Western Australia & West Coast Travel Guide 2026
How to plan a West Coast trip — Perth, the Pinnacles, Margaret River, Ningaloo Reef and the road north. When to go, how long you need, what it costs and which tour to pick.
Australia's West Coast runs from Perth north to Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef, and south to Margaret River. The classic trips are day tours from Perth (the Pinnacles, Rottnest Island, Margaret River) and multi-day overland tours up to Coral Bay and Exmouth to swim with whale sharks (Mar-Jul) and snorkel Ningaloo straight off the beach.
In This Guide
Dundee Picks for the West Coast
Three trips our team books most for first-time West Coast visitors.
Best day tripPinnacles Sunset & Stargazing Tour
The otherworldly Pinnacles Desert at sunset, then stargazing on the drive back — an easy, unforgettable day from Perth.
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Reef & road tripPerth to Exmouth Explorer 7 Day Return
The full run up to Ningaloo and back — snorkel the reef off the beach and (in season) swim with whale sharks.
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Epic overlandPerth to Broome Tour 10 Day
The big one — Perth all the way to Broome, taking in the coast, the reef and the Kimberley's edge.
View & BookPlan Your West Coast Trip
When to go
March to July is prime for the north — whale shark season on Ningaloo and mild days. September to November brings wildflowers and humpback whales. Perth and the South West are lovely October to April; the far north is best avoided in the peak-summer heat.
How long to stay
Perth and its day trips fill 2-3 days. Add the South West (Margaret River) over 2-3 days. To reach Ningaloo/Exmouth you need a 5 to 10-day overland tour — the distances are vast, so give it time.
Getting there
Fly into Perth, the hub for the whole coast. Multi-day tours north depart from Perth; some one-way trips let you fly back from Exmouth (Learmonth) to save the return drive.
Getting around
The coast is enormous and public transport is limited, so a multi-day tour or a campervan is the way to cover it. For Perth day trips, join a guided day tour — it sorts the long drives to the Pinnacles and Margaret River for you.
Where to stay
Perth and Fremantle have every budget covered. Overland tours include camping, hostels or eco stays along the way; Coral Bay and Exmouth are the bases for Ningaloo.
What Does a West Coast Trip Cost?
Prices move with season, length and inclusions, so we show live prices on each tour. As a planning guide:
| Perth day tour (Pinnacles / Rottnest) | Live price | Transport and guide included |
| Margaret River day tour | Live price | Wine, coast and caves from Perth |
| 5-7 day Ningaloo overland | Live price | Perth to Exmouth, the classic West Coast run |
| Whale shark swim (Ningaloo) | Live price | Seasonal Mar-Jul — book ahead |
All tours booked through Dundee show live availability and a live price with instant confirmation and no hidden booking fees.
What to Pack for the West Coast
- Swimmers, snorkel-friendly gear and a rashie
- Reef-safe sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Sturdy shoes for the Pinnacles and gorges
- Warm layer for desert nights and boat mornings
- A refillable water bottle for the long drives
- Motion-sickness tablets if you're prone (reef boats)
Dundee Local Tip
If swimming with whale sharks is on your list, plan your West Coast trip for March to July and book the Ningaloo leg early — the season is short and the boats sell out. Doing the Pinnacles at sunset rather than midday means better photos and cooler walking. [Dundee team: replace or add your own first-hand tip here.]
Frequently Asked Questions
When can you swim with whale sharks on Ningaloo Reef?
Roughly March to July, when whale sharks gather on the Ningaloo Reef near Exmouth and Coral Bay. Book early — it's a short, popular season.
How many days do you need for the West Coast?
Perth and its day trips take 2-3 days. To reach Ningaloo/Exmouth you need a 5 to 10-day overland tour because the distances are very large.
What are the best day trips from Perth?
The Pinnacles Desert, Rottnest Island (quokkas and beaches), Margaret River (wine, coast and caves) and the Swan Valley.
What's the best time to visit Western Australia?
March to July for the northern reef, September to November for wildflowers and whales, and October to April for Perth and the South West.
