The Coral Coast: Perth to Exmouth
The Perth to Exmouth drive along Western Australia's Coral Coast is one of the most rewarding campervan trips in Australia. It combines outback landscapes, World Heritage marine areas, and some of the best snorkelling on the planet — all accessible from the beach.
Days 1–2: Pinnacles to Geraldton
Start with the Pinnacles Desert — thousands of limestone pillars in the sand (Nambung National Park, 2 hours from Perth). Continue north to Geraldton — a vibrant coastal city and your last stop for major supplies before heading into more remote country. Visit the HMAS Sydney II Memorial for the sunset views.
Days 3–5: Kalbarri & Shark Bay
Explore Kalbarri National Park (Nature's Window, Kalbarri Skywalk) then head to Shark Bay World Heritage Area for wild dolphins at Monkey Mia, Shell Beach, and the ancient stromatolites. See the Perth to Broome guide for detailed stop descriptions.
Days 6–10: Coral Bay & Exmouth
Coral Bay is the laid-back entry point to Ningaloo Reef. Snorkel directly from the beach over pristine coral gardens — you'll see tropical fish, reef sharks, and manta rays within metres of shore. Glass-bottom boat tours and manta ray swimming tours depart from here.
Continue to Exmouth and Cape Range National Park. Turquoise Bay is regularly voted Australia's best beach — the drift snorkel here is world-class, with the current carrying you gently over coral gardens teeming with marine life.
From March to July, whale shark swimming tours operate from Exmouth — the chance to swim alongside the world's largest fish in crystal-clear water is genuinely life-changing. Humpback whales visit from August to November.
Where to camp: Yardie Creek and Osprey Bay in Cape Range National Park are right on the beach (book months ahead). In town, RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park has excellent facilities.
Tips
- Book Cape Range camping months in advance — it sells out.
- Carry reef-safe sunscreen — Ningaloo is a protected marine park.
- Bring a good snorkel set — hire quality varies.
- Fuel up at every opportunity north of Geraldton.
