Our Epic Road Trip Along WA's North West Coast: From Perth to Paradise
If you’re chasing red dirt roads, turquoise water, and that unbeatable feeling of being far from everything, Western Australia’s North West coast delivers. Here’s my go-to route from Perth up to Ningaloo, including must-visit stops, handy tips, and a few low-key gems I reckon are worth the detour.
First Stop: Billabong Roadhouse – A Practical Overnighter
The stretch out of Perth is a long haul, so Billabong Roadhouse makes a solid overnight stop to break it up. Nothing fancy, but it’s got fuel, food, and enough comfort to reset before getting into the good stuff up north.
Shark Bay & Bottle Bay – 3 Days of Calm Waters and Killer Sunsets
Shark Bay is your first proper stop, and Bottle Bay in François Peron National Park is a real highlight. The waters here are flat and protected—great for boating or chasing snapper—and the sunsets hit different. I usually spend around three days here. It’s quiet, great for switching off, and has that proper remote feel.
🛑 Note: You’ll need a 4WD here—soft sand makes it tricky in anything else.
Coral Bay – 2 Days of Snorkelling Done Right
Coral Bay is always a standout for me—probably the best snorkelling along the coast. The marine life is next level, and the clarity of the water at spots like Five Fingers Reef, Oyster Bridge, and the Shark Sanctuary is unreal. Even if you’re not a confident snorkeller, the shallow reefs make it easy to enjoy.
⏱️ Plan for 2 days, minimum. You’ll want time in the water and a bit to wind down after.
Bullara Station – 1 Night of Outback Vibes
When I need a break from the salt air, Bullara Station is the spot. It’s a working cattle station with a bit of charm and plenty of character. The showers are outdoors, the sunsets are golden, and the scones are fresh out of the oven.
⛺ Stay a night – it’s worth the inland detour for something a bit different.
South Lefroy Bay & Winderabandi Point – 3-4 Nights Off the Grid
This is where the coast really steps it up. South Lefroy Bay and Winderabandi Point along the Ningaloo coastline are as untouched as you’ll find. Snorkelling, spearfishing, fishing—it’s all happening, but without the crowds. I’ve seen turtles, rays, and a ton of fish species out here.
📆 I usually spend 3–4 nights to make the most of it.
🔧 Tracks can be rough—expect deep corrugations. Lower your tire pressure and take it slow.
Hidden Gems Worth the Extra Time
- Lucky Bay Shacks: A peaceful spot with a protected lagoon that’s perfect for a swim or camp.
- Coronation Beach: Just south of Lucky Bay, this lesser-known beach has clean reef breaks and is a solid surf stop.
What Kind of Vehicle Do You Need?
To do this trip properly, you’ll want a decent 4WD, especially if you’re towing a boat or heading into places like Bottle Bay or South Lefroy. The main roads are fine, but once you’re on the sand or corrugations, anything less just won’t cut it.
🛠️ Make sure you’ve got low tire pressure, recovery gear, and ideally some mechanical knowledge if you're towing. Things can go wrong fast out here.
Travelling with a Caravan or Trailer?
Towing? Stick to the stops that can actually handle it. These places are caravan/trailer friendly:
- Coral Bay
- Bullara Station
- RAC Exmouth Holiday Park
- Ningaloo Coast (some parts)
- Lucky Bay Shacks
⚠️ I wouldn’t take a caravan into François Peron—too much soft sand and too little room for error.
Road Conditions & Common Problem Areas
Most of the main roads are sealed and easy enough, but beach access tracks and gravel roads can be punishing—especially in François Peron and around South Lefroy. If you’re towing, or even if you’re not, take it slow and check over your gear regularly.
A word of warning: the 200km stretch between Overlander and Carnarvon is where I’ve had the worst luck—blown trailer tires, engine lights, overheating, even a lifted engine head once. If it’s going to go wrong, it’ll probably go wrong there.
When to Go for the Best Conditions
The sweet spot is late April to September. You’ll get comfortable temps, less wind, and fewer crowds. Any earlier and it’s too hot—any later and you’re chasing the tail end of good weather.
Key Refuelling & Supply Points
You can reliably restock and refuel at:
- Billabong Roadhouse
- Carnarvon
- Coral Bay
- Exmouth (best place for a full resupply)
After that, you’re heading into remote country—plan ahead.
Wrapping It Up
Whether you’re out for snapper at Shark Bay, swimming with reef sharks in Coral Bay, or soaking in the silence at South Lefroy, the North West coast doesn’t disappoint. It’s rugged, remote, and incredibly rewarding—just make sure you’re prepped, and leave room for the unexpected.