When planning an Australian road trip at first glance a Perth to Darwin road trip may not feature high on your wish list. The journey takes time and there are large expanses of lonely road but if you are up to the challenge, you will be rewarded with the sight of some of the most scenic places on the planet.
So, come along with us and we will show you the majesty and vastness of Australia. We will take you to the cities of Perth and Darwin, explore the beauty and starkness of the Western Australian coastline, see the breathtaking rusty red landscapes of the outback and help you fall in love with an Australia that all too few get to see.
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Perth to Darwin Drive Tips
The Perth to Darwin distance covers a massive 4,217 km and takes at least 42 hours of drive time to complete.
A road trip Perth to Darwin daily travel schedule should include time for stops. It is important to take a break from the road as it is easy to get fatigued travelling the long stretches between the small communities and roadhouses.
It is essential to refuel at every roadhouse especially if you aren’t carrying your own fuel. Before starting your travels make sure your car is in good working order and always travel with plenty of water on hand.
Be aware that there won’t be any phone or internet coverage for most of your journey. Let family and friends know your daily travel plans and always stay by your car if you break down.
The best time to take a road trip Perth to Darwin is between May and September as the weather is cooler and you will miss the rains of the north Australian wet season which falls between November and April.
Also note that many attractions are seasonal and this needs to be taken into consideration when planning your trip.
For example, whale sharks visit the Exmouth region between March and August, Western Australian wildflower season is between June and October, the Mindil Beach Sunset Market in Darwin is open between late April and October and some Darwin tours close for wet season between November and April.
Perth, Western Australia
Perth is the capital of Western Australia and is the most isolated city in the world. Life in this picturesque city revolves around the Swan River and the countless beaches that line its coast.
Before you start your road trip from Perth to Darwin take time to explore the city and surrounding region.
Top things to do in Perth
One of the best places to capture the beauty of Perth is from the lookout near the State War Memorial at Kings Park. Here you can see spectacular views overlooking Perth and the Swan River.
On the weekend Kings Park is a popular place for family and friends to relax and spend time together. The park is the perfect place to view a Perth sunset and see the city transform into a magical wonderland of light.
If you are looking for Perth day trip ideas there are two places that shouldn’t be missed, Perth beaches and Fremantle.
Perth Beaches
With a seemingly endless city shoreline you will find a great choice of Perth beaches to choose from. Two beaches that instantly come to mind are the iconic Cottesloe Beach and Scarborough Beach.
Both beaches are blessed with bright white sand and sparkling water, but each have their own unique character. Steeped in tradition Cottesloe Beach has a charming old world ambience while Scarborough Beach has a youthful vibe, and this can be seen in the hip restaurants and bars that dot the area.
Fremantle
Fremantle is a short train ride from the centre of Perth. Fremantle or Freo as it is affectionately known sits at the mouth of the Swan River and is instantly recognised by the attractive Victorian and Edwardian buildings that line the streets.
Fremantle has a thriving café, restaurant and bar scene making it a fun place to visit, especially on the weekend. Go shopping for souvenirs at the Fremantle Markets, visit one of the many art galleries or if you are an AC/DC fan don’t leave without paying a visit to the Statue of Bon Scott.
Perth Tours
If you are looking for Perth day trips you will find a good range of Perth tours including the popular Rottnest Island and Margaret River winery tours. While visiting Perth we took a Swan Valley Gourmet Wine Cruise and had a fabulous day out.
Swan Valley Gourmet Wine Cruise
A Swan Valley Gourmet Wine Tour is a fun filled day cruising the Swan River where you will learn the fascinating story of how the Swan River shaped the history of Perth while relaxing with a good selection of wines and local charcuterie.
Along the way you will pass many of Perth’s iconic landmarks, the WACA cricket grounds, the swan shaped Matagarup Bridge, the West Australian Rowing Club and Crown Casino.
Once you reach Swan Valley it’s time to enjoy a delicious lunch and wine tastings at Sandalford Wines. We can highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting Perth and if you would like to learn more about our Swan Valley Gourmet Wine Cruise you can read about it here.
Where to stay in Perth
Perth has a good choice of accommodation which range from luxury Perth hotels, apartments, bed & breakfasts and budget hotels.
The top place to stay in Perth is the Perth CBD and one of the best Perth hotels is the Ritz-Carlton Perth Hotel which is located at the vibrant Elizabeth Quay area of Perth.
Booking.comAnother popular place to stay when visiting Perth is Fremantle. Here you can immerse yourself in Fremantle’s old world charm and take time to enjoy the restaurants and bars of the area. There is a choice of Fremantle accommodation styles with one of the best Fremantle hotels being the Esplanade Hotel Fremantle – by Rydges.
Booking.comPerth to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary
Before beginning your Perth road trips plan an itinerary that works within your time frame. The choice of destinations on the Perth road trip will depend on the attractions you want to see and the amount of time you want to spend at each destination.
