Perth to Cervantes Road Trip Guide

Are you planning to get out of the city this weekend to explore regional WA? Are you a fan of soaking up the sun on pristine beaches? Enjoying the freshly caught seafood? Wandering through unique national parks? If so, a Perth to Cervantes road trip is for you!  

Where is Cervantes?   

Cervantes is a small fishing town just over two hours north of Perth. Cervantes was named after an American whaling ship that ran ashore on a nearby Island in 1844. The vessel was, in turn, named after the author of Don Quixote – Miguel de Cervantes.   

Cervantes is the start of Australia’s Coral Coast region, its crayfish and lobster industry, and the gateway to the Pinnacles of Nambung National Park. These are just some things that make Cervantes an excellent spot for your next weekend getaway from Perth – there is just so much to do and see in the region!  

How to Get to Cervantes  

• Distance: Perth to Cervantes – 197km  
• Time: Perth to Cervantes – approximately 2 hours, 10 minutes  

Perth to Cervantes by Car   

The easiest way to get to Cervantes is by car. From Perth, head north along Mitchell Freeway, continue on Wanneroo Road (which becomes Indian Ocean Drive), then turn left onto Cervantes Road – the whole drive takes around two hours. Having your own car makes it easy to stop at places like Yanchep National Park and Lancelin Sand Dunes along the way.

If you need to rent a car, I usually book through DiscoverCars – it’s the easiest way to compare prices and find the best rate, with pickup options right at Perth Airport or in the city.

Perth to Cervantes by Coach   

TransWA also offers coach trips to Cervantes; visitors should catch the N5: East Perth to Geraldton via Jurien Bay coach. At the time of publication, this coach departs East Perth Terminal at 3:45 pm on Friday, arriving at Cervantes (Library Roadhouse/café) between 6:45-7:15 pm. Alternatively, the Sunday service departs East Perth Terminal at 9:45 am, arriving at Cervantes (Library Roadhouse/café) between 12:30-1:00 pm.  

Things to do in Cervantes   

There are plenty of things to do in Cervantes – no matter your interests, there’s something for everyone!   

Pinnacles Desert   

The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park is a must-see for visitors to the area. Located 23km South of Cervantes, this is one of the major natural attractions in the region.   

It’s a spectacular sight – limestone structures poking out of the sandy earth as far as the eye can see. The pinnacles formed when the sea receded, leaving crushed shell deposits behind approximately 30,000 years ago. Winds eroded the surrounding sand, unveiling the spectacular scenery.   

Nambung is a national park experience like no other. The Pinnacles Desert spans approximately 190 hectares and contains thousands of mysterious pinnacles, ranging from just centimetres tall to 5 metres high.   

Visitors can choose to take the 1.2km signed walk through the park. The loop trail takes visitors through the park, getting up close and personal to the pinnacles. The halfway point is the Desert View Lookout, the perfect spot to take some spectacular landscape pictures.   

Alternatively, visitors can take the 4km drive track. This is a 4km one-way loop through the park. The path is gravel so that it can be driven by 4×4 wheel drive or 2-wheel drive. There are parking bays along the track so visitors can get out and explore. The drive track also passes by the Desert View Lookout so visitors won’t miss out on the incredible view.   

After exploring, visitors can check out the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre. The centre has a gallery, where you can view beautiful photography, media installations and artwork inspired by the area, as well as a gift shop to grab a souvenir of your trip.   

The Pinnacles Desert is also the perfect destination for astronomy enthusiasts as it’s free from the bright city lights. Sunset Stargazing Tours run from Perth, including a dinner in the desert, spectacular sunset views over the desert, and a breathtaking guided stargazing experience after dark. Where better to view the milky way than in the middle of the desert?   

Visitors should bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there is no sun cover in the desert.   

The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre is open from 9:30 am-4:30 pm every day except Christmas. Entry to the park is $15 per vehicle and payable at the Entry Station. Park facilities include well-maintained toilets and barbecues.   

To get to the Pinnacles Desert, drive 30 minutes south of Cervantes along Indian Ocean Drive, turn left onto Pinnacles Drive and follow until you reach the entry station.  

