Pack up the car, grab the snacks and perfect that Spotify playlist this summer, and get ready to hit the road for the ultimate Western Australian adventure! From hidden gems to iconic spots, these road trips are your ticket to unforgettable experiences.
1. Perth to Monkey Mia
- Traditional Custodians: Malgana people
- Road Trip Rundown: Monkey Mia is 847 km from Perth, offering an unforgettable 9-hour drive through Western Australia’s diverse landscapes
- Don’t Miss This: The friendly dolphins of Monkey Mia are a must-see!
Monkey Mia is the perfect destination for a summer road trip. Picture this: cruising for about 9 hours from Perth, you’re hitting open roads and seeing some classic Aussie landscapes. Along the way, you can visit the Shark Bay World Heritage area and the dramatic red cliffs of Francois Peron National Park.
Once you’re there, it’s all about those dolphins! They’re not shy either – popping up to say g’day right at the beach a few times per day. It’s pretty special to see them in their natural habitat, especially for the little ones. For the best experience arrive at the boardwalk by 7:30 am and follow all directions from the rangers so these beauties can be protected!
Summer at Monkey Mia is all about blue skies and top-notch beach weather. Whether you’re keen on relaxing on the sand, splashing around, or just soaking in the coastal vibes, Monkey Mia’s got the goods for a perfect summer getaway.
2. Perth to Ferguson Valley
- Traditional Custodians: Kaniyang and Wiilman people
- Road Trip Rundown: Ferguson Valley is 177km from Perth so you’ll only need a couple of hours to drive this one!
- Don’t Miss This: Gnomesville is a definite must-visit. This quirky spot is home to thousands of garden gnomes so it’s a unique experience!
Ferguson Valley is another top pick for a laid-back summer road trip. It’s a quick spin from Perth, but it feels like a world away with its lush, green hills and cool climate. This hidden gem is perfect for those after a chill vibe, offering boutique wineries, craft breweries, and the unique Gnomesville to explore. The nearby Wellington National Park is worth exploring too – with some beaut walking trails and spectacular scenery.
The valley’s small-town charm and stunning natural beauty make it an ideal spot to unwind and escape the city’s hustle. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a nature lover, or just looking for a spot to relax.
3. Perth to Lancelin
- Traditional Custodians: The Yued people
- Road Trip Rundown: Lancelin is about 127 km north of Perth with the journey taking just about an hour and a half.
- Don’t Miss This: Lancelin is home to the biggest sand dunes in Western Australia and they’re perfect for sandboarding!
Lancelin is a fantastic summer road trip destination. It’s a shorter drive making it perfect for a quick weekend getaway. Its massive, white sand dunes are a unique attraction, offering thrilling sandboarding and 4WD adventures. The town’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for windsurfing, fishing and swimming, making it a haven for water sports enthusiasts.
With its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty, Lancelin provides a refreshing escape from the city, ideal for those seeking both relaxation and outdoor excitement under the warm summer sun. Make sure you relax at the Endeavour Tavern at the end of the day to enjoy a sunset over the ocean – perfection!
4. Perth to Denmark
- Traditional Custodians: The Minang and Bibbulmun people
- Road Trip Rundown: Denmark is around 420 km from Perth and will take about 4.5 hours to drive
- Don’t Miss This: No visit to Denmark is complete without exploring the picturesque Elephant Rocks and Greens Pool in William Bay National Park.
Denmark, a gem in Southern Western Australia, is an excellent summer road trip destination with its cooler climate and a mix of forest and coastal scenery. It’s around 4.5 hours from Perth, making it accessible yet far enough to feel like an escape.
The region is home to stunning beaches like Greens Pool, ideal for swimming in clear turquoise waters, and Elephant Rocks for beautiful views. Denmark is like a more laid-back version of Margaret River, with local wineries and eateries, offering a taste of the region’s produce. It’s a chill place where nature, good food, and serene beaches come together, perfect for those seeking a summer getaway that combines relaxation with outdoor activities.
5. Perth to Esperance
- Traditional Custodians: Kepa Kurl Wudjari people and Ngadju people
- Road Trip Rundown: Esperance is located about 720 km southeast of Perth this road trip will take about 7 to 8 hours
- Don’t Miss This: Esperance is home to stunning beaches like Lucky Bay, known for its friendly kangaroos and crystal-clear waters
Heading to Esperance is as much about the journey as the destination. On the way, you can check out Wave Rock near Hyden – it’s a massive, ancient rock formation shaped like a huge wave.
When you hit Esperance, the beaches are just the beginning. Lucky Bay is a must-visit -this one constantly makes an appearance on “best beaches in the world” lists. Lucky Bay is famous for its friendly kangaroos and crystal-clear waters. You’ve also got the Great Ocean Drive, a scenic loop with stunning coastal views. For a bit of adventure, there’s bushwalking and exploring in Cape Le Grand National Park. This trip’s packed with killer views and chilled-out vibes, perfect for soaking up the best of WA’s coastline.
Last Words
Wrapping up, these five road trips from Perth are prime picks for a summer adventure. From Monkey Mia’s friendly dolphins and Denmark’s boutique wineries to Ferguson Valley’s quaint charm, Lancelin’s thrilling sand dunes, and Esperance’s stunning beaches, each offers a unique slice of Western Australia. Whether you’re after wildlife encounters, nature hikes, or just a relaxing beach day, these destinations promise unforgettable summer experiences. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for some of WA’s best summer adventures!
