Where the ancient rugged outback meets white sand beaches, Kalbarri is the ultimate ocean-side adventure playground. On its doorstep, over 183000 hectares of national park beckon you to explore spectacular 400 million year old river gorges, dramatic coastal rock formations and a kaleidoscope of wildflowers.
Being warm and sunny for most of the year, and only a six and a half hour drive north of Perth, or a quick one and a half hour charter flight, Kalbarri is a popular holiday spot for Western Australians young and old. There, serenity and adrenalin are found in equal measure.
Hop on a Murchison River cruise, hire a paddleboat or hit the water in a kayak. Take in views from the lookouts, hike the trails or join a canyoning and abseiling tour. Swim or surf from one of the many beaches. Throw in a line from the shore or jump aboard a fishing charter to chase the catch of a lifetime. Or take a scenic flight over the national park, coastline and Abrolhos Islands.
Plan your trip to coincide with the wildflower season (July to October) and experience the eye-popping wonder of over 1100 varieties of Western Australian wildflowers transforming the outback into a sea of colour.
Off the coast, you'll also be treated to one of the most magical marine encounters as humpback whales and their calves slowly pass by on their annual migration, between June and November.
Kalbarri's budget and family-friendly accommodation and dining options range from self-contained units, apartments and holiday homes to caravan parks and backpackers, a la carte restaurants, takeaways and supermarkets.
For animal lovers, no trip is complete without breakfasting with the pelicans - watch their daily feeding ritual on the foreshore at 8.45am Then head for the parrot breeding centre and support their mission to save endangered species.