# Indian Ocean Drive

> A coastal route north of Perth through dunes, fishing towns and the limestone Pinnacles, ending at Geraldton, the gateway to the Coral Coast.

Source: https://camping-spirit.com/destinations/au-wa-indian-ocean-drive/

A coastal route north of Perth through dunes, fishing towns and the limestone Pinnacles, ending at Geraldton, the gateway to the Coral Coast.

- **Length:** about 415 km, Perth to Geraldton
- **Suggested time:** 2–4 days
- **Best season:** Aug–Oct, Apr–May

## Before you go

- The wildflower season from about August to October brings colour to the heathland, and temperatures are mild.
- Kangaroos are most active at dawn and dusk, so avoid driving at night.
- Fuel up at Lancelin, Cervantes, Jurien Bay and Dongara; summer can be very hot north of Geraldton.

## The road

The Indian Ocean Drive leaves Perth's northern suburbs and runs close to the coast, passing Lancelin and Cervantes before rejoining the Brand Highway towards Dongara and Geraldton. It is a good two-lane road with a 110 km/h limit on most rural stretches, and it is easy for caravans and campervans.

## Stops along the way

Lancelin's dunes, the Pinnacles in Nambung National Park and the stromatolites of Lake Thetis are the headline stops. Near Geraldton, Greenough Historic Hamlet and the HMAS Sydney II Memorial add history. Allow time at sunrise or sunset in the Pinnacles, when the light and crowds are best.

## FAQs

**How long does the drive take?**
Perth to Geraldton is about 415 km, roughly five hours of driving without stops. Most travellers spend two to four days to include Lancelin, the Pinnacles and Geraldton.

**Can I drive it in a campervan?**
Yes. The road is sealed and straightforward. The gravel loop in the Pinnacles is slow but suitable for most vehicles in dry weather; check conditions after rain.

## Places to see

- [The Pinnacles, Nambung National Park](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-wa-pinnacles/)
- [Lancelin Sand Dunes](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-wa-lancelin-dunes/)
- [Lake Thetis stromatolites](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-wa-lake-thetis/)
- [Greenough Historic Hamlet](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-wa-greenough-hamlet/)
- [HMAS Sydney II Memorial](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-wa-hmas-sydney-memorial/)
- [Hutt Lagoon pink lake](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-wa-hutt-lagoon/)
- [Nature's Window, Kalbarri National Park](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-wa-natures-window/)
- [Red Bluff, Kalbarri](https://camping-spirit.com/places/au-wa-red-bluff-kalbarri/)