West Coast Tours — Live Availability
Every West Coast trip we can book right now, with live prices and instant confirmation.
Pinnacles Sunset & Stargazing Tour
Watch sunset paint the ancient Pinnacles Desert golden, then stargaze under some of the clearest skies in Western Australia. This 9-hour Perth day tour includes dinner and expert astronomy commentary.
Perth to Exmouth Explorer 7 Day Return
Explore Western Australia's stunning Coral Coast on this 7-day return trip from Perth. Snorkel the Ningaloo Reef, swim with whale sharks (seasonal), explore gorges and camp under outback skies.
Broome to Darwin Kimberley Tour 10 Day
Travel the iconic Kimberley from Broome to Darwin over 10 epic days. Bungle Bungles, El Questro, gorges, waterfalls and outback camping through Australia's last true wilderness.
Perth to Broome Tour 10 Day
Journey from Perth to Broome via Kalbarri, Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth and Karijini National Park over 10 spectacular days. Snorkel coral reefs, hike ancient gorges and camp under outback stars.
Broome to Perth Tour 10 Day
Road-trip from Broome to Perth via Karijini, Exmouth, Ningaloo Reef and Kalbarri over 10 days. Swim with whale sharks, explore ancient gorges and discover WA's incredible Coral Coast.
Perth to Exmouth & Return 7 Day Tour
Explore WA's stunning Coral Coast — Kalbarri, Shark Bay, Ningaloo Reef and Exmouth over 7 action-packed days from Perth and back. Snorkel, dive, surf and camp under the stars.
Perth to Exmouth One-Way 5 Day Tour
Journey from Perth to Exmouth via Pinnacles, Kalbarri and Coral Bay over 5 days. Perfect for travellers heading north — explore ancient landscapes, swim at Ningaloo and camp along the way.
Perth to Exmouth, Karijini & Return 10 Day
The ultimate WA adventure — 10 days from Perth to Exmouth and Karijini and back. Snorkel Ningaloo, hike Karijini's ancient gorges, explore Kalbarri and the Pinnacles Desert.
Adelaide to Perth Adventure Tour
Cross the wild Nullarbor on this 10-day overland adventure from Adelaide to Perth. Swim with sea lions, camp under starlit skies, surf legendary breaks and explore the rugged beauty of the Great Australian Bight.
Esperance & Margaret River Adventure Tour
6-day adventure from Perth exploring WA's stunning southern coast. Visit the pink Lake Hillier, swim at Lucky Bay with kangaroos, taste world-class wines in Margaret River, and discover towering karri forests.
Perth to Adelaide Adventure Tour
Epic 10-day overland journey from Perth to Adelaide across the Nullarbor. Swim with dolphins at Monkey Mia, explore Esperance's turquoise bays, cross the vast treeless plain, and finish in vibrant Adelaide.
Yoga Retreat from Perth (Glamping Double/Twin)
3-day yoga and wellness escape from Perth to Margaret River. Reconnect with nature through daily yoga sessions, forest walks, organic meals, and glamping under the stars in WA's stunning southwest.
Yoga Retreat from Perth (Glamping Single)
3-day solo yoga retreat from Perth with private glamping tent. Enjoy personalised wellness sessions, Margaret River wine tastings, forest immersion, and the peace of your own luxury bush accommodation.
Yoga Retreat from Perth (Glamping Triple)
3-day group yoga retreat from Perth with shared glamping tent for three. Perfect for friends who want to combine daily yoga, Margaret River wine country, coastal walks, and campfire dining.
Perth to Exmouth One Way (Basix)
6-day adventure from Perth to Exmouth through WA's stunning Coral Coast. Snorkel Ningaloo Reef, explore Kalbarri's gorges, visit Monkey Mia's dolphins, and finish in tropical Exmouth.
Perth to Exmouth Return (Basix)
7-day return trip from Perth to Exmouth and back. Snorkel Ningaloo Reef, swim with whale sharks (seasonal), explore coastal gorges, and experience WA's incredible Coral Coast with shared accommodation.
