Western Australia Like You’ve Never Seen It: Pink Lakes, Remote Beaches, and Epic Road Trips

Western Australia isn’t just another place to tick off a list—it’s an experience that changes how you see Australia. Bigger than most countries, this vast state is packed with landscapes so unreal they barely seem possible.

From beaches with sand so white it squeaks to ancient gorges and pink lakes, WA delivers one breathtaking view after another. If you think you’ve seen Australia, think again—Western Australia is where nature goes all out.

pexels lachlan ross 7084354

Image Credit: Pexels / Lachlan Ross

Remarkable Views You Won’t Forget

Esperance & Cape Le Grand National Park

pexels line knipst 574109081 29344264

Image Credit: Pexels / Line Knipst

If there’s one place that feels like it was designed for jaw-dropping moments, it’s Esperance. Lucky Bay is as good as it gets—powdery white sand, impossibly blue water, and kangaroos lazing on the beach like they own the place. Take the scenic Great Ocean Drive and stop at Twilight Beach for one of the best coastal views you’ll ever see. If you’re up for a short hike, Frenchman Peak in Cape Le Grand National Park rewards you with panoramic views that make every step worth it.

The Pink Lakes: Lake Hillier & Hutt Lagoon

Yes, the water really is that pink. Lake Hillier, best seen from the air, is a must if you’re heading to Middle Island. If you’re after something easier to reach, Hutt Lagoon near Kalbarri is just as stunning—especially at sunrise or sunset when the pink tones are at their boldest. If you’re driving along the coast, make sure to stop at Port Gregory, where you can get up close to this natural wonder.

Ningaloo Reef & Coral Bay

pexels satoru takamatsu 3189213 4810371

Image Credit: Pexels / Satoru Takamatsu

Skip the crowds at the Great Barrier Reef—Ningaloo Reef is where you want to be. Snorkeling right off the beach at Turquoise Bay feels like swimming in an aquarium, and if you visit between March and July, you can swim with whale sharks, one of the most humbling experiences imaginable. Coral Bay is the perfect base, a laid-back town where you can enjoy sunset drinks after a day in the water. If you’re lucky, you might even spot manta rays cruising past.

The Pinnacles Desert

Driving through the Pinnacles feels like stepping onto another planet. These towering limestone formations rise from golden sands, and the best time to visit is at sunrise or sunset when the shifting light makes them even more surreal. Bring a picnic and make a night of it—the stargazing here is some of the best in WA.

pexels hcdigital 3623669

Image Credit: Pexels / Hc Digital

Karijini National Park

There’s nothing quite like Karijini. Deep red gorges, crystal-clear rock pools, and waterfalls hidden within the rugged landscape make it one of the most awe-inspiring places in Australia. If you only have time for one hike, make it Hancock Gorge—scrambling through narrow rock passages and descending into the emerald-green Kermit’s Pool is an experience you won’t forget. Bring sturdy shoes and take your time; this place deserves it.

Why Western Australia is Different

pexels rachel claire 4846090

Image Credit: Pexels / Rachel Claire

  • Space & Solitude: WA isn’t just beautiful—it’s peaceful. Even in peak season, you’ll find beaches and landscapes that feel completely untouched.
  • Diverse Ecosystems: From the lush wine country of Margaret River to the remote, red-earthed beauty of the Kimberley, WA has more variety than any other part of Australia.
  • Wildlife Up Close: Whether it’s quokkas on Rottnest Island, dolphins at Monkey Mia, or kangaroos on the beach, WA offers nature encounters you won’t find anywhere else.
  • Unbeatable Road Trips: The Indian Ocean Drive, Gibb River Road, and Coral Coast Highway make WA a dream for road trippers, with some of the best scenery in the world along the way.
pexels anna guerrero 788383 1759985

Image Credit: Pexels / Anna Guerrero

Personal Recommendations

  • Best Sunset Spot: Cable Beach in Broome. Grab a drink and watch the famous camel trains move along the shore as the sun dips into the Indian Ocean.
  • Where to Eat: Bread in Common in Fremantle—woodfired sourdough, share plates, and a laid-back atmosphere make it a must.
  • Hidden Gem: Hamelin Bay. This quiet stretch of beach is famous for its friendly stingrays that swim right up to the shore.
  • Best Roadside Stop: Billabong Roadhouse on the way to Shark Bay—great coffee, and a welcome break on a long drive.
pexels catchavibe 1555447

Image Credit: Pexels / Amanda Kevin

Planning Your Trip

  • Best Time to Visit: WA is huge, and its climate varies, but April to October offers comfortable temperatures across most regions.
  • Getting Around: A car or campervan is the best way to explore. Public transport won’t get you to the good stuff.
  • How Long You Need: You could spend months here, but two to three weeks gives you time to see the highlights without rushing.

Why Western Australia Stays With You

Some places leave an impression, and then there’s Western Australia—it sticks with you long after you’ve left. The kind of place where a single road trip takes you from pink lakes to towering cliffs, from coral reefs teeming with life to remote outback gorges that feel untouched by time. It’s wild, vast, and completely unforgettable. Whether you’re after adventure, solitude, or just the best beach you’ve ever seen, WA delivers. The only question is, how soon can you get there?

Sydney Spotlight: Australia’s Brightest Star—But Are You Missing Something Better?

Unforgettable Australia: A First-Timer’s Guide to the Land Down Under

Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Lachlan Ross.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

Tips for Trip Success

Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.

Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.

You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Tripimage 9133145 14418597

PassingThru is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

To view PassingThru’s privacy policy, click here.

5f580fbf94bd9d3db4881659a83d5b15?s=150&d=mp&r=g
+ posts