The Coral Coast Drive, WA (Perth to Exmouth Road Trip)

To kick off this adventure, you’ll collect your campervan hire from the convenient Perth maui branch and head to a local grocery store to make sure your motorhome is stocked with essentials. If you have extra time before hitting the road, why not explore more of Perth’s magic? Want something romantic? Check out things to do in Perth for couples. Or just want to grab a bite to eat? Check out some of the best spots to eat in town with our foodie’s guide to Perth. 

Once you have had your fill of exploring the best things to do in Perth, its time to hit the highway and head north along the scenic Indian Ocean Drive. 

Where to stop between Perth and Cervantes

On the drive north, a quick detour to Yanchep National Park is well worth it. Keep your eyes peeled for koalas in the trees, or delve into one of the park’s limestone caves for a unique underground experience. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where should I stop between Perth and Exmouth?” Yanchep is a classic first pit stop. 

Best things to do in Cervantes

Once you have arrived in Cervantes, it's time for the main event: the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park. The eerie limestone formations rising out of the sand create a moon-like landscape you won’t soon forget. You can choose to drive through parts of the park (be sure to check with the hire company first) or explore on foot. After that, swing by Cervantes Beach for a lazy afternoon by the Indian Ocean. If you’re feeling peckish, head to the Lobster Shack for a fresh lobster feast – a local favourite. 

Where to stay in Cervantes

RAC Cervantes Holiday Park is ideal for an overnight in your campervan. You’ll find powered sites, clean facilities, and easy access to the beach. It’s a fantastic spot to watch the sunset over the water and get a good night’s rest before you continue your Perth to Exmouth road trip. 

Continuing north, your drive to Geraldton is straightforward and scenic. You’ll see more of that famously rugged Coral Coast, so keep an eye out for peaceful bays, wildflowers (in season), and playful wildlife along the way. 

Where to stop between Cervantes and Geraldton

Before leaving Cervantes, visit Lake Thetis to check out the stromatolites – bizarre, ancient microbial structures that offer a glimpse into Earth’s early life forms. Then, continue to Jurien Bay, where you can book a sea lion tour or simply bask in the sun on pristine beaches. 

For a quick dip, Dynamite Bay in Green Head is a small cove protected by natural limestone cliffs – a perfect spot to stretch your legs and cool down. As you roll closer to Geraldton, consider dropping into Port Denison and Dongara for fresh-off-the-boat seafood treats. 

Best things to do in Geraldton

Once you arrive in Geraldton, you’ll find it’s a laid-back coastal hub with a strong fishing and surfing culture. The HMAS Sydney Memorial is a poignant tribute to lost sailors and offers panoramic views over the town. Explore the Geraldton Foreshore, which is perfect for an evening stroll, or spend time at local beaches for safe swimming and snorkelling. 

Where to stay in Geraldton

Geraldton Caravan Park offers comfortable powered sites, making it a prime spot to set up your camper for the night. With amenities close by, you’ll wake refreshed and ready for more Coral Coast adventures. 

This section of the Exmouth to Perth road trip (or vice versa) is all about stunning landscapes and postcard-perfect stops, so be sure to keep your camera batteries recharged! The drive may be shorter, but you’ll want to give yourself time to see some of Western Australia’s most spectacular coastal sights. 

Where to stop between Geraldton and Kalbarri

Make a beeline for Hutt Lagoon, famously known as the Pink Lake. Depending on the time of day and season, you’ll see shades ranging from bubblegum pink to lilac, and it is a surreal experience to witness. Next, continue into Kalbarri National Park, noting that there’s a park entry fee – well worth paying to witness some of WA’s best hiking trails and rugged gorges. 

Best things to do in Kalbarri

Kalbarri National Park is a highlight of any Perth to Exmouth road trip. Must-sees include Nature’s Window, an iconic rock formation that frames the river and red-hued gorge, and Z-Bend Gorge for those confident on a slightly more challenging trek. The Kalbarri Skywalk offers suspended platforms over the gorge – a spectacular vantage point for photos. If you fancy a relaxing afternoon, head to Blue Holes Beach to snorkel in protected rock pools filled with marine life. 

