Lydia LeeWestern Australia is pretty big. In fact, it is bigger than the whole of Western Europe! Due to its large geographical size, the region encompasses various climate zones, giving rise to different natural environments, each with their own unique beauty. However, tourists tend to only visit the capital city of Perth, and end up missing out on many hidden gems all around Western Australia. It is a shame to let all this beauty go to waste! So on your next trip, why not venture out of Perth and discover Western Australia’s hidden gems?
And if you need more convincing, here are 12 reasons to do so:
1. Where else can you find a pink lake?
Image credit: Australias Guide Western Australia
No, your eyes are not playing tricks on you, this lake really is pink! Located between Geraldton and Kalbarri in Port Gregory, lies a pink lake called Hutt Lagoon. Due to the presence of Dunaliella Salina, which is a type of micro-algae that also happens to be a food-colouring agent, the waters here change into a gorgeous shade of pink. Depending on the season and weather conditions, you may find the waters coloured red, bubble-gum pink or even in shades of lilac.
We recommend that you stop by this lake just before sundown in order to best enjoy the visual spectacle before you. Just imagine golden sunbeams glistening over the pink waters and sinking into the horizon – definitely a sight to behold. And of course, don’t forget your camera because this place is definitely Instagram-worthy!
Address: Port Gregory Rd, Gregory WA 6535
How to get there: Access via George Grey Drive from Port Gregory Road (15min)
2. Head back millions of years through space and time!
Image credit: dylan_odonnell
Take a walk back in time at the Pinnacles Desert, located within Nambung National Park. Forget all you know about the vast desert landscape and be intrigued by the unique structures that protrude from the sand.
Each Pinnacle is a limestone formation, which is thought to have been made from shells that date back millions of years ago. Each structure acts as a reminder of an epoch long before our time, and they cumulatively piece together the story of Western Australia’s past. If you want to learn more about the enigmatic origins of the Pinnacles, head to the nearby Pinnacle Desert Discovery Centre for a quick history lesson.
Address: The Pinnacles Desert, Pinnacles Drive, Cervantes WA 6511
How to get there: Drive from Perth city (2.5h)
3. Experience the formidable forces of Mother Nature
Image credit: Bob Tarr
Don’t forget to visit Karijini National Park, the second largest park in the whole of Western Australia. Be enthralled by the plethora of different landscapes, arid land ecosystems and ancient geological formations. Spend all day admiring the beauty of its stunning gorges, canyons and waterfalls. In addition, you’ll get to catch a glimpse of indigenous wildlife such as the Australian goshawks and ring-tailed dragons!
Address: Karijini National Park Banjima Drive, Karijini WA 6751
How to get there: Take a flight from Perth (2h) to Newman Airport, then drive to Karijini National Park (2.5h)
4. Take a nostalgic walk along its beaches
Image credit: Robert Young
We’ve all done this when we were young – spending hours combing through sandy beaches to find that perfect seashell. At Shark Bay’s Shell Beach, your search will bear abundant returns! Due to the high salinity of the seawater, the cockle species, Fragum Erugatum, proliferates the area, giving rise to an abundance of beautiful shells. As one of only two beaches in the world that is completely covered with shells, this beach is not to be missed the next time you’re in Western Australia.
Image credit: Peter Boer
Address: Shell Beach, Francois Peron National Park, WA 6537
How to get there: Take a flight from Perth to Denham (2h), then drive to Shell Beach (30min)
5. Experience the serenity of an underground hideout
Image credit: Western Australia
The Lake Cave in Margaret River is a stunning underground sanctuary that houses delicate limestone formations and idyllic lakes. One of the most impressive structures is the ‘Suspended Table’, where a sheet of flowstone has the appearance of hovering just above the water surface. To get to this hidden chamber, navigate through the forest and past towering karri trees. Enjoy the fresh air and picturesque greenery along the way!
Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm (daily)
Address: Lake Cave, Conto Rd, Forest Grove WA 6286, Australia
How to get there: Drive from Perth to Margaret River (3h), then drive to Lake Cave Mammoth Cave Nature Reserve (12 min)
6. Swim alongside Western Australia’s fantastic beasts
Image credit: Western Australia
If you’re looking for a little more action, look no further than Ningaloo Reef at Coral Bay. As one of the longest coral reefs in the world, this World Heritage site boasts pristine waters and a bustling underwater ecosystem. Seize the opportunity to go diving, and swim alongside a plethora of marine species, like whale sharks, humpback whales and manta rays! It’s an experience you certainly won’t forget.
