Have you ever dreamed of visiting a place where you can enjoy stunning natural scenery, thrilling adventure activities, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife? If yes, then Kalbarri is the perfect destination for you. Kalbarri is a coastal town and a popular tourist destination in Western Australia, located about 600 km north of Perth.
It is famous for its spectacular Kalbarri National Park, which features dramatic coastal cliffs, ancient gorges, and colourful wildflowers. Kalbarri also offers a range of attractions and activities for everyone, such as swimming, surfing, fishing, hiking, biking, quad biking, scenic flights, canoeing, and more.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a family-friendly holiday, or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Kalbarri has something for you. In this article, you will find everything you need to know about Kalbarri, including the best time to visit, the top things to do, the best places to stay, and more. Read on to discover why Kalbarri is the ultimate travel destination for 2024.
Kalbarri Weather: When to Visit and What to Pack
Kalbarri has a Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and mild and wet winters. The average temperature ranges from 18°C to 33°C in summer and from 10°C to 23°C in winter. The best time to visit Kalbarri depends on your preferences and interests. Here are some factors to consider:
If you want to see the wildflowers, the best time to visit is from July to October, when the park and the town are covered with over 1,000 species of colourful blooms, such as the famous Kalbarri Spider Orchid and the Kalbarri Catspaw.
If you want to see the whales, the best time to visit is from June to November, when the humpback and southern right whales migrate along the coast and can be spotted from the cliffs or on a whale-watching cruise.
If you want to enjoy the beach and the water activities, the best time to visit is from December to March, when the weather is warm and sunny and the water is calm and clear. However, this is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
If you want to avoid the crowds and the heat, the best time to visit is from April to May or from September to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant and the tourist numbers are lower.
Whatever time of year you choose to visit Kalbarri, make sure to pack the following items:
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and water bottle to protect yourself from the sun and the heat.
- Swimwear, towel, and flip-flops to enjoy the beach and the water activities.
- Jacket, sweater, and pants to keep warm in the evenings and in the winter months.
- Hiking shoes, backpack, and insect repellent to explore the national park and the gorges.
- Camera, binoculars, and guidebook to capture and appreciate the beauty and diversity of Kalbarri.
Top Things to Do in Kalbarri: Attractions and Activities for Everyone
Kalbarri offers a range of attractions and activities for everyone, from nature lovers to adventure seekers, from culture enthusiasts to wildlife fans. Here are some of the top things to do in Kalbarri:
Visit Inner Gorge (Nature’s Window)
One of the most iconic and photographed attractions in Kalbarri is the Nature’s Window, a natural rock arch that frames the view of the Murchison River and the gorge. The Nature’s Window is located in the Inner Gorge, which is part of the Kalbarri National Park. To reach the Nature’s Window, you need to take a short and easy walk from the car park, which takes about 15 minutes.
Along the way, you can enjoy the stunning scenery of the red sandstone cliffs, the green river, and the blue sky. The Nature’s Window is a perfect spot to take photos, admire the view, and learn about the geology and history of the area. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can also continue the walk along the Loop Trail, which is a 9 km loop that takes you deeper into the gorge and offers more spectacular views and challenges. The Loop Trail takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete and is rated as moderate to hard, so make sure you are well prepared and fit.
Check Out Z Bend River Trail
Another popular attraction in the Kalbarri National Park is the Z Bend River Trail, which is a 2.6 km return walk that takes you to the edge of the gorge and down to the river. The Z Bend River Trail is named after the sharp bend that the Murchison River makes as it cuts through the gorge.
The walk starts from the car park and follows a well-marked path that offers panoramic views of the gorge and the river. The walk is rated as moderate, as it involves some steep and rocky sections, and takes about 1.5 hours to complete. Along the way, you can see the diverse flora and fauna of the park, such as the black cockatoos, the kangaroos, and the wildflowers. Once you reach the river, you can relax, swim, or join a canoe tour that will take you further along the water.
