In Western Australia, the Pilbara is among the most stunning and isolated areas. Some of the state's finest attractions are located there as well. Whether you're a visitor hoping to get a real feel for the area, or a resident eager to learn more about what's in your own backyard, these are the things you absolutely must do.
Don't leave Western Australia without seeing the stunning landscapes and rare animals of the Pilbara.
Western Australia's Pilbara region is vast and stunning. Many first-time tourists also flock to this region. In short, whether you're just passing through or have called the Pilbara home for years, you won't run out of things to see and do. Keep an eye out for our upcoming blog post where we'll detail how to best explore this one-of-a-kind area.
The rugged landscapes of the Pilbara are some of the world's oldest and largest, stretching back two billion years and covering an area of over 400,000 square kilometres.
You have to see the stunning beaches, island peninsulas, reefs, underwater gardens, ancient wildernesses, and modern industrial sites of the remote and largely untouched Pilbara to believe it.
Quick Information About Pilbara
Millstream Chichester National Park and Karijini National Park, located further inland, showcase the country's natural splendour.
The Dampier Coast, the Montebello Islands, and the Mackerel Islands, all located close to the coastal city of Onslow, are even more stunning because of their untouched natural beauty. You can go fishing or snorkelling with turtles and dolphins in pristine coral gardens by hiring a private boat or plane to take you out to the reefs. From July until October, whales make their annual migration.
The Pilbara is home to more than 31 distinct Aboriginal tongues. Traditional legal norms and custodianship responsibilities are deeply embedded in the identities of many indigenous peoples. The Burrup Peninsula is a culturally significant site, and visitors are asked to treat it with the respect it deserves.
Large-scale crude oil, salt, natural gas, and iron-ore mining operations are located in the vulnerable Pilbara region, which has been dubbed "The Engine Room of Australia." You should not be bothered. When viewed from above, the Pilbara's mining operations look like tiny dot-work compared to the vastness of the region's natural wealth.
Karratha and Port Hedland, the two largest cities in the Pilbara region, both have mining industry roots. Although Port Hedland was established in 1896, it wasn't until the 1960s that it began to flourish, thanks to the discovery of iron ore at Mount Whaleback.
The port's expansion means that it can now accommodate ships weighing up to a quarter of a million tonnes, making it the busiest in Australia. Karratha was originally founded in the 1960s to house iron-ore miners, but by the 1980s it had become the hub for the Dampier's offshore natural gas-drilling platforms. Visitors can get a feel for the sheer scale of these operations on one of the many available tours.
Getting There
It is possible to get to Newman, Karratha, Port Hedland, and Paraburdoo from Perth via Air North, Virgin Australia,and Qantas.
Getting to the Pilbara from Perth involves a 1481-kilometre journey. It's up to you whether you want to take the Great Northern Highway or the North West Coastal Highway.
Places to Stay
There is a wide variety of places to stay in Karratha and Port Hedland, including hotels, motels, holiday parks, caravan parks, self-contained apartments, and even a hostel.
Camping is permitted at Dales Campground in Karijini National Park (first-in, first-served). Camping is available, as are eco tents with private bathrooms, eco tents set up like dorms, and cabins at Karijini Eco Retreat.
Millstream Chichester National Park has camping options. The best time to go is from around the middle of April to the beginning of October.
There are 150 powered and unpowered sites at Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park, as well as cabins, a mini-mart, and potable water. No reservations are required.
Those looking for a place to stay the night on their way from Karijini to Carnarvon will be pleased to learn that the Pilbara is replete with luxurious lodges and station stays, such as the working station of Cheela Plains.
In Point Samson, you can choose from a variety of resorts, chalets, and boutique bed & breakfasts, as well as modern caravan parks and holiday homes, all with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Enjoy a sunset or sunrise stroll along Honeymoon Cove's sandy shores, or set up a picnic or barbeque on the grass and watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Places to Go and Things to See
More than two billion years of geological time have gone into creating the breathtaking landscapes of Pilbara. As one travels deeper into the ancient gorge country, the breathtaking natural beauty gradually gives way to vast plains and uncharted aquatic wonderlands.
