Top 21 Western Australia Hot Spots Part Two
by JENNY BREWER
11. Exmouth
Located on the North West Cape of Western Australia, Exmouth is the gateway to the Ningaloo Marine Park and Cape Range National Park. It is the perfect base to visit these incredible natural wonders. There is plenty to do within Exmouth, with extensive bushwalking, fishing and water sports available, it is a popular tourist destination. There are all species of marine life on the Ningaloo Reef, with the whale shark and sailfish the most sought after. There is every type of accommodation available, and with perfect weather, attractions and parks, it is an incredible destination for all travellers.
12. Ningaloo Marine Park
The Ningaloo Reef is one of the largest reefs in the world that can be reached just by stepping off the beach. Home of the whale shark, it is an incredible place to visit. You will find dolphins, manta rays, turtles, dugongs and humpback whales, and there are plenty of safe swimming beaches. Stretching from the Exmouth Gulf down to Amherst Point, this protected region is well worth visiting. There is plenty of accommodation at Exmouth and Coral Bay if you are planning a longer stay.
13. Carnarvon
There is so much to see in the coastal town of Carnarvon, famous for its banana plantations. Located in the top end of the State, there is great snorkelling, fishing and swimming all year. The Rocky Pool and Chinaman's pool are popular, and it has escaped the tourist crowds to keep the local, friendly atmosphere. There are all types of tropical fruits grown further out of town, and an abundance of seafood available. There are also a number of farm stays available if you would prefer a rural experience. For a relaxed, enjoyable holiday this is a great option.
14. Kennedy Range National Park
For those who want to get off the beaten track to the outback, the Kennedy Range National Park has everything, especially with excellent highways along the way. Drive through Meekatharra and Wiluna to meet the locals and enjoy a pub meal. With wildflowers blooming in every direction, and rocky outcrops dotting the horizon, it is an experience you will never forget. A great adventure is to hike the Murchison River, located three hours drive north from Geraldton. One of the great attractions is Mount Augustus, which is twice the size of Ayers Rock. With a sea of stars at night and incredible panoramic vistas at daybreak, your outback adventure will bring a lifetime of memories.
15. Kununurra
This is where outback adventure begins. Located in Western Australia's far north region, Kununurra produces most of the states fruit and vegetables and has perfect year round weather. A beautiful place to visit is the 'Hidden Valley' or Mirima National Park. Other popular attractions are the Bungle Bungle, Lake Argyle, Gibb River, Mitchell Plateau, Ord River and the Argyle Diamond Mine. Due to the remoteness of the area it is best to explore the surrounding outback by four wheel drive or air. You will be rewarded by incredible scenery and rugged natural wilderness which is hard to match.
16. Esperance
This is the ultimate destination for sun lovers. Either a one and half hour flight or nine hour drive south from Perth, it is located on the Esperance Bay, and one of its drawcards are the hundreds of islands which dot the coast making up the Recherche Archipelago. There are all types of adventure sports available, with island cruises, four wheel drive safaris and abseiling just some of them, and the four main National Parks in the area promise unrivalled beauty. One of the most popular spots is Lucky Bay, with Blue Haven Beach and Twilight Cove great for snorkelling. Tanker Jetty is ideal for fishing, with local seals an added attraction.
17. Margaret River
This is rich, fertile land at its best, with over 60 wineries in the area making it a popular location for an indulgent, relaxing getaway. Located three and half hours south of Perth, Margaret River offers incredible restaurants, cheeses, jams, olives and even a local chocolate factory. Natural attractions include a number of underground caves, beaches, forests and bushwalking tracks bringing you to magnificent lookouts. Augusta is the perfect spot for whale watching, and there are plenty of surfing competitions to watch along the beach. With such a diverse number of attractions, Margaret River is right on top of the list.
18. Geraldton
Situated on Champion Bay, just over 400km north from Perth, Geraldton is a popular coastal town and often known as the gateway to the north. There is every type of water sport available, and plenty of beautiful beaches. A great time to visit is July to November during wildflower season, and it is also a great base to visit the Kalbarri National Park, Murchison River gorges, Monkey Mia (famous for its friendly dolphins) and the Abrolhos Islands. Within Geraldton, there are plenty of museums, parks, lookouts and art galleries. The Point Moore Lighthouse is a well known landmark made from steel, and the Western Australia Museum is a recent attraction.
