Stokes National Park

Stokes National Park is a coastal gem on Western Australia's south-east coast, where the rugged beauty of the Great Australian Bight meets ancient granite outcrops and pristine beaches. This is a place of wild, untamed landscapes – think windswept heathlands, crystal-clear turquoise bays, and granite boulders sculpted by millennia of wind and waves. It's a haven for hikers, birdwatchers, and those seeking solitude in nature.

Highlights & What to See

• Stokes Inlet: A stunning, sheltered inlet perfect for kayaking, fishing, and picnicking. The calm waters are ideal for a paddle, and the surrounding dunes offer a great vantage point.
• Granite outcrops and Moir Homestead ruins: Explore the eerie, historic ruins of an early settler's home, set against a backdrop of ancient granite boulders. The contrast between the fragile homestead and the timeless rock is compelling.
• Coastal walks: The park offers several walking trails, including the short but rewarding walk to the top of a granite dome for panoramic ocean views. Look for wildflowers in spring.
• Birdwatching and wildlife: Spot western grey kangaroos, emus, and a variety of bird species, including honeyeaters and the rare western whipbird.
• Beaches and fishing: The park's coastline features several secluded beaches. Stokes Inlet is also a popular spot for catching herring and salmon.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day to a full day is ample to explore the park's main highlights. If you're a keen hiker or birdwatcher, consider staying overnight at the basic campground to fully immerse yourself in the peace. The park is small, so you can easily combine a visit with a drive along the coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ravensthorpe: A historic gold-mining town with charming heritage buildings and a gateway to the Fitzgerald River National Park.
• Fitzgerald River National Park: A biodiversity hotspot with spectacular gorges, wildflowers, and the iconic Point Ann lookout.
• Hopetoun: A pleasant coastal town with a long jetty, beachside caravan parks, and access to the eastern end of Fitzgerald River National Park.
• Bremer Bay: Famous for its stunning beaches, the Bremer Canyon (a hotspot for orca sightings), and the picturesque Wellstead Estuary.
• Esperance: A larger town with world-class beaches, the Cape Le Grand National Park, and the iconic Lucky Bay with its friendly kangaroos.

Please check official sources for current details.