Some of the best snorkelling, fishing, and diving in the world can be found in the nearby Dampier Archipelago and Mackerel Islands, a chain of islands just off the coast. Discover the crystal waterfalls, 100-metre (328-foot) plunging canyon, and emerald rock pools at Karijini National Park, the crown jewel of Pilbara.
Mackerel Islands
Did you know there's a private, deserted island in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of Western Australia, with its very own coral reef? You've arrived in the Mackerel Islands!
The islands, which are about 22 km [13.6 mi] off the Onslow coast, are a great place to get away for a vacation. In the company of a local tour operator, you can hop on a small plane or boat and discover the underwater rainbow.
Other than that, the Mackerel Islands are well-known for the amazing wildlife experiences that can be had there, both on land and at sea. Visitors can observe sea turtles nesting, search for exotic shells on the beach, and even go whale watching.
In addition to world-class diving, fishing, and snorkelling, the islands also feature beautiful white sand beaches perfect for lounging.
In the Mackerel Islands, on Direction Island and Thevenard Island, you can spend a relaxing vacation away from the hustle and bustle of city life. There are places to stay on both islands if you'd like to extend your trip. This location is an ideal starting point for exploring the Pilbara.
Mount Nameless
Tom Price is a small town in Western Australia's desert. Just 4 kilometres (2.4 miles) away from this city is where all the action is, and you won't believe what it's called. This strange mountain is called Mont Nameless, and yes, its name is strange.
Views of the surrounding countryside are breathtaking from here at the mountain's peak. In addition, you can see the local iron mining operation from above and get a bird's eye view of Tom Price.
The Tom Price Mine Site and the vast desert that lies to the south and west make up this area. Tom Price, a small town, and the stunning Karijini National Park are located in the region's northernmost point. Anyone interested in good 4WD with a unique conclusion should visit this location, and those seeking mesmerising views of the contrast in Western Australia should do the same.
Mount Nameless is the best place to go if you want a beautiful mountain view without having to climb any mountains. There are also two hiking trails that can be used to reach the peak.
Marble Bar
The Pilbara region of Northwest Australia is home to the town and rock formation known as Marble Bar. The landmark is a well-preserved replica of a town in the Australian outback that flourished during the gold rush era in the late 1800s. And of course, the summertime temperatures there are notoriously high.
Even in the dead of winter, the area's daytime highs rarely drop below freezing, while the lows are usually in the 30s. Nearby gorges and swimming holes provide a refreshing dip on hot days.
And that's not all! The Comet Gold Mine and the top-secret Corunna Downs Airbase can both be found in Marble Bar. There are simply too many options for entertainment in the neighbourhood. Check out the Marble Bar Heritage Trail, a fantastic walking destination.
Plus, you can go swimming or have a picnic at Marble Bar Pool or Chinaman's Pool. The two pools make for beautiful photo ops, especially right after sunrise when the rocks on the hill take on a golden hue. Other gorges worth exploring by Doolena, 4WD include Carawine, and Coppin's Gap. Don't forget to grab a beer at the Iron Clad Hotel, located inside Marble Bar, before continuing on with your travels.
Point Samson Fishing Village
West Australia's Pilbara region is home to the tiny coastal community of Point Samson. In all of North West Australia, this is one of the most pristine and picture-perfect coastal communities.
In Point Samson, you can go game fishing, snorkelling, or just relax in the safe waters of the pristine sands because of the surrounding coral reefs. In addition, the long, white beach is an excellent place to spot migrating whales off Cape Lambert, incoming iron ore tankers, and nesting turtles. The beach also has some pretty spectacular red sunsets.
If you're in the area, you must try the fish and chips. Fish and other seafood, such as giant Mud Crabs, Barramundi, Blue Manna Crabs, Red Emperor, and prawns, can be found in the tidal rivers because the town is located on the coast. This quiet coastal community features a wide variety of places to lay your head, from luxury hotels to rustic cabins to up-to-date RV resorts.
