people snorkeling in the ocean at coral bay wa

Best Stops on the Coral Coast (Perth to Exmouth)

ByWendy White

If you don’t have time for the full road trip, these are the must-see Coral Coast stops, ranked by impact.

⭐ Top Coral Coast Stops

  1. Kalbarri National Park
  2. Shark Bay & Monkey Mia
  3. Coral Bay
  4. Exmouth & Ningaloo Reef
  5. The Pinnacles Desert

Coral Coast Road Trip Map

Coral Coast route:
Perth → Cervantes → Geraldton → Kalbarri → Shark Bay → Coral Bay → Exmouth

Kalbarri National Park

view of the river from hawks head lookout kalbarri
Kalbarri National Park

Best for: gorges, coastal cliffs, iconic WA landscapes
👉 Kalbarri Travel Guide

Shark Bay & Monkey Mia

a beach made up entirely of cockle shells
Shell Beach, Shark Bay

Best for: wildlife, unique landscapes
👉 Shark Bay Travel Guide

Coral Bay

sun shining on a small bay with grass in front
Bills Bay, Coral Bay

Best for: easy snorkelling
👉 Coral Bay Travel Guide

Exmouth

a creek laeding out to the ocean surrounded by red rocks and scrub
Yardie Creek, Exmouth

Best for: marine life & reef experiences
👉 Exmouth Travel Guide

The Pinnacles Desert

limestone pillars in the middle of a desert
The Pinnacles

Best for: star gazing & sunrise or sunset
👉 The Pinnacles

FAQ

Is the Coral Coast road trip 2WD friendly?
Yes. All major stops are accessible via sealed roads.

How long do you need for the Coral Coast?
10–14 days is ideal.

Best time to do the Coral Coast road trip?
April to October.

Ready to Plan Your Coral Coast Road Trip?

The Coral Coast is remote, spectacular, and incredibly rewarding — if you plan it properly.

👉 Compare Car Hire for the Coral Coast
👉 Find the Best Places to Stay Along the Route
👉 Book Ningaloo Reef Tours Early