Perth to Monkey Mia & Pink Lake (Basix)
4-day adventure from Perth to Monkey Mia and the famous Pink Lake. Hand-feed wild dolphins, explore the Pinnacles Desert, visit Kalbarri National Park, and see the incredible Hutt Lagoon.
Pinnacles Desert Lobster & Yanchep Tour
Day trip from Perth to the eerie Pinnacles Desert, Yanchep National Park for koalas, and a fresh lobster lunch. See WA's unique limestone formations and native wildlife in one packed day.
Pinnacles Sunset Tour with Picnic Dinner
Watch the sun set over the Pinnacles Desert on this evening tour from Perth. Walk among the ancient limestone pillars as they glow in golden light, then enjoy a picnic dinner under the stars.
Humpback Whale Safari
7 Hours humpback whale safari departing from Coral Bay, WA. An unforgettable marine wildlife experience on Australia's coast.
Humpback Whales Interaction (Swimmer)
Swimming with Humpback Whales at Ningaloo Reef is an experience of a lifetime. Join Ningaloo Blue and experience the ultimate wildlife encounter. Swimming beside the magnificen...
Bremer Canyon Killer Whale (Orca) Expediton
Naturaliste Charters are the proud Founder’s of the Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Expeditions and are the only operator equipped with the knowledge and experience of the Bremer Bay...
Augusta Whale Watching Eco Tour
Explore the crystal waters of the south-west coastline with our passionate and highly qualified team at Naturaliste Charters that cover all ocean adventures from whale watching,...
Dunsborough Whale Watching Eco Tours
Explore the crystal waters of the south-west coastline with our passionate and highly qualified team at Naturaliste Charters that cover all ocean adventures from whale watching,...
Broome Whale Watching and Sunset Cruise
5 Hours broome whale watching and sunset cruise departing from Broome, WA. An unforgettable marine wildlife experience on Australia's coast.
Humpback Whales Interaction (Observer)
Swimming with Humpback Whales at Ningaloo Reef is an experience of a lifetime. Join Ningaloo Blue and experience the ultimate wildlife encounter. Swimming beside the magnificen...
Broome to Perth
Jump on the Share Bus from Broome to Perth and see the wonders of Australia’s largest state. How it works We're not a tour. We're a shared rental! You share the rental of our minibus, trailer and camping equipment with other backpackers. The start and end date is set, but the rest is flexible to modify as you like. This way of travelling is cheaper than a tour and more flexible, but you get a group of travel mates and everything you need for a camping road trip.
Melbourne to Perth
Jump on the Share Bus from Melbourne to Perth to check out amazing coastal sights along the Great Ocean Road, explore Adelaide and the Barossa Valley, camp under the stars across the Nullarbor, and discover the beauty of the South West.
Perth to Broome
Jump on the Share Bus from Perth to Broome and see the wonders of Australia’s largest state. How it works We're not a tour. We're a shared rental! You share the rental of our minibus, trailer and camping equipment with other backpackers. The start and end date is set, but the rest is flexible to modify as you like. This way of travelling is cheaper than a tour and more flexible, but you get a group of travel mates and everything you need for a camping road trip.
Perth to Melbourne
Jump on the Share Bus from Perth to Melbourne to discover the beauty of the South West, cross the Nullarbor and explore near Adelaide and the Eyre Peninsula, and then drive along the coast to Melbourne.
South West Loop
Jump on the Share Bus from Perth to Esperance to discover the South West and explore beaches, forests, see some animals and do a sneaky wine tasting. 10-day camping road trip.
West Coast Loop
Jump on the Share Bus and travel along the coast to Exmouth, inland to Karijini, and then back to Perth for an amazing north west adventure. How it works We're not a tour. We're a shared rental! You share the rental of our minibus, trailer and camping equipment with other backpackers. The start and end date is set, but the rest is flexible to modify as you like. This way of travelling is cheaper than a tour and more flexible, but you get a group of travel mates and everything you need for a camping road trip.
Perth Family Surf Experience – Private Group Lesson
Enjoy a private 75-minute surf lesson just for your family. Your coach tailors the session to your group’s ages and abilities—perfect for beginners through to advanced, with all equipment included.