Where to stay in Kalbarri

Kalbarri Tudor Holiday Park is a great choice for campervan travellers looking for powered sites and convenient facilities. Settle in here, grill up a delicious dinner, and prepare for another day of Coral Coast adventures. 

Continue your campervan adventure by heading north from Kalbarri to Shark Bay, an area recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its incredible biodiversity and striking landscapes. The drive itself is a treat, offering coastal vantage points and intriguing natural stops along the way. 

Where to stop between Kalbarri and Denham

Kickstart your morning with a scenic drive along the Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs, where spots like Pot Alley and Red Bluff showcase rugged red rock against the vivid blue ocean. Further along, be sure to stop at Hamelin Pool to marvel at more stromatolites – living fossils that have thrived here for thousands of years. As you near Shark Bay, take time to visit Shell Beach, a brilliant white expanse composed entirely of tiny shells. This uniquely beautiful spot is perfect for a quick stroll or a few memorable photos. 

Best things to do in Denham

Denham is the gateway to Shark Bay, a marine wonderland renowned for encounters with dolphins, dugongs, and sea turtles. Enjoy the relaxed coastal vibe, wander the shoreline, or pop into the Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery & Visitor Centre to get your bearings and learn more about the area’s ecology. 

Where to stay in Denham

Park up for the night at Denham Seaside Holiday Park to watch the sun dip below the Indian Ocean from the comfort of your motorhome. This seaside stay has powered sites, clean facilities, and brilliant sea views that are sure to dazzle. 

Spend today delving deeper into Shark Bay’s famous coastal ecosystems and marine life. With Denham as your base, you can easily pop over to Monkey Mia and Francois Peron National Park. 

Where to stop between Denham and Monkey Mia

Head out early for the morning dolphin experience at Monkey Mia – it’s a magical encounter where wild dolphins often swim right up to shore. Afterwards, explore Francois Peron National Park, particularly the Peron Heritage Precinct. The park’s contrasting red cliffs, white sandy beaches, and turquoise waters are an unforgettable sight. 

Best things to do in Shark Bay

For sweeping ocean views and the chance to spot sharks and rays from above, head to Eagle Bluff. The boardwalk overlooks crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. If you’d rather relax in a tranquil spot, Little Lagoon is great for swimming, kayaking, or simply cooling off after a day in the sun. 

Where to stay in Denham

Return to Denham Seaside Holiday Park for another night by the water. Share stories with fellow travellers, grill up some local seafood, and soak in the laid-back vibe of Shark Bay. 

small town known for its tropical fruit plantations, unique space history, and laid-back atmosphere. 

Where to stop between Shark Bay and Carnarvon 

En route, you can visit the Old Telegraph Station. Another worthwhile pause is Wooramel River Retreat, an Outback oasis where you can stretch your legs, grab a bite, or even bathe in warm artesian bore baths if time allows. 

Best things to do in Carnarvon

A must-see is the Carnarvon Space Museum, packed with fascinating exhibits detailing Australia’s role in the space race and NASA’s Apollo missions. Then head out to Carnarvon’s Blowholes, where ocean swells send plumes of water into the air for an impressive natural display – just keep a safe distance. 

Where to stay in Carnarvon

The Capricorn Holiday Park offers powered sites and comfortable facilities where you can park your camper for the evening. Rest up and prepare for more stunning coastline attractions on this epic Perth to Exmouth road trip. 

The journey north continues toward Coral Bay, a true paradise for snorkelling and marine life encounters. The roads here are generally easy-going, and you’ll start getting a feel for the remote beauty of the Ningaloo region. 

Where to stop between Carnarvon and Coral Bay

One popular stop on the way to Coral Bay is the Quobba Blowholes, where powerful waves crash against coastal cliffs, sending water shooting skyward. You’ll likely spot the iconic “King Waves Kill” sign – a reminder to be cautious around the unpredictable swells. After admiring this rugged coastline, continue onwards to Coral Bay. 