Address: Ningaloo Reef Dive, 46 Robinson Street, Coral Bay, WA 6701
How to get there: Take a flight from Perth to Learmonth Airport, Exmouth (2h) then drive to Coral Bay (1h 15min)
7. A million-year-old secret is waiting to be uncovered!
Image credit: Bäras
The Bungle Bungle Range can be found at Purnululu National Park, Kimberley Region. This imposing 300-metre sandstone range is also a World Heritage site and has been recognised as a global geological landmark. Having only entered public consciousness in 1983, this magnificent structure is one of Australia’s best-kept secrets. In actual fact, the Bungle Bungle range has been around for an estimated 350 million years and had been inhabited by the Aboriginals for at least 40,000 years. Now that you’ve been let in on the secret, waste no more time; visit the Bungle Bungle Range and be prepared to be wowed by its beauty.
Address: Bungle Bungle Range, Purnululu National Park, WA 6770
How to get there: Take a flight from Perth to Kununurra (3h), then drive to Purnululu National Park (2h)
8. It’s the perfect place for your next Instagram shot
Image credit: Western Australia Instagram
Who needs a fancy wall when you have the Wave Rock as your backdrop? In the shape of an ocean wave, this 15-metre high rock wall adds the right amount of drama for your next viral Instagram shoot. Aside from its unique formation, the Wave Rock also has a fascinating backstory; legend has it that the rock was created when a Rainbow Serpent dragged its swollen body across the land after it had consumed all of the land’s water. Although this mythology story isn’t passed on as much as it used to, the place still embodies a strong sense of culture and spirituality.
Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm (daily)
Address: Wave Rock Road, Hyden WA 6359
How to get there: Drive directly from Perth (4h), or take a flight from Perth to Hyden (1h) and drive (10min)
9. The sunsets here are simply sublime
Image credit: Western Australia
Although there are many places to catch beautiful sunset views, none can compare to the phenomenal sight at Cable Beach, Broome. The immaculate white sand beach borders the Indian Ocean and is the perfect location for a tranquil day out in the sun. After a day of swimming and sunbathing, hop onto a camel’s back for a ride into the sunset and be stunned by the spectacular
Address: Cable Beach, Broome, WA 6726
How to get there: Take a flight from Perth to Broome (2h 40min), then drive to Cable Beach (10min)
10. Because it’s home to the happiest animal in the world!
Image credit: Western Australia
If you didn’t already know, the quokka is the happiest animal in the world. Just look at its impossibly adorable smile! This marsupial can only be found on Rottnest Island, an offshore island off the city of Perth. Aside from looking out for these lovable critters, you also get to enjoy pristine white-sand beaches and secluded coves. It’s the perfect getaway from the city.
Address: Rottnest Island, WA 6161
How to get there: Take a ferry from B-shed Fremantle/Northport Fremantle (30 min)
11. A feast of the freshest seafood awaits
Image credit: Lobster Shack Cervantes Facebook
Western Australia is not just all about sightseeing – you get to have a real feast for your tummy too! At the Lobster Shack, Cervantes, savour a variety of fresh seafood, including the world-famous Western Australia rock lobster. In addition, go behind the scenes with their factory tour and learn how they ethically source for wild lobsters before they are exported all over the world.
Opening Hours: 11am to 3pm (daily)
Address: 11 Madrid, St Cervantes WA 6511
How to get there: Drive from Perth (2h), or drive from the Pinnacle Desert (8 min)
12. Enjoy crazy factory outlet prices without breaking the bank
Image credit: Watertown Brand Outlet
The Watertown Brand Outlet, located in the heart of Perth, houses 110 retailers that sell branded items at a factory outlet prices. Whether it is sportswear, fashion pieces or even jewellery, you are sure to find a good bargain here. Also, with many affordable dining options available, you can take a break from your shopping spree anytime for some good eats. It’s a one-stop shop for everything you need!
Opening Hours: 9am to 5.30pm (Monday – Thursday); 9am to 9pm (Friday);
9am to 5pm (Saturday); 11am to 5pm (Sunday)
Address: 840 Wellington Street, West Perth, WA 6005
How to get there: Take the Yellow Cat bus from Perth Station, towards West Perth (11 min)
So, are you convinced yet?
Whether it is to admire the natural beauty of geological sites, chase after cute animals or do some shopping, there is so much to do in Western Australia! Explore these hidden gems and have the adventure of your lifetime.
Brought to you by Tourism Western Australia and Singapore Airlines.