Karijini National Park
The Karijini National Park is not only the crown jewel of Pilbara, but also a unique and exciting adventure that has been developing over the course of more than two billion years. Karijini National Park is a must-see if you're in Western Australia because of its unique landscapes and unforgettable outback experiences.
Famous for its towering sheer-sided gorges, dramatic creeks, and other chasms with sheer walls, this park is a sight to behold. It also features waterfalls and rock pools of emerald green, which are major draws. Those who are physically capable and seeking adventure can hike along one of the many trails that lead deeper into the gorges.
Talk to the rangers if you want to know where to begin rock climbing or abseiling. Due to the extreme risks involved, the right gear and expertise are essential.
The highlights of the park include the Oxer's Lookout, Fortescue Falls, Circular Pool in Dales Gorge, and the Fern Pool. As an added bonus, the Weano, Hancock, Red, and Joffre gorges all meet here at one point
It doesn't matter if you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Karijini has it all. There is a wide variety of flora and fauna in Karijini National Park.. Pythons, legless lizards, geckos, dingoes, goannas, and other unusual creatures can all be found here.
The park is sacred to the Kurrama Aboriginal, Innawonga, and Banyjima communities. You can experience Aboriginal hospitality by booking a stay at an eco-retreat that is owned and operated by Aboriginal people. You can also camp here if you like. It is highly recommended that you pick up a brochure before leaving the park in order to fully prepare for your visit to the park's award-winning interactive Visitor Center.
Experience the Beauty of Millstream–Chichester National Park
Millstream Chichester National Park is home to scenic drives, walking trails, pools and gorges and it can be found just a few hours south of Karratha and Roebourne.
One of the most visited spots in the park is Python Pool, which is located at the foot of the Chichester Range. The deep pool at the seasonal waterfall off the Roebourne-Wittenoom Road is great for a swim, and there are barbeque pits and hiking trails nearby.
There are a number of hiking trails in the park, including the Mount Herbert summit trail in the Chichester Range and the cliff top walk that offers views of the Hamersley Ranges and Fortescue River.
Deep Reach, a pool on the Fortescue River revered by the Yindjibarndi, also features picnic areas and day-use. Barrimurdi, the serpent or Warlu, lives in the pool, so guests are asked to be respectful and quiet.
Visit the Burrup Peninsula's Attractions (Murujuga National Park)
The Burrup Peninsula's Murujuga National Park contains the world's greatest number of rock art engravings and has been called "the largest outdoor art gallery on the planet."
These petroglyphs are over a million in number, and they are over 40,000 years old. There are current efforts to have this site added to the UNESCO world heritage list because of the engravings depicting both humans and animals. Travelers can take advantage of Karratha's Guided Tours.
Go on a Ghost Town Expedition
The Pilbara is home to a number of abandoned settlements. For instance, before the pearl trade shifted to Broome in 1886, the city of Cossack served as a port for the pearling luggers.
The town was deserted in the 1950s, but the restored buildings provide a glimpse into life at the time. The town's customs house, once used as a warehouse, has been restored and turned into a café as part of a 3-kilometre heritage walk. The original town, including the police station and courthouse, was located to the south of the current day city of Onslow.
Camp Out in the Newly Developed Campgrounds at the Southern Rac Karri Valley Resort
The RAC Karri Valley Resort, just twenty minutes from Pemberton in the verdant karri forests of Beedelup, is one of the most stunning vacation spots in all of Western Australia. Comfortable hotel rooms overlooking Lake Beedelup, forest and lake view chalets, and a brand new campground opening in 2020 are just some of the options for lodging.
Located on the resort's opposite side, this camping area provides visitors from all over the Southern Forest and Valleys Region with the best camping facilities available.
Before RAC Parks & Resorts took over the land, it had been cleared for use as a hop farm. Now, it will be home to a campground to complement the nearby resort hotels.