Lake Thetis   

Lake Thetis is a 5-minute drive from Cervantes and is worth a visit. It’s a site of particular interest as it is home to thousands of stromatolites – layered rock-like formations created by photosynthetic cyanobacteria. Lake Thetis is one of the only places in the world with living stromatolites, and they provide a record of the most ancient life forms on the planet.  

Visitors can take the leisurely 1.5km loop trail around the shore of the lake and stop at the lookout points for photos. Just be aware that the stromatolites can be challenging to see on windy days when the water ripples. 

To get to Lake Thetis, head along Cervantes Rd, turn right onto Hansen Bay Rd and follow the signage.   

Lobster shack  

Stopping at the Lobster Shack is an absolute must for visitors to the area to try Cervantes lobster! Owned by a family who pioneered rock lobster fishing in the area, the Lobster Schack is where visitors can experience all aspects of the rock lobster industry.   

Touring the facility, visitors can learn all about the Western Rock Lobster (or crayfish) and the fishing and processing methods before stopping for a delicious meal overlooking the beautiful turquoise water.   

The Lobster Shack menu contains a massive range of delicious seafood caught daily. Tasty dishes like WA Rock Lobster grilled with garlic butter, battered Spanish mackerel and chips, tempura-battered octopus salad, rock lobster roll and chilli muscles. For non-seafood lovers, there are classic options like beef burgers. But be warned – the seagulls here are cheeky buggers! So watch your food like a hawk, or it will be gone quick-smart!   

There is also a decent beer, wine and cocktail list, making Lobster Shack the perfect place to spend your afternoon in Cervantes. Grab a table overlooking the ocean and watch the fishing boats come into the dock and unload their catch of the day.   

The Lobster Shack also hire out stand up paddle boards so visitors can explore Cervantes from the sea. Bookings can be made through the lobster shack website. link   

At the time of publication, the Lobster Shack Cervantes opening hours are 9 am to 5 pm for the shop, and the kitchen runs from 11 am-3 pm daily.   

Australian Sea Lion Tours  

Get up close and personal with these majestic and rare creatures. The Australian Sea Lion Tour, run by Lobster Shack, will take you out to some of the islands surrounding Cervantes, where these playful sea lions can entertain you.  

Passengers can jump in the water and have a snorkel (equipment provided), and enjoy the light refreshments on board. The tour is 90 minutes in duration and can be booked through the Lobster Shack website.   

For more information on what a sea lion tour is all about check out my Guide to the Jurien Bay Sea Lions.

Thirsty Point lookout  

If you’re after a scenic spot to take panoramic views of the Indian ocean, Thirsty Point is it! Located just a 10-minute walk from the town centre down Seville Street, this is a lookout that won’t disappoint. The white sandy beach and turquoise water curve around to your left and right. If you’re lucky, you might spot some windsurfers!  

Thirsty Point lookout is an excellent place to watch the magnificent sunset. Visitors can take a short walk down to the beach, which is also a fabulous spot for fishing. You can even bring your furry mate as dogs are allowed on this beach.   

Hangover Bay  

Hangover Bay is another spectacular beach in the area. It can easily be reached by car, travelling around 12 minutes South of Cervantes along Indian Ocean Drive.  

This beach is a fantastic spot for swimming, snorkelling and fishing as it’s more sheltered from southerly winds than others.   

The beach has toilet and barbecue facilities. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed at this one.   

Kangaroo point  

Located again off Indian Ocean Drive, but closer to Cervantes sits Kangaroo point – another famous beach in the area. Dogs are also not permitted on this beach, but it is an excellent spot for fishing and has toilet and barbecue facilities.   

Fishing

Fishing is one of the most popular activities in Cervantes. In addition, tailor, Whiting, Silver Trevally, and Mulloway and squid are common catches in the area.   

The best fishing spots in the area include Thirsty Point, Cervantes Jetty and Kangaroo point. For a complete run-down on fishing in Cervantes, check out The Complete Guide to Fishing in Cervantes.   

