The road trip from Perth to Broome is a mesmerizing journey across Western Australia. The route takes in natural wonders, endless stretches of stunning coastline, and the rugged charm of the Outback. It’s an epic adventure encompassing over 2,000 kilometers of ever-changing landscapes, where azure oceans collide with ochre-hued deserts and ancient gorges carve their way through the timeless terrain. With several different routes to travel, you can tailor this road trip to suit your interests and timescales. Traveling from the vibrant cityscape of Perth to the remote shores of Broome, this road trip promises an unforgettable fusion of discovery, adventure, and the freedom of the open road.
The distance from Perth to Broome is approximately 2,353 kilometers when traveling on the most popular coastal route along Highway 1. It’s a journey that typically takes 25 hours of driving time to complete, but you’ll need to allow plenty of extra time for stops. The most direct route between Perth and Broome is along National Highway 95 through the interior of Western Australia. This route is considerably shorter at 2,046 kilometers, and the drive can be completed in just 22 hours and 30 minutes.
While there’s no shortage of different routes and permutations for a road trip from Perth to Broome, two clear routes stand out. There’s also a hybrid route, which combines the best of both routes. The first route is the Coastal Route along Australia’s western and north-western coastlines. It’s far and away the most popular and well-traveled route, following Highway 1 along the spectacular coastline of Australia. It passes through scenic coastal towns, past an array of spectacular beaches, and is close to natural wonders such as the Pinnacles Desert, Kalbarri National Park, Shark Bay, and the Ningaloo Reef.
The second route is the Inland Route. While the route doesn’t have the same blockbuster attractions as the Coastal Route, it’s perfect for those looking for a more remote and adventurous trip. The route largely follows National Highway 95 from Perth and passes through a wide variety of different landscapes. Along the way, you can see some stellar attractions such as Karijini National Park and Marble Bar. The route joins Highway 1 near Port Hedland, and then follows the same route as the Coastal Route for the last leg to Broome.
The final route, which we’ve named the Hybrid Route, blends the best of both routes into one. It starts off along the same route as the Coastal Route and continues up to Exmouth and Ningaloo Reef. After visiting these attractions, you resume your journey on National Highway 1, but rather than continuing on directly to Port Hedland, you turn off just after Nanutarra and join State Route 136.
The road loops around the north of Karijini National Park before joining State Route 95. After a visit to the epic Karijini National Park, you head south to the town of Newman, before turning back north on State Route 138. This road takes you past the amazing Marble Bar rock formation and returns you to National Highway 1, east of Port Hedland. You can then continue your journey past Eighty Mile Beach and onto Broome.
Route | Main Attractions | Distance | Driving Time |
Inland Route |
| 2046 km | 22 hours 30 minutes |
Coastal Route |
| 2353 km | 25 hours |
Hybrid Route |
| 2704 km | 30 hours |
The inland route starts by exiting Perth from the north and following Highway 4, known as the Tonkin Highway. This, in turn, becomes National Highway 95 and continues north-easterly. After 126 km, you’ll come to the first major point of interest along the way, the monastic town of New Norcia. It’s a fascinating destination that warrants a stop for a couple of hours. From here, the route continues north along the remote National Highway 95, passing Lake Moore, Lake Austin, and Lake Annean.
Halfway along the route, you’ll pass by Collier Range National Park, a remote and beautiful destination. A further 166km to the north is a return to civilization with the town of Newman, the largest inland town in the Pilbara. The town is home to an airport, and it’s a popular base for visitors exploring Karijini National Park. From Newman, you have two options; stay on National Highway 95 or take State Highway 138. The former takes you past Karijini National Park, while the latter passes Marble Bar. Alternatively, you can take in both attractions by retracing your steps after visiting one. Both destinations really are highlights of this road trip route.