When planning the daily drive distance Perth to Darwin make sure to consider the kilometres between the towns and communities. You will find that you will be spending many hours behind the wheel, and this will cut into the length of stay if you are on a tight time limit.
Don’t be daunted by the amount of time you will spend driving on your Perth to Darwin road trip as you will be rewarded with spectacular scenery.
Our six week itinerary took us to Perth, Geraldton, Kalbarri & Port Gregory, Denham & Monkey Mia, Carnarvon, Coral Bay, Exmouth, Port Hedland, Broome, Derby, Kununurra, Katherine and Darwin.
Perth to Geraldton Road Trip
First stop on our road trip from Perth is Geraldton. The distance from Perth to Geraldton is 419 km and takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes to drive.
On our Perth to Geraldton road trip, we took the inland route on National Highway 1 (Brand Highway) which takes you past farmland and the small town of Gingin. If you would like a more scenic drive, you can follow the coastline on State Route 60 which passes picturesque Jurien Bay.
Geraldton
Geraldton is the first destination on our Perth to Darwin road trip, here you can visit Point Moore Lighthouse, see historic buildings and take a leisurely stroll along the Esplanade.
Geraldton is the last city until you reach Darwin in the Northern Territory, so make sure to stock up on last minute items before hitting the road.
Things to do in Geraldton
To learn more about the history of Geraldton stop off at the Museum of Geraldton. Here you will find an interesting collection of exhibits that showcase the rich culture of the Yamaji people, the native wildlife and famous shipwrecks of the region.
HMAS Sydney II Memorial
The wild Western Australian coastline hosts a graveyard of shipwrecks that span hundreds of years. One of the most poignant is the HMAS Sydney II.
During WWII, the HMAS Sydney was sunk by the German cruiser Kormoran off the coast of Western Australia. The battle took place on the 19th of November 1941 and resulted in the loss of all 645 men aboard the HMAS Sydney.
The sinking of the HMAS Sydney was the greatest single tragedy in Australian Naval History and the HMAS Sydney II Memorial pays tribute to these brave young men and the families they left behind.
Geraldton Tours
Geraldton has a reputation for great fishing and one of the best ways to experience this is to take a tour. Much loved Geraldton tours include the Lobster Fishing Tour at Geraldton and Geraldton Fishing Charter.
Where to stay in Geraldton
Geraldton has a good selection of accommodation which include hotels, apartments and caravan parks.
Booking.comGeraldton to Kalbarri & Port Gregory
The distance from Geraldton to Kalbarri is 156 km with a drive time of around 1 hour and 45 minutes. Take National Highway 1 (North West Coastal Highway) until you reach the town of Northampton and turn onto State Route 139 to Kalbarri.
Port Gregory
As you travel from Geraldton to Kalbarri you will drive near Port Gregory. If you are wondering what to see in Port Gregory you will find two attractions that are well worth a visit, Hutt Lagoon and the Lynton Convict Hiring Depot.
The Pink Lake
As you drive to Kalbarri take the time to stop off at Hutt Lagoon near Port Gregory. The lagoon is 45 minutes south of Kalbarri and better known as the Pink Lake. Hutt Lagoon is a fun place to get a holiday snap and gets its pretty pink hue from the beta-carotene rich Dunaliella salina algae.
Lynton Convict Hiring Depot
If you are interested in history pay a visit to the Lynton Convict Hiring Depot. Established in 1853, the hiring depot was used to provide labour for the Geraldine Mine and the pastoral stations of the region.
As you walk around the ruins of the stone depot buildings you will be struck by the harshness of convict life and the loneliness of the area.
Kalbarri
Kalbarri is a much loved seaside town and a popular holiday destination for Perth locals wanting to escape the city and enjoy a Perth to Kalbarri road trip.
The town lies on the mouth of the Murchison River and is framed by the rugged coastal cliffs and striking wilderness of the Kalbarri National Park.
This quiet resort town is a fishing and boating paradise and has everything you need for a perfect holiday such as scenic landscapes, swimming, restaurants and pubs.
Things to do in Kalbarri
A visit to Kalbarri wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Kalbarri National Park. The best time to visit Kalbarri is between July and October as the weather is cooler and wildflower season fills the countryside with colour.
Kalbarri Skywalk
The Kalbarri Skywalk is located within Kalbarri National Park. These twin viewing platforms are perched on the side of a cliff and look down into the depths of the Murchison Gorge and across the wildly rugged landscape that stretches out to the horizon.
Walking around the Kalbarri Skywalk you will find sculptures and information boards that tell the story of the animals, the heritage of the local Nanda people and geological history of the National Park.
