Perth to Exmouth Road Trip: Scenic Stops, Eats & Tips
A Perth to Exmouth road trip is the kind of journey that turns travel into an experience. Spanning over 1,200 kilometers along Western Australia’s Coral Coast, this route delivers endless beaches, rugged gorges, and beautiful encounters with marine life. If you’re planning a relaxed Perth to Exmouth road trip for 10 days or fitting it into a tighter road trip for 7 days, this guide will help you map it all out.
How Long Does It Take for a Road Trip from Perth to Exmouth?
The full Perth to Exmouth road trip distance is approximately 1,250 kilometers. If you were to drive straight through, it would take around 12 to 13 hours. But the beauty of this trip lies in the journey itself, not just the destination.
Most travellers stretch out the road trip from Perth to Exmouth over 7 to 10 days. This gives you time to explore the coast, enjoy national parks, and soak up everything from dolphins in Monkey Mia to snorkeling in Coral Bay. For those with extra time, extending the route to a Perth to Exmouth road trip 14 days, allows for more off-the-beaten-path adventures.
If you're heading back on an Exmouth to Perth road trip, you can take a slightly different route inland to discover a new side of WA. Either way, planning extra days gives you room to breathe, explore, and enjoy the ride without feeling rushed.
Best Time to Go on a Perth to Exmouth Road Trip
The best time for a Perth to Exmouth road trip 7 days is between April and October. These cooler, drier months are ideal for driving long distances, camping under the stars, and enjoying activities like reef snorkeling, wildlife tours, and hikes through national parks.
If you travel during this window, you’ll avoid the intense summer heat, which can make travel uncomfortable and cause some remote sites to close due to fire risks. April to June is especially good if you're hoping to spot whale sharks in Ningaloo Reef, one of the region’s most iconic experiences.
For those following a summer motorhome culinary journey road map, December to February may still appeal, but be prepared for extreme temperatures and limited shade. Having a reliable power station like the EcoFlow DELTA 2 Portable Power Station can help you stay cool and connected even in the heat. With enough juice to run high-wattage appliances like a portable AC or even a microwave, it helps keep you cool and well-fed during those long, hot stretches. Plus, with the ability to charge up to 13 devices at once, the whole family stays powered up and connected, no matter how remote the stop.
Suggested Perth to Exmouth Road Trip Itinerary
Start your journey with this Google Map Route to guide your road trip Perth to Exmouth. Whether you’re after marine life, outback landscapes, or hidden beach towns, this 7–10 day itinerary has you covered.
Day 1: Perth → Cervantes
Distance: ~200 km
Stop at: The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park
Where to Eat: Cervantes Bar & Bistro (try the local lobster)
Stay: RAC Cervantes Holiday Park or a beachside motel
Day 2–3: Cervantes → Kalbarri
Distance: ~380 km
Stop at: Pink Lake (Hutt Lagoon), Kalbarri National Park (Nature’s Window and Z-Bend)
Eat at: Finlay’s Kalbarri for fresh seafood
Stay: Kalbarri Edge Resort or beachfront cabins
Day 4: Kalbarri → Shark Bay (Denham & Monkey Mia)
Distance: ~400 km
Stop at: Shell Beach, Hamelin Pool stromatolites, and Monkey Mia dolphins
Eat at: The Old Pearler Restaurant in Denham
Stay: RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort
Day 5–6: Shark Bay → Coral Bay
Distance: ~560 km
Activities: Snorkel at Ningaloo Reef, swim with manta rays
Eat at: Fin’s Café for breakfast, Reef Café for dinner
Stay: People’s Park or Ningaloo Coral Bay – Bayview
Day 7–8: Coral Bay → Exmouth
Distance: ~150 km
Explore: Cape Range National Park, Turquoise Bay, Vlamingh Head Lighthouse
Eat at: Whalers Restaurant in Exmouth
Stay: Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef (eco-luxury) or Exmouth Escape Resort
Optional Day 9–10: Extra Days in Exmouth or Inland Detour
If you’re on a Perth to Exmouth road trip 10 days or more, spend extra time hiking in the gorges, diving, or relaxing by the reef. You could also take a detour inland through Carnarvon or visit Bullara Station for a unique outback stay.
