- Location: Yanchep, just 45 minutes north of Perth, Western Australia
- Type: National park with native wildlife habitats, caves, wetlands, and walking trails
- Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for wildlife spotting and cooler temperatures
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car from Perth; facilities include parking, restrooms, café, and wheelchair-friendly areas
- Visitor experience: Spot koalas and kangaroos, explore walking trails, join cave or cultural tours, enjoy picnics, and take in the peaceful bushland scenery
- Nearby attractions: Yanchep Lagoon, Two Rocks, Lancelin Sand Dunes, and day trips toward the Pinnacles Desert.
Yanchep National Park: Koalas, caves & classic Australian bushland
Just 45 minutes north of Perth, Yanchep National Park offers a calm, nature-filled escape with koalas, kangaroos, wetlands, and shady bush trails. Stroll the elevated koala boardwalk, relax beside the lake, or explore one of the park’s limestone caves for a touch of adventure.
Whether you arrive on a Pinnacles day tour or drive yourself, Yanchep is an easy, peaceful stop that showcases the beauty and wildlife of Western Australia. Scroll down to see what makes this park such a favourite with visitors.
Quick facts about Yanchep National Park
Where is Yanchep National Park located & how to get there
Yanchep National Park sits just north of Perth and is one of Western Australia’s most accessible nature escapes. Known for its koala boardwalk, limestone caves, wetlands, walking trails, and abundant wildlife, it’s a popular stop on full-day tours that combine the park with the Pinnacles Desert or Lancelin.
Location: Yanchep Beach Rd &, Indian Ocean Dr, Yanchep WA 6035, Australia. Find on map.
- By transfers: Many Pinnacles Desert day tours include a stop at Yanchep, with round-trip transfers from Perth. You’ll ride in a comfortable coach and enjoy a guided walk along the koala boardwalk—ideal for a hassle-free visit without driving.
- By self-drive: Yanchep National Park is a smooth 45–50-minute drive north of Perth via Mitchell Freeway and Yanchep Beach Road. Parking is available near main spots like the Visitor Centre and koala boardwalk, perfect if you want flexibility and time to explore at your own pace.
Yanchep National Park: Tickets explained
Pinnacles, sunset, stargazing & wildlife tour
- Price: From AU$225
- Duration: 9 hours
- What’s included: Guided sunset viewing at the Pinnacles Desert, telescopes for stargazing, expert commentary, entry to Nambung National Park, and a stop at Yanchep National Park to meet wildlife.
- Transfers: Round-trip transfers from central Perth
- Why choose this: Perfect for travellers who want a memorable evening — see koalas and kangaroos, then watch the Pinnacles glow at sunset and gaze at stars.
Recommended experience
Pinnacles, Sandboarding & Wildlife Spotting 4WD Tour
Pinnacles, wildlife spotting & Swan Valley tour
- Price: From AU$225
- Duration: 10 hours
- What’s included: Visit Yanchep National Park to see koalas and kangaroos, enjoy a guided walk through the Pinnacles Desert, and stop in the Swan Valley for tastings of local chocolates, nougat, and gourmet nuts before returning to Perth.
- Transfers: Round-trip transfers from inner-city Perth
- Why choose this: This is a “three-in-one” tour that mixes wildlife, geological wonder, and gourmet food, great for those wanting a broad Western Australia day-trip.
Recommended experience
Pinnacles, wildlife spotting & Swan Valley tour
5 reasons why you should visit Yanchep National Park
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See koalas up close
Yanchep is one of the best places near Perth to observe koalas in their natural habitat, thanks to its elevated boardwalk that gives you effortless, up-close viewing.
Perfect add-on to Pinnacles tours
Many Pinnacles Desert and Lancelin day tours include a stop at Yanchep, letting you experience native wildlife and limestone landscapes in a single, seamless trip from Perth.
Spot wild kangaroos
The park is home to large mobs of kangaroos that graze freely across open grasslands—ideal for wildlife photography and relaxed nature walks.
Easy access from Perth
Just 45–50 minutes from the city, Yanchep offers a quick escape into nature, with smooth roads and convenient parking or included transfers on guided tours.
Great for all traveller types
Whether you're visiting solo, with friends, or as a family, the park’s mix of wildlife, walking trails, picnic spots, and serene bushland makes it enjoyable for all ages.
Top activities to do at Yanchep National Park
Walk the koala boardwalk
Follow the easy elevated path to spot koalas resting in the treetops, one of the park’s most popular wildlife experiences.
Tips for visiting Yanchep National Park
- Start early if you want to see wildlife: Kangaroos are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. Arriving before 9am gives you the best chance of seeing groups grazing near the open grasslands.
- Koala Boardwalk is self-guided—but bring a zoom lens: Koalas often rest high up in the trees. A phone works, but a basic zoom lens (or binoculars) helps you spot them clearly without crowding the boardwalk.
- Sunset is beautiful over Loch McNess: If you're staying late, the lake is one of the best sunset spots. Arrive 20–30 minutes before golden hour to catch the colours reflecting off the water.
- Visit on a weekday for quieter trails: Weekends—especially sunny ones—can be surprisingly busy. Weekdays offer calmer walks and shorter wait times at cafés and cave tours.
- Walk the Wetlands Trail clockwise: Going clockwise keeps the best views of Loch McNess in front of you and avoids backtracking if the boardwalk gets busy.
Frequently asked questions about Yanchep National Park
Yanchep is famous for its koala boardwalk, resident kangaroos, limestone caves, wetlands, and easy nature trails close to Perth.
It’s about a 45–50 minute drive north of Perth, depending on traffic and your starting location.
Yes. A standard WA national park entry fee applies per vehicle. This is usually included if you’re visiting as part of a guided tour.
Yes. The Koala Boardwalk offers easy viewing of koalas resting in the eucalyptus trees throughout the day.
Kangaroos are common around the park’s open grassy areas, especially during early morning and late afternoon.
Crystal Cave is open for guided tours, offering a look at stalactites, stalagmites, and underground chambers. Tour tickets are available on-site.
Mornings and late afternoons are ideal for wildlife spotting, cooler walks, and better lighting for photos.
Yes. Most trails are short and fairly flat, making them easy for all fitness levels.
Yes. The park has plenty of picnic areas and shaded spots. Just remember to dispose of waste responsibly.
Public transport options are limited. Most visitors arrive by car or through guided tours with transfers.
Toilets, picnic shelters, BBQs, and a café are available near the main visitor areas.