Kalbarri National Park
The Kalbarri National Park is 186,000 hectares in size and surrounds the township of Kalbarri and incorporates the Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs. If you love hiking there are several walking trails that will take you to the spectacular natural features of Natures Window, The Loop and the Z bend.
The park gets hot during the day, so it is advisable to start the walks early in the morning. Take plenty of water, a hat, wear good walking shoes and always stay on the tracks.
Entry fees apply when visiting the park and there is a selection of visitor options to choose from.
Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs
The Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs stretch along the coastline and have an intriguing set of names such as Mushroom Rock, Grandstand and Natural Bridge.
Walking along these windswept cliffs you will marvel at their untamed grandeur which is filled with both beauty and foreboding. A reminder of the shipwrecks that have fallen victim to the churning seas of this dramatic part of the Western Australian coastline.
If you would like to see more Kalbarri attractions click here for our Things to do in Kalbarri Western Australia article.
Where to stay in Kalbarri
There are a good range of hotel, apartment and caravan park accommodation in Kalbarri. The region is well loved by travellers so make sure to book early to avoid disappointment.
Booking.comKalbarri to Monkey Mia & Denham
The Kalbarri to Denham & Monkey Mia drive is 374 km and takes approximately 4 hours to drive.
From Kalbarri take the Adjana – Kalbarri Road to National Highway 1 (North West Coastal Highway). Continue along National Highway 1 until you get to the Shark Bay Road turnoff which is just past the Overlander Roadhouse. Make sure to fill up with fuel at the roadhouse as there aren’t any fuel stops until you reach Denham.
Denham
Most people take a Perth to Monkey Mia road trip to see the wild bottlenose dolphins of Monkey Mia. The town of Denham and small community of Monkey Mia are 23 km apart and you will find that most people will stay in Denham as Monkey Mia has limited accommodation.
Things to do in Denham
Denham sits in Shark Bay which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest bay in Australia. The town has a laid back beach vibe and is a great place for fishing, has safe swimming beaches, restaurants and a golf course.
The town is a steppingstone to the natural wonders of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area with Shell Beach and the Stromatolites at Hamelin Pool sitting on Denham’s doorstep.
Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery and Visitor Centre
The Visitor Centre is in the heart of town and the place to come to learn about the wildlife and history of Shark Bay.
There is also a moving tribute to the HMAS Sydney which was sunk by the German cruiser Kormoran during WWII. Here you will get a good understanding of the events that led up to the sinking of the HMAS Sydney which resulted in the loss of all on board.
Denham Recreation Jetty
Shark Bay is home to one of the largest seagrass meadow banks in the world and a visit to the Denham Jetty is the perfect place to see them. The seagrass beds cover an area of 4,800 km2 and support an abundance of marine life.
Where to stay in Denham
While you can stay at Monkey Mia, the town of Denham has a larger choice of hotel, resorts, apartment and caravan park accommodation. Denham also has a selection of restaurants, pubs and shops.
Booking.comMonkey Mia
Monkey Mia is famous for the wild dolphins that inhabit Shark Bay. For over 50 years people have been coming to visit the dolphins that come into the shallows at Monkey Mia to be fed.
These days the rangers of the Monkey Mia Conservation Park closely monitor the welfare of the dolphins. The feeding takes place in a pretty beach setting and of the more than 2,000 dolphins that live in Shark Bay only five mature females will be offered fish.
The dolphins are fed during the first three visits of the day which take place between 7:45 am and 12 noon. This is to encourage the dolphins to continue to hunt and live naturally in their own environment.
Seeing the Monkey Mia dolphins is a wonderful experience, but it is important to keep in mind that they may come into shore in quick succession and feeding may finish before noon. Arriving early is advisable and there is a rare chance that dolphins may not come to shore at all.
If you are visiting Monkey Mia independently note that fees will apply when entering the Monkey Mia Conservation Park.
Monkey Mia Tours
If you are visiting Western Australia on a tight timeframe, you may like this great range of holiday package tours that include Monkey Mia on their list of destinations.
Monkey Mia Accommodation
If you are wondering where to stay in Monkey Mia look no further than the RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort which is the best place to stay in Monkey Mia and Denham.
During our visit to Monkey Mia, we stayed in Denham. We enjoyed our time in Denham but if we could do it again, we would spend the extra money and stay at the RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort.
The resort is set in a pretty location overlooking the beach, jetty and you will get a better chance to see the dolphins. There is a choice of accommodation from beach view rooms to dormitories and facilities include restaurant and bar, pool, tennis and volleyball courts.
Booking.comMonkey Mia & Denham to Carnarvon
The distance from Denham to Carnarvon is 325 km with a drive time of around 3 hours and 20 minutes. To get to Carnarvon drive back along Shark Bay Road until you reach National Highway 1 (North West Coastal Highway) and turn north to Carnarvon.
