Perth to Exmouth 6-Day Coral Coaster One-Way Journey

Traveling from Perth to Exmouth along Western Australia’s Coral Coast offers an incredible mix of rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and fascinating wildlife. This tour provides a chance to see some of Australia’s most iconic natural sights in a well-organized, guided format, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy the scenery without the hassle of planning.

We love visiting the Pinnacles Desert, where weathered limestone spires create an otherworldly landscape, and meeting the famous dolphins at Monkey Mia, whose playful interactions are unforgettable. The guided walks through national parks and the opportunity to snorkel Ningaloo Reef are genuine highlights.

One consideration is the long travel distances involved—this tour covers hundreds of kilometers, which means you’ll spend a lot of time on the bus. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with daily hikes and long road trips. Overall, if you’re after a mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty, this tour offers excellent value and authentic experiences for nature lovers.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering major highlights along Western Australia’s Coral Coast
Experienced guides provide engaging commentary and ensure safety during hikes
Includes all national park admissions and dolphin fees for a hassle-free experience
Balanced mix of sightseeing, walking, and relaxation at beaches and national parks
Four to five-star reviews reflect good value and memorable scenery
Long travel days require moderate to high fitness levels but reward you with stunning views

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An Overview of the Tour Experience

This 6-day journey from Perth to Exmouth is designed to showcase the very best of Western Australia’s coast, combining natural wonders, wildlife encounters, and scenic drives. While it involves significant travel time, the stops are thoughtfully curated to maximize your exposure to this unique region.

Starting in Perth, the tour kicks off with a visit to the Pinnacles Desert, where weathered limestone formations rise from the sand in an almost surreal scene. The guided tour here helps you understand the geological forces that created these iconic spires. This is a favorite for many travelers, with one reviewer noting the highlight was the stunning scenery of changing landscapes.

We appreciate how the tour balances sightseeing with comfort — accommodations are spread across charming towns like Kalbarri, Monkey Mia, Coral Bay, and Exmouth, providing a taste of local hospitality. For most, the included meals—breakfasts, lunches, and dinners—offer good value, especially since some reviewers mention the food could be more varied, but overall, it’s satisfying after full days of exploration.

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Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Perth to Kalbarri – Land of Coastal Views and Pinnacles

The adventure begins with a guided exploration of the Pinnacles Desert. Here, guides often point out interesting formations and share stories about their formation, making the landscape even more captivating. Afterward, the trip north along Indian Ocean Drive treats travelers to dramatic coastal vistas, with plenty of photo stops. A quick visit to Geraldton offers a taste of regional life, before arriving in Kalbarri for the night.

You’ll find that early mornings here are particularly rewarding, with some guests mentioning sunrise at Natures Window as a must-see moment. The scenery is jaw-dropping, and guides often highlight the best vantage points. The included dinner and lunch make planning easier, allowing for more relaxed exploration.

Day 2: Kalbarri National Park to Monkey Mia – Waterfalls, Gorges, and Dolphins

This day is packed with highlights. You’ll get up early for a chance to see Natures Window or the Kalbarri Skywalk during sunrise—both offer spectacular views and great photo opportunities. The walks through Kalbarri National Park’s gorges, including The Murchison Gorge and Z-Bend, are between 2km and 3km, often over rocky terrain, so a fair level of fitness is needed.

Traveling to Monkey Mia involves a stop at Billabong Roadhouse for refreshments, but the star of the afternoon is meeting the famous monkeys and their playful dolphin friends. The dolphin experience is included in the tour fee, and reviewers consistently mention that these interactions are a highlight, with some describing it as “absolutely fantastic.” Staying overnight by the beach allows for a relaxed evening, with many guests appreciating the peaceful setting.

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Day 3: Monkey Mia to Coral Bay – Marine Life and Stunning Formations

After a morning with dolphins, the route heads further north. Along the way, you’ll revisit the Stromatolites, ancient living fossils, which many travelers find surprisingly fascinating. The journey continues to Coral Bay, where the proximity to Ningaloo Reef means you can snorkel just meters from shore.

Guests often comment on the beautiful beaches and the opportunity to relax or snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Staying near Ningaloo Reef means you could opt for extra activities like boat tours or swimming with manta rays—these are paid options, but many find the snorkeling alone worth the trip.

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Day 4: Coral Bay to Exmouth – Reef and Adventure

This day is dedicated to exploring Ningaloo Reef at your own pace. The beaches are stunning, and the reef offers a chance to see vibrant coral gardens and marine life up close. An optional boat tour or manta ray swim is available for purchase, but even just walking along the beaches or snorkelling near shore makes this a memorable stop.