10,000ft Rottnest Island Tandem Skydive
Tandem skydive over beautiful Rottnest Island from 10,000ft and enjoy 30 seconds free fall time.
10,000ft Rottnest Skydive & Ferry Package (ex Perth City)
Tandem skydive over beautiful Rottnest Island with Skydive Geronimo and same-day return ex Barrack St (Perth) Adult Ferry Ticket.
15,000ft Rottnest Island Tandem Skydive
Tandem skydive over beautiful Rottnest Island from 15,000ft and enjoy 66 seconds free fall time. This is the highest legal altitude to jump from in Australia!
15,000ft Rottnest Skydive & Ferry Package (ex Perth City)
Tandem skydive over beautiful Rottnest Island with Skydive Geronimo and same-day return ex Barrack St (Perth) Adult Ferry Ticket.
2 Hour Whale Watching Cruise from Hillarys Boat Harbour
Two hour Whale Watching cruise, on-board marine biologist commentary, on-board bar and snack facilities and courtesy coach pickup (must be selected)
Adventure Rottnest Tour
Adventure Rottnest Tour with Rottnest Express in Perth, WA. Ferry and 90-minute Adventure Boat Ride.
Adventure Rottnest Tour & Frankies Lunch (ex Perth)
Take a 90-minute commentated fast boat ride to explore the Island’s wild side. Includes return ferry transfers from Perth and lunch at Frankie's on Rotto.
Dampier Pensinsula Coach Full Day Tour
A well renowned pearl farm situated at the tip of the Dampier Peninsula, whilst here take a tour of the farm, learn about the history of the pearling industry and enjoy a chef prepared lunch. This iconic landmark is the northernmost tip of the Dampier Peninsula in the Kimberley region and is approximately 240km north of Broome. The wide stretches of sandy beaches are known to be the nesting place for wild turtles and a number of sea birds.
Dampier Pensinsula Coach Full Day Tour (One Way Flight Return)
A well renowned pearl farm situated at the tip of the Dampier Peninsula, whilst here take a tour of the farm, learn about the history of the pearling industry and enjoy a chef prepared lunch. This iconic landmark is the northernmost tip of the Dampier Peninsula in the Kimberley region and is approximately 240km north of Broome. The wide stretches of sandy beaches are known to be the nesting place for wild turtles and a number of sea birds.
Discover Rottnest Ferry Bus Tour & Frankies Lunch (ex Perth)
Take a 90-minute commentated bus tour to visit the Island’s most spectacular locations. Includes return ferry transfers from Barrack Street Jetty Perth and lunch at Frankie's on Rotto.
Discover Rottnest with Coach from Perth AM
Discover Rottnest with Coach from Perth AM with Rottnest Express in Perth, WA. Discover Bus and Ferry ex Perth.
Discover Rottnest with Coach from Perth PM
Discover Rottnest with Coach from Perth PM with Rottnest Express in Perth, WA. Discover Bus and Ferry ex Perth.
Experience Rottnest with Bike & Snorkel from Perth
Experience Rottnest with Bike & Snorkel from Perth with Rottnest Express in Perth, WA. Ferry, Bike Hire and Snorkel Hire.
Experience Rottnest with Bike from Perth
Experience Rottnest with Bike from Perth with Rottnest Express in Perth, WA. Ferry and Bike Hire.
Margaret River - 1 Full Day Margaret River Cave Wine Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse & Busselton Jetty
Margaret River - 1 Full Day Margaret River Cave Wine Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse & Busselton Jetty with Australian Pinnacle Tours in Perth, WA. Margaret River & Busselton.
Margaret River - 1 Full Day Margaret River, Chocolate, Nougat, Wine and Coastal Tour
Known as one of Australia’s finest wine regions, the Margaret River Region is an area blessed with natural beauty. Showcasing a sample of the best this region has to offer, this tour allows you to experience the food, wine and coastal beauty of this Western Australian area in one day.
Margaret River - 4 Day Margaret River Tree Top Walk Albany ANZAC (Double Room)
A wonderful journey through Australia’s South West, a region blessed with rugged ranges, towering old growth forests, a pristine coastline, premium wines and heritage charm.