Cervantes accommodation  

Cervantes has accommodation options to suit every style of traveller, from laid-back holiday parks to resort-style digs.   

RAC Holiday Park  

RAC Holiday Park is situated right on the waterfront and is an excellent option for families. The park features a range of accommodation styles – powered and unpowered campsites, a range of villas and caravan sites.   

RAC Holiday Park also offers plenty of features and facilities, including multiple shower, toilet, laundry and kitchen blocks. There’s also a pool, playground, games room, cafe and plenty of barbecue facilities.   

I really like this one for its relaxed, coastal vibe, you can check current rates and availability on Booking.com here.

Pinnacles Edge Resort  

Located in the heart of Cervantes, Pinnacles Edge Resort provides self-contained and fully serviced rooms. Visitors can choose between the spa suite, studio hotel room and two-bedroom apartment. Resort facilities include a pool, barbecues, fitness centre and restaurant.  

If you prefer a bit more comfort (and a spa bath after exploring the Pinnacles!), take a look at Pinnacles Edge Resort on Booking.com here.

Cervantes Pinnacles Motel

Cervantes Pinnacles Motel is a budget-friendly option with clean, comfortable rooms and friendly service. It’s a short walk to local cafes and the beach, and the on-site Europa Anchor restaurant serves fresh local seafood – a great choice for travellers keeping things simple and central.

For an affordable, no-fuss stay close to everything, I’d recommend Cervantes Pinnacles Motel on Booking.com here.

Shops in Cervantes  

There are a couple of shops in Cervantes for travellers to grab the essentials but be sure to grab specialty items before your visit.   

Cervantes General Store  

The Cervantes General store stocks a small range of grocery items, fresh produce and meats. Fishing enthusiasts can also head here to buy bait and a small range of tackle.   

Cervantes General Store, 2 Cadiz St, Cervantes WA 6511  

Cervantes Liquor  

Cervantes liquor is the place to go to buy your well-deserved drinks at the end of a busy day exploring. They provide excellent service and a stock a good range of drinks.  

Cervantes Liquor, 8 Cadiz St, Cervantes WA 6511  

Restaurants in Cervantes

If you need a refuel after a big day exploring, these are the spots I recommend.

Cervantes Bar & Bistro  

Cervantes Bar and Bistro is a fantastic spot for dinner. In this pub-style setting, diners can choose from classic meals like steak and wings but can also choose from the many local seafood dishes such as the Local Lobster with garlic butter and chips.   

Lobster Shack  

The Lobster Shack is a fantastic spot to stop for lunch. The menu contains a huge range of delicious seafood caught daily, and there are options for non-seafood lovers and kids meals. There’s a good range of beer, wine and cocktails, and the outdoor deck area has beautiful, sweeping views of the Indian Ocean – the perfect backdrop for your afternoon beer.   

Sea Breeze Café  

Sea Breeze café is a great place to go for a takeaway meal. The menu includes classic takeaway options like fish and chips, pizzas and burgers.   

Cervantes Country Club  

Cervantes Country club is an excellent choice for lunch or differ. Travellers should try the seafood platter featuring delicious local seafood. There is also a daily happy hour that runs from 5 pm-6 pm.   

Best time to visit Cervantes  

Cervantes is a great destination year-round. Fishing enthusiasts may find fish more active during the summer months. Wildflowers in the region bloom from August to October. Cooler months from May to June bring some rainfall but are great times to go hiking in the surrounding national parks.   

Last Words on Perth to Cervantes Road Trip

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and the bustle of the city this weekend why not head to Cervantes? There is something here for the whole family making it a fantastic destination for your next weekend getaway.

Looking for more activities for your weekend? Why not try out X Golf Balcatta, check out Jurien Bay or head out on a Perth picnic. If you’re looking for more of Perth’s great outdoors, why not head out on a Bells Rapids Hike, Lesmurdie Falls Hike or check out Walyunga National Park? Head off on a trip to Augusta and check out the best things to do in Augusta. Or, if you’re into outdoor activities, whale watching in Dunsborough could be for you! How about going snorkelling in Exmouth? Head to Perth Weekend for more weekend inspiration.