Best things to do in Coral Bay

Coral Bay is beloved for its proximity to Ningaloo Reef – a fringing reef system that’s teeming with vibrant corals and tropical fish right off the shore. Snorkelling in Bill’s Bay in the afternoon is a must-do, or if you prefer to keep dry, hop on a glass-bottom boat tour for a more relaxed view of the underwater world near Coral Bay. Adventure-seekers can go on a manta ray swim tour, and if you’re visiting between March and July, whale shark tours are also on offer. 

Where to stay in Coral Bay

When it comes to Coral Bay accommodation, there is none better than Coral Bay Peoples Park for ocean-view powered sites and an unbeatable location just steps from the shore. Falling asleep to the sound of gentle waves is all part of the Coral Bay, Western Australia, experience. 

Continue your Perth to Exmouth road trip by heading further north along the Coral Coast to Exmouth. This short but scenic west coast drive takes you closer to the heart of Ningaloo Reef and the stunning Cape Range National Park. 

Where to stop between Coral Bay and Exmouth

Venture along Minilya-Exmouth Road until you reach Cape Range National Park, a dramatic national park where rugged limestone ranges meet tranquil beaches. A stop at Yardie Creek Gorge is also highly recommended – join a boat tour through the gorge to see rare rock wallabies and learn about the area’s unique geology. 

Best things to do in Exmouth

A favourite pastime here is snorkelling at Turquoise Bay, known as one of Australia’s top spots for shallow-water marine encounters. The colour of the water lives up to its name, and you can drift snorkel with turtles, rays, and reef sharks. Make sure to carry cash or a card for the national park entry fee, as it’s worth every cent to experience the pristine beauty of Cape Range. 

Where to stay in Exmouth

The RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park is a popular choice for campervan travellers, offering well-maintained powered sites, a pool area, and close proximity to the town centre. With Exmouth as your base, you can spend your days snorkelling or diving Ningaloo Reef, exploring local breweries, or simply sipping sundowners by the sea. 

One of the biggest highlights of any Exmouth road trip itinerary is the chance to immerse yourself in the natural wonders around Exmouth. Today, you’ll focus on the reef and its vibrant marine life, with another short drive out to Cape Range National Park. 

Best things to do in Exmouth

If you’re travelling in whale shark season (typically March to July) or humpback whale season (July to November) in Western Australia, consider joining a local eco-tour for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with these gentle giants. Snorkelling at Oyster Stacks or Lakeside is also a must-do; the reefs are overflowing with colourful fish, turtles, and coral structures that you could spend days exploring. Later in the day, make your way to Vlamingh Head Lighthouse to soak up an unforgettable sunset over Ningaloo Reef. Bring your camera – the panoramic coastal views in this corner of Western Australia are unbeatable. 

Where to stay in Exmouth

Settle in for another night at the RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park. You’ll appreciate the chance to freshen up, dine on freshly caught seafood, and get a good night’s rest in your campervan or motorhome, all while being just minutes away from the beach and town facilities. 

Your final day in Exmouth is all about taking it slow. Whether you choose to linger in town, lounge by the turquoise waters, or explore a couple of local gems, you’ll have the freedom to unwind at your own pace. 

Best things to do in Exmouth

Kickstart the morning with a beach stroll or a kayaking session in Mangrove Bay. Be sure to note the park entry fee if you’re heading back into Cape Range National Park. For a slice of maritime history, head to the Mildura Wreck viewpoint, where you can learn about the ship’s intriguing past. If you’d rather end on a high note – quite literally – opt for a scenic flight over Ningaloo Reef for breathtaking aerial views. If you prefer to hike, we highly recommend checking out Charles Knife Canyon. 

From here, you can bid farewell to the west coast and continue onto Broome to return your camper or extend your Western Australia road trip and retrace your favourite stops on the journey back to Perth. Either way, you’ll depart with a camera full of mesmerising photos and a heart full of cherished memories from your campervan hire adventure.