What to do and where to stay on your next Coral Coast road trip
Spanning 1,250km, West Australia’s Coral Coast Highway is one of the greatest scenic drives in all of Australia, leading to an incredible array of unique experiences and show-stopping attractions.
And whether you’re making a few stops or taking a longer road trip, Summerstar Tourist Parks are an ideal accommodation choice to set up camp, or chill in a cabin for a few nights. Locally-owned and operated, all Summerstar parks offer guests high quality, affordable experiences at each stay, and all are pet-friendly!
Check out a few of the best spots along the Coral Coast Highway below, and where to stay with Summerstar along the way:
Jurien Bay
Beach lovers will rejoice when visiting Jurien Bay as its sandy beaches and calm lagoons offer plenty to do. The Jurien Bay Marine Park is a must-see with seagrass meadows, underwater creatures and the endangered Australian sea lion. Crayfishing and fishing (outside the Marine Park’s sanctuary zones) has also become a popular activity for travellers who land in Jurien Bay, along with skydiving.
Those who prefer to keep their feet on land can explore Lesueur National Park. With over 1,100 identified species of flora and over 100 species of birds, there are a number of hiking trails to be taken amongst this national park.
Where to stay: Jurien Bay Tourist Park
Right on the beach front, Jurien Bay Tourist Park is the perfect distance to the beach, local cafes, pubs and the IGA. For campers, there are powered and unpowered camping and caravan sites available for up to six people. For those interested in a comfier place to rest there are also options including the Deluxe 2 Bedroom Holiday Unit (sleeps four) and for bigger groups the Superior 2 Bedroom Holiday Unit (sleeps five).
Geraldton
A little further north, Geraldton not only brags a stunning foreshore but also a town steeped in history. Geraldton is a seafaring town, and visitors to the area can visit The Point Moore Lighthouse, HMAS II Sydney Memorial, St Francis Xavier Cathedral, Victoria District Hospital, Old Gaol and Craft Centre, to learn more about the town’s coastal past. Home to the Yamaji people, visitors and tourists can also learn more about the First Nations history in the area by participating in the Yamaji Drive Trail which features 14 sites along a 60km route.
Where to stay: Geraldton Belair Gardens Caravan Park
A short trip from the town centre and walking distance to the beach, this central location offers a combination of spacious holiday unit accommodation, with powered and unpowered sites and Wi-Fi hotspot. Choose from accommodation options such as the Deluxe Spa Holiday Unit (sleeps four) or for bigger groups, the Family Holiday Unit (sleeps six).
Horrocks Beach
Nestled in between Geraldton and Kalbarri, Horrocks Beach is a seaside town with a beautiful, swimming beach ideal for fishing, beach combing and indulging in water activities. Different from most mainstream spots along the Coral Coast, Horrocks Beach is a hidden gem, the ultimate stop for those who are seeking an isolated getaway.
If the water is not for you, the Horrocks nine-hole golf course is a fantastic choice for families who want to give it a go. Or try four wheel driving and head north along limestone cliffs to Little Bay, or south to Bowes River Mouth where the river meets the Indian Ocean.
Where to stay: Horrocks Beach Caravan Park
The only caravan park in this seaside town, a stay at Horrocks Beach Caravan Park will be a peaceful getaway right on the beachfront. There’s a combination of unpowered camping and caravan sites (sleeps four) and powered caravan and camping sites (sleeps six). Or if you need a roof over your head there’s also the option of the Holiday Unit (sleeps five) which provides a self-contained kitchen, television in the family lounge and Wi-Fi.
Kalbarri
Home to some of the most photographed spots in WA, Kalbarri is truly every nature lovers dream come true. Head to Nature’s Window to take your obligatory Instagram snap, before visiting the new Sky Walk, or explore the Murchison River in Kalbarri National Park.
If you’re visiting in the spring, you’ll definitely want to stop and take in the wildflowers. There are over 1,000 different species in the region and when in full bloom, the pink and lavender coloured flowers juxtapose beautifully with the red dirt of the region.
Where to stay: Kalbarri Red Bluff Tourist Park
Grassed and spacious, the Kalbarri Red Bluff Tourist Park offers Powered Ensuite Sites, Premium Holiday Units and Premium Spa Holiday Units. The glamorous Wittecarra Beach House (sleeps six) would be perfect for those on big family holidays, while the Premium Spa Holiday Unit (sleeps five) is ideal for travellers who might want a little more relaxation.
Carnarvon
The region not only supplies a substantial portion of our fruits and vegetables but also offers an array of natural wonder and attractions to see. Begin your journey on Fruit Loop Drive during peak season (May to October) and see lush landscapes adorned with tropical fruits and farm-fresh delights. There’s a reason the region is referred to as the ‘food bowl’ of Western Australia.
Other unique encounters include the Quobba Blowholes: when the ocean swells with force, the waves can shoot up to 20 metres in height so be sure to pack clothing suitable for the potential splash of seawater.
Where to stay: Capricorn Holiday Park
A quiet stay, the Capricorn Holiday Park is situated on the highest ground in Carnarvon. Every Fridays during the season, the staff put on woodfired pizza nights with guests invited to bring their own pizza and enjoy dinner outside while the sun sets. For travelling couples, the Deluxe Chalet (sleeps two) provides an air-conditioned unit with a self-contained kitchen. While bigger groups can choose from the Deluxe 2 Bedroom Family Chalet (sleeps six) or a Standard Family Cabin (sleeps four).
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Each Summerstar Tourist Parks’ location offers a unique stay in each remarkable destination. While each park has a different feel, all parks along the Coral Coast Highway provide a home away from home, and a stay that won’t break the bank.
For a hassle-free stay on your next Coral Coast adventure, head to Summerstar Tourist Parks.
Image Credit: Supplied/Tourism Australia
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This article is sponsored by Summerstar Tourist Parks and endorsed by us. Please see our Editorial Policy for more info.