Embarking on a road trip along the stunning West Coast of Australia is a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, charming towns and unique attractions. As we leave the vibrant city of Perth we are travelling to the tranquil shores of Cervantes. In this blog post, we'll take you through the must-visit stops, starting with Two Rocks, where King Neptune's Statue stands proudly, to Lancelin's Big Chair to the mesmerising Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park.
Two Rocks - Greeting King Neptune
Our journey begins in Two Rocks, a coastal town that boasts not only pristine beaches but also a unique attraction that captures the maritime spirit. A must-see for those travelling WA, the town is home to the impressive King Neptune's Statue.
Two Rocks boasts a unique colossal limestone statue of the Roman god of the sea as its centrepiece. As you approach Two Rocks, be prepared to encounter the colossal, wide-eyed, and bearded face of King Neptune. He is, of course, holding his signature trident and wearing a grin from ear to ear. The statue, perched on a rocky outcrop, offers a picturesque backdrop of the Indian Ocean, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.
Set on top of a small hill overlooking the ocean, the 10-metre-high statue towers over the former Atlantis Marine Park that closed amid the financial difficulties of its billionaire developer Alan Bond. The park that once existed in the 1970s has been demolished and is now slated to be replaced by a shopping centre.
Travelling WA is about embracing the unexpected and Two Rocks offers just that – a charming introduction to the wonders that await you as you travel the coastline.
Lancelin - Beyond the Big Chair
Continuing our road trip north, we reach the charming town of Lancelin. Here, you'll encounter not only the quirky Big Chair but also the mesmerising sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see. The Big Chair is a delightful roadside attraction in town that adds a touch of whimsy to your journey. Climb to the top for a panoramic view and a great photo opportunity.
The real highlight, however, is the Lancelin Sand Dunes. They are the largest sand dunes in Western Australia some of them at a 45-degree angle. This 2 km long sand dune system is located inland from Lancelin with incredibly soft sand, making it perfect for sandboarding. Apart from sandboarding, you can also explore the dunes with a 4WD, go dirt biking or take a guided quad tour. The top of the Lancelin sand dunes offers a breathtaking view during sunrise and sunset if you decide to stop here overnight.
Cervantes - Gateway to Natural Wonders
As you continue our road trip, the charming town of Cervantes beckons with its relaxed coastal vibes. This is not just a pitstop; it's a destination in itself. Settle into the laid-back atmosphere as you explore the town and its surroundings.
Lake Thetis
Located just over a kilometre away from the centre of Cervantes (off the Hansen Bay Lookout Rd), Lake Thetis offers a unique glimpse into the past with its living fossils – stromatolites. These ancient formations provide a fascinating look at the Earth's history and evolution. Walking along the boardwalks, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time, surrounded by the tranquillity of this natural wonder. During drier months, when the water level is low, the stromatolites at the southwestern edge of the shoreline are easily accessible. However, please keep in mind that they are brittle, and visitors are asked to look but not touch. With double the salinity of the sea, Lake Thetis is an unforgettable sight to see. Take a walk on the pathway surrounding the lake, or visit the viewing platform for a panoramic view of this unique natural wonder.
Along with the Stromatolites in Hamelin Pool Shark Bay, this is quite a fascinating point of interest as you travel WA.
The Lobster Shack
For a true taste of Western Australia, indulge in a culinary delight at the Lobster Shack. Cervantes is renowned for its Western Rock Lobster, and Lobster Shack is the perfect place to savour this local delicacy. You can take a guided tour to learn about the lobster industry and how these tasty crustaceans are caught, processed and prepared for sale and consumption. The tour takes you through the stages of lobster fishing and processing, from the lobster pots and baiting to the cooking and packaging process.
After the tour, visitors can indulge in a sumptuous lobster lunch with ocean views. The Lobster Shack offers a variety of lobster dishes, from classic lobster rolls to grilled lobster tails and whole lobsters, all freshly caught and prepared on site. Whether you are a seafood lover or just looking for a unique culinary experience, the Lobster Shack in Cervantes is definitely worth a visit. With its stunning location, informative tours and delicious lobster dishes, it is the perfect stop.
The Pinnacles Desert - Nature's Art Gallery
No journey along the west coast of Australia would be complete without a visit to the otherworldly Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park. A short drive from Cervantes, this natural wonder is a landscape unlike any other, featuring thousands of limestone pillars rising from the golden sands.
As you wander through this surreal desert, you'll feel like you've stepped into a sci-fi movie set. The Pinnacles, formed over millions of years, cast dramatic shadows as the sun sets, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Capture the moment as the landscape transforms into a canvas of warm hues, and the Pinnacles cast long shadows in the fading light.
The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre is a visitor centre located in the Nambung National Park in Western Australia. It serves as an entry point for tourists and visitors exploring the Pinnacles Desert, renowned for its unique limestone formations called the Pinnacles.
The centre offers a range of informative exhibits, interactive displays, and educational resources about the geological formations, flora, fauna, and cultural significance of the area. Visitors can learn about the formation process of the Pinnacles, the local biodiversity, and the Aboriginal heritage associated with the region.
The Discovery Centre provides amenities, visitor information, gift shops and facilities, making it a starting point for an enriching and immersive experience before venturing out to explore the stunning landscapes of the Pinnacles Desert.
Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park is accessible by car or tour via a fully sealed road. Allow at least 2 hours to circumvent the viewing trail and access the lookout. Entry fees to the park are $15.00 per passenger vehicle (pensioner discounts apply), payable at the gate. Caravans and trailers can be left in the car park, as the 4km loop is not suitable
Travelling WA Tip: Consider timing your visit to the Pinnacles Desert for sunset. The shifting colours and elongated shadows cast by the limestone pillars make for an unforgettable experience.
Travelling Western Australia
As we conclude our journey from Perth to Cervantes, the West Coast of Australia has unfolded its wonders. This leg of our journey combines coastal beauty, cultural exploration and natural wonders. From the regal presence of King Neptune in Two Rocks to the exhilarating sand dunes of Lancelin, the serene Lake Thetis in Cervantes to the mystical landscape of The Pinnacles Desert, each stop offers a unique experience.
We hope this guide inspires your next travel itinerary and brings you closer to the unparalleled beauty of Western Australia. If you've had your own experiences or have additional recommendations for fellow travellers, we'd love to hear from you. Leave a comment below and share your stories, tips, and favourite moments from your journey along the West Coast of Australia. Safe travels!
