The Pinnacles Desert is a field of limestone pillars rising from yellow sand in Nambung National Park, on the Turquoise Coast roughly two hours north of Perth. It is one of the most distinctive landscapes in Western Australia, and the best light comes near sunset, when the pillars glow. This tour is the most popular way to see it from the city, with hotel pick-up in the Perth CBD, a live commentary from a local guide, sandboarding at Lancelin, a beach walk, a barbecue dinner and guided stargazing with a mobile observatory. It lasts about nine and a half hours and is rated 4.8 from more than 1,100 reviews, which shows how well it has worked for visitors. It suits anyone who wants one big day out of Perth.
What to do
The day starts with a pick-up from your Perth CBD hotel, then heads north along the coast, with sightseeing along the way and sandboarding on the dunes at Lancelin. You walk among the Pinnacles at golden hour, then settle in for a barbecue dinner with wine or bubbles, salads, soup, tea, coffee and dessert. After dark the guide sets up a mobile observatory with astro-binoculars for guided stargazing. National park fees and GST are included, and child restraints are provided for ages one to seven.
Planning
The tour lasts about nine and a half hours, so it is a long day, and lunch is not included, so bring snacks or eat before you leave. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the experience, and the price includes discounted rates for children. Wear sturdy shoes for sand, a hat, a warm layer for the evening and insect repellent in warmer months. The stargazing depends on clear skies, so a cloudy night will change the experience, and the operator can explain its policy at booking.
Fitting it in
This is a whole-day commitment, so give it a day without other plans and avoid scheduling an early flight the next morning. It pairs well with a quieter day in the city or at Kings Park, and it is a better choice for first-time visitors than driving yourself because of the distance and the night return. The Pinnacles are best seen in the cooler months, though the tour runs through the year, and spring wildflower season in the surrounding bushland can add colour to the drive.
What to expect
The experience
A guided full-day coach trip north to Nambung National Park, with sandboarding, a barbecue dinner and stargazing.
Best time
Cooler months for comfort, and any clear evening for the best stargazing.
How long
About nine and a half hours, with hotel pick-up in the Perth CBD.
Tips
Bring lunch or snacks, a warm layer for the evening, sturdy shoes and sun protection, and book early.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want one unforgettable day out of Perth.
- Families
- Children are welcome with discounted fares and child restraints, but the day is long.
- Couples
- Sunset among the pillars, a barbecue dinner and a sky full of stars make this a romantic day.
- Pair with
- A quiet day at Kings Park or a Fremantle visit either side.
- Time needed
- A full day of about nine and a half hours.
Good questions
What is included in the tour?+
The tour includes hotel pick-up and return within the Perth CBD, an air-conditioned vehicle, live commentary, sandboarding at Lancelin, national park fees, a barbecue dinner and guided stargazing. Lunch is not included.
How long is the trip?+
It lasts about nine and a half hours, so plan the whole day around it. Check the return time when you book, since it is a late finish.
Is it well reviewed?+
It is rated 4.8 from more than 1,100 reviews. Free cancellation is also offered up to 24 hours before the experience.
Is it suitable for children?+
Children are welcome, with discounted rates and child restraints for ages one to seven. The long day suits older children best.
What should I bring?+
Bring lunch or snacks, a warm layer for the evening, sturdy shoes for sand, sun protection and water. A camera is useful for sunset.
