Highlights
- Swim with whale sharks at the UNESCO-listed Ningaloo Reef
- Embark on a gourmet wine-tasting day in Margaret River
- Enjoy the sites and shopping in the Western Australian capital of Perth
- Explore the cliffs and iconic Pink Lake of the Kalbarri region
- Meet cute and fluffy quokkas as you bike around Rottnest Island
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Perth, Fly to Exmouth, Free Time | Exmouth |
| Day 2 | Swim with Whale Sharks | Exmouth |
| Day 3 | Full-Day Cape Range National Park Tour | Exmouth |
| Day 4 | Fly to Perth, Drive to Margaret River, Twilight Didgeridoo Cave Tour | Margaret River |
| Day 5 | Full-Day Margaret River Gourmet Wine Tour | Margaret River |
| Day 6 | Augusta Whale Watching Tour, Group Surf Lesson | Margaret River |
| Day 7 | Drive to Perth, Free Time | Perth |
| Day 8 | Full-Day Kalbarri & Pink Lake Tour | Perth |
| Day 9 | Explore Rottnest Island by Bike | Perth |
| Day 10 | Depart Perth |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Perth, Fly to Exmouth, Free Time
G'day, and welcome to Perth, Australia's sunniest capital city! Western Australia's capital is a laid-back destination that effortlessly blends urban cool with raw natural beauty. But don't get too comfortable—after landing, you'll board a two-hour flight north to the small town of Exmouth on Western Australia's northwest cape. This charming coastal town is the gateway to some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes, including Ningaloo Marine Park, with its coral reefs, colorful fish, and migratory whale sharks. On arrival, take a private transfer to your accommodation.
The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax and connect with your surroundings. Snorkel or kayak the crystal-clear waters of the Ningaloo Reef, home to an array of marine life, including 500 species of fish, turtles, dugongs, and harmless reef sharks, just a few strokes away from your private beach. Or stay on dry land and opt for a guided hike across the striking landscapes of the Australian bush in Cape Range National Park. Later, marvel at the Milky Way in the dark night sky, undisturbed by any city lights.
Day 2: Swim with Whale Sharks
If you've been dreaming of an up-close encounter with a gentle whale shark or the chance to swim beside a giant humpback whale, then you've come to the right place. The Ningaloo Reef is a biodiversity hotspot, rich in aquatic life. You never know what you'll find from one day to the next on this UNESCO-listed wonder. Today you'll have the opportunity to swim alongside whale sharks—ocean giants that can grow up to 59 feet (18 m) long. These peaceful beasts congregate around Ningaloo Reef between April and July.
After swimming with these magnificent creatures, enjoy lunch on the boat, and head back to the reef for an afternoon snorkel session. Then, return to your resort, and enjoy the evening on your own time.
Day 3: Full-Day Cape Range National Park Tour
After breakfast, get ready to explore Cape Range National Park. Together with your guide and driver, you'll stroll through Shot Hole Canyon, along the gravel gorge floor, and ascend to the top of Cape Range at Charles Knife Gorge. Enjoy morning tea and cake with beautiful views of the Exmouth Gulf, then go off-road on deserted outback tracks while discovering the rare and diverse plants and animals of Cape Range. As you travel through the national park, keep an eye out for native wildlife, including red kangaroos, euros, and emus.
Then, your guide will prepare a picnic lunch as you enjoy a refreshing swim in the turquoise lagoon at Osprey Bay. After, depart for Yardie Creek for an exclusive boat tour. Peer out at the grandeur of Yardie Creek Gorge while navigating the tranquil waters through the red limestone cliffs. Next, head to Ningaloo Marine Park to enjoy a snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters of Turquoise Bay. Finally, stop by the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse to snap a few commemorative photos before returning to your resort for the evening.
Day 4: Fly to Perth, Drive to Margaret River, Twilight Didgeridoo Cave Tour
Wave goodbye to the Coral Coast and board a return flight to Perth. On arrival, collect a rental car and set the GPS for Margaret River, one of Western Australia's most famous wine regions with almost 100 cellar doors, pristine coastline, mysterious caves, and lush forests. After three hours, you'll reach the rolling vines of this area, best known for its chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. The afternoon is yours to explore. For a scenic walk, embark on the Cape to Cape Track, which stretches between two lighthouses. Along the way, relish views of limestone caves and sea cliffs.
Later this evening, join a heart-opening 90-minute Aboriginal culture tour. Starting with a short guided bush walk, you'll identify traditional medicine plants before venturing into Ngilgi Cave to hear your private guide relate the Dreaming legends and give a mesmerizing didgeridoo performance.