Margaret River - 4 Day Margaret River Tree Top Walk Albany ANZAC (Single Room)
A wonderful journey through Australia’s South West, a region blessed with rugged ranges, towering old growth forests, a pristine coastline, premium wines and heritage charm.
Margaret River - 4 Day Margaret River Tree Top Walk Albany ANZAC (Twin Room)
A wonderful journey through Australia’s South West, a region blessed with rugged ranges, towering old growth forests, a pristine coastline, premium wines and heritage charm.
Pinnacles - 1 Full Day Pinnacles 4WD Adventure with Koalas and Sand Boarding
This fabulous day out explores the world-renowned Pinnacles Desert. Other highlights include off-road driving, sand boarding, feeding kangaroos and photographing koalas
Pinnacles Stargazing Tour
Explore the world renowned Pinnacle Desert, an amazing moon-like landscape, at the most magical time in the evening.
Rottnest - Island Explorer Hop On Hop Off - (Ferry fare not included)
Enjoy the beauty of Rottnest Island at your own pace with the hop-on, hop-off ‘Island Explorer’ bus
Rottnest Island Bayseeker Tour
Rottnest Island is the “Emerald Isle in a Sea of Sapphire”, only 19km off the mainland coast promising to leave a lasting impression. Enhance your Rottnest experience with this unique offering of a wonderful fully commentated coach tour visiting all the main sights on the island including Jeannie's Lookout, Mabel Cove and Wadjemup Lighthouse. A fantatsic, must do tour of the Island.
Rottnest Island Oliver Hill Train & Tunnel Tour
Rottnest Island is the “Emerald Isle in a Sea of Sapphire”, only 19km off the mainland coast promising to leave a lasting impression. Enhance your Rottnest experience with this unique offering of a historic train ride ride and a behind the scenes tour of Rottnest’s little known WWII fortifications.
Rottnest Island Same Day Return Ferry from Perth
Rottnest Island Same Day Return Ferry from Perth with Rottnest Express in Perth, WA. Rottnest Island Round-Trip Ferry from Perth.
Swim with Wild Dolphins
Swim with the resident wild bottlenose dolphins in the turquoise blue waters of Rockingham.
Wave Rock, York and Aboriginal Culture including Rustic Lunch
Journey through the Western Australian wheatbelt to Wave Rock, one of Australia’s most incredible natural monuments. Visit the historic township of York and view other significant formations of the area.
10,000ft Rottnest Skydive & Ferry Package (ex Fremantle)
Tandem skydive over beautiful Rottnest Island with Skydive Geronimo and same-day return ex Fremantle Adult Ferry Ticket.
10,000ft Rottnest Skydive & Ferry Package (ex Hillarys)
Tandem skydive over beautiful Rottnest Island with Skydive Geronimo and same-day return ex Hillarys Adult Ferry Ticket.
15,000ft Rottnest Skydive & Ferry Package (ex Fremantle)
Tandem skydive over beautiful Rottnest Island with Skydive Geronimo and same day return ex Fremantle Adult Ferry Ticket.
15,000ft Rottnest Skydive & Ferry Package (ex Hillarys)
Tandem skydive over beautiful Rottnest Island with Skydive Geronimo and same-day return ex Hillarys Adult Ferry Ticket.
Adventure Rottnest Tour
Adventure Rottnest Tour with Rottnest Express in Fremantle, WA. Ferry and 90-minute Adventure Boat Ride.
Adventure Rottnest Tour
Take a 90-minute commentated fast boat ride to explore the Island’s wild side. It’s the ultimate thrill ride for nature lovers, with expert commentary along the way. Includes return ferry transfers from Northport.
Adventure Rottnest Tour & Frankies Lunch (ex B Shed)
Take a 90-minute commentated fast boat ride to explore the Island’s wild side.Includes return ferry transfers from B Shed and lunch at Frankie's on Rotto.
