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9 Things to Do in Geraldton
- Explore: Top Things to Do in Geraldton
- Explore Geraldton’s beaches
- Top Geraldton Beaches
- Geraldton Foreshore
- St. George’s Beach
- Back Beach
- Tarcoola Beach
- Pages Beach
- Glenfield Beach
- Marvel at the beauty of Abrolhos Islands
- Biodiversity
- Activities
- How do I get to Houtman Abrolhos island?
- How long does it take to get to the Abrolhos Islands from Geraldton?
- Abrolhos Adventures
- Eco Abrolhos Cruises
- Shine Aviation
- Geraldton Air Charter
- Can you stay on the Abrolhos Islands?
- What is the best time to visit the Abrolhos Islands?
- Fly over the pink Hutt Lagoon
- Why is the Hutt Lagoon pink?
- Can you swim in the Hutt Lagoon?
- Conquer the Yamaji Drive Trail
- Driving the Trail
- Good to Know
- Geraldton Visitor Center
- Appreciate the all-steel Point Moore Lighthouse
- Take a photo of the HMAS Sydney II at sunset
- What happened to HMAS Sydney II?
- Wander around the Museum of Geraldton
- Get yourself an Abrolhos Pearl
- Latitude Jewelers
- Chimere Pearls
- Take the family to the Greenough Wildlife Park
- Where to Eat and Drink: Best Restaurants in Geraldton
- Salt Dish
- Cutler & Smith
- Cafe Fleur
- Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Geraldton
- The Gerald Apartment Hotel
- Zebras Guest House Geraldton
- Geraldton Backpackers on the Foreshore
- FAQs about Geraldton
- Geraldton Travel Information
Geraldton distinguishes itself from Australian coastal towns with its strong sea breezes perfect for wind and kitesurfing, turquoise beaches for swimming and diving, stunning pink lake, and rich Aboriginal history.
We’ve curated a list of the things you can do here to help you out with your next summer itinerary to Perth’s beautiful north!
Explore: Top Things to Do in Geraldton
- Explore Geraldton’s beaches
- Marvel at the beauty of Abrolhos Islands
- Conquer the Yamaji Drive Trail
- Fly over the pink Hut Lagoon
- Appreciate the all-steel Moore Lighthouse
- Take a photo of the HMAS Sydney II at sunset
- Wander around the Museum of Geraldton
- Get yourself an Abrolhos Pearl
- Take the family to the Greenough Wild Park
1. Explore Geraldton’s beaches

You won’t be visiting Geraldton if not for the beaches, right? Here are some of the best spots to immerse yourself in the coastal town’s vibrant beach culture.
Top Geraldton Beaches
- Geraldton Foreshore
- St. George’s Beach
- Back Beach
- Tarcoola Beach
- Pages Beach
- Glenfield Beach
Geraldton Foreshore
Foreshore Drive
For wholesome family fun
This lively beach may remind you of Scarborough’s foreshore, as there is no shortage of activities here for the whole family.
On top of Geraldton Foreshore’s pristine sand and waters, your kids can enjoy the nearby waterpark and playgrounds. Or you can head over to the esplanade to treat yourself to breathtaking views of the town.
Facilities are also abundant. Barbecue areas, change rooms, showers, and gazebos will make your beach day convenient.
St. George’s Beach
Bluff Point
For SUP boarding, kite surfing, and walking with pets
Beginners in SUP boarding and kite surfing can practice their techniques at St. George’s Beach, as the waves here are calmer and lower.
The 3.8-kilometer coastline provides plenty of space for tourists to walk and stroll, and even pets are allowed to join!
A walking trail and barbecue space provide alternative spots for people dusting off the beach sand or coming out of the water.
Back Beach
Mahomets Flats
For surfing
The Back Beach, affectionately called “Backers” by the locals, are a surfer’s haven for its irresistible medium to large waves. You can also try out your boogie board or kite board here.
The beach has patrols during the summer weekends to ensure the surfers’ safety too. The red and yellow flags should let you determine the safe areas.
Beginners and experienced surfers are free to practice, provided that the swell size is safe enough for both skill levels.
Tarcoola Beach
Tarcoola

