In the heart of Australia’s Coral Coast lies the rustic coastal town of Kalbarri. While it is perhaps most famous for the breathtaking Kalbarri National Park just a stone’s throw away, this gem of a destination offers an abundance of exciting activities for all ages. From the vast array of natural wonders to adrenaline-fueled adventures, there is no shortage of things to do in and around Kalbarri.
In this ultimate Kalbarri travel guide, I’ll step you through the 35 best things to do in Kalbarri.
About this Kalbarri Things to Do Guide
To help you better plan your time in Kalbarri, I’ve broken up this guide into regional sections for the various activities in Kalbarri.
You can read ideas for what to do in Kalbarri in Kalbarri National Park, things to do in Kalbarri town and then lastly, things to do around Kalbarri and surrounds.
How Long Should I Spend in Kalbarri?
At a bare minimum, I recommend spending at least two nights in Kalbarri.
This allows you one full day to explore the inland gorges of Kalbarri National Park, plus another full day taking in the attractions along the coastal cliffs, enjoying some time at the beach and seeing the town.
However you could also easily spend three to four nights in Kalbarri, especially if you join a fun half-day tour experience, like a cruise along the Murchison River, scenic flight over the strawberry pink Hutt Lagoon or join a Kalbarri Rock Lobster tour.
Kalbarri is best explored on a road trip from Perth – I’ve got a suggested itinerary of things to do and see on the way to Kalbarri that you can read right here.
And, if you are continuing further along the Coral Coast, don’t forget to check out my Perth to Exmouth road trip guide to help you plan the ultimate adventure along the coast.
Things to do in Kalbarri National Park
Here are the top things to see in Kalbarri National Park. For more information about planning your visit to this remarkable National Park, including details on entrance fees and hikes, check out my dedicated guide here.
The following attractions are located in the inland gorge section of Kalbarri National Park, so an entrance fee is payable of $17 per vehicle (2024 pricing).
Nature’s Window
One of the most popular attractions in Kalbarri, and a recognisable landmark in Western Australia, is the iconic Nature’s Window. This unusually shaped rock formation allows visitors to view the Murchison River Gorge through the picture-perfect framing of the window in the rock.
It is a short walk from the car park to reach Nature’s Window. This is also the starting point for the Kalbarri Loop Walk trail.
Loop Trail
One of the longer hikes in Kalbarri, this 9-km loop trail follows the looping Murchison River through the gorge. You’ll descend to the river bed itself, where silver gum trees provide shade while you take a refreshing dip in the river.
Skywalk
The Skywalk is the newest addition to Kalbarri National Park, and it has fast become one of the most popular Kalbarri attractions, and for good reason. You can walk out over twin platforms that sit suspended over the mighty Murchison River gorge.
This is a spectacular spot to visit at any time of the day, and you’ll find informative signage about the culture and history of the area, plus a small cafe for refreshments.
For all you need to know to make the most of your visit, check out my Kalbarri Skywalk guide.
Z Bend Lookout & River Trail
Right near Nature’s Window and the Skywalk lies the Z Bend Lookout and Z Bend River Trail. These are all worth visiting in one day in Kalbarri National Park.
The lookout trail offers a gentle walk to a lookout with a prime view overlooking the curving river gorge. The more adventurous can continue hiking and descend a ladder into the gorge, following a rocky trail through the gums down to the river itself.
Allow 2 hours for this hike.
Kalbarri Abseil
While hiking the Z Bend River Trail, we came across an adventurous tour group who had just abseiled into the gorge. Kalbarri Abseil runs adventure tours that will have you harnessed up and learning to abseil 25 metre-plus gorge walls in no time.
The tour includes lunch by the Murchison River, soaking in the amazing scenery after an unforgettable morning of adventure.
Canoe The Kalbarri Gorges
Another one for those looking for a unique adventure experience. Join a half-day canoe and hiking tour deep into the heart of the National Park gorge system with Kalbarri Adventure Tours.
Wildflower Spotting
From August to October, Kalbarri comes alive with washes of colour from native wildflowers, many endemic to the region. Whilst you can go on a self-guided wildflower spotting expedition, the best way to find them is to join a tour with a local guide. Transport is included from Kalbarri town.
River Cruise
One of the best things to do in Kalbarri is to explore the natural wonders of the Murchison River by boat. On this river cruise, learn about the fishing industry, history, flora and fauna of the area with an informative and entertaining local guide.
This nature-based tour is a great option for all ages.
Read the glowing 5-star reviews here
Stargazing
Kalbarri is a great place for a spot of stargazing and astrophotography, thanks to the minimal light pollution. You can do this anywhere in the National Park on your own, or join D’Guy Charter’s Stargazing Tour.
Ross Graham & Hawks Head Lookouts
At the eastern furthest National Park entrance from town, you’ll find two panoramic viewpoints at Ross Graham Lookout and Hawks Head Lookout. These spots don’t attract as many visitors as the Skywalk and Nature’s Window at the closer entrance to town, and offer a tranquil way to experience different viewpoints of the gorge.
Note: The following attractions are located on the coastal cliffs section of the National Park and do not require an entrance fee.
