The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park, Western Australia is a real treat. Only 2 hours north of Perth this desert is famous for its giant limestone pillars rising out of the yellow sand. Thousands of tourists visit every year and the unique natural limestone formations created by coastal winds over millions of years is a sight to behold.
Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurer, or just looking for a day of quiet exploration, the Pinnacles Desert and surrounding Lancelin Sand Dunes have something for everyone. This guide has all the info you need to get the most out of the area.
Getting to the Pinnacles Desert
Getting to the Pinnacles Desert is easy, just follow Indian Ocean Drive from Perth. Along the way you’ll pass through coastal towns, beautiful beaches and attractions like the Lancelin Sand Dunes, a must see for any adventure seekers. The Lancelin Sand Dunes are an ideal spot for sandboarding, quad biking and exploring the white sand dunes.
If you’re doing a day trip, the drive offers many opportunities to break up the journey. A stop at Hangover Bay, famous for its turquoise water and peacefulness, is perfect for a swim or picnic. Continue north, and you’ll enter Nambung National Park and the Pinnacles Desert.
Pinnacles Desert
Once inside Nambung National Park you’ll be blown away by the Pinnacles Desert. The giant limestone pillars, some as high as 3.5m, are scattered across the desert, white sand dunes and yellow sand against a blue sky.
There are two ways to explore the desert:
- Walking Trails: The 1.2km Desert View Walk is an adventurous experience, get up close to the limestone formations and marvel at their shapes. Along this loop trail you’ll see native wildlife including emus and kangaroos.
- Pinnacles Drive: If you prefer to drive the 4km Pinnacles Drive allows you to self drive through the desert. There are several parking bays along the way where you can stop, get out and take in the views.
Don’t miss the Pinnacles Desert Lookout for panoramic views over the yellow sand and the white sand dunes in the distance, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Lancelin Sand Dunes
Many visitors stop at the Lancelin Sand Dunes before heading to the Pinnacles, just 1.5 hours from Perth. These white sand dunes are the biggest in Western Australia and a mecca for adventure seekers. The Lancelin Sand Dunes is a massive playground for sandboarding and 4WD tours, with high dunes for beginners and experts.
Not just for adventure seekers. The scenery and proximity to the coast makes it a great spot for a peaceful picnic or just to sit and take in the views.
Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre
At the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre you can find out all about the formation of the limestone pillars and the history of the Pinnacles Desert. Learn about the Aboriginal culture of the area and the geology of the giant limestone pillars.
The centre is also a good place to start your visit, with clean public toilets, picnic tables and a gift shop to buy souvenirs. Check with the park ranger for current conditions, as the desert can change quickly with the coastal winds.
Wildlife
While the Pinnacles Desert is famous for its rock formations it’s also home to a variety of wildlife encounters. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, emus and birds. As you walk the trails you may also see some of the smaller animals of the area.
If you’re interested in marine life, the nearby coastal towns offer great fishing. In Cervantes, you can access fresh rock lobsters that are caught daily in the nearby waters. Visiting the Lobster Shack for a seafood feast is a must when in the area. The rock lobster industry is big business in this region, and rock lobster fishing tours are available if you want to experience this side of Western Australia.
More to See
In addition to the Pinnacles Desert, the surrounding area has plenty more to see. A trip to Kalbarri National Park, about 4 hours north, is a must if you have time. The park’s coastal cliffs and inland gorges are a different but equally impressive natural wonder.
If you like wine and food a detour to the Margaret River region is a must with world class wines and local cuisine. If you’re heading further north the Exmouth Road Trip is another popular route that takes you through Moore River and offers stunning coastal views and access to the famous Ningaloo Reef.
What to Bring
- Sun Protection: The desert sun is harsh so pack plenty of sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses.
- Water: The desert has no water facilities, so make sure you bring plenty to stay hydrated, especially if you plan to walk the trails.
- Camera: The Pinnacles Desert is very photogenic, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun casts long shadows over the limestone pillars.
- Comfortable Shoes: Whether walking the trails or stopping along Pinnacles Drive, you’ll need good shoes to navigate the yellow sand and rocky terrain.
Where to Stay
Many people visit the Pinnacles as a day trip from Perth, but staying overnight in the nearby towns of Cervantes or Jurien Bay allows you to see more of the area. Both towns have a range of accommodations, from beachfront campsites at the RAC Cervantes Holiday Park to hotels.
For longer stays Jurien Bay is another great option, known for its beautiful beaches and rock lobster industry. The region’s marine life, including dolphins and sea lions, makes it a beautiful spot to snorkel or chill by the turquoise water.
FAQ
Are there any guided tours?
Yes, several companies offer day tours from Perth to the Pinnacles Desert, often including Lancelin Sand Dunes and other nearby attractions like Jurien Bay and Hangover Bay. These Pinnacles Tours usually include transport, meals and guided walks through the desert.
Can I visit the Pinnacles Desert and Lancelin Sand Dunes in one day?
Yes, the Pinnacles Desert and Lancelin Sand Dunes can be done in a day trip from Perth. Many people stop at the Lancelin Sand Dunes in the morning for sandboarding or 4WD and then head to the Pinnacles Desert to see the limestone pillars.
What is the entry fee for Nambung National Park?
Entry to Nambung National Park is around AUD 15 per vehicle. This includes access to the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre and the park itself including public toilets and picnic areas.
Can I drive through the Pinnacles Desert?
Yes, the Pinnacles Drive is a 4km loop where you can drive through the desert at your own pace. There are parking bays along the way where you can stop and walk amongst the rock formations.
What else should I see?
Lancelin Sand Dunes, Hangover Bay, Jurien Bay. For a longer trip head north to Kalbarri National Park or south to the Margaret River region for food and wine.