For swimming and strolling
Tarcoola Beach’s calm waves make it a safe swimming spot for kids and adults. The shore is also pretty with its turquoise waters and white sand, qualities for capturing stunning vacation photos.
Walking barefoot on the sand and contemplating nature’s beauty is another way to enjoy this gorgeous beach spot.
Pages Beach
Point Moore
For fishing
Land-based anglers will have a field day at Pages Beach, as the shore can yield whiting, herring, and bream.
You can also choose to be more aggressive by taking the tub out to the sea, where you can catch pink snappers, mackerels, and coral trout.
Children can safely dip into the beach’s calm waters or busy themselves in the nearby shaded playground.
Glenfield Beach
Drummond Cove

For all-around water activities
The “Glennies” is the ideal go-to for trying everything beach-activity related. The waters here are great for surfing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, snorkeling, and even fishing.
It’s ideal to hit this beach between April and October if you’re challenging the toughest swells.
Meanwhile, windsurfing and kiteboarding are most satisfying from November to March, when the wind conditions are at their best.
2. Marvel at the beauty of Abrolhos Islands
The Houtman Abrolhos Islands offer pockets of unforgettable experiences with their rich biodiversity and breathtaking panoramas. We’re talking about 122 islands that span 200 kilometers of ocean, offering plenty of things to cover in a single day or two.
Biodiversity
The islands are home to the marsupial Tammar Wallaby, a mammal that learned how to drink seawater for sustenance! Moreover, over 90 species of birds glide over the skies and dive into the water to catch lunch.
Marine mammals like the Australian sea lion (classed as vulnerable in the country) and bottlenose dolphins also populate the Abrolhos’ waters.
If you’re on-site between July and October, you might also encounter humpback whales that reside in these waters seasonally!
Activities
The islands are also home to valuable catches such as the baldchin groper, dhufish, coral trout, emperor fish, and rock lobster.
If you want to fish, we recommend joining fishing tours like the one offered by Abrolhos Adventures to ensure you’re following regulations.
You can also dive into the waters to see the famous Batavia shipwreck. To better appreciate its history, visit the Shipwrecks Gallery at the Museum of Geraldton or join guided tours.
Another must-try is snorkeling, perfect if you want to fully appreciate the islands’ thriving marine life under the surface.
How do I get to Houtman Abrolhos island?
You can reach the Houtman Abrolhos Islands by ferry or charter boat and explore the spot at a slow pace. Or you can book a flight to witness the attraction’s boundless beauty from above.
Tours last for two hours, half a day, or the whole day, depending on your selected service.

How long does it take to get to the Abrolhos Islands from Geraldton?
The Houtman Abrolhos Islands are reachable in about 1.5 hours from Geraldton’s coastline on deck. That’s a distance of 60 kilometers west of town.
Several tour companies, such as Abrolhos Adventures and Eco Abrolhos Cruises, regularly depart from the town to bring tourists to the islands.
If you choose to fly over, book a tour with Shine Aviation or Geraldton Air Charter. One of their packages allows you to also see the nearby Pink Lake.
Abrolhos Adventures
Contact Details | (08) 9942-4515 | [email protected] |
Tour Rates | All-day adventure tour: $249 – $299 Full-day fishing charter: $500 |
Eco Abrolhos Cruises
Contact Details | (08) 9964-5101 | [email protected] |
Tour Rates | Geraldton lobster pot pull: $1505-day Abrolhos Islands tour: $3,045 – $4,760 |
Shine Aviation
Contact Details | (08) 9923-3600 | [email protected] |
Tour Rates | Abrolhos Islands full-day flipper: $340 – $425 Pink Lake and Abrolhos full-day fly and flipper: $455 – $570 Abrolhos Islands half-day fly flipper: $315 – $390 Abrolhos Islands flyover with morning tea: $285 – $355 |
Geraldton Air Charter
Contact Details | (08) 9923-3434 | [email protected] |
Tour Rates | Abrolhos Islands flyover tour with tea: $275 – $345 Abrolhos Islands flyover tour: $255 – $315 Pink Lake + Abrolhol Islands full-day tour: $345 – $430 Pink Lake + Kalbarri + Abrolhos Islands full-day tour: $535 – $670 |
Can you stay on the Abrolhos Islands?
There is no available accommodation on the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. To make the most of your visit, we recommend booking a full-day or multi-day tour or opting for a charter.
What is the best time to visit the Abrolhos Islands?
Visiting the Abrolhos Islands is best when the weather conditions favor boating. Such times fall between February and June when Geraldton is at its warmest and in September or October during the spring.
But if you want to fish, it’s best to go between March and August. Be sure to secure a permit before throwing your line though!
3. Fly over the pink Hutt Lagoon