There are many different types of campsites available at the campground now, including those without electricity.
They have recently laid a lot of new turfs to expand the grassy areas for powered sites, built more ablution blocks, and added more parking near the resort as part of the upgrade.
The RAC Karri Valley campground has a tennis courts, pool table, ping pong, animal farm, BMX track, archery, and even a nature playground, in addition to the standard camping amenities.
Along with this, the resort also offers a plethora of other recreational opportunities, such as canoe rentals, mini-golf, disc golf, fishing gear, and a slew of other services and programmes tailored to children during school vacations.
The Lakeside Restaurant at the RAC Karri Valley Resort is also a must if you're looking to indulge in a bit of luxury while camping. Walk for twenty minutes or drive for five minutes to this restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a view of beautiful Lake Beedelup, where you can toast your bread and meats over a crackling fire while sipping on local wines and beers. The kids' play area is a great place for them to run around and have some fun.
Watch ‘Staircase to the Moon’
Broome may be the most well-known place in Western Australia from which to see this natural phenomenon, but Onslow, Dampier, Cossack, and Port Hedland in the Pilbara also provide excellent vantage points.
This phenomenon, which occurs between March and October and is caused by the moon's reflections as it rises, gives the sky the appearance of a natural staircase leading to the moon. Port Hedland's Cooke Point Caravan Park on Goode Street features a viewing deck built for this very purpose.
Explore a Variety of Islands
Nearly 45 kilometres from Dampier, you'll find the Dampier Archipelago, which is home to 42 islands. Coral reefs and some of Western Australia's richest marine biodiversity can be found in the archipelago, making it a fantastic location for scuba diving, snorkelling, and fishing.
Some islands, such as Eaglehawk and Dolphin Island, allow camping within 100 metres of the high water mark (with the exception of certain designated particular conservation zone areas). Cossack, Karratha Back Beach, Dampier, Johns Creek, and Point Samson all have boat ramps that will get you to the islands.
FAQS About Pilbara's Tourist Attractions
The Pilbara ]is a large, dry, thinly populated region in the north of Western Australia. It is known for its Aboriginal peoples; its ancient landscapes; the red earth; and its vast mineral deposits, in particular iron ore.
The distance between Perth and Pilbara is 1270 km. It takes approximately 5h 39m to get from Perth to Pilbara, including transfers.
Conclusion
The Pilbara region of Western Australia is one of the most stunning and isolated areas in the world, with some of the state's finest attractions located there. It is home to 31 distinct Aboriginal tongues and large-scale crude oil, salt, natural gas, and iron-ore mining operations. The rugged landscapes of the Pilbara are some of the world's oldest and largest, stretching back two billion years and covering an area of over 400,000 square kilometres. There are many first-time tourists also flock to this region, and there are many things to see and do. Port Hedland was established in 1896, but it began to flourish in the 1960s due to the discovery of iron ore at Mount Whaleback.
Karratha was originally founded to house iron-ore miners, but by the 1980s it had become the hub for the Dampier's offshore natural gas-drilling platforms. It is possible to get to the Pilbara from Perth via Air North, Virgin Australia, and Qantas. There is a wide variety of places to stay in Karratha and Port Hedland, including hotels, motels, holiday parks, caravan parks, self-contained apartments, and even a hostel. Camping is permitted at Dales Campground in Karijini National Park, as are eco tents with private bathrooms, eco tents set up like dorms, and cabins at Karijini Eco Retreat. There are 150 powered and unpowered sites at Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park, as well as cabins, a mini-mart, and potable water.
The Pilbara is replete with luxurious lodges and station stays, such as the working station of Cheela Plains. The Pilbara region of Western Australia is home to some of the best snorkelling, fishing, and diving in the world. Discover the crystal waterfalls, 100-metre (328-foot) plunging canyon, and emerald rock pools at Karijini National Park, as well as the Mackerel Islands, a private, deserted island in the Indian Ocean with its own coral reef and white sand beaches. Mount Nameless is a small town in Western Australia's desert, and the Tom Price Mine Site and the vast desert that lies to the south and west make it an ideal starting point for exploring the Pilbara. Mount Nameless and Marble Bar are two popular destinations in Western Australia.
