Last Updated on January 15, 2026
Exploring Western Australia‘s Coral Coast with a campervan is a fantastic way to experience the region’s natural beauty. Starting in Perth, you can hire a solar-powered campervan from OffGrid Campers WA and embark on a journey to Exmouth and Coral Bay, two must-visit destinations along the Ningaloo Reef. These locations are perfect for snorkelling, wildlife encounters, and enjoying stunning coastal and outback landscapes.
Key Highlights:
- Ningaloo Reef: Swim with whale sharks (March–July) and humpback whales (August–October), or snorkel vibrant coral gardens.
- Cape Range National Park: Explore gorges, hike scenic trails, and camp near serene beaches.
- Flexible Travel: Self-contained campervans with solar power, fridges, and rooftop tents let you travel at your own pace.
- Route Overview: A 1,250 km drive from Perth with stops at Geraldton, Kalbarri, Shark Bay, and Carnarvon.
Plan for a 7–10 day trip, book campsites in advance (especially in Cape Range National Park), and enjoy the freedom of off-grid travel. Campervans are picked up and returned in Perth, making it the ideal starting point for this unforgettable adventure.
Ultimate Perth to Exmouth Road Trip | Full Itinerary + Best Stops Along the Way 🚐🌴
Why Exmouth and Coral Bay Are Top Campervan Destinations
Western Australia’s northwest coastline is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary marine life. Exmouth and Coral Bay stand out as must-visit spots, offering a mix of rugged outback charm and coastal beauty. These two destinations act as gateways to some of the country’s most stunning natural wonders. Let’s dive into what makes them so special.
Ningaloo Reef: A Marine Paradise
Ningaloo Reef is one of the easiest coral reef systems to access in Australia, running just a few metres from the shore in many areas. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s famous for hosting one of the largest gatherings of whale sharks in the world, making it a dream destination for marine lovers.
"Beside the red soils of the Cape Range lies the turquoise lagoons of Ningaloo Reef, home to some of the world’s most incredible marine creatures." – Tourism Australia
What makes Ningaloo so unique is how close it is to the shore. You can park your campervan, grab your snorkelling gear, and be exploring vibrant underwater worlds within minutes. From late March to late July, visitors can join tours to swim alongside majestic whale sharks, with prices starting around $280. For those who prefer to stick closer to shore, iconic snorkelling spots like Turquoise Bay and Oyster Stacks offer incredible views of coral gardens and tropical fish.
The reef is also home to manta rays, nesting sea turtles, and the annual migration of approximately 40,000 humpback whales. Every snorkelling session feels like an adventure, with chances to spot reef sharks, rays, and other fascinating marine life. To make the most of your visit, check in with the Ningaloo Visitor Centre in Exmouth for up-to-date advice on snorkelling conditions and drift snorkel locations.
Cape Range National Park: Stunning Gorges and Beaches
While Ningaloo Reef dazzles underwater, Cape Range National Park impresses with its dramatic landscapes and serene beaches. The park offers the perfect balance to the reef’s marine wonders, with its rugged terrain and coastal camping opportunities.
Charles Knife Canyon is a standout feature, accessible via a scenic drive that rewards travellers with sweeping views of the peninsula and reef. Watching the sunrise or sunset here is a highlight for many visitors. For those who love hiking, the 7-kilometre Badjarrijarri Trail to Shothole Canyon Lookout is a must, while shorter walks in Mandu Mandu Gorge and Yardie Creek offer a closer look at the region’s unique flora and fauna.
"The Park is noted for its gorgeous gorges which you can hike and spend time viewing wildlife near the equally beautiful beaches dotting the coastline." – Brad
Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting rock wallabies and echidnas along the trails. If you’re planning to camp, the park’s beachside sites are a steal at $11 per adult and $3 per child. These sites provide direct access to world-class snorkelling and include essential amenities like toilets, picnic tables, and fresh water. The Milyering Discovery Centre is also on hand for supplies, maps, and snorkelling tips.
Remote Beauty Meets Practical Comfort
Despite its remote location, about 1,200 kilometres north of Perth, Exmouth and Coral Bay are well-equipped for campervan travellers. This mix of untouched wilderness and modern conveniences makes it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and comfort.
Cape Range National Park is a favourite among visitors, earning a 4.6/5 rating on TripAdvisor. Reviewers often praise the combination of stunning natural landscapes and well-maintained facilities. Beachside campsites are particularly popular, so it’s wise to book up to six months in advance to secure a spot.
Exmouth and Coral Bay cater to different travel styles while maintaining their laid-back, outback vibe. Coral Bay is perfect for families, offering a relaxed beachside atmosphere, while Exmouth provides a wider range of services, including supermarkets, restaurants, and tour operators. Both towns ensure you have access to essentials like fuel and supplies without losing the charm of a remote getaway.