The ethereal pink Hutt Lagoon is located an hour’s drive from Geraldton, in rural Yallabatharra.
That said, Geraldton has two flights offering flyover tours above the phenomenal lake, making it easier for travelers to tick off the Pink Lake activity when they’re staying in the coastal town.
If you’re driving from Geraldton, the best stop is on Port Gregory Road. There’s a parking area there, and you can walk down close to the edge of the water.
Why is the Hutt Lagoon pink?
The Hutt Lagoon’s Instagrammable quality is due to the algae Dunaliella salina, a known producer of carotenoids, that lives on the lake.
Can you swim in the Hutt Lagoon?
If it’s a question of whether you can or cannot, swimming in the Hutt Lagoon isn’t impossible or prohibited. There is no sign preventing you from taking a dip.
However, know that the lake’s salinity goes through the roofs, so we recommend not putting your head underwater!
4. Conquer the Yamaji Drive Trail
Conquering the 195-kilometer Yamaji Drive Trail is an educational and eye-opening activity that will make you appreciate the Aboriginal history of the land.
And unlike reading books or your library encyclopedia, traveling the trail provides plenty of scenic views and interaction with the local people.
Driving the Trail
The trail starts at The Esplanade in Geraldton and ends at the Butterabby Graves south of Mullewa. It will take one to two days to complete, depending on how long you stay on each site.
One exciting part of the drive is the walking trails inland. If you love bushland walking, stop at the Chapman River Regional Park to see wildflowers as you tread or at the Greenough River Nature Walk Trail to watch the diverse wildlife.
You can also challenge yourself with moderate climbs and rocky sections at the Bushland Walk Trail.
Good to Know
An essential guide to this activity is the booklet The Aboriginal History of Geraldton (Jambinu) and Surrounding Areas by Stan Gratte and Dale Forsyth. You can swing by the Geraldton Regional Library or the Geraldton Visitor Center to acquire a copy.
Geraldton Visitor Center
Address | 24 Chapman Rd, Geraldton, WA 6530 |
Contact Details | (08) 9956-6670 | [email protected] |
5. Appreciate the all-steel Point Moore Lighthouse