Adventure Rottnest Tour with Bike Hire
Take a 90-minute commentated fast boat ride to explore the Island’s wild side. It’s the ultimate thrill ride for nature lovers, with expert commentary along the way. Includes return ferry transfers from B Shed and bike hire.
Discover Rottnest Ferry & Bus Tour (ex B Shed) - AM
Discover Rottnest Ferry & Bus Tour (ex B Shed) - AM with Rottnest Express in Fremantle, WA. Ferry and 90min Discover Bus Tour.
Discover Rottnest Ferry & Bus Tour (ex B Shed) - PM
Discover Rottnest Ferry & Bus Tour (ex B Shed) - PM with Rottnest Express in Fremantle, WA. Discover Bus Morning and Ferry ex B Shed.
Experience Rottnest with Bike & Snorkel Hire (ex Northport)
Take the ferry out to Rottnest and explore the island's bays and beaches at your own pace, with bike and snorkel hire included and return ferry transfers from Northport Rous Head.
Experience Rottnest with Bike & Snorkel from Fremantle
Experience Rottnest with Bike & Snorkel from Fremantle with Rottnest Express in Fremantle, WA. Ferry and Bike Hire.
Experience Rottnest with Bike from Fremantle
Experience Rottnest with Bike from Fremantle with Rottnest Express in Fremantle, WA. Ferry and Bike Hire.
Return - Northport to Rottnest Island
Return ferry travel from Northport, Rous Head to Rottnest Island. Over 400 secure car parks within the terminal, all at reasonable daily rates, plus bike hire options, drive-up luggage drop and a fully licensed kiosk.
Rottnest - Return Rottnest Ferry from Hillarys + Island Explorer Hop On Hop Off
Enjoy the beauty of Rottnest Island at your own pace with a return Rottnest Ferry departure from Hillarys Boat Harbour, as well as tickets for the hop-on, hop-off ‘Island Explorer’ bus.
Rottnest Island Bike & Ferry Combo
Rottnest Island Bike & Ferry Combo with Rottnest Fast Ferries in Hillarys, WA. Use pedal power to explore Rottnest Island at your leisure!
Rottnest Island Bus & Ferry Combo
Experience the beauty of Rottnest at your own pace with our hop-on, hop-off 'Island Explorer' shuttle bus, combined with a Day Return Ferry Ticket from Hillarys Boat Harbour.
Rottnest Island Day Return Ferry
Rottnest, WA's most beautiful Island is just 18 Kilometres off Perth's coastline - enjoy a lightning fast ocean crossing in air-conditioned comfort on our high speed ferry.
Rottnest Island Day Return Ferry - Backpacker Day Special!
Rottnest, WA's most beautiful Island is just 18 Kilometres off Perth's coastline - enjoy a lightning fast ocean crossing in air-conditioned comfort on our high speed ferry.
Rottnest Island Same Day Return from Fremantle
Rottnest Island Same Day Return from Fremantle with Rottnest Express in Fremantle, WA. Rottnest Island Round-Trip Ferry from Fremantle.
Darwin to Broome Kimberley Tour 10 Day
Cross the legendary Kimberley from Darwin to Broome over 10 days. Explore the Bungle Bungles, El Questro, Gibb River Road, Tunnel Creek and ancient gorges on one of Australia's greatest outback journeys.
Dolphin, Sea Lion & Penguin Island Cruise
Discover the stunning Shoalwater Islands Marine Park Sanctuary on our 60 minute family friendly cruise. Spot our friendly dolphins, spectacular sea lions, pelicans, birds of prey and other resident wildlife.Our friendly crew will guide you through stunning turquoise waters, taking in rugged coastline views. Experience the best vantage points and wildlife viewing spots throughout your journey. Wild dolphins, rare Australian sea lions, pelican rookeries, and birds of prey are regularly sighted and our friendly crew will get you right amongst the action! Please note, we have a high success rate of wildlife sightings and the area is a designated Marine Park, offering sanctuary to many incredible marine mammals, birds of prey and other wildlife. However, as we proudly do not feed or cage these wild creatures you will experience them in their natural habitat. Wildlife sightings are regular, but they are not guaranteed.
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