Things To Do
in Kalbarri
Kalbarri is a small coastal town on the mid-west coast of Western Australia, famed for its dramatic coastal cliffs and the deep red gorges of Kalbarri National Park. The town is a base for outdoor adventures — fishing, surfing, hiking and scenic flights are popular activities year-round. Wildflower displays in winter and spring, plus abundant wildlife and birding opportunities, make it appealing for nature lovers and photographers.
Despite its remote feel, Kalbarri has visitor services, cafes and galleries that cater to tourists exploring the rugged coastline and inland river gorges.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day early with a drive to Kalbarri National Park, where the stunning landscapes greet you at sunrise. Hike the famous Loop Walk to see the breathtaking views of the Murchison River and the iconic Z Bend. Capture the colorful wildflowers that bloom in abundance during spring, making the hike even more picturesque.
After a picnic lunch in the park, venture to the thrilling Kalbarri Skywalk for panoramic views of the rugged cliffs and the river gorge below. Spend some time exploring the park’s other trails, such as the Nature's Window, where you can frame the scenery perfectly. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including kangaroos and various bird species, as you wander through the serene surroundings.
Return to Kalbarri for a relaxing evening, where you can unwind at one of the local cafes or restaurants. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring fresh seafood while watching the sun set over the Indian Ocean. As night falls, take a stroll along the beach, soaking in the tranquil sounds of the waves.
Start your day with excitement by embarking on a guided kayak tour along the Murchison River. Paddle through the calm waters, taking in the stunning cliffs and unique rock formations that line the riverbanks. Keep your camera ready for the chance to spot dolphins and other wildlife that frequent these waters.
After a morning of kayaking, enjoy lunch in town at a local eatery, savoring some traditional Australian dishes. In the afternoon, gear up for a thrilling jet boat adventure, speeding across the river and experiencing the natural beauty from a different perspective. Feel the adrenaline rush as you take sharp turns and enjoy the exhilarating spins on the water.
As the day winds down, head back to your accommodation for a quick freshen-up before dinner. Choose from one of Kalbarri's waterfront restaurants and indulge in a meal with fresh, local ingredients. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the foreshore, enjoying the starry sky and the gentle ocean breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $4-6 |
| 🍺Beer (pub) | $8-12 |
| ⛽Petrol (per litre) | $1.70-2.20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel / motel (per night) | $110-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Outstanding coastal cliffs and gorge scenery ideal for photographers and nature lovers
- Excellent fishing, wildlife viewing and outdoor adventure opportunities
- Relaxed small-town atmosphere with easy access to national park highlights
- Impressive wildflower displays in winter and spring
- Remote location — long drives to major cities and limited services
- Limited dining and nightlife options outside peak tourist season
- Summer heat can be extreme for extended outdoor activities
- Spotty mobile coverage and fewer healthcare resources compared with larger towns
Places to Visit in Kalbarri
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic natural rock arch framing the gorge — best photographed in the morning light or late afternoon for warm tones and contrast with the red rock and eucalyptus.
Deep sheer-sided gorge with dramatic river bends; offers sweeping panorama shots and opportunities for layered landscape compositions.
Modern viewing platforms extending over the cliff edge for wide-angle coastal and gorge shots — excellent for sunrise or sunset images.
Jagged sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations along the coast provide dramatic seascape photography; watch for crashing waves and changing light.
Colorful boats, pelicans, and tidal reflections at sunset; convenient for golden-hour portraits and relaxed town scenes.
Food in Kalbarri
Kalbarri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly battered local fish (often snapper or dhufish where available) served with chips — a must-try at the foreshore takeaways or the town's fish-and-chip shops.
Must-Try!
When in season, mud crab and local prawns are served at pubs and seafood restaurants; great either as a simple platter or in garlic butter.
Mixed platter of local catches — an easy way to sample prawns, scallops, oysters (where available) and fish at waterfront restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small markets and weekend stalls sell snacks, baked goods and occasional produce; check local listings for seasonal market days and craft stalls.
