The Pinnacles tours gets thousands of visitors every year. These limestone formations rise out of the yellow sand of Nambung National Park and are a one-of-a-kind, otherworldly landscape that has geologists, photographers and travellers in awe. The beach-like desert floor adds to the surrealism.
Location
The Pinnacles are in Nambung National Park, 200km (124 miles) north of Perth. So it’s a day trip from Western Australia’s capital city. The drive takes 2.5 hours and you pass through some lovely coastal towns and scenic landscapes with beautiful beaches and white sand dunes.
Nearby are Lancelin, with its white sand dunes and sandboarding, and Cervantes, a coastal town famous for lobster fishing and beaches. Jurien Bay is another must-see where you can snorkel, fish and see sea lions. These destinations show the diversity of the region, where natural beauty meets community events.
You can get to the Pinnacles via Indian Ocean Drive which is well signposted and a smooth drive. The park is open all year and while the formations are great any time of year, many prefer to visit in spring (September to November) when the wildflowers bloom across the park and the area is even more beautiful.
History
The Pinnacles’ story is as incredible as they are. These formations are made of lime-rich sand and are millions of years old. The most accepted theory is that the Pinnacles were formed from seashells broken down into lime-rich sand, compacted into soft limestone and gradually exposed by wind and rain on the desert floor.
Indigenous Australians, particularly the Yuat people, have known about the Pinnacles for thousands of years and consider the area sacred. Their oral traditions and cultural practices show a deep connection to the land. The Pinnacles are significant not just geologically but culturally so they are part of Australian History.
Things to Do
The Pinnacles has lots to offer. Here are some highlights:
- Pinnacles Desert: Walk through the desert to get up close to these amazing limestone rocks. A 1.5km walk goes through the area and you can get right into the landscape and take some great photos.
- Scenic Drive Trail If you don’t want to walk, a 4km drive takes you through the Pinnacles Desert. This trail gives you access to all the best viewpoints and photo spots, perfect for families or if you just want to chill.
- Discovery Centre The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre has exhibits on the geology, flora and fauna of the area. Learn about the formation of the Pinnacles, local wildlife and the cultural significance of the area. The interactive displays are for kids and adults so it’s an educational stop.
- Wildlife Spotting Nambung National Park has lots of wildlife, including kangaroos, emus and many bird species. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to see wildlife. Bring binoculars to see them in their natural habitat.
- Stargazing The Pinnacles Desert is a great spot for stargazing as there’s minimal light pollution. You can see the Milky Way and other celestial wonders and it’s a magical experience. Guided stargazing Australian Pinnacles tours are also available to add another layer to this activity.
- Photography: Get your camera out and capture the surreal beauty of the Pinnacles. Sunrise and sunset are the best for dramatic shots, but moonlit nights can be just as good. The yellow sand, blue sky and desert floor make for a photographer’s dream.
- Nearby Beaches and Island Activities Add on some extra days to your trip and visit nearby beaches like Hangover Bay for swimming and picnicking. Combine this with island activities on the nearby islands off Jurien Bay where you can snorkel and see wildlife.
- Community Events and Cultural Experiences Check for community events in nearby towns like Cervantes or Lancelin. These events often have local crafts, food and music so you can experience the real culture of the area.
For a hassle-free experience, book a guided Australian Pinnacles tour with Autopia Tours which often includes stops at the Pinnacles Desert, Lancelin Sand Dunes and Cervantes. They provide commentary and make sure you make the most of your visit.
Tips
- Wear good walking shoes and bring water, especially in summer.
- Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses are a must as there’s no shade.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun and crowds.
- Entry fees apply so check the Nambung National Park website for prices and hours.
- If you’re stargazing, bring warm clothes as desert nights can be cold.
FAQ
How long do I need to see the Pinnacles?
1-2 hours is the average time for most visitors of Pinnacles Tour, but you can stay longer if you plan to hike, visit the Discovery Centre or stargaze.
When is the best time to visit the Pinnacles?
Spring (Sept to Nov) is the best time with mild weather and wildflowers. Sunrise and sunset is best for photography.
Can I drive through the Pinnacles?
Yes, there is a 4km drive through the Pinnacles. Suitable for most vehicles.
Are the Pinnacles wheelchair accessible?
The drive and facilities are accessible but walking trails may not be suitable for mobility impaired.
Are there tours available?
Yes, several tour operators like Wildlife Tours offer Perth Pinnacles tours. These tours often visit Lancelin Sand Dunes and Cervantes as well.