Western Australia | Perth Return Road Trip Itinerary
Get ready to pack your bags and hit the road for an epic five-day adventure through Western Australia (WA) that the whole family will love! This Perth return road trip is designed for families eager to explore the natural beauty and hidden gems north of Perth, Western Australia—all from the comfort of a campervan.
We’ll guide you through stunning coastal towns, breathtaking national parks, and cozy campgrounds—all perfect spots for your family to unwind and connect with the untamed nature of Western Australia. Ready to experience the charm of WA's southern coastal cities? Let's dive in!
Day 1: Perth to Pinnacles Desert (Cervantes)
Distance: 200 km
Drive Time: ~2.5 hours
The adventure starts in Perth, where you’ll pick up your trusty campervan from Apollo’s Perth location. There’s nothing quite like that first moment when you settle into your camper. Be sure to take the opportunity to head to the local grocery store and stock up your home on wheels pantry, so you have everything you need as you explore over the next few days.
Where to stop between Perth and the Pinnacles
Heading north, your first stop is Yanchep National Park, just an hour away from Perth. This is a perfect spot to stretch your legs and let the kids run off some energy. Wander through the peaceful bushland trails, and don’t miss the chance to visit the koalas—always a hit with the little ones. If you’ve got time, take a guided tour of Crystal Cave, where you can explore the fascinating underground stalactite formations.
Best things to do at The Pinnacles (Cervantes)
Arriving in Cervantes, the family’s first big adventure awaits at The Pinnacles in Nambung National Park. Within the park, you will find an intriguing landscape of towering limestone pillars that rise up from the desert like something out of a sci-fi movie.
They’re sure to capture the imagination of both kids and adults alike. Take your time exploring the walking trails, where you can get up close to these mysterious formations. If your family enjoys photography, this is a prime spot—especially in the late afternoon when the shadows are long, and the light is golden.
For a little extra adventure, take a short detour to Lake Thetis. This quiet spot is home to stromatolites, ancient living fossils that will fascinate curious minds. Plus, the boardwalk around the lake offers a chance to learn about these unique organisms.
Where to stay in The Pinnacles (Cervantes)
After a day of exploring, it’s time to settle in at your campsite at Pinnacles Caravan Park. This friendly and well-equipped park offers everything you need for a comfortable night, including powered sites, a camp kitchen, and easy access to the beach. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a family BBQ as the sun sets, share stories from the day, and plan tomorrow’s adventures.
Image: Tourism Western Australia
Day 2: Pinnacles Desert to Geraldton
Distance: 260 km
Drive Time: ~3 hours
Day two of your Perth campervan trip takes you further along the stunning coastline to Geraldton, a laid-back town with plenty to offer for families.
Where to stop between Pinnacles and Geraldton
A great place to pause and let the kids stretch their legs is Jurien Bay. Known for its pristine beaches and clear waters, Jurien Bay is the perfect spot for a quick swim or a sandy beach picnic. If your family is up for it, consider booking a sea lion tour—snorkelling with these playful creatures is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that your kids will be talking about for years! (and yes, they really are like the puppies of the ocean).
Best things to do in Geraldton
Once you arrive in Geraldton, there’s plenty to see and do. Start with a visit to the HMAS Sydney II Memorial, a beautiful and poignant tribute that offers stunning views over the town. It’s a great way to introduce a bit of history to the kids while taking in the scenery.
For a more hands-on experience, head to the Western Australian Museum – Geraldton. Here, you can dive into the region’s maritime history, with exhibits that range from shipwrecks to Indigenous culture. It’s a fascinating spot for curious minds and a great indoor activity if the weather isn’t perfect.
Afterwards, take a walk along the Geraldton Foreshore. This family-friendly area is perfect for a relaxed afternoon, with playgrounds for the kids and plenty of cafes where parents can grab a coffee or a bite to eat. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a spectacular sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Where to stay in Geraldton
For your night in Geraldton, set up camp at Belair Gardens Caravan Park. This park is just a stone’s throw from the beach and offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including a swimming pool and a games room. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring, with plenty of space for the kids to play while you relax.
Image: Tourism Western Australia
Day 3: Geraldton to Kalbarri
Distance: 150 km
Travel Time: ~2 hours
After a relaxing night in Geraldton, it’s time to continue your journey north towards the stunning coastal town of Kalbarri. This shorter drive gives you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the unique attractions along the way.
Where to stop between Geraldton and Kalbarri
As you head out of Geraldton, make sure to stop at Hutt Lagoon, famously known as the Pink Lake of WA. This vibrant pink salt lake is a natural wonder that will leave the whole family in awe. Depending on the time of day and the season, the colour of the lake can range from bubblegum pink to lilac or even a deep red.
It’s a fantastic spot for photos, and the kids will be fascinated by the unusual sight. There’s a viewing area where you can safely pull over to take in the views and snap some memorable family pictures.