In the afternoon, your journey continues to Exmouth, where you’ll settle into accommodations for two nights. Many travelers appreciate this flexibility, using the evening to explore or relax before the next day’s adventures.

Day 5: Exmouth and Cape Range National Park – Rugged Landscapes and Pristine Beaches

This day is all about Cape Range National Park, a rugged area of limestone ranges, deep canyons, and pristine beaches. The guide often points out the dramatic geological features and shares insights into the park’s flora and fauna. Expect to visit Turquoise Bay, renowned for its snorkeling opportunities.

Guests mention that the snorkeling here is spectacular, with many highlighting it as a highlight of the trip. The park’s remote beauty makes it a perfect place to relax or explore, with the tour finishing early enough for you to enjoy a leisurely lunch before heading back.

Day 6: Exmouth – Farewell and Reflection

The tour concludes with a relaxed breakfast and check-out. While the trip is over, travelers often leave with a wealth of memories—stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and a new appreciation for Western Australia’s coast.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guided walks and expert commentary are a big part of the appeal. Guides like Beth and Doug are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and safety awareness—reviewers even mention feeling very secure on the hikes. The adventure-focused hikes over rocky terrain are suitable for those with moderate to high fitness levels, but the effort is rewarded with incredible scenic views.

The accommodation options seem to strike a good balance between comfort and authenticity. While some reviewers note that the first stop’s lodging was “just passable,” the rest are described as “spacious and clean,” making it easier to rest after long days of exploring.

The meals included are generally well-received, though some suggest adding more variety. Lunches are often simple sandwiches, but the emphasis is on the experience—picnicking in beautiful locations or enjoying local cuisine.

The wildlife encounters at Monkey Mia are a consistent highlight. Meeting and observing dolphins in their natural environment provides a genuine, memorable experience. Many travelers commend the guided commentary that enhances understanding of the local ecosystem.

Transportation on the tour involves a bus that’s not overly spacious, which is a consideration for taller travelers or those with long legs. Nevertheless, the routes are scenic, and the driver guides are experienced, making the long drives enjoyable.

Value and Pricing

Considering the extensive itinerary, all national park entries, and the dolphin experience fees included, this tour offers good value. The package covers accommodation, most meals, and guiding services, reducing the hassle of arranging each element separately.

While additional activities like boat tours or manta ray swims are optional and paid separately, the core experience is comprehensive enough to leave many feeling they received excellent value for money.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventure-minded travelers who enjoy moderate to challenging walks and can handle long travel days. It’s ideal for wildlife lovers eager to see dolphins, stromatolites, and coral reefs, as well as those who appreciate stunning scenery and geological wonders.

Families with children aged 6 and over, and those comfortable with the physical demands, will find this a rewarding experience, especially if they want a guided, all-inclusive journey.

However, it’s not suitable for infants, very young children, or travelers with mobility impairments due to the walking demands and terrain.

FAQ

Are meals included during the tour?
Yes, breakfast is provided each day, with lunch and dinner included on most days. Some reviews mention the meals are simple but satisfying, and there is room for improvement in variety.

What is the fitness level required?
A moderate to high level of fitness is needed due to daily walks of 2-3 km, often over rocky terrain and in direct sunlight. The hikes are at the discretion of the guide for safety reasons.

Can I participate in water activities?
Yes, snorkeling is included in Coral Bay and Exmouth, and optional activities like swimming with manta rays or boat tours are available for purchase.

Is accommodation included?
Yes, the tour includes five nights’ accommodation across different towns, offering a mix of comfort and local charm.

What should I bring?
Essentials include sun protection, swimwear, camera, insect repellent, weather-appropriate clothing, snorkeling gear, a water bottle, and sturdy footwear.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 6-17 can join but must be accompanied by an adult and stay in private twin rooms. It is not suitable for children under 6 or travelers with mobility issues.

How long is the total travel time?
The tour covers significant distances, with long days on the bus but balanced by exciting stops and scenic breaks.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Coral Coaster tour from Perth to Exmouth offers an impressive combination of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and active exploration. The guided hikes, knowledgeable guides, and diverse scenery make it perfect for travelers seeking adventure and authentic experiences without the hassle of planning every detail.

While the long travel days require a good level of fitness and patience, the payoff is a series of unforgettable sights—from the weathered Pinnacles to playful dolphins and vibrant coral reefs. The tour’s value is reinforced by inclusive entry fees and meals, making it a practical choice for those wanting a comprehensive WA experience.

If you’re looking for a well-organized trip that balances adventure with comfort, and if the idea of exploring Australia’s iconic coastlines and wildlife excites you, this tour is a fantastic option that will leave you with lasting memories of Western Australia’s wild beauty.

Note: Always check the latest details directly with the provider, especially regarding optional activities, current accommodation standards, and COVID-19 safety measures.