West Coast Drive
West Coast Drive, Perth to Darwin, Australia
The West Coast Drive from Perth to Darwin is long but one of the most, if not the most, popular scenic drives in Australia. Given the driving distance, there’s nothing better than hitting the open road and enjoying the sights from the comfort of your very own campervan hire or motorhome rental. The extra leg room, convenience and money you will save on hotels should be more than enough to persuade anyone to choose an RV rental. It is also ideal if you are able to set aside at least 2 weeks for this holiday. If you plan on driving approximately 3 to 4 hours each day, you should have adequate time to enjoy the sights.
Perth to Broome
Perth is a magnificent city to explore in itself so, upon your arrival, why not spend a couple of days exploring before you depart on your adventure? Freemantle is nearby and also worth visiting. There are a number of museums and other attractions worth seeing. Rottnest Island is located just off the coast and also worth visiting if you have the time.
The first main attraction along the drive after leaving Perth are the Pinnacles. They are situated in the Namburg National Park and, due to the terrain, you should park your vehicle and opt for a guided 4WD tour.
Cervantes and Jurien Bay are small villages close to the Pinnacles and it’s worth stopping in at least one of them to stretch your legs and enjoy some time on the beach.
You will then travel through the coastal towns of Dongara and Port Denison, which are known for their abundance in rock lobsters, on your way to Geraldton. Although it is more like a city, this town is known for its friendly residents. There are many museums, parks, art galleries and lookout points to visit.
If you want to take this opportunity to enjoy the experience of a lifetime, then be sure to stop for a dolphin encounter at Monkey Mia.
Next up in your itinerary are Carnarvon, Exmouth, Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park. The reef is known for its clear waters and as the home of the whale shark.
Karratha, Millstream-Chichester National Park and Port Hedland are your next main stops as you head for Broome. Here, the perfect white sands and shimmering waters of paradise await.
Driving on to Darwin
Upon leaving Broome, you will head towards the Boab tree lined streets of Derby. Next up you will enjoy the magnificent views of the Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek. After traveling across Fitzroy Crossing, you will reach Geikie Gorge followed by Halls Creek and then it’s time to spot the Bungle Bungles mountains located in the Purnululu National Park.
The El Questro Wilderness Park leads you to Emma Gorge and into Wyndham. While this town might not seem like a tourist hot spot, it does have some amazing lookouts.
The red soil, dazzling blue skies and surrounding bush make Kununurra a truly unique stop along this drive. The town of Katherine is next on your itinerary and, if you are particularly interested in the local history, this is where you’ll get your fill!
This last stretch of the drive will take you by the Litchfeld and Kakadu National Parks before you arrive at your destination in Darwin. Like Perth, Darwin is certainly worth exploring for at least a full day or two before you make your way home.