Best things to do in Kalbarri
Once you arrive in Kalbarri, the day’s adventure truly begins. Your first stop should be Kalbarri National Park, home to some of Western Australia’s most dramatic landscapes. Nature’s Window is the park’s star attraction—a natural rock arch that perfectly frames the stunning views over the Murchison River Gorge. It’s a short walk from the car park, and the breathtaking scenery makes it well worth the trip. This is a great spot for a family photo, with the vibrant reds and oranges of the gorge contrasting beautifully with the blue sky.
For a bit of adventure, take the family on the Z Bend River Trail, a more challenging walk that rewards you with incredible views of the gorge. If you’re visiting during the wildflower season (August to October), you’ll be treated to a spectacular display of colourful blooms that the kids will love exploring.
If you have extra time, consider visiting the Kalbarri Skywalk. This attraction offers two cantilevered walkways that extend out over the gorge, providing an exhilarating perspective on the landscape below (and ladies, be sure to wear shorts! The winds are particularly gusty out on the ledge).
Where to stay in Kalbarri
After a day full of exploring, settle in for the night at Kalbarri Anchorage Caravan Park. This well-equipped park is right on the river, offering beautiful views and plenty of space for the kids to run around. With modern amenities and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to wind down and share stories from the day’s adventures.
Day 4: Kalbarri to Dongara
Distance: 220 km
Drive Time: ~2.5 hours
On day four of your Perth road trip, your journey takes you south along the coast to the charming town of Dongara. The drive is filled with picturesque coastal views and a couple of interesting stops along the way.
Where to stop between Kalbarri and Dongara
As you leave Kalbarri, make a quick detour to Port Gregory, a small coastal town known for its tranquil beach. This is a great spot for a beach walk or a quick dip in the ocean if the weather is warm. The laid-back vibe of Port Gregory makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery before continuing your Perth road trip.
Best things to do in Dongara
When you arrive in Dongara, the town’s beautiful beach will likely be calling your name. Dongara Beach is perfect for a relaxing afternoon, whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or explore the local area. The kids can build sandcastles or splash in the shallows while you enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
For a bit of local culture, take a stroll through Dongara’s historic town centre, where you’ll find charming heritage buildings and local shops. If you’re interested in a bit of history, the Dongara-Port Denison Heritage Walk is a self-guided tour that takes you through the town’s most significant sites, providing an easy way to learn more about the area.
Where to stay in Dongara
After a day at the beach, head to Seaspray Beach Holiday Park. This beachfront park offers stunning ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day on the road. With a playground, BBQ areas, and a swimming pool, it’s a great spot for families to enjoy some downtime before the final leg of your Perth road trip.
Image: Tourism Western Australia
Day 5: Dongara to Perth
Distance: 350 km
Drive Time: ~3.5 hours
The final day of your Perth road trip brings you back to Perth City, a vibrant area known for its seaside beauty and gorgeous parklands. But first, there are still a few last adventures to enjoy along the way!
Where to stop between Dongara and Perth
One final stop worth making is in Greenough, a small historic settlement known for its leaning trees—a quirky natural phenomenon caused by strong coastal winds. The Greenough Pioneer Museum & Gardens is also worth a visit, offering a glimpse into the area’s colonial past with well-preserved buildings and beautiful gardens.
Best things to do in Perth
As you roll back into Perth, take some time to explore the city before returning your campervan. Consider visiting Kings Park, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, where the kids can run around while you take in the panoramic views of the city and Swan River. Alternatively, the Perth Cultural Centre offers a range of museums and galleries, perfect for a relaxed afternoon before heading home.
Travelling with the family? Check out our guide to the top family-friendly things to do in Perth! And if you have time, we definitely recommend popping over to Rottnest Island for the day to see the smiling Quokka.
Where to stay in Perth
If you need to stay another night before your journey home, consider parking at Perth Central Caravan Park, which is conveniently located close to the city and airport (or check out our full list of family-friendly campsites in Perth!)
Image: Tourism Western Australia
Tips for planning a Western Australia campervan hire road trip
Looking for more help in planning your campervan hire road trip in Western Australia? We have put together a full guide to help! Check out our beginner's guide to planning your first campervan hire road trip. This has everything from packing tips to choosing the right motorhome. Want more information on visiting Western Australia? Check out our top guides to exploring WA below:
Other 5-day tours from Perth (and longer)
Want some more itinerary inspiration? There are so many different routes to choose when visiting Western Australia. Here are a few of our top itineraries for exploring Western Australia and beyond:
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Perth to Darwin road trip - Okay, this epic beast of a road trip will take far more than five days, but it's still worth mentioning and perfect for those with a little more time to explore the vast Outbacks of Australia's Northern Territory.
Hit the road with Apollo
From the otherworldly landscapes of the Pinnacles Desert to the relaxed coastal vibes of Dongara, this Perth road trip is the perfect introduction to the best of Western Australia’s stunning beaches and diverse scenery. Want to extend the fun with a longer Western Australia itinerary? Check out our 14-day Western Australia coral coast road trip itinerary.
Ready to hit the road? You can book your Apollo motorhome online today and pick it up from any Apollo branch. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, Apollo has the perfect campervan to suit your needs. What are you waiting for?