The town of Carnarvon was founded in 1883 and is located at the mouth of the Gascoyne River. The port of Carnarvon was the supply centre for the region which continues to have a thriving fishing industry and rich pastoral heritage.
Things to see in Carnarvon
When visiting Carnarvon make sure to drop into the Carnarvon Heritage Precinct to discover the fascinating history of the region. Pay a visit to the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum or stretch your legs and enjoy a Carnarvon sunset as you stroll along the Fascine.
Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum
To learn about the part Carnarvon played in the space race make sure to visit the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum.
The museum pays tribute to the part Carnarvon played during NASA’s manned space programs of the 1960’s & 1970’s. Carnarvon was a tracking station for the Gemini and Apollo space programs and played a key role in the Apollo 11 lunar landing.
Another museum attraction is the Apollo 11 simulator where you can experience an Apollo 11 take off.
Where to stay in Carnarvon
Carnarvon has a good selection of accommodation styles which include hotels, apartments and caravan parks. When taking a Perth to Darwin road trip make sure to book accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Carnarvon to Coral Bay
The Carnarvon to Coral Bay distance is 238 km with a drive time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. To get to Coral Bay take National Highway 1 (North West Coastal Highway) north and turn off at Minilya-Exmouth Road. Take the Minilya-Exmouth Road until you come to the Coral Bay turn off.
What to see at Coral Bay
When planning our Perth to Darwin road trip we had many of our Western Australian friends urging us to visit Coral Bay and we are so glad we took their advice.
Coral Bay is a tiny town which is home to a magical marine paradise and is one of Western Australia’s best loved diving and snorkelling spots.
The town has a relaxed laidback vibe which is perfect for a beach holiday of swimming, fishing and snorkelling. Glistening white sands make way to the beautiful coral gardens which are just metres from the shore. Coral Bay should be on everyone’s list of places to visit on a Perth to Darwin road trip.
Where to stay at Coral Bay
If you are visiting Coral Bay make sure to book well in advance as accommodation in Coral Bay is limited. Accommodation options include resorts, hotels and caravan parks. If you can’t find Coral Bay accommodation the nearby town of Exmouth is a good alternative.
Coral Bay to Exmouth
The distance from Coral Bay to Exmouth is 152 km on the Minilya-Exmouth Road. The drive is a short one and should take around 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Between Coral Bay and Exmouth, you will see an arid landscape dotted with hundreds of termite mounds that stretch out into the distance. Soon the flat terrain transforms into the craggy foothills of the Cape Range National Park.
If you don’t have time to take a Perth to Darwin road trip, consider taking a Perth to Exmouth road trip as the scenery and attractions are unforgettable. A Perth Exmouth road trip is 1,248 km and takes around 13 hours which can be split into segments.
Exmouth
Exmouth sits on the North West Cape of Western Australia and is a steppingstone to the stunning beauty of the Ningaloo Coast and Cape Range National Park.
Exmouth was one of our favourite destinations on our Perth to Darwin road trip. The Ningaloo Coast plays host to a dazzling variety of white sandy beaches which are teaming with an interesting assortment of marine life, including the migratory whale sharks that visit the region between March and August.
Things to do in Exmouth
When you visit Exmouth, you will begin to understand the vastness and isolation of the Western Australian coastline. In WWII this isolation played an important part in Exmouth history as it became a strategic military base after the Japanese attacks on Darwin and Broome.
Add picturesque jewel like beaches and the rugged creeks and gorges of the Cape Range National Park and you will fall in love with possibly the most beautiful place in Australia.
Most of the Exmouth attractions can be found outside of town so get ready to explore a good chunk of the region.
Vlamingh Head Lighthouse
To get a true perspective of the grandeur of the Cape Range National Park take a trip out to the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse.
Here the Cape Range National Park meets the Ningaloo Coast, and you will see spectacular panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Nothing can prepare you for the merging of colours as the rich ochre of the land meets the deep greens and blues of the ocean. It is like cutting into an opal and finding a glistening treasure.
You will also find remnants of WWII and see information boards that introduce you to the wildlife of the area and tell the story of Exmouth during WWII.
Exmouth Beaches
When visiting Exmouth, you have the choice of swimming at the beaches near town or heading further afield to some of the most exquisite beaches imaginable. Close to town you will find two such beaches, Town Beach and Bundegi Beach.
Town Beach
If you like beachcombing Town Beach has a gritty coral laden sand which is the perfect place to search for shells and coral. Add a shady barbeque area and you have a great place to spend an afternoon enjoying the sun.
Bundegi Beach
As you drive to Bundegi Beach you will be in awe of the 387 metres tall towers of the Naval Communication Station Harold E. Holt. Framed by these towers you will find a beach that is popular with a range of water sports including swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and fishing.
Top Exmouth Beaches
Heading out of town you will discover a series of turnoffs that take you to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Although there are a lot to choose from, we give you two of our favourites, Lakeside and the heavenly Turquoise Bay.