Head to Ross Graham Lookout and Hawk’s Head
If you prefer a more relaxing and accessible way to enjoy the views of the Kalbarri National Park, you can head to the Ross Graham Lookout and the Hawk’s Head, which are two scenic spots that overlook the Murchison River and the gorge. The Ross Graham Lookout is located about 27 km from the town of Kalbarri and is accessible by a short and easy walk from the car park. The lookout offers a stunning view of the river and the gorge, and also has a picnic area and a toilet. The Hawk’s Head is located about 6 km further along the road and is accessible by a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk from the car park. The lookout is named after the shape of the rock that resembles a hawk’s head, and offers a spectacular view of the river and the gorge, and also has a picnic area and a toilet. Both lookouts are ideal places to enjoy a picnic, take photos, and watch the sunset.
Walk the Kalbarri Skywalk
One of the newest and most exciting attractions in Kalbarri is the Kalbarri Skywalk, which is a pair of cantilevered walkways that extend 25 metres over the edge of the gorge and offer breathtaking views of the Murchison River and the Kalbarri National Park. The Kalbarri Skywalk is located about 30 km from the town of Kalbarri and is accessible by a short and easy walk from the car park. The walkways are made of steel and glass and have a transparent floor that allows you to see the gorge below your feet. The walkways are also designed to blend in with the natural environment and have interpretive panels that provide information about the geology, culture, and history of the area. The Kalbarri Skywalk is a must-see attraction for anyone who wants to experience the thrill and beauty of Kalbarri from a different perspective.
Hike Along the Coastal Cliffs
Another way to appreciate the natural beauty of Kalbarri is to hike along the coastal cliffs, which are a series of limestone cliffs that stretch for 13 km along the Indian Ocean and offer stunning views of the sea and the shore. The coastal cliffs are part of the Kalbarri National Park and are accessible by a network of walking trails that range from easy to hard and from 1 km to 8 km in length. Some of the most popular trails are:
The Bigurda Trail, which is an 8 km one-way walk that follows the cliff top from Eagle Gorge to Natural Bridge and offers spectacular views of the ocean, the cliffs, and the wildlife, such as dolphins, whales, and seabirds.
The Island Rock and Natural Bridge Trail, which is a 1 km return walk that takes you to two impressive rock formations that have been carved by the waves and the wind over millions of years. The Island Rock is a detached pillar of rock that stands in the sea, while the Natural Bridge is a rock arch that spans the water.
The Mushroom Rock Nature Trail, which is a 3 km loop walk that takes you through a variety of landscapes, such as sand dunes, coastal heath, and rocky outcrops. The trail is named after the Mushroom Rock, which is a large rock that resembles a mushroom.
Visit the Rainbow Jungle
If you are a fan of birds, you will love the Rainbow Jungle, which is a parrot breeding centre and a tourist attraction that features over 70 species of parrots from around the world. The Rainbow Jungle is located about 3 km south of the town of Kalbarri and is accessible by car or by bike. The Rainbow Jungle is set in a lush and colourful garden that mimics the natural habitats of the parrots, and has a range of facilities and attractions, such as:
The Walk-in Aviary, which is a large enclosure that allows you to walk among and interact with the parrots, such as the macaws, the cockatoos, and the lorikeets.
The Parrot Breeding Centre, which is a separate area that houses the breeding pairs and the chicks of the parrots, and allows you to observe the different stages of their development and learn about their conservation.
The Cinema Parrotiso, which is a 53-seat cinema that shows a variety of movies and documentaries about parrots and other wildlife, and also has a snack bar and a gift shop.
The Cafe Parrotiso, which is a cafe that serves delicious food and drinks, and has a view of the garden and the parrots.
The Rainbow Jungle is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, and the admission fee is $15 for adults and $7.50 for children. The Rainbow Jungle is a must-visit attraction for anyone who loves birds and nature, and wants to see the most colourful and diverse collection of parrots in Australia.
Experience the Murchison River
One of the best ways to experience the beauty and diversity of Kalbarri is to explore the Murchison River, which is the second longest river in Western Australia and flows through the Kalbarri National Park and the town of Kalbarri. There are many ways to enjoy the Murchison River, such as:
Swimming, surfing, and fishing: The river mouth and the beach are popular spots for swimming, surfing, and fishing, as they offer clear water, consistent waves, and abundant fish. You can also rent or bring your own equipment, such as surfboards, kayaks, paddle boards, and fishing rods, and have fun on the water.
Cruising and canoeing: The river is also ideal for cruising and canoeing, as it offers scenic views of the gorge, the cliffs, and the wildlife. You can join a guided tour or hire your own boat or canoe, and discover the hidden gems and secrets of the river. Some of the tours also include lunch, drinks, and commentary, and cater to different interests and abilities.
