Exmouth, a beautiful coastal town on the Coral Coast of Western Australia, is the entry point to some of the most incredible scenic drives in the region. Whether you want rugged cliffs, beautiful beaches or pristine nature reserves, Exmouth has it all. With the Ningaloo Reef, Cape Range National Park and many more attractions nearby, there’s no shortage of breathtaking views. From seeing humpback whales to snorkelling in coral gardens, these coastal drives have something for everyone.
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Cape Range National Park Road
One of the most famous drives near Exmouth is through Cape Range National Park, a natural wonder of Western Australia with stunning limestone ranges, deep gorges and beautiful beaches. The entire road trip takes you through rugged landscapes with many photo stops and walking trails to explore.
Don’t miss Yardie Creek, where you can take a boat Exmouth tours or hike the dramatic gorge. The ochre-red cliffs against the turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef are a nature lover’s must-do.
Charles Knife Canyon Road
A hidden gem of Western Australia, the Charles Knife Canyon Road offers views of deep canyons carved into the landscape. As you wind your way up the road, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Coral Coast below.
Early risers get up and get here for sunrise; the light on the red-orange cliffs and the blue Indian Ocean is magic. It’s also a ideal spot for a picnic or a photography session.
Exmouth to Coral Bay Coastal Drive
This 150km drive from Exmouth to Coral Bay is one of the most beautiful sections of the Coral Coast. The road hugs the coastline and offers stunning views of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters that seem to go on forever. Along the way, you’ll pass several beaches where you can swim, snorkel and even picnic.
Coral Bay is a popular spot for visitors wanting to explore the Ningaloo Reef, as the coral reef is just offshore. You can also take a day trip to see manta rays, dolphins and even whale sharks, depending on the season.
Lighthouse Scenic Drive
This short but sweet drive takes you from Exmouth to Vlamingh Head Lighthouse, with views of the Coral Coast and Exmouth Gulf. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset or see humpback whales during their migration season, which is from July to November.
The Lighthouse Scenic Drive is a must if you want to combine coastal views with some Western Australian maritime history. The lighthouse itself is a historic landmark, and the views are simply amazing.
Tantabiddi Beach to Oyster Stacks Drive
This drive runs along the edge of Cape Range National Park and takes you to some of the best snorkelling spots near Exmouth. Tantabiddi Beach is great for beachcombing and chilling, while Oyster Stacks has coral just metres from the water’s edge.
The coral gardens here are teeming with marine life, fish, rays and the occasional turtle. If you love snorkelling, this drive is a must-do for the Ningaloo Reef magic.
Jurabi Coastal Park Drive
One of the more quiet drives in the Exmouth area, Jurabi Coastal Park Drive runs along the northern coast and offers stunning views of the Coral Coast. From November to March the beaches here are nesting sites for loggerhead and green turtles. The park is a great place to see these amazing creatures in their natural environment.
You can also stop at the beautiful beaches along the way for a swim or a picnic, making this a great family day trip.
Shot Hole Canyon Road
For the more adventurous, Shot Hole Canyon Road is an unsealed track that takes you into the heart of Cape Range National Park. The canyon was formed by erosion and has dramatic rock formations and great views. A rough off the beaten track experience for 4WD only.
Nature lovers and geology buffs will love the landscapes; photographers will love the rugged WA scenery.
Exmouth to Ningaloo Station
Want to get really remote? The drive from Exmouth to Ningaloo Station takes you along the rugged Coral Coast, with secluded beaches and camping spots. Ningaloo Station is for those who want to get away from it all and be immersed in the WA wilderness.
While there’s not much in the way of facilities here, camping on the beach and being in the untouched landscape makes this drive a nature lover’s dream.
Exmouth to Monkey Mia
While a longer drive, the trip from Exmouth to Monkey Mia in Shark Bay has diverse landscapes and wildlife. Monkey Mia is famous for its friendly dolphins that come in daily to interact with visitors. The drive also takes you through the red dunes and salt flats of Francois Peron National Park, with plenty of opportunities to explore.
A great day trip or overnight stay to experience the unique WA landscape.
Kalbarri National Park Coastal Cliffs Drive
Another long one heads south to Kalbarri National Park, a WA icon. The cliffs are stunning over the Indian Ocean, and inland, you’ll find gorges and wildflowers during Wildflower season.
Don’t forget to stop at Hutt Lagoon, a pink salt lake near Kalbarri National Park. The coastal drive has it all, so add it to your road trip list.
FAQ
When is the best time to do the scenic drives near Exmouth?
April to October is the best time to do the WA scenic drives when the weather is cooler, and the wildlife is out (humpback whales and dolphins).
Are there campsites along the drives near Exmouth?
Yes, many of the scenic drives near Exmouth have camp sites, including in Cape Range National Park, Jurabi Coastal Park and Ningaloo Station.
Can I snorkel along the drives near Exmouth?
Yes! The Ningaloo Reef is one of the best places in the world to snorkel.
What wildlife will I see on these drives?
Humpback whales, manta rays, dolphins, turtles, kangaroos, emus and more.
What are the must-see places on the Coral Coast?
Ningaloo Reef, Monkey Mia, Kalbarri National Park, Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park, Hamelin Pool in Shark Bay (home of the ancient stromatolites).
