Coral Bay

Coral Bay

by | Oct 1, 2024 | Western Australia

Exploring
Coral Bay

Western Australia

Coral Bay is a tourist gold mine. I think there would be 200 locals and 2000 tourists at one time, and with a new caravan park being built, this will only expand. Traveling to Coral Bay as a family is worthwhile, even if the cost seems high.

Things to do in Coral Bay.

For those with a 4wd there are two main spots to explore. 5 Fingers Reef is an exceptional snorkeling, swimming and fishing spot and a lot of fun driving to. There is probably one section on the return that is a bit tricky, but if Brad can manage it, most people can. You can go abit further south to Turtle Rock, but there wasn’t much there apart from a lot of fun 4wding.

Oyster Bridge and the Lagoon are north of Coral Bay and are a bit tougher of a drive. There are multiple sections we had to have multiple attempts on BUT it was well worth it in the end. Both spots have amazing snorkeling and swimming (no fishing) and are worth doing a full day at.

There is so much on offer if your wallet is full and your up for adventure. Boat tours, diving, snorkeling, glass bottom boats, ATV’s and more.

Getting to Coral Bay.

This is an easy drive from both directions, with a turn off the highway and easy drive into town.

Things to know.

Coral Bay is expensive. The fuel is expensive. Groceries are more expensive than Exmouth (no idea why). So budget accordingly. Once your there though, you may never want to leave. So if your driving from Carnavon or Exmouth, stock up.

The bakery is a treasure. Good food. Decent coffee. The local pizza place does great pizza too.

Traveling to Coral Bay as a family was one on the spots list we had to tick. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

Exmouth

Exmouth

by | Aug 13, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Exmouth

Western Australia

Exmouth, Western Australia, is a hidden gem for nature lovers and families alike. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary marine life, it offers an unparalleled experience for those traveling to Exmouth as a family. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking to unwind amidst nature, Exmouth has something for everyone.

Where We Stayed

During our time in Exmouth, we had the pleasure of staying in various locations that perfectly suited our family’s needs. We began our journey by settling into a spot just south of Exmouth on the East side, recommended by a friend of a friend. This location became our home for the first week and the final three weeks of our trip. It offered a peaceful retreat close enough to the town while still allowing us to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Off Grid Adventures

For a more adventurous experience, we also spent six nights at Osprey and five nights at Mesa campgrounds within the Cape Range National Park. These off-grid sites were a dream come true for snorkelling enthusiasts. We swam with turtles, explored vibrant coral reefs, and enjoyed fishing and easy access to boat and diving tours. The proximity to these activities made our stay truly unforgettable.

Things to Do in Exmouth

Exmouth offers an abundance of activities, from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to canyon hikes that reveal stunning vistas. Families will love the diversity of experiences available, with something for every budget. While Exmouth is known for its premium-priced activities and accommodations, there are still plenty of affordable options for those looking to enjoy this spectacular destination without breaking the bank.

The town itself is RV-friendly, with ample dump points and a convenient water filling station (just 5c per litre). However, due to its remote location, be prepared to pay a premium for essentials like petrol and groceries. Despite this, we found a gem in the Whalebone Brewery, where we enjoyed incredible food, great drinks, and surprisingly reasonable prices—a welcome break from the typical high costs in the area.

Getting around Exmouth

Getting around Exmouth is a breeze, thanks to its small-town layout designed with tourists in mind. Towing a caravan or maneuvering an RV here is far easier compared to similar tourist hotspots on the East Coast.

Traveling to Exmouth as a family is an experience like no other. With its unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and family-friendly amenities, it’s a destination that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Nullarbor

Nullarbor

by | Jul 31, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
The Nullarbor

Tasmania

Like any rational person living in Australia, we had some queries (or straight-out anxiety) about crossing the Nullarbor. It’s one of the most significant challenges for anyone doing a lap or traveling from the East to the West Coast, but it’s easier than you think it will be. With proper planning, traveling across the Nullarbor as a family can be a breeze. Here’s how we did it.

Fuel Planning

Fuel is a critical concern when traversing the Nullarbor. To ensure you make it across, you need to:

  1. Know your vehicle’s range on a full tank: Calculate how far you can drive before needing to refuel.
  2. Research fuel stop hours: Make sure they align with your travel plans.
  3. Use apps like Fuel Spy: This can help you save some dollars along the way, as fuel prices can be steep.

Adding a can of fuel for the trip might be a good idea, but with careful planning, it’s unnecessary. However, having one could make you someone else’s hero if they run out of fuel.

Food Options

For lunches, we pre-made chicken and rice wraps, which our kids call burritos. For dinners, we pre-made pasta and heated it up at each stop. This approach saved water for washing up, time cooking, and made the trip food-wise a breeze. We also had plenty of snacks for both days.

You could eat at the roadhouses, but for a family, it gets quite expensive. Remember, you’ll need to dump all your fruits and veggies before the border, so eat those as snacks before heading into WA.

