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Contents
Pinnacles Desert timings & best time to visit
Opening hours
Best time to visit
- Duration: Tours run 5–6 hours for quick visits, while full-day trips (9–11 hours) often include extra stops such as Lancelin dunes or Yanchep National Park.
- Departure: Most tours leave Perth around 8–9am and return by early evening, typically 6–7pm.
Weekdays vs. weekends
Weekends—especially around sunset—are the busiest, with more tours arriving between 4–7pm. Weekdays are quieter, and morning or midday visits offer the most relaxed experience.
Best season to visit in
September–April is the peak season with warm weather and popular sunset tours, so book early. May–August is cooler and less crowded, perfect for peaceful daytime visits—just bring extra layers for evenings.
Where is Pinnacles Desert located & how to get there
Location
Parking
The Pinnacles Desert lies within Nambung National Park, around 2 hours north of Perth on Indian Ocean Drive. Known for its thousands of limestone pillars rising from yellow sand, it’s one of WA’s most iconic landscapes. Most tours include round-trip transfers, making it an easy day trip with options for walking trails, sunset views, or stargazing experiences.
Address: Nambung WA 6521, Australia. Find on Map.
How to get there
- Distance: The Pinnacles Desert is around 190 km from Perth, taking about 2 hours to reach by car.
- Transfers: Most tours provide round-trip transport in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, usually from Perth CBD or designated pickup points.
- On-site parking: The Pinnacles Discovery Centre has a main car park where visitors can park for free with a valid park entry fee. It’s a short walk to the viewing area and start of the Desert View Trail.
- Desert Drive parking: If you’re doing the scenic 4 km Pinnacles Desert Drive, there are small pull-over bays and stop points along the loop where you can park safely for photos and short walks.
- Coach & tour vehicle parking: Designated parking areas are available for tour buses and minibuses near the Discovery Centre, making it easy for guided groups to disembark.
- Accessible parking: Marked accessible parking bays are located close to the Discovery Centre entrance for visitors with disability permits.
Top things to do at Pinnacles Desert
Know before you go to Pinnacles Desert
What to bring
Facilities & accessibility
Rules
Tips
- Sturdy walking shoes: Ideal for sandy paths and uneven limestone surfaces.
- Sun protection: Carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for the exposed desert environment.
- Water bottle: A reusable bottle is essential to stay hydrated throughout the visit.
- Light jacket: Evenings can be breezy, especially during sunset or stargazing tours.
- Camera: Capture the unique limestone formations and coastal scenery.
- Visitor centre: Includes interpretive exhibits, souvenirs, maps, and clean restrooms.
- Walking areas: Short trails like the Desert View loop offer easy lookouts and photo stops.
- Accessibility notes: Most paths are sandy and may not be fully suitable for wheelchairs or prams.
- Food options: Nearby Cervantes has cafés, bakeries, and restaurants for meals and snacks.
- Stay on marked routes: Stick to designated walking tracks and roads to protect the fragile pillars.
- Avoid climbing or touching: The limestone spires are ancient and easily damaged.
- Wildlife etiquette: Keep a respectful distance from kangaroos, emus, and reptiles that roam the park.
- Drone restrictions: A permit is required to fly drones within Nambung National Park.
- Observe park entry times: Standard hours are roughly 9am–5pm, with extended access only for authorised sunset or night tours.
- Drive gently on sandy stretches: Whether you’re in a 2WD or 4WD, maintain momentum on soft sand and avoid sudden stops to prevent wheel spin.
- Save offline maps: Reception can be patchy around Nambung National Park, so download navigation maps beforehand to avoid losing directions on the drive or trails.
- Plan extra time during golden hour: The desert gets busier near sunset; allow time for slow traffic, photo stops, and wildlife crossing the road.
- Download your park pass in advance: If you’re visiting independently, pre-purchasing online saves time at the entry station.
- Look for signage at branching paths: Some side tracks on the scenic drive are unmarked—stick to the wider, compacted routes to avoid softer sand.
- Use the lookout platforms for the best angles: These elevated spots give sweeping views over the pillar fields, especially during sunrise/sunset.
Frequently asked questions about plan your visit to Pinnacles Desert
When is the best time to visit the Pinnacles Desert?
Sunrise and sunset are the most beautiful times — golden light makes the pillars glow. If you prefer fewer crowds, visit on weekday mornings.
How long do I need at the Pinnacles?
Most visitors spend 1.5–2 hours exploring the desert, walking the trails, and stopping for photos.
Can I drive my own car inside the desert?
Yes. There’s a 4 km unsealed drive trail suitable for most 2WD cars in good conditions, plus a walking trail if you prefer to explore on foot.
Are there facilities at the Pinnacles?
Yes, the Pinnacles Discovery Centre has toilets, a small shop, exhibits, maps, and information boards. There are no cafés inside the desert.
Is it suitable for kids and seniors?
Yes. The loop drive is easy, and the walking trail is manageable for most visitors. Just bring sun protection and water.
Can I visit at night?
Yes, the Pinnacles are open 24/7. The desert is a top stargazing spot, with minimal light pollution. Bring a torch and watch your footing.
Do I need a 4WD?
Not necessary. The drive trail is usually fine for standard vehicles unless there has been heavy rain.
Is there a phone signal in the area?
Reception can be patchy inside the desert but usually available near the Discovery Centre and main entrance.
Can I swim anywhere nearby?
Not in the desert itself, but Cervantes and Jurien Bay beaches are 20–30 minutes away and ideal for a post-visit swim.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Kangaroos, emus, echidnas, bobtail lizards, sand monitors, and desert birds are common, especially early morning or late afternoon.
Can I combine it with other attractions?
Yes, popular combos include Cervantes Lobster Shack, Jurien Bay, Lancelin Sand Dunes, or wildflower routes in spring.