Lakeside Beach
Lakeside Beach is part of the Lakeside Sanctuary Zone, and you reach it by turning off at the Milyering Discovery Centre.
Lakeside has great snorkelling right from the beach and we were surprised to see two colourful stingrays as we waded through the shallows. From the car park walk four hundred metres south along the beach until you reach the marked entry point.
Turquoise Bay
As you walk down to Turquoise Bay beach you will find a group of story boards that give information on the animals and marine life of the Cape Range National Park and Ningaloo Reef.
Turquoise Bay is an area of extraordinary natural beauty and there is nothing more breathtaking than seeing the bright white sand and the turquoise water that is crystal clear and filled with fish.
If you are a beginner Turquoise Bay is a fabulous place to snorkel as the waters are generally calm and tranquil. Turquoise Bay is my favourite beach in the Exmouth region.
If you would like to see more Exmouth attractions click here for our Things to do in Exmouth WA article.
Best Exmouth Tours
Whether you are interested in swimming with whale sharks and whale watching or diving and snorkelling you will find a fantastic variety of Exmouth tours and experiences to choose from.
Where to stay in Exmouth
When looking for Exmouth accommodation you will find a good selection of Exmouth hotels, resorts, apartments, holiday homes and holiday parks.
Exmouth gets busy during Christmas and school holidays, whale shark season and whale watching season, so it is advisable to book Exmouth accommodation early to avoid disappointment.
Booking.comExmouth to Port Hedland
The distance from Exmouth to Port Hedland is 776 km and has a drive time of around 8 hours depending on how many times you stop.
From Exmouth take the Minilya-Exmouth Road until you get to the Burkett Road turnoff. Drive along Burkett Road until you reach National Route 1. Turn north onto National Highway 1 (North West Coastal Highway) and continue driving to Port Hedland.
As you drive you will see the turn offs to Karratha and Dampier which are well worth a visit if you have the time. The drive takes you through the unforgettable rusty red landscapes of the Pilbara.
Port Hedland
Arriving into Port Hedland is a little surreal after driving for hours on a lonely highway. It feels like you have entered another dimension as the road leading into Port Hedland turns into a busy motorway.
Port Hedland is an industrial town and as you enter you will see the glistening white salt hills of Dampier Salt. The town is a major shipping port and is known for the processing and exporting of iron ore. Other resources of the region include offshore natural gas, manganese, lithium and livestock.
Things to do in Port Hedland
If you are interested in the mining industry you will find a lot to see in Port Hedland. You will be impressed by the size of the bulk loading machinery which stands majestically on the landscape like a futuristic sculpture.
Visit Dalgety House Museum
Port Hedland has and incredible history and one of the best places to learn about it is at Dalgety House Museum. The museum is part of the Cultural & Heritage Trail which showcases the historical buildings of Port Hedland.
Visit the port of Port Hedland
You can’t visit Port Hedland without taking a trip to its port. With its natural deep water harbour Port Hedland is the world’s largest export tonnage port.
One of the best places to watch the port in action is at Marapikurrinya Park. Here you will begin to understand the importance of the port as massive iron ore tankers drift in and out of the harbour.
Where to stay in Port Hedland
On our trip to Port Hedland, we stayed at the Esplanade Hotel Port Hedland and can highly recommend it.
The rooms were beautifully decorated and comfortable. We had dinner and breakfast at the adjoining hotel which had a fun atmosphere and was a great place to take a break from the road.
Booking.comPort Hedland to Broome
The distance between Port Hedland and Broome is 609 km and would take a little over 6 hours to travel if you were to drive straight through. Continue along National Highway 1 (Great Northern Highway) until you get to Roebuck Plains Roadhouse and turn onto Broome Road.
As you leave Port Hedland you will find an interesting terrain of rocky buttes. After a while, the drive becomes monotonous as you pass an unexciting backdrop of saltpan, saltbush, bushland and long strips of pastoral land.
We took a short break from the road at Pardoo Roadhouse & Tavern and Sandfire Roadhouse fuel stops, this added time to the journey but gave us time to refresh. Both have a motel and caravan park for those wanting to stay overnight.
Broome
Broome is a much loved tourist destination on Western Australia’s Kimberly Coast. The town has its roots in the pearling industry, an intriguing WWII history and is known for its famous beaches.
You will find that many people visiting Western Australia like to take a Perth to Broome road trip. A Perth to Broome drive is 2,346 km long and is a good option for anyone with limited travel time.
Things to do in Broome
There are a lot of attractions and places to visit in Broome and the surrounding region. If you love shopping the town has a fabulous range of art galleries and shops. Foodies will be happy with the choice of fine dining options and there is a rich coffee culture for those who can’t do without their daily brew.