The iconic Point Moore Lighthouse is a towering monument of Geraldton’s federal history and a source of wonder for locals and tourists alike.
It’s fascinating that it’s the first full-steel tower to rise in Australia. And like other steel structures, it has gracefully stood the test of time since 1878.
The tower’s iconic red and white candy stripes were nonexistent until 1969. We’re thankful that the keepers decided to add those colors, as they made the lighthouse a captivating photography subject.
The lighthouse is not open to the public, but you can still check out the signage at the bottom that contains facts about the structure.
6. Take a photo of the HMAS Sydney II at sunset
Visit the memorial and pay your homage to the 645 men who lost their lives on board the HMAS Sydney II in 1941.
The elements dotting the site are laden with symbolism, with our favorite being the silver dome centerpiece made of 645 seagulls that represent each loss.
Pitched atop Mt. Scott, the memorial overlooks the town. We recommend visiting in the afternoon and waiting until sunset to capture the structure bathed in the finest natural lighting possible.
What happened to HMAS Sydney II?
On 19 November 1941, HMAS Sydney II was sailing south along the northwest coast of Western Australia when she caught sight of what the crew believed was a merchant’s vessel. The ship turned out to be a disguised German raider named Kormoran.
The raider opened fire, and soon a half-hour battle ensued, damaging both ships. However, Sydney was severely crippled and sunk into the ocean, leaving no survivors.
Recent evidence suggests that a lone sailor made it to a life raft after the incident but soon died at sea.
7. Wander around the Museum of Geraldton

The Museum of Geraldton features exhibits that will educate you about the ships and coastal tales that shaped the marine-centric history of the town.
The shipwrecks display include 3D images of the HMAS Sydney II and HSK Kormoran, along with interesting details about the crews of both vessels.
Meanwhile, the galleries for natural history and social history will take you on a virtual trip detailing early life forms and their evolution, the heritage of the Yamaji people, and stories of European conquest on the western coast.
The museum’s location which overlooks the Indian Ocean is the cherry on top.
Address | 2 Museum Place, Batavia Coast Marina, Geraldton, WA 6530 |
Contact Details | (08) 9431-8393 |
Opening Hours | Daily: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM |
Rates | Free entry |
8. Get yourself an Abrolhos Pearl
Life in Abrolhos involves lobster fishing and pearl farming, with the latter being the catalyst for jewelry boutiques to gain popularity among Geraldton tourists.
The fame is to be expected, as the pearls in Abrolhos are pristine, unique, and elegant. Add to that the high-quality craftsmanship that helps mold intricate and enchanting pieces, and you’d have found the perfect souvenir for you or your loved one.
Check out the pieces from Latitude Jewelers and Chimere Pearls and see for yourself.
Latitude Jewelers
Address | 169 Marine Terrace, Geraldton, WA 6530 |
Contact Details | (08) 9964-6601 |
Opening Hours | Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
Chimere Pearls
Address | 272 Foreshore Dr, Geraldton, WA 6530 |
Contact Details | (08) 9965-5145 |
Opening Hours | Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
9. Take the family to the Greenough Wildlife Park
Taking the whole family to the Greenough Wildlife Park, 20 minutes south of Geraldton, opens plenty of opportunities for learning, candid photos, and all-around fun.
Expect to get up close and personal with kangaroos and lizards, watch emus’ flightless grace, and meet the legendary dingoes.
You can pack your lunch or avail of the barbecue facilities in the area if you’re staying on-site for several hours.
While private-owned, the park has done so much in rescuing and rehabilitating Australian wildlife for the last three decades.
Address | 499 Company Rd, Greenough, WA 6532 |
Contact Details | (08) 9926-1171 |
Opening Hours | Monday – Tuesday, Thursday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
Rates | Adults: $15 Seniors: $11 Students (13 to 17 years old): $12 Children (2 to 12 years old): $10 |
Where to Eat and Drink: Best Restaurants in Geraldton