Island Rock & Natural Bridge
The coastline along Kalbarri is a testament to the shaping forces of wind and waves. This has resulted in some interesting formations along the coast, such as Island Rock and Natural Bridge.
Park at the dedicated car park and take the easy trail to the coastline to view both of these unique landmarks.
Mushroom Rock & Rainbow Valley Hike
Visit the curiously shaped Mushroom Rock and hike through the rich red rock of Rainbow Valley. On this 3km loop hike, I was mesmerised by the geology formations and vivid coastal scenery along the way.
Red Bluff
This is the closest lookout point to town along the cliffs. The raised lookout is a great spot for whale watching (in season), watching the sunset and checking out the surfers coasting the waves at Red Bluff Beach below.
Sunset Cruise along Coastal Cliffs
A memorable way to see the golden glow of the Kalbarri cliffs at sunset is from the ocean.
This Kalbarri Sunset Cruise will take you past Red Bluff, Mushroom Rock, Pot Alley and Eagle Gorge just in time to admire the cliffs change colours with the setting sun.
Best of all, you can bring along your own drinks and snacks to enjoy on board. Check availability here.
Pot Alley
Further along the coast is my favourite sunset spot in Kalbarri, Pot Alley. This lookout has the best view of the cliffs in my opinion, and there is a short trail down to a beach below.
Bigurda Trail
Connecting some of these coastal hotspots is the 8km Bigurda Trail.
This boardwalk hugs the coast from Eagle Gorge to Natural Bridge, taking in the sweeping coastal views all along the trail and a chance to spot the native wildlife that calls Kalbarri home including dolphins, whales and eagles.
Things to do in Kalbarri Town
Pelican Feeding
One of the long-standing Kalbari tourist attractions is the daily pelican feeding. Every morning at 8.45am on the Kalbarri foreshore (opposite the Tasman Holiday Park) a volunteer feeds the Kalbarri pelicans.
A gold coin donation is requested for those who join in on this Kalbarri tradition (started by local fishermen decades ago). These days, the volunteers use this daily ritual to catalogue and check the pelicans over for things like stray fishing hooks or wires.
This is one of the most popular things to do in Kalbarri for families, as a few lucky kids get the chance to help with the feeding.
Watch Whales Up Close
From June to October, it is not uncommon to see whales splashing in the distance at one of Kalbarri’s many vantage points along the coast.
Get up close and learn more about the magnificent creatures on a Whale Watching adventure with an informative and knowledgeable local crew.
Check booking availability here, tours generally run from June to the end of September.
Catch a Lobster on a Pot Pull Tour
Sample some of the premium seafood in Kalbarri on this 2 hour interactive and informative adventure.
You’ll hop on board a 50ft vessel before venturing out to pull lobster pots straight from the sea before watching your catches being cooked onboard and sampling fresh lobster rolls!
Check availability and prices here.
Swim at Chinaman’s Beach
Chinaman’s Beach is one of the best swimming beaches in Kalbarri. It is more sheltered and protected than some of the other beaches further along the coast, making it a good swimming spot for kids.
There is also a fishing point at one end of the beach. Walk along the beach to see where the Murchison River mouth meets the sea.
Drink Locally Brewed Craft Beer at Finlay’s
Finlay’s is a Kalbarri institution and one of the best places to eat in town. This eclectic brewpub is a rustic collection of coastal decor, home-brewed craft beer and delicious food with a strong seafood emphasis.
Finlay’s has a vibrant but relaxed atmosphere and is a crowd favourite for locals and tourists alike. Be sure to book ahead for dinner!
Marvel at Kalbarri from Above
One of the best ways to view Kalbarri is from above. This scenic flight departs from Kalbarri and flies over the coastal cliffs passing over Red Bluff and Rainbow Valley before reaching the nearby dazzling pink waters of Hutt Lagoon.
Check availability and prices here.
Kalbarri Nature Playground
Another great thing to do in Kalbarri for families, the Kalbarri Nature Playground can be found on the Foreshore (near the pelican feeding area and Chinaman’s Beach). With a wooden lookout tower, flying fox, rock climbing wall and more, this will keep all the kids (big and small) entertained.
Snorkel the Blue Holes
This fish habitat protection area is a snorkeler’s delight, thanks to the teeming marine life and variety of coral making for great snorkelling on a calm day. Due to being a protected area, all fishing is prohibited. If you come at low tide, snorkelling can be difficult as the tide can recede quite far.
Do a Spot of Fishing
Kalbarri is a fisherman’s delight. Popular fishing spots include the Murchison River Mouth jetty at the end of Chinaman’s Beach, beach fishing at Red Bluff Beach or join an offshore fishing charter (enquire with the Kalbarri visitor centre who is running charters at the time of your visit).
You can buy a local fishing guide at the visitor centre in town, and Kalbarri Sport & Dive are a wealth of local knowledge and sells bait and tackle.
Catch a Wave at Jake’s Point
Surfers should make a beeline to Jake’s Point, the most popular surfing point in town. Non-surfers can walk along the shore, keeping an eye on fish and crabs in the rock pools along the shoreline. Due to strong swells, this beach isn’t suitable for swimming.