To see the best of Broome you can either visit independently or take a day tour of Broome. We chose to combine travel styles with a mix of tours and exploring on our own and felt that it was a good way to get an overview of the town.
Broome Chinatown
Broome Chinatown sits in the historic heart of Broome. This glimpse of yesteryear hosts a vibrant shopping and fine dining district. The pearl radiates an aura of timeless elegance, and you will find a variety of pearl showrooms in Broome Chinatown and one of the most famous is Paspaley Pearls.
If you are looking for a unique attraction visit the Sun Pictures theatre. Starting as a traditional Japanese Noh playhouse it opened its doors to a brand new era when it began screening silent movies in 1916. Sun Pictures has a great range of theatre memorabilia which dates to the golden years of Hollywood. While there make sure to see a movie in the open air cinema.
If you love art, stop off at Broome Gallery to browse the colourful artworks of local Kimberley artist James Down.
Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park
From crocodile hunter to crocodile conservationist Malcolm Douglas thrilled us with his small screen adventures. To understand Malcolm’s legacy and commitment to the welfare of crocodiles make sure to visit Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park.
When driving through Western Australia and the Northern Territory you get used to seeing Croc Wise signs and when you visit the park you will understand why. What looks like a seemingly innocent waterway can be home to a crocodile which may be invisible until it has you in a death roll.
This is a fun and informative attraction and most of the crocodiles are bred in captivity or injured and can no longer live in the wild.
If you would like to see more Broome attractions click here for our Best Day Trips From Broome article.
Broome Tours
Broome is a steppingstone to an area of outstanding natural beauty and one of the best ways to see it is to take a tour. From the Horizontal Falls to a Broome Sunset Camel ride on Cable Beach there are a fabulous range of Broome tours to choose from.
Where to stay in Broome
There is a great selection of accommodation options in Broome which range from resorts, hotels, apartments and caravan parks. Click here for best accommodation in Broome.
Booking.comBroome to Derby
The distance from Broome to Derby is 221 km and takes around 2 ½ hours to drive. From Broome take Broome Road to National Highway 1 (Great Northern Highway) and continue along the highway until you come to the Derby Highway turn off which takes you to Derby.
Derby
The town of Derby has a Woolworths and IGA supermarket and it is a good place to stock up on necessities as the road from Derby to Darwin has lots of wide open spaces which are populated by small communities and roadhouse fuel stops.
Things to do in Derby
If you are interested in the settlement of Western Australia Derby has and interesting story to tell. The town played a key role in bringing the Royal Flying Doctor Service to the Kimberley Region and like Darwin and Broome was bombed by the Japanese during the second world war.
Here are two of our favourite things to do in Derby Western Australia.
Derby Jetty & Wharf
Possibly one of the best things to do in Derby is to visit Derby Jetty and Wharf. This unusual horseshoe shaped jetty is the perfect place to view the sunset over King Sound and witness the largest high tides in the Southern hemisphere which have a massive 12 metre tidal variation.
The jetty is a fabulous place to go fishing and crabbing or croc spotting for the elusive saltwater crocodile that is rumoured to live around the jetty.
Boab Prison Tree
The Boab Prison Tree is an impressive 1,500 year old tree that is located just outside the town of Derby. The local Nyikina people of the Derby region call boab trees larrkardiy and they are said to have special mystical powers and were often used for shelter.
The Boab Prison Tree is reputed to have been a rest stop for police and aboriginal prisoners on their way to Derby. At the site you will find information boards telling the story of the Boab Prison Tree and the history of Derby and the surrounding area.
Where to stay in Derby
Derby has a better choice of accommodation than Fitzroy Crossing and we found it to be an easy town to stay in. Click here to see the range of Derby hotels available.
Booking.comDerby to Kununurra
Derby to Kununurra is 907 km and has a drive time of approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes. Travel on National Highway 1 (Great Northern Highway) to Cockburn Rest Area where Highway 1 changes its name from the Great Northern Highway to the Victoria Highway.
Along the way you will pass the small communities of Fitzroy Crossing, Halls Creek and the fuel stops of Warmin Roadhouse and Doon Roadhouse.
There are a few rest areas including Mary Pool on the Mary River which has free camping, a dump point and toilets. Mary Pool is a quiet place where cattle graze peacefully under shady trees, and it is pleasant to walk along the dry riverbed which fills with water when it rains.
The vistas change throughout the journey and showcase the beauty of this timeless land. The scenery will take your breath away as you pass craggy buttes, wide open plains, bronzed stony outcrops and dramatic mountain ranges.
Kununurra
Framed by the tranquil waters of Lily Creek Lagoon, Kununurra is an oasis in an otherwise remote rusty landscape. Kununurra has an array of attractions on its doorstep and is the gateway to the picturesque beauty of the East Kimberley’s, Lake Argyle, the Bungle Ranges and Ord River.
