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The Pinnacles Desert offers a unique landscape of limestone spires. The most recommended activities include walking or driving through the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre, taking in the stunning panoramic views, and photographing the iconic formations at sunrise or sunset. For a more adventurous experience, you can also explore the surrounding parkland on a 4WD tour, go sandboarding, or visit the nearby beaches.
The Pinnacles are located 260 kilometers north of Perth, Western Australia, and are part of Nambung National Park. This unique, living fossil forest in the desert, with thousands of limestone columns reaching up to five meters in height, is truly a magnificent spectacle.
The moonscape of the Pinnacles is one of Australia's most unique and captivating natural wonders. Under the golden sunset of Australia, the Pinnacles can be photographed beautifully, becoming a postcard for Western Australia travel.
The Mediterranean climate is most suitable for travel in September.
2 hours
A car costs $13
9:30-17:30
The Pinnacles Desert is part of Nambung National Park in Western Australia. The iconic limestone formations were formed over thousands of years by the erosion of ancient seashells and marine deposits. The area holds cultural significance to the local Aboriginal Yued people, and it is one of the most popular natural attractions in the region.
The Pinnacles Desert is located approximately 200 kilometers north of Perth, in Nambung National Park. The easiest way to reach it is by car, taking the Indian Ocean Drive, which offers scenic views along the way. Public transport options are limited, but there are tour services from Perth that operate regularly to the site.
The Pinnacles Desert is open year-round. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to experience the formations at sunrise or sunset, which provide the best lighting for photography. The desert is typically less crowded in the early mornings, and the temperatures are more pleasant during these times.
There is no entrance fee for the Pinnacles Desert itself, but a small fee is required to visit the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre, which includes parking. The fee can be paid on-site or through the official Nambung National Park website. Some tours to the area may have their own fees.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general entry to the Pinnacles Desert. However, if you plan on joining a guided tour or visiting during peak seasons, it's advisable to book at least a few days in advance to ensure availability.
You will need about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the Pinnacles Desert. This includes walking through the desert, visiting the Discovery Centre, and stopping at various viewpoints. If you plan to enjoy a guided tour or sandboarding, you might want to allow for an extra hour or two.
The Pinnacles Desert itself is the main highlight, with its striking limestone pillars. The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre provides interesting educational exhibits. Other notable areas include the main Pinnacles Drive Loop, which allows visitors to get up close to the formations, and the lookout points where panoramic views of the desert are visible.
Yes, guided tours are available at the Pinnacles Desert, often in 4WD vehicles. These tours provide an in-depth explanation of the area’s history and geological significance. Audio guides are also available at the Discovery Centre in English, and some tours may offer guides in other languages such as French or German.
The best photography spots are along the Pinnacles Drive Loop, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The area’s rugged, towering limestone spires look their most dramatic during these times. The lookouts near the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre also offer fantastic panoramic views for photography.
Start by visiting the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre for some background information and maps. Then, take the Pinnacles Drive Loop for a self-guided tour through the desert. Stop at various lookout points, including the main Pinnacles Viewing Platform. If you have more time, consider joining a guided tour or sandboarding on the dunes.
The Pinnacles Desert is typically visited during the day. There are no light shows, but night visits can be a unique experience, especially for stargazing, as the area is far from city lights. Special sunset and sunrise tours are available, offering a chance to experience the desert in different lighting.
The Pinnacles Desert can get crowded during weekends, public holidays, and school vacations. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon. The off-peak seasons of autumn and spring are the best times for fewer crowds.
The Pinnacles Desert has basic facilities, including public toilets and picnic areas at the Discovery Centre. There is also a small shop selling refreshments, souvenirs, and maps. Be sure to bring enough water, as the desert can be hot, especially in summer.
The Pinnacles Desert is accessible by car, and the paved pathways around the Discovery Centre make it accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. However, some areas of the desert may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s advisable to check accessibility options when booking tours.
Most services in and around the Pinnacles Desert, including the Discovery Centre and nearby shops, accept card payments and mobile payments. It's a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases, especially if visiting remote areas where cards may not be accepted.
There are no restaurants within the Pinnacles Desert, but nearby Cervantes town offers several dining options, including seafood restaurants, cafes, and casual eateries. The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre also has a small café for snacks and light meals.
Some of the restaurants in Cervantes offer vegetarian options, but vegan and halal options may be more limited. It's advisable to check the menu in advance if you have specific dietary needs.
Accommodation options near the Pinnacles Desert include the Pinnacles Edge Resort in Cervantes and other hotels and motels in the town. For a more rustic experience, there are also camping facilities in Nambung National Park.
Nearby attractions include the beautiful beaches of Cervantes, including Hangover Bay and Lake Thetis, known for its stromatolites. The town of Jurien Bay, with its fishing and marine life, is also a popular stop.
There are souvenir shops at the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre and in Cervantes, offering items such as local art, magnets, postcards, and Aboriginal crafts. Quokka-themed products are also popular, as the animals are iconic to the region.
After visiting the Pinnacles Desert, you can continue your trip to nearby Cervantes by car, where you’ll find additional accommodations and dining options. The Indian Ocean Drive also connects the area to Perth and other coastal attractions.