A local market (when running) offering homemade preserves, fresh produce and artisanal foods — great for picnic supplies and local treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals are informal and friendly; a relaxed greeting like 'G'day' or 'hello' and a smile go a long way.
Show respect for Aboriginal heritage and sites; follow signs, stick to marked trails and ask before photographing people or cultural artefacts.
Kalbarri’s natural areas are fragile—take litter with you, avoid removing rocks or plants and follow fire regulations during restricted periods.
Drive carefully on long stretches of highway and local roads; watch for wildlife at dawn and dusk and give way to farm and commercial vehicles when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Kalbarri
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory in Australia but appreciated for excellent service; rounding up or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is common but not expected in pubs and takeaway spots.
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) and contactless payments are widely accepted in town; carry some cash for small purchases or remote vendors. ATMs are available but limited—withdraw before remote trips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with daytime temperatures often high; sunscreen, shade and plenty of water are essential. Coastal breezes help on the shore, but inland hiking in peak heat should be avoided — plan early-morning starts. Swimming can be pleasant but watch for rips and avoid isolated beaches without lifeguards.
Warm days and cooler nights make it comfortable for hiking and sightseeing; water temperatures remain moderate for water activities. Crowds taper after the summer holidays, and it’s a good time for coastal walks and fishing.
Milder daytime temperatures and cool nights; winter and spring are prime wildflower seasons inland with dramatic displays after rain. Expect occasional windy or stormy days on the coast and pack layers for chilly mornings.
Wildflower season and pleasant weather — one of the most popular times to visit for photographers and nature lovers. Still bring a jacket for cooler mornings and be prepared for variable weather on longer hikes.
Kalbarri at Night
Hiking in Kalbarri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate trail to the famous natural rock window overlooking the gorge; popular for sunrise and sunset photos — carry water and sun protection.
Longer, more strenuous walk that descends into the gorge with river views and rock pools; offers close-up geological formations and birdlife.
Accessible walkways and viewing platforms at the Skywalk provide dramatic vistas over the gorge and coastline with minimal effort.
Series of short cliff-top walks showcasing sandstone formations and panoramic ocean views — excellent for sunset photography but watch cliff edges.
Gentler riverside walks near the town and river mouth for birdwatching, fishing access and relaxed nature time.
Airports
How to reach Kalbarri by plane.
Small regional airstrip serving charter flights and occasional scheduled services; useful for private charters or scenic flights, but services are limited so check availability in advance.
Regional airport approximately a 1.5–2 hour drive south of Kalbarri by road; provides the most convenient commercial flights to and from Perth and is a common arrival point for visitors flying in.
Major international airport in Perth — about a 6–7 hour drive to Kalbarri or a short flight to Geraldton followed by road transfer; best option for international travellers and those connecting from other Australian cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term locals who work in tourism, fishing, hospitality and local services contribute to a close-knit community feel.
A noticeable number of retirees and people who have relocated for lifestyle reasons live in the region, enjoying slower pace and coastal living.
Domestic tourists, families and international visitors populate the town seasonally, especially during wildflower season and holidays.
Local Aboriginal people have cultural and historical ties to the land — visitors should respect sites and follow guidance from local custodians where provided.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Both shore and boat fishing are extremely popular, with many visitors and locals heading out for snapper, dhufish and other coastal species.
Local surf breaks attract surfers when swells permit; beach recreation is a common pastime.
Aussie Rules football, cricket and lawn bowls are popular community sports in regional WA towns and form an important part of local social life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalbarri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at cafés and some restaurants but are more limited than in larger towns; order salads, veggie burgers or pasta and ask chefs to adapt dishes if needed.
Vegan choices exist but can be sparse — bring staples or shop at larger supermarkets in Geraldton if you require specific items. Many cafés can make plant-based milk coffees and adjust meals on request.
Gluten-free menu items are commonly offered; always notify staff about cross-contamination concerns if you have celiac disease, as smaller kitchens may have limited protocols.
Given the seafood focus, inform restaurants of allergies; ask about preparation methods and consider choosing poultry or vegetarian options to avoid cross-contact.