Things to do in Kununurra
Kununurra is in diamond country and if you like a bit of sparkle it’s time to go shopping for the rare pink diamonds of the Argyle Diamond Mine. If pink doesn’t take your fancy maybe a blue or champagne coloured diamond will gladden the heart of that special person in your life.
Kununurra has a Coles and IGA supermarket for those last minute essentials before setting off on the drive to Katherine in the Northern Territory. Here are our top picks of things to do in Kununurra.
Kelly’s Knob Lookout
For the best views in town head up to Kelly’s Knob lookout. This rocky outcrop overlooks Kununurra which sits in the valley below. Stretching out into the distance are the time worn ranges that frame the town. A popular time to visit Kelly’s Knob is at sunset when the sky comes alive with colour.
Mirima National Park
Mirima National Park or Hidden Valley as it is also known is a short drive from town and has a series of walking trails that highlight the parks flora and fauna. The park is home to a striking collection of rock formations which were formed over 350 million years ago and are often referred to as the mini Bungle Bungles.
The best time to hike the trails is early morning as the park gets hot during the day. Make sure to take plenty of water, wear a hat and comfortable shoes.
Lily Creek Lagoon
Lily Creek Lagoon is a pretty spot, in places the surface is decorated with lily pads and from the bank you can watch boats drift lazily across the water. The lagoon sustains a variety of wildlife including birds, fish and freshwater crocodiles.
Kununurra Tours
The East Kimberley has some of the most spectacular scenery in Australia and the best way to see it is to take a tour. This is the most convenient way to cover the vast distances of the region and a great way to get firsthand knowledge of life in the Kimberley’s.
Where to stay in Kununurra
Kununurra has a variety of hotel styles including apartments, resorts, motels and holiday parks.
During our visit to Kununurra, we stayed in a standard studio cabin at the Discovery Parks – Lake Kununurra holiday park. The cabin was comfortable, had cooking facilities and enough beds to accommodate eight people.
The Discovery Parks – Lake Kununurra is 2.8 km from the centre of town and is in a spectacular bushland setting overlooking Lake Kununurra.
Booking.comKununurra to Katherine
From Kununurra drive east on National Highway 1 (Victoria Highway). The Kununurra to Katherine distance is 514 km and should take approximately 5 hours and 20 minutes if you drive straight through.
Kununurra is 42 km from the Northern Territory border, so it is time to say goodbye to Western Australia and hello to the Northern Territory.
You will be driving through beautiful countryside filled with bushland, buttes, rugged escarpment and the Victoria River which flows 560 km to the Timor Sea. As you drive lookout for cattle walking onto the road as many of the properties aren’t fenced and the cattle are free to wander.
There are roadhouse fuel stops at Timber Creek and Victoria River Roadhouse. If you aren’t carrying your own fuel, fill up at each stop as there is a lot of distance between the two. Both roadhouses are a steppingstone to Judburra National Park (formerly the Gregory National Park) and have a motel and caravan park for those wanting to explore the region.
Katherine
After driving in such remote areas, it is refreshing to arrive in Katherine. The town is home to Katherine Hot Springs, with the Nitmiluk National Park and Nitmiluk Gorge sitting on its doorstep.
Katherine is a good size town with a Woolworths supermarket, and the McDonalds and Domino’s Pizza signs are a welcome sight as you return to civilisation.
Things to do in Katherine
Katherine is a great place to enjoy a dip in the Katherine Hot Springs, commune with nature at the Low Level Nature Reserve or take the short drive out of town to explore Nitmiluk National Park.
Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk Gorge)
The Nitmiluk Gorge or Katherine Gorge as it was formally known is the jewel of Katherine. A Nitmiluk Gorge cruise takes you through a series of dramatic gorges and scenic waterways and is the place to learn about local Jawoyn history and culture, the geology of the gorge and the wildlife that call the gorge home.
Katherine Tours
One of the best loved tours of Katherine is a Nitmiluk Gorge cruise (Katherine Gorge cruise). We took this tour, and it was one of the highlights of our trip to the Northern Territory and we can highly recommend it.
Where to stay in Katherine
Katherine has a good selection of accommodation which includes resorts, hotels and caravan parks.
During our visits to Katherine, we stayed in two different locations and were happy with our choices. We stayed at Pine Trees Motel which is a comfortable motel in the centre of town and the BIG4 Breeze Holiday Parks – Katherine which is a well shaded caravan park just outside of Katherine.
Booking.comKatherine to Darwin
The Katherine to Darwin distance is 317 km and takes a little over 3 hours to drive. When you drive this leg of the Perth to Darwin road trip stop off at Adelaide River and visit the Adelaide River War Cemetery.
This peaceful cemetery honours the sixty-three civilians who were killed in the bombing of Darwin on the 19 February 1942.