What to Pack & Prepare for the Road Trip?
Packing wisely can make or break your Perth to Exmouth road trip. With long distances between towns and plenty of remote stops, being well-prepared keeps the journey safe and stress-free. Here’s a checklist to help you hit the road fully equipped:
Travel documents and maps: Bring your license, printed itinerary, and offline maps in case of limited signal.
Clothing: Lightweight gear for warm days, layers for cool nights, and swimwear for reef adventures.
Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes for hikes and sandals for the beach.
Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and lip balm with SPF.
Water and food: Carry plenty of water and non-perishable snacks. Stock up when passing major towns.
Tech gear: Bring charging cables, a backup battery, and a portable power station like the EcoFlow DELTA 2 Portable Power Station to keep electronics running while off-grid.
Emergency and safety kit: First aid, torch, jumper leads, tyre repair kit, and extra fuel if heading into remote areas.
Optional camping gear: If you plan to stay in national parks or at unpowered sites, pack lightweight camping essentials. The EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger is great for recharging while you drive.
Tips for a Safe & Enjoyable Journey
The Perth to Exmouth road trip takes you through some of Western Australia’s most remote and rewarding terrain. To make the most of it, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth, enjoyable, and safe experience.
Plan fuel stops in advance: Some stretches of this route go hundreds of kilometers without a petrol station. Always fill up when you can and don’t let your tank dip too low.
Check weather and road updates: Use Main Roads WA to stay informed on closures, especially after heavy rain or during the hotter months. Unsealed roads can become inaccessible quickly.
Avoid driving at dusk and night: Wildlife is more active during these hours, and road visibility drops fast. Plan your days so you’re off the road before dark.
Download offline maps and playlists: Reception can be patchy in remote areas. Having offline tools makes a big difference, especially when navigating or trying to pass the time between stops.
Stay powered up: Whether you’re charging your phone or running small appliances at a campsite, having an EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger means you’re never caught off guard.
Respect nature: Stick to marked trails, camp only in designated areas, and practice responsible outdoor recreation to help preserve these landscapes for others.
Conclusion
A Perth to Exmouth road trip is the ultimate way to experience Western Australia's Coral Coast, a region packed with diverse landscapes, vibrant marine life, and outback charm. Whether you’re after snorkeling at Ningaloo Reef, hiking through national parks, or soaking in the silence of the open road, this route delivers it all. With good planning, the right timing, and the support of reliable gear, your journey becomes about freedom and discovery, not logistics.
FAQs
Is the drive from Perth to Exmouth worth it?
Yes. The Perth to Exmouth road trip is one of Australia’s most scenic drives. From dramatic coastlines to world-class marine life and national parks, it’s a journey filled with unforgettable experiences. With the right setup, even the remote stretches are smooth and rewarding.
Where do you stop between Perth and Exmouth?
Popular stops include Cervantes, Kalbarri, Shark Bay (Denham and Monkey Mia), Coral Bay, and Carnarvon. These locations offer everything from snorkeling and wildlife to cultural sites and great food, making them essential parts of any road trip Perth to Exmouth.
Which is better to stay, Exmouth or Coral Bay?
Both are great, but it depends on your travel style. Exmouth offers more accommodation and access to Cape Range National Park, while Coral Bay is smaller, quieter, and right on Ningaloo Reef. If possible, stay in both during your road trip from Perth to Exmouth for a complete experience.
What is the best month to go to Exmouth?
May to July is the best time to visit Exmouth. The weather is ideal, and it’s prime season for whale shark swims. This period falls right in the middle of the dry season, making it perfect for everything from reef tours to outdoor recreation. It’s also a great time to connect this journey with another iconic WA route like the Perth to Esperance road trip.