Day 5: Full-Day Margaret River Gourmet Wine Tour
Famous for its world-class wines, today, you'll explore the best of the Margaret River's vineyards with a full-day gourmet tour. A knowledgeable and friendly local will collect you for a wine-tasting and foodie experience. You'll drop by both Vasse Felix and Voyager Estate for the VIP treatment with special tastings. You'll learn about the art of winemaking as you sip and sample the area's finest drops. Plus, you'll enjoy a relaxed modern Australian lunch at Xanadu Winery, followed by an indulgent vineyard platter to share onboard the bus in the afternoon.
Beyond wine, this gourmet tour tastes the best of Margaret River. Sample produce from The Farm House, sweets via Margaret River Chocolate Company, and cheese from Margaret River Dairy Company. After, you'll return to your accommodation with gourmet souvenirs to take home.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 6: Augusta Whale Watching Tour, Group Surf Lesson
Rise early today and make a one-hour drive south to Augusta, a picturesque seaside town and one of the best locations in Australia to witness humpback whales as they make their epic migration north. Each year from late May, you can see male humpbacks competing for the attention of females through various behaviors, including breaching and thunderous tail slaps. Board a luxurious catamaran for a two-hour cruise and set out to spy on these curious creatures. You might also see minke whales, blue whales, white-bellied sea eagles, osprey, long-nosed fur seals, dolphins, and albatross.
This afternoon, get ready to hang ten with a two-hour group surf lesson. Margaret River has waves that are excellent for beginning surfers, and with the guidance of an expert instructor, you'll learn how to paddle out, catch waves, and stand on the board. Gain insights into Australia's surf culture and the etiquette of surfing with this fun and active workout at one of Western Australia's great surfing spots.
Day 7: Drive to Perth, Free Time
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Margaret River before making the return three-hour journey up the coast to Perth. Pause at the seaside town of Busselton to stretch your legs. Don't miss the 150-year-old Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Walk the 1.1-mile (1.7 km) stretch, or take the miniature train to the end. Here you'll find the Underwater Observatory, a circular room studded with windows 26 feet (8 m) beneath the ocean's surface. They reveal up to 300 species of colorful coral, fish, and other marine life, fed by an unusually warm current.
Back in Perth, return the rental car, and then make the most of your afternoon. This capital of Western Australia offers an inviting blend of beach relaxation and city excitement. To view the native wildlife, head to Caversham Wildlife Park for up-close animal encounters or visit the beaches of Cottesloe or Leighton for fun in the sun. Alternatively, discover the city's art galleries and wander around the shops of Murray Street and Hay Street. In the evening, make sure to check out Perth's lively bar scene.
Day 8: Full-Day Kalbarri & Pink Lake Tour
Early in the morning, board a one-hour flight from Jandakot Aiport, taking you north to Kalbarri. Enjoy views of fishing villages, sandy beaches, and a scenic lap of the majestic Pink Lake as you come in to land. On arrival, you'll meet a driver who will take you to the vibrant lake that's pinker than a Barbie doll's handbag—dyed from carotenoid-produced algae and packed full of salt. Stroll along the colorful shores while peering out at the unique body of water.
After, you'll enjoy lunch in Kalbarri, then set out to view the gorgeous coastal cliffs and gorges of Kalbarri National Park. Enjoy protected swimming bays like the Blue Holes, swim at Chinaman's Beach, or relax on the foreshore and watch pelicans being fed. Embark on a short bush walk if you have the time before taking a return flight back to Perth.
Day 9: Explore Rottnest Island By Bike
Begin your day with a ferry ride to Rottnest Island, a tranquil paradise located 11 miles (18 km) off the coast of Perth. With its 63 pristine beaches and 20 picturesque bays, this car-free island offers the perfect escape. Upon arrival, rent a bicycle and embark on a scenic 2.5-mile (4 km) ride through the island's heart to Oliver Hill, where you can explore underground tunnels and admire historic artillery. Take in the sweeping views, and make sure to visit the mesmerizing salt lakes.
As you continue your cycling adventure, keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and the adorable quokkas, the island's beloved native marsupials that have gained fame on Instagram. Pedal north for 2 miles (3.3 km) to Little Parakeet Bay, where you can cool off in crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a relaxed seafood lunch at Geordie's Café and Art Gallery, savoring the flavors of the ocean. This afternoon you could choose to follow the snorkel trail at Parker Point or explore various shipwreck sites for an underwater adventure. Just don't miss your return ferry back to the mainland!
Day 10: Depart Perth
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