Adding another layer of richness to the experience is the region’s deep Aboriginal heritage. The Ningaloo/Nyinggulu Coastal Reserves are part of the traditional lands of the Baiyungu and Jinigudira people. This connection between land, sea, and culture creates an unforgettable journey that stays with you long after your campervan adventure ends.
Perth Pick-Up Only: Your Starting Point
When gearing up for your Exmouth and Coral Bay adventure, there’s one key thing to know: all OffGrid Campers WA vehicles are picked up and returned in Perth. This arrangement simplifies your travel plans, making it the perfect starting point for exploring Western Australia’s stunning northwest coastline.
Why Perth Is the Ideal Launchpad
Perth stands out as the top choice for campervan hire in Western Australia. Thanks to its excellent accessibility, it’s a convenient hub whether you’re flying in from another state or starting your journey locally. With Perth Airport offering easy public transport options, getting to your campervan pick-up is a breeze.
Starting and ending your trip in Perth not only simplifies logistics but also gives you access to a wide range of vehicles at competitive rates. It’s also a practical choice – Perth’s supermarkets allow you to stock up on supplies before heading into remote areas, where prices are often higher, and options can be limited.
Perth also serves as your prep station for the road ahead. You can print out essential documents like National Park passes, grab a Telstra SIM card for reliable coverage along the West Coast, and download offline maps. These steps will set you up for the 1,250-kilometre drive to Exmouth. Your Perth pick-up is where the adventure truly begins, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey along the Coral Coast.
OffGrid Campervan Features for Long Adventures
The drive from Perth to Exmouth takes around 12–13 hours if done in one go. Thankfully, OffGrid Campers WA vehicles are built for long, off-grid adventures. Each campervan is equipped with solar power systems and advanced batteries, so you won’t need to rely on powered campsites for electricity.
Stay connected even in remote areas with Starlink internet, and travel self-sufficiently with high-capacity fridges and ample water storage. Rooftop tents with comfortable mattresses let you sleep under the stars, while fully equipped camp kitchens mean you can cook up a meal no matter where you are along the Coral Coast.
"Travelling in a campervan provides the flexibility to change your itinerary and route at a moment’s notice." – RatPack Travel
Return Trips Only: No Depots in Exmouth or Coral Bay
OffGrid Campers WA operates on a return-trip basis – there are no depots in Exmouth or Coral Bay. This means your journey ends where it began: back in Perth. The return drive offers a chance to see the Coral Coast from a new perspective and revisit your favourite spots along the way.
The round trip also allows you to ease into driving the campervan. By the time you reach the more remote areas near Exmouth, you’ll be fully comfortable with the vehicle’s features and handling. With a minimum 10-day booking, you’ll have plenty of time to explore Ningaloo Reef, Cape Range National Park, and other must-see stops along this breathtaking route.
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Perth to Exmouth and Coral Bay Route Guide
The Coral Coast Highway stretches about 1,250 km from Perth to Exmouth and Coral Bay, offering a mix of stunning coastal views and desert landscapes. To truly experience everything along the way, plan for a trip of 10–14 days. With solar-ready vehicles and all the essential camping gear, your adventure will be both comfortable and flexible.
Key Stops: Cervantes, Jurien Bay, Geraldton, Kalbarri, Shark Bay, Carnarvon, Coral Bay, and Exmouth
From Perth, these stops are essential highlights along the Coral Coast:
- Cervantes: Just two hours north of Perth, Cervantes is home to the Pinnacles Desert, where ancient limestone formations create an otherworldly landscape (entry fee is around $17 per vehicle).
- Jurien Bay: About 218 km (a 2-hour, 20-minute drive) from Perth, this spot is perfect for marine adventures, including swimming with sea lions.
- Geraldton: Known as a supply hub, Geraldton is a great place to stock up on essentials before heading further north.
- Kalbarri: This town, roughly 559 km from Perth (a 6-hour drive), is famous for the Kalbarri Skywalk and Nature’s Window in Kalbarri National Park (entry fee is about $15 per vehicle).
- Shark Bay: Located 271 km from Kalbarri, this area is renowned for Monkey Mia, where you can enjoy close encounters with wild dolphins (fees are approximately $15 per adult and $5 per child).
- Carnarvon: Just 76 km from Shark Bay, Carnarvon is known for its abundant fruit and vegetable production, making it an ideal spot for a quick break.
- Coral Bay and Exmouth: Coral Bay offers direct access to Ningaloo Reef for snorkelling, while Exmouth, 364 km from Carnarvon, features more dining and accommodation options. The drive to Exmouth takes about 3 hours and 46 minutes.