Hiking and biking: The river also has several trails that follow its course and offer different levels of difficulty and distance. You can hike or bike along the trails and enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the river. Some of the trails also connect to other attractions, such as the Nature’s Window and the Z Bend.
Watch the Whales
Another amazing attraction in Kalbarri is the whale watching, which is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows you to see the majestic creatures of the sea up close and personal. Kalbarri is one of the best places to watch the whales, as it is part of the migration route of the humpback and southern right whales, which travel from the Antarctic to the warmer waters of the Indian Ocean every year. The whale watching season in Kalbarri runs from June to November, and the best time to see the whales is from August to October, when they are more active and playful. There are several ways to watch the whales in Kalbarri, such as:
From the cliffs: The coastal cliffs in the Kalbarri National Park offer a great vantage point to see the whales from the shore, as they often come close to the coast and breach, splash, and spout. You can also use binoculars or telescopes to get a better view of the whales, and listen to their sounds with a hydrophone.
On a cruise: The best way to see the whales is to join a whale-watching cruise, which will take you to the best spots and give you the opportunity to see the whales from a safe and respectful distance. You can also learn more about the whales and their behaviour from the experienced and knowledgeable guides, and enjoy the views of the coast and the ocean. Some of the cruises also include snacks, drinks, and photos, and cater to different group sizes and budgets.
Enjoy the Sunset
One of the most romantic and relaxing things to do in Kalbarri is to enjoy the sunset, which is a spectacular sight that paints the sky and the sea with vibrant colours and creates a magical atmosphere. Kalbarri has many places where you can watch the sunset, such as:
The beach: The beach is a classic and popular spot to watch the sunset, as it offers a wide and unobstructed view of the horizon and the water. You can also enjoy the sound of the waves, the breeze, and the sand, and have a picnic, a drink, or a bonfire on the beach.
The cliffs: The cliffs are another great spot to watch the sunset, as they offer a high and panoramic view of the ocean and the shore. You can also see the silhouettes of the rocks and the whales, and feel the thrill and the beauty of the height and the edge.
The river: The river is a more peaceful and serene spot to watch the sunset, as it offers a calm and reflective view of the water and the sky. You can also see the birds and the fish, and enjoy a cruise, a canoe, or a kayak on the river.
Kalbarri Accommodation: Where to Stay
Kalbarri has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels to budget motels, from spacious caravan parks to cosy holiday homes. Here are some of the best places to stay in Kalbarri, and how to save money and find the best deals on accommodation.
Hotels
If you are looking for comfort and convenience, hotels are a good choice for accommodation in Kalbarri. Hotels offer amenities and facilities such as air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, fridge, kettle, ensuite bathroom, pool, restaurant, bar, and more. Some of the best hotels in Kalbarri are:
Kalbarri Edge Resort: This is a 4-star resort that offers modern and spacious rooms and apartments, with kitchenettes, balconies, and spa baths. The resort also has a pool, a gym, a sauna, a barbecue area, and a restaurant. The resort is located in the town centre, close to the shops, cafes, and attractions. The rates start from $170 per night for a standard room.
Kalbarri Palm Resort: This is a 3.5-star resort that offers comfortable and affordable rooms and apartments, with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, fridge, kettle, and ensuite bathroom. The resort also has two pools, a tennis court, a games room, a barbecue area, and a restaurant. The resort is located in the town centre, close to the beach, the river, and the attractions. The rates start from $120 per night for a standard room.
Kalbarri Beach Resort: This is a 3-star resort that offers self-contained and family-friendly apartments, with kitchen, lounge, dining area, balcony, and laundry facilities. The resort also has a pool, a spa, a playground, a barbecue area, and a kiosk. The resort is located on the beachfront, with stunning views of the ocean and the sunset. The rates start from $150 per night for a one-bedroom apartment.
Motels
If you are looking for a cheaper and simpler option, motels are a good choice for accommodation in Kalbarri. Motels offer basic and clean rooms, with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, fridge, kettle, and ensuite bathroom. Some of the best motels in Kalbarri are:
Kalbarri Blue Ocean Villas: This is a 3.5-star motel that offers spacious and stylish villas, with kitchenettes, balconies, and spa baths. The motel also has a pool, a barbecue area, and a laundry service. The motel is located on the beachfront, with views of the ocean and the cliffs. The rates start from $140 per night for a standard villa.