Mount Nameless is the best place to go if you want a beautiful mountain view without having to climb any mountains. Marble Bar is a well-preserved replica of a town in the Australian outback that flourished during the gold rush era in the late 1800s. Nearby gorges and swimming holes provide a refreshing dip on hot days, and the Comet Gold Mine and the top-secret Corunna Downs Airbase can both be found in Marble Bar. Point Samson Fishing Village is one of the most pristine and picture-perfect coastal communities in North West Australia, offering game fishing, snorkelling, and relaxing in the safe waters of the pristine sands. Karijini National Park is a must-see in Western Australia, known for its towering sheer-sided gorges, dramatic creeks, and other chasms with sheer walls.
It also features waterfalls and rock pools of emerald green, and is sacred to the Kurrama Aboriginal, Innawonga, and Banyjima communities. Millstream Chichester National Park is home to scenic drives, walking trails, pools and gorges and can be found just a few hours south of Karratha. The Burrup Peninsula's Murujuga National Park contains the world's greatest number of rock art engravings and has been called "the largest outdoor art gallery on the planet". Visitors can take advantage of Karratha's Guided Tours and go on a Ghost Town Expedition. The RAC Karri Valley Resort is one of the most stunning vacation spots in Western Australia, offering comfortable hotel rooms overlooking Lake Beedelup, forest and lake view chalets, and a brand new campground.
The RAC Karri Valley Resort has recently upgraded its campground and offers a variety of recreational opportunities, such as tennis courts, pool tables, ping pong, animal farm, BMX track, archery, and a nature playground. The Lakeside Restaurant at the resort offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a view of Lake Beedelup, and the kids' play area is a great place for them to run around and have fun. Explore the Dampier Archipelago, which is home to 42 islands and offers scuba diving, snorkelling, and fishing.
Content Summary
- In Western Australia, the Pilbara is among the most stunning and isolated areas.
- Some of the state's finest attractions are located there as well.
- Whether you're a visitor hoping to get a real feel for the area, or a resident eager to learn more about what's in your own backyard, these are the things you absolutely must do.
- Don't leave Western Australia without seeing the stunning landscapes and rare animals of the Pilbara.
- Western Australia's Pilbara region is vast and stunning.
- The rugged landscapes of the Pilbara are some of the world's oldest and largest, stretching back two billion years and covering an area of over 400,000 square kilometres.
- You have to see the stunning beaches, island peninsulas, reefs, underwater gardens, ancient wildernesses, and modern industrial sites of the remote and largely untouched Pilbara to believe it.
- The Pilbara is home to more than 31 distinct Aboriginal tongues.
- Karratha was originally founded in the 1960s to house iron-ore miners, but by the 1980s it had become the hub for the Dampier's offshore natural gas-drilling platforms.
- It is possible to get to Newman, Karratha, Port Hedland, and Paraburdoo from Perth via Air North, Virgin Australia,and Qantas.
- Getting to the Pilbara from Perth involves a 1481-kilometre journey.
- There is a wide variety of places to stay in Karratha and Port Hedland, including hotels, motels, holiday parks, caravan parks, self-contained apartments, and even a hostel.
- Those looking for a place to stay the night on their way from Karijini to Carnarvon will be pleased to learn that the Pilbara is replete with luxurious lodges and station stays, such as the working station of Cheela Plains.
- Some of the best snorkelling, fishing, and diving in the world can be found in the nearby Dampier Archipelago and Mackerel Islands, a chain of islands just off the coast.
- Discover the crystal waterfalls, 100-metre (328-foot) plunging canyon, and emerald rock pools at Karijini National Park, the crown jewel of Pilbara.
- Did you know there's a private, deserted island in the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of Western Australia, with its very own coral reef?