Travel Time and Distance
Breaking the trip into manageable segments makes for a much more enjoyable journey. The direct route from Perth to Exmouth spans about 1,248 km via National Route 1, which would take just over 13 hours if driven non-stop. However, most travellers opt to spread the journey over 7 to 10 days. Keeping daily drives under 4 hours allows time to relax and explore along the way. Driving after sundown is best avoided, as wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk. To stay on track, download offline maps for areas with limited reception.
| Route Segment | Distance | Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Perth to Jurien Bay | 218 km | 2 hours 20 minutes |
| Jurien Bay to Kalbarri | ~350 km | Approximately 4 hours |
| Kalbarri to Shark Bay | 271 km | Approximately 2 hours |
| Shark Bay to Carnarvon | 76 km | Short journey |
| Carnarvon to Exmouth | 364 km | 3 hours 46 minutes |
Top Attractions Along the Route
Every stretch of the Coral Coast Highway reveals must-see attractions:
- Pinnacles Desert: Marvel at limestone pillars rising from golden sands.
- Hutt Lagoon (Pink Lake): A vibrant, naturally pink lake that’s perfect for photos.
- Geraldton: Beyond being a supply stop, Geraldton offers access to the Abrolhos Islands, home to fascinating shipwrecks and maritime history.
- Kalbarri National Park: Visit the Skywalk and Nature’s Window for breathtaking views of the Murchison River gorge.
- Monkey Mia at Shark Bay: Famous for its daily wild dolphin encounters, this is one of the best wildlife experiences in Australia.
- Quobba Station and Red Bluff: A short detour from Carnarvon takes you to dramatic coastal cliffs and excellent fishing spots.
- Ningaloo Reef: Found at Coral Bay and Exmouth, this fringing reef is a snorkeller’s paradise, with easy access directly from the shore.
The ideal time to travel the Coral Coast Highway is between March and October, when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Since this is also the peak season, booking accommodations and tours ahead of time is highly recommended.
Next, we’ll explore the best camping spots along the Coral Coast.
Where to Camp Along the Coral Coast
Planning your camping stops is key to making the most of your Coral Coast adventure. Whether you prefer the simplicity of free rest stops or the facilities of holiday parks, this stretch from Perth to Exmouth has something for everyone. From bush camps to well-equipped campgrounds, you can strike the perfect balance between self-sufficiency and comfort.
National Park and Holiday Park Campgrounds
Cape Range National Park, near Exmouth and Coral Bay, is a standout destination for campers. It offers a variety of facilities, but booking well in advance is essential. Camping here costs about $11 per adult per night, while nearby Nyinggulara (Ningaloo) National Park provides a slightly cheaper option at $8 per adult per night.
"If you are planning to camp in the national park book about 6 MONTHS in advance as it is very popular and books out quickly." – Tom G
Reservations open 180 days ahead via the Park Stay WA website, and spots fill up fast. Keep in mind that only one campsite can be booked per reservation. Another popular choice is Kurrajong Campground, which charges around $15 per person per night.
For families, RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort is a great option, offering spacious caravan sites and family-friendly amenities. Unpowered tent sites start at about $40 per night, while powered caravan sites are available from around $50 per night.
Holiday parks along the Coral Coast provide a range of camping options. At Peoples Park Coral Bay, you can choose ocean-front or standard campsites priced between $60 and $95 per night. Ningaloo Coral Bay Bayview offers powered, unpowered, beachfront, and caravan sites, with rates ranging from $48 to $62 per night. For a more rustic experience, Bullara Station offers unpowered sites for about $36 per night and powered sites at approximately $50 per night.
If you’re looking to save money, free rest stops along the coast are another option.
Free Rest Stops: Budget-Friendly Options
Free camping is available at designated areas along the Coral Coast, though "wild camping" is prohibited. These free sites typically allow stays of 24–48 hours and often require self-contained vehicles equipped with onboard toilet and waste facilities.
One example is the Minilya Free Camping Area, located about an hour south of Coral Bay. This roadside stop includes public toilets and fire pits, and allows stays of up to 24 hours. Similarly, the Lyndon River West Rest Area, just 40 minutes south of Coral Bay, provides fire pits, long-drop toilets, shaded picnic tables, and a dump station for overnight stays.
Further along the North West Coastal Highway, you’ll find Nerren Nerren and Galena Bridge, both offering reliable 24-hour camping options. Galena Bridge is situated near the Murchison River, while Nerren Nerren serves as another convenient stop. For a middle ground between free camping and full-service caravan parks, Wooramel River Retreat offers sites priced between $30 and $60 per night.
Before lighting campfires, always check local fire restrictions, as bushfire risks can vary by season. Also, downloading offline maps is a smart move since mobile reception can be patchy. Apps like WikiCamps Australia and CamperMate are excellent tools for finding free camping sites and checking up-to-date facilities and regulations.
For a smoother experience, consider these practical tips for camping in Coral Bay and Exmouth.
