The Pinnacles

Rising from the golden sands of Nambung National Park, the Pinnacles are one of Western Australia's most surreal landscapes. Thousands of limestone pillars, some jagged and others smooth, dot the desert like ancient tombstones, creating an otherworldly scene that shifts colour with the sun. This is a place where you can feel the deep silence of the outback, punctuated only by the wind.

Highlights & What to See

• Pinnacles Desert Drive: A 4km loop that lets you view the formations from your car, with plenty of pull-offs for photos.
• Walk among the Pinnacles: Follow the short Desert Discovery Trail to get up close to the limestone spires, especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
• Nambung National Park wildlife: Keep an eye out for emus, kangaroos, and colourful birds like the red-capped robin.
• Hangover Bay: A tranquil white-sand beach just north of the park, perfect for a picnic or a swim.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the Pinnacles are a fantastic spot for night-sky photography.

Suggested Time to Spend

A visit to the Pinnacles can be done as a half-day trip from Perth (about a 2-hour drive north). However, to fully appreciate the changing light and explore the park's walking trails, plan for at least 3–4 hours. If you can, time your visit for late afternoon to catch the golden hour and stay until dusk – the pillars glow and the crowds thin out.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Perth: Western Australia's vibrant capital, with its Kings Park, Swan River, and thriving food scene.
• Fremantle: A historic port city with a lively market, Victorian architecture, and a buzzing café culture.
• Margaret River: Renowned for its world-class wineries, surf breaks, and limestone caves – about a 3-hour drive south.
• Rottnest Island: Famous for its adorable quokkas, pristine beaches, and bike-friendly roads – a ferry ride from Perth.
• Broome: A far-north gem offering Cable Beach sunsets, pearling history, and the dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point.
• Ningaloo Reef: One of the world's largest fringing reefs, where you can swim with whale sharks and manta rays – a flight north from Perth.

Please check official sources for current details.