Do You Need a UHF Radio?

The short answer is no. Ours broke beforehand. Despite the amount of traffic, especially road trains, there is plenty of empty, straight road for overtaking. Using your indicator to signal when it’s safe for trucks to overtake is sufficient.

How Much iPad Time for the Kids?

We aimed for the first 3-4 hours without iPads. After lunch, they could watch a movie or two, which helped keep them entertained during the long stretches.

Duration of the Trip

With young kids (under 5), you’ll likely need a minimum of 2 nights, depending on where you start and end. When we traveled from Streaky Bay to Perth, we realized it would have been better to do 3 nights. Here’s a breakdown of our journey:

Day 1: Streaky Bay to Eucla (7 hours)

  • Filled up at Streaky Bay.
  • Stopped at Caiguna for a toilet break and stretch.
  • Stopped at Yalata for fuel.
  • Filled up again at Eucla.

We camped for free near the beach at Eucla. This part of the trip was the best as we hugged the coastline, experiencing some truly unique parts of Australia.

Day 2: Eucla to Norseman (7 hours)

  • Fueled up at Caiguna and Balladonia.

We stayed at a free camp 5 km before Norseman. This was the most monotonous part of the trip—very straight, very boring, with not much to see.

Day 3: Norseman to Perth (10 hours)

  • Fueled up at Norseman.
  • Stopped for lunch and fuel at Southern Cross.
  • Fueled up at Kellerberrin to ensure we had enough for Perth.

This was the longest leg of the trip, but it was more enjoyable than the day before. The first three-quarters of the drive had varying scenery and less straight roads. About 90 minutes out of Perth, the traffic increased, and we had to be more driver aware as we reentered civilization.

Traveling across the Nullarbor as a family is a big task, but it’s not insurmountable. It’s a true adventure and one we’re excited to do again on our way back to the east coast, this time leaving from Esperance and stopping at Fowler’s Point to cut down the travel time. The Nullarbor is more than just a road—it’s an experience, and with the right preparation, it can be an unforgettable journey for the whole family.

Shark Bay

Shark Bay

by | Jul 27, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Shark Bay

Tasmania

Traveling to Shark Bay as a family is an adventure filled with stunning landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, and unforgettable experiences. This remarkable region, consisting of Denham, Monkey Mia, and Francois Peron National Park, offers a myriad of activities for all ages. Located four hours north of Kalbarri and three and a half hours south of Carnarvon, Shark Bay is a must-visit destination for any family road trip.

Where We Stayed

Our family chose to stay at Shark Bay Caravan Park, one of the three caravan parks in Denham. This location was perfect as it was close to shopping and most attractions. For those with a bigger budget, Monkey Mia, located 30 kilometers up the road, is a fantastic option. Our friends stayed there and had an amazing time. The caravan park in Denham provided us with all the amenities we needed and served as a great base for exploring the area.

Francois Peron National Park and Point Peron

Francois Peron National Park is one of Australia’s most breathtaking national parks, featuring multiple camping spots, lookouts, and a full day of four-wheel driving on soft sand, salt plains, and graded dirt. We took our Triton and had no real trouble navigating the terrain, although driving slowly and playing it smart is essential. The park’s diverse landscapes and stunning views make it a highlight of any visit to Shark Bay.

Little Lagoon

Located just outside of Denham, Little Lagoon is another beautiful spot worth visiting. You can four-wheel drive on both sides of the lagoon, swim, have a BBQ, and try your luck at fishing, as we did (with no success, unfortunately). While powered water vessels are not allowed, kayaking is a popular activity here, offering a peaceful way to explore the lagoon.

Dolphin Feeding at Monkey Mia

One of the highlights of our trip was the dolphin feeding at Monkey Mia. Ella took the boys up for this unique experience, and they thoroughly enjoyed watching the dolphins up close. The morning was filled with excitement and learning, as the staff provided interesting information about the dolphins and their habits.

Shark Bay Aquarium

The Ocean Park Aquarium provided an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family. The guided tours offered by the knowledgeable staff gave us insights into the diverse marine life in the area. We saw sharks, snapper, stingrays, sea snakes, lobsters, and more. The boys were fascinated by the variety of creatures and the interactive displays.

Exploring Denham

In the heart of Denham, we found an amazing playground right on the water, opposite shops and cafes. This was a great spot for the boys to burn off some energy while we enjoyed a coffee and the stunning views. The town’s coastal charm and friendly atmosphere made it a pleasant place to spend time.

Coastal Drive

A scenic drive along the coast took us to Fowlers Bay and Whale Bone Scenic Lookout, a 60-kilometer round trip from Denham. The breathtaking views and serene landscapes made this drive one of the memorable highlights of our trip.

Getting to Shark Bay

Our journey to Shark Bay was one of the longer drives we undertook, requiring a petrol and lunch stop. We chose the Billabong Roadhouse for this break, which provided a welcome rest and a chance to refuel before continuing our adventure.