Horse Riding at Big River Ranch
See a different side of Kalbarri from horseback. Join a guided trail ride through the tranquil bush and cross the banks of the Murchison River.
Big River Ranch offers morning and afternoon trail rides for ages 10 and up, or younger ones can take a guided pony ride around the property.
Explore the Kalbarri Bush by Bike
Hop on board an adventure safari and explore the Australian bushland on a quad bike. This fun experience is suitable for beginners and experienced riders, with no experience necessary.
Explore the bush and river country near Murchison House Station, normally only accessible by 4WD on this small group tour with Quad Bike Safaris.
Wildlife Spotting
In case you haven’t caught on yet, Kalbarri is a haven for wildlife. From whales to eagles to emus, there are so many native animals to be found around town and in the National Park.
On my last visit, we saw emu’s down by the river near Nature’s Window, a thorny devil at the car park to Red Bluff and a kangaroo on the walk to the Natural Bridge. Keep your eyes peeled, and be careful on the roads after dusk due to active wildlife.
Cruise Murchison River on a Self-Drive Party Pontoon
This is something different! Kalbarri Bar-B-Cruiser offers a self-drive “party pontoon.” Hire the boat and cruise up the Murchison River for a leisurely afternoon. A BBQ is provided on board, and no skipper tickets are required for hire.
Visit the Local Markets
Every Monday during school holidays (check dates here) a small community market pops up on the Foreshore near the Nature Playground.
The stalls range from food stalls, pony rides, face painting, locally made arts and crafts, handmade jewellery, second-hand clothing and local preserves like honey and olive oil. Stay up to date with the latest markte dates on the Facebook page.
Things to Do Around Kalbarri
Visit the Hutt Lagoon Pink Lake
One of the best things to do near Kalbarri is to visit the bubblegum pink-hued waters of the Hutt Lagoon Pink Lake. This remarkable salt lake really is that pink… the hue can change slightly over the year and may not look as bright on a cloudy day, but it’s still a spectacular natural attraction worth visiting.
To visit the Pink Lake, drive 45 minutes from Kalbarri to the Pink Lake Lookout and wander around the shoreline.
Explore the best viewpoints of the lake further on a fun quad buggy tour with a local guide. Or take your visit to Pink Lake to a whole new height, admiring the strawberry waters from above on a scenic flight.
Wagoe Beach Quad Bike Tour
Explore the coastline south of Kalbarri on a guided tour along Wagoe Beach on a quad bike or buggy. You’ll follow your guide, traversing sand dunes, finding secret fishing spots and wildlife spotting along the way.
The starting point for this tour is about a 25-minute drive from Kalbarri.
Lucky Bay
You might have heard of Lucky Bay in Esperance, but did you know there is a Lucky Bay near Kalbarri?
Located 30 minutes south of Kalbarri, Lucky Bay is a nature-based beachfront camping area. This is the spot for those looking for some four-wheel driving on the beach and sand dunes, swimming and fishing.
2WDs should be okay (under normal conditions, check with the visitor centre beforehand if there have been recent heavy rains) to reach the main camping area away from the beach, and could walk out to the beach from there. To drive out onto the beach, a 4WD is required.
Abrolhos Islands Tour
The Houtman Abrolhos islands are found 60 kilometres off the coast of Geraldton. They consist of 122 islands clustered on the edge of the reef. The natural diversity of the region is renowned, drawing nature enthusiasts from across the country.
Due to the remote location, the Abrolhos Islands aren’t on the usual tourist radar. To reach this pristine natural hotspot, you can take a scenic flight. Departing from Kalbarri, the flight soars over the Coastal Cliffs and heads to the islands.
Landing on East Wallabi island, famous for its unique coral and sparkling turquoise bays, you can explore the abundant birdlife and cave formations, or take a dip in the refreshing ocean. On your return flight back to Kalbarri, you’ll see the Abrolhos Islands coral atolls from above and the historical Batavia shipwreck.
For more information and prices, click here.
Final Thoughts – Things to Do Kalbarri
There is something for everyone when visiting Kalbarri. With a diverse range of attractions from adventure-based tours to stunning hikes and tranquil beaches, make sure Kalbarri is on your must-see list on a road trip along the Coral Coast. I hope this guide has given you some new ideas and inspiration for your visit.
Make sure to read my other guides to plan your adventures along the Coral Coast, and let me know in the comments below if you have any questions!
Continue Reading:
- An Epic Perth to Kalbarri Road Trip Itinerary
- Kalbarri National Park: Complete Explorers Guide
- Kalbarri Skywalk: What You Need to Know Before You Visit
- Monkey Mia Dolphin Feeding Experience: What to Expect
- Pink Lake WA: Guide to Visiting Hutt Lagoon
- Ultimate Perth to Exmouth Road Trip Itinerary
- 25 Incredible Things to Do in Exmouth
- Best Whale Shark Tours in Exmouth (plus Essential Swim Tips)
- Complete Guide to Karijini National Park
- 15 Awesome Free Things to Do in Broome
- 25 Unique Things To Do in Broome
- Top Six Beaches in Broome You Need to Visit
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