view of the river from hawks head lookout kalbarri

A Perfect Weekend in Kalbarri: A Realistic 2-Day Itinerary from Perth

ByWendy White

Planning a Kalbarri weekend itinerary can feel deceptively simple — until you actually look at the map. The distances are longer than they seem, the gorges are spread out, and it’s very easy to cram too much into two days and end up exhausted instead of impressed. I’ve seen plenty of itineraries that technically “fit” everything in… but don’t actually work once you factor in driving time, heat, or how long you’ll want to stay once you’re there.

After visiting Kalbarri and refining this plan, I put together a weekend itinerary that focuses on what’s genuinely worth your time — not just what’s popular on Google. This guide is designed for a real weekend: arriving Friday, having two solid days to explore, and leaving without feeling like you rushed past the best parts. It prioritizes the highlights, minimises backtracking, and builds in a pace that actually lets you enjoy Kalbarri rather than just ticking boxes.

In this post, I’ll walk you through:

  • Exactly how to structure a 2-day Kalbarri weekend without overloading your schedule
  • Which sights are must-dos — and which ones you can skip if you’re short on time
  • The best order to visit Kalbarri National Park to avoid unnecessary driving
  • Practical tips I wish I’d known before planning my own trip

If you’re trying to figure out whether a weekend in Kalbarri is enough — and how to make the most of it if that’s all the time you have — this itinerary will show you how to do it properly.

This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.

view of a island rock a stand alone limestone pillar off the coast
Island Rock

Friday Arrival Strategy: How to Start Your Kalbarri Weekend Right

How you arrive in Kalbarri has a bigger impact on your weekend than most people expect. With a long drive involved for almost everyone, trying to squeeze too much into Friday is one of the fastest ways to start the trip already tired.

If You Arrive Late Afternoon or Evening

If you’re getting into Kalbarri late, don’t try to salvage sightseeing. Check into your accommodation, stretch your legs, and — if you have the energy — head to the coast for sunset. Even a quick stop at one of the nearby lookouts gives you that “I’m finally here” feeling without turning the evening into a mission.

Have dinner in town and call it an early night. A rested start the next morning will matter far more than ticking off one extra stop in the dark.

If You Arrive Earlier on Friday

If you arrive earlier in the day, keep things deliberately light:

  • Coastal lookouts
  • A short beach stop
  • A casual walk around town

Avoid the gorges on Friday unless you’re arriving very early and still feeling fresh. They’re best enjoyed with a full morning and the energy to take your time.

The goal for Friday is simple: arrive, unwind, and set yourself up for a strong Day 1 — not to start checking things off a list.

Day 1: Kalbarri National Park Highlights (Without Overdoing It)

Your first full day in Kalbarri should focus on Kalbarri National Park, but this is also where a lot of weekend itineraries fall apart. The gorges are spread out, the heat builds quickly, and trying to see everything usually means more time in the car than on the ground.

This plan prioritises the most rewarding stops, in the right order, so the day feels full without being exhausting.

Morning: Start Early and Head Straight to the Gorges

Aim to be on the road early. The gorges are far more enjoyable before the heat sets in, and you’ll appreciate having the lookouts mostly to yourself.

Start with:

  • Nature’s Window
  • The Loop Walk (optional, for confident hikers)

Nature’s Window is one of Kalbarri’s most photographed spots, but it earns that reputation — especially in the morning light. The walk itself is short but uneven, and it gets busy fast later in the day.

If you’re considering the Loop Walk, be honest about your fitness level and the temperature. It’s spectacular, but it’s not a casual add-on.

My advice: If it’s already hot or you arrived late the night before, skip the full loop. You’ll enjoy the rest of the day far more if you’re not exhausted by mid-morning.

Late Morning: Kalbarri Skywalk and Gorge Lookouts

Next, head to the Kalbarri Skywalk. This is one of the park’s standout viewpoints and gives you dramatic gorge views without a long hike.

From here, choose one or two nearby gorge lookouts rather than trying to see them all. Take your time, sit for a moment, and actually enjoy the scale of the landscape — the views don’t improve just because you rushed between stops.

This part of the day works best if you:

  • Move at a steady pace
  • Take shade breaks
  • Resist the urge to “just squeeze one more in”
one of the kalbarri skywalks extending over the gorge
Kalbarri Skywalk

Afternoon: Return to Town and Reset

By early to mid-afternoon, head back into Kalbarri town. This is where many itineraries push too hard, but for a weekend trip, this pause is essential.

Have lunch, rest, and enjoy being out of the car. Kalbarri’s laid-back feel is part of the experience — this downtime makes the rest of the weekend noticeably better.