Traveling to Shark Bay as a family was an unforgettable experience, filled with natural beauty and unique activities. Whether you’re exploring national parks, enjoying marine life, or simply relaxing by the water, Shark Bay offers something for everyone.

Lancelin

Lancelin

by | Jul 25, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Lancelin

Western Australia

If you’re traveling with your family around Australia, you need to stay at this hidden gem of a town called Lancelin. Nestled along the coast, Lancelin may be small, but it packs a big wow factor. From thrilling outdoor adventures to family-friendly accommodations, traveling to Lancelin as a family offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation.

Surfing at Back Beach

One of the highlights of our trip was surfing at Back Beach. This fun, open beach boasts crystal clear waters and offers a fantastic spot for both novice and experienced surfers. The beach is easily accessible, with a car park nearby, or you can drive up and over the dunes for an added element of adventure. The kids loved the freedom of the open space, and the waves provided just the right amount of challenge.

Fishing at the Jetty

Fishing enthusiasts in the family will be thrilled with the opportunities at the Lancelin Jetty. Brad caught a massive snapper off the jetty, earning him fifteen minutes of fame around town. We also had luck catching squid, a trumpeter, and a herring. The excitement of reeling in such a variety of fish made for some unforgettable family moments. The jetty is a great spot to relax and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery while waiting for a bite.

Exploring the Dunes

The Lancelin Sand Dunes are nothing short of incredible. We spent an entire day exploring these massive dunes, which offer a range of activities for all ages. You can hire sand boards, ATVs, and motorbikes, or simply drive around in your car. The vastness of the dunes means you have plenty of space to enjoy without worrying too much about other visitors. The kids had a blast racing down the dunes on sand boards, and the thrill of riding an ATV was a highlight for everyone.

Staying at Experience Lancelin Holiday Park

Our stay at Experience Lancelin Holiday Park was fantastic. Located on the south side of town, the park offers beach access, a caravan café, a playroom, an indoor heated swimming pool and spa, and the biggest jumping pillow in Australia. The park also features a great playground for the kids. The large, recently renovated sites and family-friendly facilities made our stay comfortable and enjoyable. The park’s popularity became apparent over the weekend when it filled up quickly, a testament to its appeal and convenient proximity to Perth.

Traveling to Lancelin as a family provides a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and quality time together. Whether you’re surfing at Back Beach, fishing at the jetty, or exploring the vast sand dunes, Lancelin offers something for everyone. Our stay at the Experience Lancelin Holiday Park added to the charm of this hidden gem, making it a must-visit destination for families exploring Australia.

Jurien Bay

Jurien Bay

by | Jul 25, 2024 | Locations, Western Australia

Exploring
Jurien Bay

Western Australia

Jurien Bay is a charming fishing seaside village nestled between Perth and Geraldton. This makes it an ideal destination for a family getaway. With its beautiful beaches, abundant marine life, and friendly atmosphere, traveling to Jurien Bay as a family promises a memorable experience filled with adventure and relaxation.

Seals and Fishing Charters

One of the highlights of our trip was embarking on a boat tour to see the playful seals. The kids were thrilled to watch these curious creatures up close, frolicking in the clear blue waters. Fishing charters are also a popular activity in Jurien Bay, offering a chance to catch some of the local fish and enjoy a day out on the ocean. The joy of reeling in a big catch is an experience the whole family can share.

Exploring The Pinnacles

A must-see attraction near Jurien Bay is The Pinnacles, located in Nambung National Park. We decided to take an early morning trip and had the place almost entirely to ourselves. The surreal landscape of limestone pillars rising from the desert floor is unlike anything we’ve encountered in our travels across Australia. It’s a sight that leaves a lasting impression and is well worth the drive from either Jurien Bay or the nearby town of Cervantes.

Dining and Relaxation

Catching up with friends at Kakka Alley Brewing was another highlight of our stay. This local brewery offers delicious pizza and a selection of brews, along with a play area for the kids. The brewery is also rich in the history of Jurien Bay, providing an educational and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal while the kids play nearby.

Family-Friendly Spots

Jurien Bay boasts several family-friendly spots that are worth a visit. The Jetty, with its expansive playground, kept our children entertained for hours. It’s a fantastic place for a picnic or simply to let the kids burn off some energy. We also enjoyed spending time at the Marina, where we tried our luck at fishing. The excitement of catching a fish from the pier was a delightful experience for the kids.

Convenient Accommodation

We stayed at the Jurien Bay Tourist Park, which is conveniently located in the heart of town. The park’s central location meant we were just a short walk away from the local IGA, hardware stores, petrol station, and fishing shop. The staff at the tourist park were incredibly welcoming, and the facilities were top-notch, ensuring we had a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Traveling to Jurien Bay as a family offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and quality time together. From exploring natural wonders like The Pinnacles to enjoying local cuisine and engaging in fun activities, Jurien Bay is a destination that caters to all ages and interests. We left with wonderful memories and a desire to return to this charming seaside village.