Darwin
Darwin is a modern multicultural city and the most northerly capital city in Australia. The city has an interesting history which includes the bombing of Darwin during WWII and the battering by Cyclone Tracy in 1974.
The best time to travel to Darwin is during the dry season between May to October when the weather is cooler and free of monsoon rains and storms.
Things to do in Darwin
There are a lot of attractions to see in Darwin, the region is well known as an adventurer’s paradise with the splendour of the Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks on its doorstep. Here are just some of our favourite attractions in and around Darwin.
Mindil Beach Sunset Market
The Mindil Beach Sunset Market is one of Darwin’s most famous attractions. The market has over 200 stalls and it’s a great place to sample Darwin’s multicultural cuisine and pick up a souvenir.
Relax with live entertainment and watch a Northern Territory sunset over Mindil Beach and the Timor Sea. Note that the market is seasonal and operates during the dry season between late April and late October from 4 pm to 9 pm.
Darwin Military Museum
When you visit Darwin, you will see reminders of WWII scattered throughout the city. During WWII Darwin was used as a strategic Naval and Air Force base and on the 19 February 1942, more than 242 Japanese aircraft bombed Darwin’s Harbour and airfields in two separate raids.
The Darwin Military Museum is an interactive experience that tells the story of the day war came to Australia, which was the first and largest attack by a foreign power on Australian shores.
Darwin Tours
There is a great selection of tours in and around Darwin which include cruises of the harbour, waterways and billabongs of the region.
If you are interested in Darwin’s WWII history, you won’t be disappointed as there are several tours to choose from. Add a once in a lifetime Kakadu experience and you will have the makings of a truly memorable holiday.
When planning your trip be aware that some tours are seasonal only operating during dry season between May and October.
Where to stay in Darwin
There are a good range of Darwin accommodation styles to choose from including resorts, hotels and apartments. Popular locations for the best hotels in Darwin include Mindil Beach, the Darwin Waterfront and accommodation Darwin CBD.
Booking.comFAQ – Perth to Darwin Road Trip
Perth to Exmouth is 1,248 km and takes around 13 hours.
The distance from Perth to Geraldton is 419 km with a drive time of around 4 hours and 20 minutes.
Perth to Denham is 823 km and takes approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes to drive.
Geraldton to Carnarvon distance is 475 km, a 5 hour drive.
Geraldton to Coral Bay is 706 km and takes approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes to complete.
The Geraldton to Exmouth distance is 883 km and takes around 8 hours and 30 minutes if you drive straight through.
The distance from Geraldton to Kalbarri is 155 km and takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes to drive.
Kalbarri to Denham & Monkey Mia drive is 374 km and takes around 4 hours to drive.
Denham and Monkey Mia are 26 km apart and it takes about 18 minutes to drive between the two.
Denham to Exmouth is 683 km and takes 7 hours to drive.
The distance from Denham to Carnarvon is 325 km and takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes to drive.
Monkey Mia to Exmouth is 708 km and takes 7 hours and 15 minutes.
Carnarvon to Coral Bay distance is 238 km and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive.
Carnarvon to Exmouth distance is 365 km and takes around 4 hours to drive.
The distance from Coral Bay to Exmouth is 152 km and takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes to drive.
Katherine to Darwin distance is 317 km and takes around 3 hours.
Kununurra to Darwin is 848 km and takes about 8 hours 40 minutes to drive.
Darwin to Kakadu drive is approximately 259 km depending which area you plan to visit.
Perth to Broome drive distance is 2,346 km and takes 24 hours.
Perth to Exmouth distance is 1,249 km and takes around 12 hours and 45 minutes.
Approximately 6 hours drive time and the distance between Perth and Kalbarri is 570 km.
Last Words on a Perth to Darwin Road Trip
So, there you have it, these are just some of the things you will see on a Perth to Darwin road trip.
We have taken many road trips around Australia, we have crossed the Nullarbor Plain, travelled through the centre of Australia from Adelaide to Darwin and through outback Queensland and we would have to say that the Perth to Darwin road trip was one of our most memorable Australian road trip experiences.
The road might be long but the beauty of the countryside unforgettable. If you are planning a trip but don’t have a lot of time, I would recommend putting Kalbarri, Monkey Mia, Exmouth, Kununurra, Katherine and Darwin on the list of places to see.
Have you taken a Perth to Darwin road trip? What was your most memorable experience? We would love to hear from you so feel free to comment.
I will be driving solo next year (May – July) from Perth to Darwin. What can you tell me about the Gibb River Road? I will have a 4×4 rental, a little off-road experience, & very limited auto mechanic expertise. Any advice? Sights and campgrounds along the way? Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks. Jeff
Hi Jeff,
Sounds like an awesome trip. Unfortunately, we haven’t been on the Gibb River Road as yet so can’t advise what to see but I’m sure it would be an unforgettable experience.
Alan