Kalbarri Reef Villas: This is a 3-star motel that offers comfortable and cosy villas, with kitchenettes, patios, and laundry facilities. The motel also has a pool, a barbecue area, and a playground. The motel is located in the town centre, close to the shops, cafes, and attractions. The rates start from $110 per night for a standard villa.
Kalbarri Sunsea Villas: This is a 3-star motel that offers self-contained and pet-friendly villas, with kitchen, lounge, dining area, balcony, and laundry facilities. The motel also has a pool, a barbecue area, and a kiosk. The motel is located on the riverfront, with views of the river and the park. The rates start from $130 per night for a one-bedroom villa.
Caravan Parks
If you are looking for a more spacious and flexible option, caravan parks are a good choice for accommodation in Kalbarri. Caravan parks offer a range of options, such as powered and unpowered sites, cabins, chalets, and villas, that can accommodate different group sizes and needs. Some of the best caravan parks in Kalbarri are:
Kalbarri Tudor Holiday Park: This is a 3.5-star caravan park that offers well-equipped and comfortable cabins, chalets, and villas, with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, kitchen, and ensuite bathroom. The caravan park also has a pool, a spa, a games room, a barbecue area, and a laundry service. The caravan park is located in the town centre, close to the shops, cafes, and attractions. The rates start from $100 per night for a standard cabin.
Kalbarri Anchorage Caravan Park: This is a 3-star caravan park that offers clean and cosy cabins, chalets, and villas, with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, kitchenette, and ensuite bathroom. The caravan park also has a pool, a playground, a barbecue area, and a kiosk. The caravan park is located on the riverfront, with views of the river and the park. The rates start from $90 per night for a standard cabin.
Murchison Caravan Park: This is a 3-star caravan park that offers simple and affordable cabins, chalets, and villas, with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, fridge, kettle, and shared bathroom. The caravan park also has a pool, a camp kitchen, a barbecue area, and a laundry service. The caravan park is located on the riverfront, with views of the river and the gorge. The rates start from $80 per night for a standard cabin.
Holiday Homes
If you are looking for a more homey and private option, holiday homes are a good choice for accommodation in Kalbarri. Holiday homes offer fully furnished and equipped houses, apartments, or cottages, that can accommodate different group sizes and needs. Some of the best holiday homes in Kalbarri are:
Kalbarri Seafront Villas: This is a 4-star holiday home that offers luxurious and spacious villas, with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, kitchen, lounge, dining area, balcony, and laundry facilities. The holiday home also has a pool, a barbecue area, and a kiosk. The holiday home is located on the seafront, with views of the ocean and the sunset. The rates start from $180 per night for a one-bedroom villa.
Kalbarri Beach House: This is a 3.5-star holiday home that offers comfortable and cosy houses, with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, kitchen, lounge, dining area, patio, and laundry facilities. The holiday home also has a garden, a barbecue area, and a playground. The holiday home is located on the beachfront, with views of the ocean and the shore. The rates start from $160 per night for a two-bedroom house.
Kalbarri Riverfront Unit: This is a 3-star holiday home that offers simple and affordable units, with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, kitchenette, lounge, dining area, balcony, and shared bathroom. The holiday home also has a pool, a barbecue area, and a laundry service. The holiday home is located on the riverfront, with views of the river and the park. The rates start from $100 per night for a one-bedroom unit.
Kalbarri is a coastal town and a popular tourist destination in Western Australia, that offers a range of attractions and activities for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a family-friendly holiday, or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Kalbarri has something for you. To make the most of your trip, you need to find the best accommodation option that suits your budget and preferences.
In this article, we have reviewed some of the best places to stay in Kalbarri, such as hotels, motels, caravan parks, and holiday homes, and provided some tips and advice on how to save money and find the best deals on accommodation. We hope that this article has helped you plan your trip and choose your accommodation in Kalbarri.
If you are ready to book your accommodation, you can visit our website and browse our selection of accommodation options in Kalbarri. You can also contact us if you have any questions or need any assistance. Thank you for reading and we hope to see you soon in Kalbarri.