The long drives and packed tours are effective appetizers. Thankfully, Geraldton is not short on dining spots to satiate your hunger.
- Salt Dish
- Cutler & Smith
- Cafe Fleur
Salt Dish
Address | 35 Marine Terrace, Geraldton, WA 6530 |
Contact Details | (08) 9964-6030 |
Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday – Thursday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:45 PM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:45 PM – 10:00 PM |
Menu | Breakfast: $15 – $25 Lunch: $24 – $29 |
Cozy and rustic, Salt Dish reflects the Geraldton town vibe but amplifies it with its delectable Australian dishes. The food is tasty, its presentation appetizing, and the warm, friendly staff deserve a free bottle of wine.
We definitely recommend eating your fill at the alfresco garden.
Cutler & Smith
Address | 41 Chapman Rd, Geraldton, WA 6530 |
Contact Details | (08) 9921-8925 |
Opening Hours | Wednesday – Saturday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
Menu | Rosemary potato fries: $10 Lamb Kofta: $15 Ploughman’s plate: $38 Fried chicken: $15 Cocktails: $14 – $19 |
Tap beer, tapas, and a community vibe sum up Cutler & Smith’s appeal. They serve up dishes good for sharing, making the bar the perfect place for chatting and catching up with friends.
If you don’t like beer, they have a wide selection of cocktails, red wine, and white wine to quench your thirst.
Cafe Fleur
Address | 186 Marine Terrace, Geraldton, WA 6530 |
Contact Details | (08) 9943-9750 |
Opening Hours | Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday – Sunday: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM |
Menu | Breakfast: $12 – $26 Lunch: $18 – $24 |
We recommend starting your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Fleur. The whole place, both the interiors and outdoor seating, gives off a sunny, welcoming vibe.
Of course, the dishes are also fantastic, especially the eggs Benedict and pancakes. Wash down your meal with cappuccino or tea, then talk with your family and friends for a while before heading out to explore the town.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Geraldton

Exploring Geraldton and the surrounding attractions may take days before you are satisfied. Make sure you can rest well in between your tours by booking a night or two at the top accommodations in town.
- The Gerald Apartment Hotel
- Zebras Guest House Geraldton
- Geraldton Backpackers on the Foreshore
The Gerald Apartment Hotel
Address | 25 Cathedral Ave, Geraldton, WA 6530 |
Contact Details | (08) 9918-0100 | [email protected] |
Rates | From $800 |
Walking to the beach and unwinding on the roof deck with a beer are experiences that make Gerald Apartment Hotel magnetizing. Add to that the lovely rooms that offer plenty of ocean views.
The hotel is a mere two-minute walk from the beach.
Apart from the rooftop bar, Gerald also has an in-house restaurant to satisfy more refined palates.
Zebras Guest House Geraldton
Address | 2 Glendinning Rd, Tarcoola Beach, 6530 |
Contact Details | (0427) 089-385 |
Rates | From $200 |
Those looking for a home away from home should try booking a room in the Zebras Guest House Geraldton.
The guesthouse has six en-suite bedrooms with unique animal themes plus a shared space for cooking, lounging, and entertainment. The best part is the simple, no-fuss self-check-in system.
Oh, and the thatched gazebo is irresistible.
Geraldton Backpackers on the Foreshore

Address | 172 Marine Terrace, Geraldton, WA 6530 |
Contact Details | (08) 9904-7342 | [email protected] |
Rates | From $44 |
On-budget travelers often flock to this nice hostel not only for the rates but also for its excellent location. The accommodation is surrounded by the beach, the shopping street, and a market.
It’s also a few minutes away from the Museum of Geraldton, allowing for a quick culture trip.
The hostel has mixed-gender and single-sex dorms that are ideal for large groups. But they also have private rooms with additional amenities such as mini-fridges, TVs, and terraces,
Communal spaces include a kitchen, lounge, and barbecue area.
FAQs about Geraldton
Geraldton Travel Information
The average tourist might find these bits of information handy!
Aboriginal Name | Jambinu |
Traditional Owners of the Land | Yamatji people |
Town Classification | Regional capital |
Location | 424 kilometers north of Perth by road 373 kilometers north of Perth by air |
Travel Time | 1 hour by air from Perth 4 hours by car from Perth |
Seasons in Months | Fall: March to May Winter: June to August Spring: November to December Summer: December to January |
Travel Season | High season: Spring and summer (November to February) Low season: Winter (June and July) Wildflower season: Late July to October |
Special Features | – RV-friendly, with a car park at Francis Street having ample room for RVs – All cruises depart from Geraldton Perth – Wayfinding signs placed at popular locations |