Late Afternoon: Coastal Cliffs and Ocean Views

Once the heat drops, explore the Kalbarri coastal cliffs:

  • Red Bluff
  • Island Rock
  • Natural Bridge

This section is low effort and high reward. The viewpoints are close together, the scenery shifts completely from the gorges, and the ocean breeze is a welcome change after the inland heat.

view of beach and rocky coastline from red bluff lookout kalbarri
Red Bluff

Evening: Sunset and Dinner in Kalbarri

End the day with sunset along the coast. Kalbarri sunsets are genuinely memorable, and this is one moment worth slowing down for.

Have dinner in town and keep the evening relaxed. After a full first day, an early night will set you up perfectly for Day 2.

A cozy outdoor dining area under string lights and trees, with people enjoying their meals in a relaxed, dimly lit atmosphere
Finlays Kalbarri

Day 2: Coastal Kalbarri, Easy Walks & a Relaxed Finish

Day 2 is intentionally slower. After a gorge-heavy first day, today focuses on coastal scenery, short walks, and flexibility — ideal if you’re packing up and driving out later.

Morning: Easy Start and Breakfast in Town

Start with a relaxed breakfast in Kalbarri town. There’s no need to rush — today’s highlights are close together and don’t require strict timing.

If you feel like moving, a short walk along the foreshore or river is an easy way to start the day without committing to anything strenuous.

Late Morning: Choose One Coastal Activity

Pick one main activity based on how you’re feeling:

Option 1: Bigurda Trail (short section)
You don’t need to tackle the full trail to enjoy it. Walking a short section delivers sweeping coastal views without turning the morning into a workout.

Option 2: Beach Time
If the weather’s good, spend the morning at the beach. This often ends up being a surprise highlight and is the perfect contrast to the rugged landscapes you saw the day before.

If you’re torn, choose the beach. It’s far more relaxing than pushing through another walk just for the sake of it.

chinamans beach devastated by cyclone with debris everywhere
Chinamans Beach, Kalbarri

Early Afternoon: Final Stops and Lunch

Before leaving Kalbarri, stop at one last coastal lookout or head back into town for lunch and souvenirs. This also gives you flexibility if weather or timing didn’t cooperate earlier in the weekend.

Avoid starting anything long or demanding — today should feel open-ended, not rushed.

Departure: Leave Without Stress

Aim to leave Kalbarri mid to late afternoon. This timing works well for long drives and ensures your final day doesn’t feel like a scramble.

sunset over the river in kalbarri

What to Skip if You’re Short on Time (or Energy)

A weekend in Kalbarri works best when you’re selective. If time, heat, or energy levels start working against you, these are easy cuts that won’t take away from the experience.

Easy Skips

  • Trying to see every gorge lookout
  • The full Loop Walk in hot conditions
  • Walking the entire Bigurda Trail

Priorities to Keep

  • Nature’s Window
  • Kalbarri Skywalk
  • Coastal cliffs at sunset

Those three experiences capture what makes Kalbarri special: gorges, river, and ocean — without overloading your schedule.

two girls sitting in natures window kalbarri national park
Natures Window, Kalbarri National Park

Where to Stay in Kalbarri

When it comes to accommodation in Kalbarri, there are options for most budgets and style.

Kalbarri Edge Resort has a blend of comfort and style, making it a perfect base for your Kalbarri getaway. Located just a short stroll from the town centre and the beach, this modern resort features spacious, self-contained apartments and studios. With a swimming pool, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi, Kalbarri Edge caters to both families and couples looking for a relaxing escape.

For those seeking mid-range accommodation, Murchison View Apartments is a fantastic option. Located close to the town centre, these self-contained apartments are ideal for couples or small families who want comfort and convenience with a bit more privacy.

If you’re on a tighter budget, Kalbarri Red Bluff Tourist Park provides air-conditioned holiday cabins. They are clean, centrally located, and perfect for families.

Travel Tips for a Weekend in Kalbarri

To make the most of your weekend in Kalbarri, here are a few handy travel tips. The easiest way to get to Kalbarri from Perth is by car – it’s about a six-hour drive, so plan to leave early to maximise your time. Alternatively, you can fly to Geraldton and drive from there, which takes about two hours.

The best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities. Summer can be hot, but it’s great for beach lovers.

Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if you’re planning on hiking. Don’t forget sturdy shoes for the trails, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. And if you’re visiting between July and October, keep your eyes peeled for wildflowers and migrating whales!

Conclusion

If you’re going to do Kalbarri, do it properly — with a plan that fits the time you actually have. Save this itinerary, use it as your weekend blueprint, and adjust the pace based on how you’re feeling once you arrive. Kalbarri rewards people who slow down just enough to enjoy it.

Explore More of Kalbarri: Your Ultimate Guide Awaits!

Loved this weekend itinerary? There’s so much more to discover in Kalbarri! From hidden hiking trails to the best local eateries, dive deeper into this coastal paradise with our full range of Kalbarri travel guides. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just dreaming of a getaway, click below to explore more tips, insider secrets, and must-see attractions.