Camping Tips for Coral Bay and Exmouth
The peak camping season runs from March to October, when the weather is most pleasant. However, this also means higher demand and, often, higher prices. For instance, the 14 Mile Campground charges about $10 per person and requires online booking, highlighting the importance of planning ahead.
If you’re visiting Cape Range National Park, prepare for limited mobile coverage. Stock up on fuel, drinking water, and other supplies before entering the park. Wildlife is common on park roads, so drive carefully and avoid travelling after dark.
For coastal camping, it’s wise to carry extra fuel and dry food in case of unexpected weather or road delays. If you’re planning extensive 4WD adventures in remote areas, consider bringing a satellite phone or personal locator beacon for added safety.
Self-contained camping is often necessary, especially at free camps and remote stations. Ensure you have your own toilet facilities, water storage, and waste management systems, as many sites require self-contained vehicles to minimise environmental impact.
Lastly, follow the "leave no trace" principle. Take all your rubbish with you, use designated fire rings where allowed, and camp only in approved areas. This helps preserve these stunning locations for future travellers.
Start Your Western Australia Campervan Journey
Exmouth and Coral Bay are the crown jewels of Western Australia’s campervan adventures. On the breathtaking Ningaloo Coast, you can snorkel alongside whale sharks one day and explore limestone gorges the next. Coral Bay, known for hosting the world’s second-largest population of manta rays, also offers seasonal opportunities to swim with humpback whales. These experiences are truly one-of-a-kind and make the region a must-visit destination [32, 3].
Your journey begins in Perth, Australia’s sunniest capital city and the perfect launching pad for a campervan adventure. With 91% of Western Australia’s population living in the southwest, Perth serves as the state’s major hub [17, 30]. It’s also your last chance to stock up on essentials before heading into the remote northern areas, where towns and supermarkets are few and far between. From here, your adventure takes shape, supported by campervans tailored for the rugged conditions of Western Australia.
OffGrid Campers WA vehicles are built with the region’s unique challenges in mind. These campervans feature durable solar power systems, large water storage tanks, high-quality awnings, and bedding designed for comfort in varying climates. This ensures you can travel off-grid with ease and reliability.
Once you leave Perth, the 1,100–1,250 kilometre drive to Coral Bay and Exmouth transforms into an unforgettable journey. The scenic Coral Coast offers some of the most spectacular attractions along the way [32, 3]. OffGrid Campers WA provides curated routes and pre-planned itineraries to guide you through Western Australia’s highlights while steering clear of risky off-road paths.
Starting at $100 per day, OffGrid Campers WA offers up to 30% savings with no hidden fees. For added convenience, optional Starlink systems keep you connected even in remote areas, while 24/7 roadside assistance and comprehensive insurance provide peace of mind.
"At OffGrid Campers WA, we blend our love for travel with local expertise… With our quality vehicles and off-grid capabilities, clients enjoy freedom and comfort, leading to unforgettable adventures that create lasting memories."
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Exmouth and Coral Bay for marine wildlife encounters?
The best time to explore Exmouth and Coral Bay for unforgettable marine wildlife encounters is from March to July. This is when the waters come alive with extraordinary creatures like whale sharks, manta rays, and humpback whales.
March marks the start of whale shark season, which continues through July, giving you the rare chance to swim beside these gentle giants. Around mid-year, the humpback whale migration reaches its peak, making it an ideal time to witness these awe-inspiring mammals along the Ningaloo Reef. To make the most of your visit, align your trip with these seasonal wonders.
What should I pack and plan for the road trip from Perth to Exmouth and Coral Bay?
For your trip, ensure you pack enough food, water, and supplies to last 7–10 days. Plan fuel stops carefully, as the distances between petrol stations can be quite large. Make sure your vehicle is in excellent condition, and bring along essential emergency items like a spare tyre, basic tools, and a fully stocked first aid kit.
Check road conditions before heading out, and if you’re planning to stay in national parks – like the popular Cape Range National Park – book your campsites in advance. Take regular breaks to stay sharp while driving, and make time to enjoy the highlights along the route. Don’t miss incredible spots like Kalbarri, Shark Bay, and the breathtaking Coral Coast scenery.
What makes OffGrid Campers WA campervans perfect for off-grid adventures along the Coral Coast?
OffGrid Campers WA campervans are built for genuine off-grid adventures, making them perfect for discovering the untouched beauty of the Coral Coast. These vans are equipped with solar power systems, high-capacity batteries, and power inverters, giving you the freedom to camp comfortably without relying on external power.
Inside, you’ll find everything needed for a self-sufficient trip, including solar panels, an off-grid electrical setup, a shower, and heating. Designed for extended journeys, these campervans make exploring the Coral Coast’s rugged landscapes and remote camping spots both convenient and enjoyable.
