara is also home to the acclaimed international award-winning Illegal Tender Rum Co.
I’ve taken their brewery tour, which is a great way to discover the behind-the-scenes process of creating their rum and spirits (prior bookings required), or you can pop in for a tasting too.
Geraldton
Geraldton is a large coastal city, 4.5 hours from Perth. Geraldton to Kalbarri is another 1.5-hour drive away. Geraldton has a large range of accommodations, cafes, art galleries and beaches.
If you are short on time, you can continue your journey straight to Kalbarri otherwise Geraldton is a good place to explore for half a day, or base for a one-night stopover.
Visit the HMAS Sydney World War II memorial, take a stroll along the foreshore with its new and modern playground, take a snap in front of the red and white striped lighthouse at Point Moore and explore the Museum of Geraldton.
I’ve stayed in both the Geraldton Motor Inn and Nightcap at Wintersun Hotel for one-night stays on my way to Exmouth. They both offer basic motel-style lodging which was fine for my one night stays.
For those wanting a few more creature comforts, check out Broadwater Mariner Resort or the Gerald Apartment Hotel.
Browse all accommodation options in Geraldton
Hutt Lagoon Pink Lake
If you’re wondering what to see between Perth and Geraldton, you’re in for a treat. Do not miss stopping at the insta-famous Hutt Lagoon Pink Lake on your way to Kalbarri!
You will literally pass by the lake when you turn onto the road to get into Kalbarri.
Read my full guide for everything you need to know about the bubble gum pink lake at Hutt Lagoon.
Kalbarri
You’ve made it to our main destination – Kalbarri!
Make sure to read my guide on the best things to do in Kalbarri to plan how to spend your time exploring.
How Many Days in Kalbarri?
I recommend spending at least two full days exploring Kalbarri.
This will allow you to spend a one full day in the National Park, and then one day to see the key attractions around Kalbarri town.
For an in depth guide on all the things to do and see in Kalbarri National Park, check out my guide here. Don’t miss the Kalbarri Skywalk!
Suggested 5 Day Kalbarri Itinerary
This is my recommended 5 day Kalbarri road trip itinerary, with suggested stops.
| Day | Itinerary | Stay | Things to See on the Way |
| 1 | Perth to Jurien Bay (2.5 hours) | Jurien Bay | Lancelin Sand Dunes, the Pinnacles |
| 2 | Jurien Bay to Kalbarri (4 hours) | Kalbarri | Dongara, Geraldton, Hutt Lagoon Pink Lake |
| 3 | Explore Kalbarri | Kalbarri | |
| 4 | Explore Kalbarri | Kalbarri | |
| 5 | Kalbarri to Perth (6 hours) | Perth | Anything you didn’t get time for on the way to Kalbarri |
Alternatively, on Day 4 you could drive from Kalbarri to Geraldton and spend the night in Geraldton, which reduces your driving time back to Perth to 4.5 hours on Day 5.
Continue along the Coral Coast or back to Perth
While you might just plan on heading as far north to Kalbarri, I highly recommend doing the full Perth to Exmouth road trip. I have a detailed 10 day itinerary in my guide here.
In Exmouth, you’ll find pristine beaches, spectacular snorkelling and even have the chance to swim with whale sharks.
Otherwise, continue your journey back to Perth.
Where to Stay in Kalbarri
Accommodation in Kalbarri ranges from caravan parks to motels to holiday homes. Don’t expect luxury resorts or large chain hotels, but that is all part of the charm of Kalbarri.
Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, particularly if visiting in the Australian winter months (June – August), or anytime during Australian school holidays (April, July, October and Dec/Jan).
Kalbarri Accommodation
Best Value Accommodation (ideal for families)
Kalbarri Palm Resort: a 10 minute walk from the main beach and pelican feeding spot, Kalbarri Palm Resort has 2 pools and all rooms have a kitchenette or full kitchen. Basic but functional value for money accommodation.
Kalbarri Edge Resort: Just next door to Kalbarri Palm Resort is Kalbarri Edge Resort. I stayed in a one-bedroom suite with spa bath and kitchen, but they also have two-bedroom suites and smaller studios with kitchenettes. The rooms are more modern here than Kalbarri Palm Resort, and there is a heated pool.
Best Accommodation for Couples
River Retreats Kalbarri would be my pick for the nicest accommodation in Kalbarri, and for couples looking for a little bit of a more comfortable stay after a day of adventuring. This adults-only accommodation have their own outdoor terraces and there is a swimming pool.
Browse all accommodation options in Kalbarri
Kalbarri Camping
There is no camping in the National Park, nor is free camping allowed in Kalbarri.
For campers, consider a stay at Kalbarri Tudor Holiday Park (they had great showers!) or Murchison House Station comes recommended by my van-life friends (open from April to October).
Red Bluff Tourist Park is a new caravan park, located 10 minutes’ drive out of Kalbarri town and each camp has its own ensuite (at a higher price tag of course).
There is also a 24 hour free rest area at Galena Bridge on the Murchison River, 50 minutes from Kalbarri.
Tips for your Perth Kalbarri Road Trip
Driving
I avoid driving between dusk and dawn if possible when road-tripping in Australia. This is when wildlife such as kangaroos are most active.
Before heading off on a road trip, make sure your coolant level and air pressure in your tyres are all at appropriate levels.
National Parks
If you are spending some time in WA and visiting a few national parks, it might be worth getting a Parks Pass instead of buying individual tickets each time.
For the 5 day itinerary suggested above, if you plan on visiting the Pinnacles (Nambung National Park) and the inland gorges of Kalbarri National Park on each day, the 5 day Holiday Pass is better value than paying for individual tickets.
Annual and monthly passes also available on the WA Parks site.
Phone Reception
From Perth to Kalbarri there is fairly good coverage on most networks, however the Telstra network offers the best coverage, particularly if you continue on further north past Kalbarri.
Final Thoughts – Road Trip Perth to Kalbarri
That wraps up this guide to planning your road trip to Kalbarri from Perth. It’s one of the best shorter road trips from Perth, and allows you to explore some of the best natural wonders along the WA Coral Coast.
Let me know in the comments below if you have any other questions. Happy adventuring!
Continue Reading:
Hi Tess, thanks for these posts they’re so helpful!
My biggest concern is the phone reception, do you find that you have reception generally or only in the towns? I have Vodafone and I hardly had connection in NSW so I’m a little worried!
I’m the same, and struggle with reception outside of Perth! You should be OK in the center of towns, but in the national parks etc I would plan on not having much signal.
Hi Tess,
I am planning to make the trip to this area in 2 weeks time.
It has been on my bucket list for years.
I am from NSW and looking forward to see this natural wonder.
I will be going all the way to Kalbarri.
Do you know how is the season shaping this year?
If you have any ideas, hints etc will be much appreciated
Regards
Carl
Hi Carl, exciting news! There should be a few wildflowers around Kalbarri in the National Parks. In September the days are usually mild weather wise (mid to high 20’s) although there can be a strong breeze. My advice would be to look at the weather forecast when you reach WA and plan to have a bit of flexibility in the daily activity around weather conditions if required. It’s been quite a rainy week in Perth, for example! And then try not to do the big hikes in Kalbarri National Park on the hottest days, for example. Safe travels, and happy adventuring!
Hi Tess, great info you’ve got there. If we’re travelling during autumn, is it worth taking the inland road back to Perth. We’re wondering if we should use the ocean road or opt for the inland road. Your reply would be very much appreciated. Thank you!
Hi! I recommend the ocean road. The inland road is best during late winter, early spring when the golden canola fields are blooming, otherwise it’s a bit boring!