Road Trip Tips and Accommodation Recommendations
Hello everyone,
We’re gearing up for a trip to Australia from August 4th to August 15th, with a focus on the West Coast. Our plan is to kick off in Port Hedland and drive down to Perth, and we may extend our journey to Esperance if time permits.
We’re interested in doing some diving along the route, which is one reason we chose this scenic coastal drive, though it’s not our top priority. Based on our schedule, does this itinerary seem reasonable, or would you suggest an alternate route with more appealing sites?
During our search for accommodations on Booking.com, we encountered a limited selection of hotels. Is this the norm, or are we missing better options? Are there more suitable platforms to consider for booking stays in that region?
We plan to rent a car but prefer not to use a campervan. Any recommendations for car rentals, must-visit attractions, or great diving spots along the way would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance for your insights!
Hi there!
Your road trip itinerary along the West Coast of Australia sounds fantastic! Starting in Port Hedland and driving down to Perth, with a potential stop in Esperance, is a great way to experience the stunning coastal scenery. Given your timeframe of about 10 days, you should have enough time to explore the highlights and enjoy some diving.
Itinerary Suggestions:
– Port Hedland to Broome: If your route allows, consider a detour to Broome. It’s famous for its beautiful beaches and the iconic Cable Beach.
– Karijini National Park: If you can, take a slight inland detour to visit this stunning national park known for its gorges and swimming holes.
– Shark Bay: Stop here for the World Heritage-listed sites, including the famous Dolphin Discovery Centre at Monkey Mia.
– Coral Bay or Ningaloo Reef: These areas are excellent for snorkeling and diving. The marine life is abundant, and it’s a fantastic experience.
Diving Spots:
– Ningaloo Reef: As mentioned, this is a must-visit for diving and snorkeling, especially to swim with whale sharks if you’re there in season!
– Exmouth: Close to Ningaloo, it offers various dive sites.
– Esperance: You can find diving opportunities and see stunning beaches like Lucky Bay.
Accommodation Booking:
Booking.com is widely used, but for more localized options, you might want to check out:
– Airbnb: Great for finding unique stays, especially in smaller towns.
– Wotif or Expedia: These platforms often have a variety of accommodations and might have more availability.
– Local tourism websites: They frequently list accommodation options that might not be featured on larger booking sites.
Car Rentals:
For car rentals, consider popular companies like Hertz, Budget, and Avis, as they often have a presence in major towns but check for local companies as well for potentially better deals. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during the high season.
Must-See Locations:
– Wave Rock: A bit of a detour but worth it for the unique rock formation.
– The Pinnacles Desert: Located in Nambung National Park, it has impressive limestone formations.
– Kings Park in Perth: A beautiful place to visit once you arrive in the city.
Overall, your plan sounds feasible and exciting! With some careful planning of your stops and dives, you should have an unforgettable experience. Enjoy your trip!