- The islands, which are about 22 km [13.6 mi] off the Onslow coast, are a great place to get away for a vacation.
- Other than that, the Mackerel Islands are well-known for the amazing wildlife experiences that can be had there, both on land and at sea.
- In addition to world-class diving, fishing, and snorkelling, the islands also feature beautiful white sand beaches perfect for lounging.
- In the Mackerel Islands, on Direction Island and Thevenard Island, you can spend a relaxing vacation away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- There are places to stay on both islands if you'd like to extend your trip.
- This location is an ideal starting point for exploring the Pilbara.
- Mount Nameless is the best place to go if you want a beautiful mountain view without having to climb any mountains.
- The Pilbara region of Northwest Australia is home to the town and rock formation known as Marble Bar.
- The landmark is a well-preserved replica of a town in the Australian outback that flourished during the gold rush era in the late 1800s.
- Nearby gorges and swimming holes provide a refreshing dip on hot days.
- The Comet Gold Mine and the top-secret Corunna Downs Airbase can both be found in Marble Bar.
- Check out the Marble Bar Heritage Trail, a fantastic walking destination.
- Point Samson Fishing Village West Australia's Pilbara region is home to the tiny coastal community of Point Samson.
- In all of North West Australia, this is one of the most pristine and picture-perfect coastal communities.
- The Karijini National Park is not only the crown jewel of Pilbara, but also a unique and exciting adventure that has been developing over the course of more than two billion years.
- Karijini National Park is a must-see if you're in Western Australia because of its unique landscapes and unforgettable outback experiences.
- Famous for its towering sheer-sided gorges, dramatic creeks, and other chasms with sheer walls, this park is a sight to behold.
- It also features waterfalls and rock pools of emerald green, which are major draws.
- Talk to the rangers if you want to know where to begin rock climbing or abseiling.
- There is a wide variety of flora and fauna in Karijini National Park.. Pythons, legless lizards, geckos, dingoes, goannas, and other unusual creatures can all be found here.
- The park is sacred to the Kurrama Aboriginal, Innawonga, and Banyjima communities.
- You can experience Aboriginal hospitality by booking a stay at an eco-retreat that is owned and operated by Aboriginal people.
- You can also camp here if you like.
- Millstream Chichester National Park is home to scenic drives, walking trails, pools and gorges and it can be found just a few hours south of Karratha and Roebourne.
- The Burrup Peninsula's Murujuga National Park contains the world's greatest number of rock art engravings and has been called "the largest outdoor art gallery on the planet."
- There are current efforts to have this site added to the UNESCO world heritage list because of the engravings depicting both humans and animals.
- The Pilbara is home to a number of abandoned settlements.
- The RAC Karri Valley Resort, just twenty minutes from Pemberton in the verdant karri forests of Beedelup, is one of the most stunning vacation spots in all of Western Australia.
- Comfortable hotel rooms overlooking Lake Beedelup, forest and lake view chalets, and a brand new campground opening in 2020 are just some of the options for lodging.
- The RAC Karri Valley campground has a tennis courts, pool table, ping pong, animal farm, BMX track, archery, and even a nature playground, in addition to the standard camping amenities.
- The Lakeside Restaurant at the RAC Karri Valley Resort is also a must if you're looking to indulge in a bit of luxury while camping.
- The kids' play area is a great place for them to run around and have some fun.
- Broome may be the most well-known place in Western Australia from which to see this natural phenomenon, but Onslow, Dampier, Cossack, and Port Hedland in the Pilbara also provide excellent vantage points.
- This phenomenon, which occurs between March and October and is caused by the moon's reflections as it rises, gives the sky the appearance of a natural staircase leading to the moon.
- Nearly 45 kilometres from Dampier, you'll find the Dampier Archipelago, which is home to 42 islands.
- Coral reefs and some of Western Australia's richest marine biodiversity can be found in the archipelago, making it a fantastic location for scuba diving, snorkelling, and fishing.