Western Discovery
Self Drive Tour
Perth | Cervantes | Geraldton | Kalbarri | Monkey Mia | Carnarvon | Coral Bay | Exmouth
This 14-day itinerary showcases the best of Western Australia's coast, from the vibrant city of Perth to the remote beauty of Coral Bay. The journey begins with guided tours and day trips around Perth, including Rottnest Island and its famous quokkas. A self-drive segment takes you north along the Coral Coast, with stops at iconic spots like the Pinnacles Desert, Kalbarri, and Monkey Mia. You'll enjoy up-close wildlife encounters with dolphins and turtles, as well as snorkeling along the Ningaloo Reef. The trip wraps up with a return through Exmouth and Perth before returning to the UK with unforgettable memories.
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Your Itinerary
Day 1-2 : UK - Perth
Board your flight to Perth. Arrive in Perth International Airport where you'll be met and transferred to Intercontinental Perth City Centre, a modern hotel nestled in the cultural heart of King Street. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps take a relaxed stroll along the Swan River, visit nearby Kings Park, or unwind with dinner at one of Perth’s al fresco dining spots.
Hotel for 3 nights: Intercontinental Perth City Centre
Day 3 : Perth
Today you’ll dive into the charm of Perth’s hidden spaces on the Arcades & Laneways Walking Tour. Join a small group led by a local guide to explore the city’s vibrant laneways, colourful street art, small bars, and new developments like Elizabeth Quay and Yagan Square. The tour ends at a local pub in Northbridge with your first drink included.
Day 4 : Perth & Rottnest Island
Embark on a full-day tour to Rottnest Island. Once on the island, explore at your own pace by bike, snorkel in the clear waters, and visit secluded beaches. Watch for the famous quokkas and enjoy a relaxed lunch at Frankie’s. Return to Perth by ferry in the evening.
Day 5 : Perth - Cervantes
Pick up your SUV rental car and start your self-drive adventure along Australia's Coral Coast. Drive 200 km to Cervantes, a coastal town near Nambung National Park, home of the striking Pinnacles Desert. Sample fresh local crayfish and enjoy the coastline.
Overnight at Pinnacles Edge Resort.
Day 6 : Cervantes - Geraldton
Continue your journey with a 225 km drive to Geraldton, a growing beach town known for its artsy vibe, beautiful beaches, and the nearby Pink Lake. Spend the day exploring cafés, Aboriginal cultural trails, or simply relaxing by the ocean.
Overnight at The Gerald Apartment Hotel.
Day 7 : Geraldton - Kalbarri
Travel 161 km north to Kalbarri, located near the mouth of the Murchison River. This charming town offers access to Kalbarri National Park, pristine beaches, and coastal cliffs. Choose between adventure activities like canoeing or abseiling, or simply enjoy a relaxing day by the ocean.
Overnight at Kalbarri Edge Resort.
Day 8 : Kalbarri - Monkey Mia
Drive 399 km to Monkey Mia, a remote yet iconic wildlife destination famous for its daily dolphin interactions. Enjoy sunset views over Shark Bay and immerse yourself in the peaceful natural setting.
Hotel for 2 nights: RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort
Day 9 : Monkey Mia
Spend the full day exploring Monkey Mia and its marine wonders. Watch the wild dolphins swim up to shore in the morning, then choose from snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, or nature walks. This area is also home to turtles, rays, and an abundance of birdlife. Return to the Dolphin Resort for a second night.
Day 10 : Monkey Mia - Carnarvon
Depart Monkey Mia and travel 354 km to Carnarvon, a town on the Gascoyne River known for its fishing industry, murals, and the Heritage Precinct. Sample fresh seafood, explore local history, or take a walk along the One Mile Jetty.
Overnight at Hospitality Carnarvon.
Day 11 : Carnarvon - Coral Bay
Drive 241 km to Coral Bay, a laid-back town perched on Ningaloo Reef. With coral gardens just metres from shore, this is a paradise for snorkeling and beach lovers. Spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring the reef.
Hotel for 2 nights: Ningaloo Coral Bay – Bayview.
Day 12 : Coral Bay
Start the day with a 3-hour Turtle Eco Tour. Enjoy coral viewing and fish feeding aboard a glass-bottom boat, then snorkel at two hand-picked sites. Watch green and loggerhead turtles feeding in their natural habitat. Spend the rest of the day relaxing by the sea or exploring the local marine park.
Day 13-14 : Coral Bay - Perth - UK
Drive 153 km north to Exmouth, where you’ll return your rental SUV at Learmonth Airport. Board your flight to Perth in the afternoon, arriving in time to connect to your international flight. Depart Perth in the evening for your overnight journey back to the UK, arriving at London Heathrow early the next morning. Your incredible Western Australia adventure ends as you return home filled with unforgettable memories of landscapes, marine life, and coastal towns.