National Highway 95 and State Highway 138 both eventually lead to Highway 1, joining the road on either side of Port Hedland. From Port Hedland, it’s a further 604 km to Broome, along Highway 1, tracing the same path as the Coastal Route. You’ll pass by the spectacular Eighty Mile Beach along the way before finally reaching Broome and its famed Cable Beach. To get this far you will have travelled at least 2,046 km and probably more. You will also have to drive for 22 hours or more. A few days kicking back on Cable Beach in Broome will be well deserved.
New Norcia is a unique and historic town that offers a distinctive cultural experience for visitors. Founded as a Benedictine monastery, it is Australia’s only monastic town. New Norcia provides a glimpse into the region’s rich religious and European heritage. You can explore the town’s architectural marvels, including the grand monastery buildings and the stunning Abbey Church. The town’s museum and art gallery are worth visiting and offer insights into its fascinating history. They also showcase a collection of significant artifacts and artworks. New Norcia is also renowned for its traditional artisan products, such as bread, olive oil, and wine, which you can sample and purchase. For those interested in history, art, and cultural immersion, New Norcia offers a distinctive and enriching experience.
Collier Range National Park is a serene and scenic destination for hikers. The park is known for its rugged landscapes, including ancient rocky ranges and dramatic gorges. Most visitors embark on the many hiking trails that meander through the park, showcasing the diverse flora and fauna. There are also opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching. Should you want to stay overnight, there are camping facilities available.
In the Pilbara region of Western Australia, Newman is a vibrant town that is a welcome break from the Outback. Known for its mining industry, Newman provides a unique opportunity to learn about the region’s rich mineral resources and the processes involved in their extraction.
The town also serves as a hub for outdoor adventures, with various nearby national parks offering scenic landscapes and opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the rugged terrain. Newman provides a convenient base for exploring the natural wonders of the Pilbara and offers a glimpse into the region’s mining heritage.
Karijini National Park is an impressive and spectacular national park covering 6,274 square kilometers. The park is characterized by its rugged gorges, towering cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring the ancient landscapes, including venturing through narrow gorges and swimming in natural rock pools. The park’s rich Aboriginal heritage is evident in its cultural sites and rock art and offers a chance to learn about the Indigenous history and connection to the land.
Marble Bar is a unique and historically significant town that offers a distinct experience for visitors. It holds the title of being one of the hottest towns in Australia and is known for its extreme temperatures. The town is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the notable Marble Bar rock formation, which showcases the region’s natural beauty. As well as the outdoor attractions, you can explore the town’s rich mining heritage through several different museums.
Eighty Mile Beach is a coastal expanse celebrated for its unspoiled charm and serene atmosphere. Stretching across roughly 80 miles, it presents a picturesque coastline ideal for leisurely walks, searching for beach treasures, and birdwatching. This beach is particularly famous for hosting its significant bird population, including migratory shorebirds that make seasonal visits. The expansive shoreline of the beach also offers ample opportunities for fishing and exploring the fascinating tidal pools.
The Coastal Route commences on State Route 2, which leads out of Perth through the northern suburbs. You continue along this road for a short distance before merging onto State Route 60, the first part of the famous Indian Ocean Drive. The road follows the beautiful coastline passing by popular destinations such as Guilderton, Yanchep, and Lancelin. After 200 km, you reach the world-famous Pinnacles in the Nambung National Park. The nearby town of Cervantes is a good place to base yourself and offers some amazing local lobster.
The route continues north along the Indian Ocean Drive, with spectacular Jurien Bay just 25km to the north. North of Jurien Bay, at the junction of the Brand Highway, the road becomes National Highway 1. Apart from the odd detour, this road will carry you all the way to Broome. The popular holiday town of Geraldton lies a further 200 km north of Jurien Bay, and after Geraldton, the traffic and crowds begin to thin out.
The first detour from Highway 1 is along State Route 139 to visit Kalbarri and the amazing Kalbarri National Park. The road loops back to Highway 1 through the national park and continues north. Another detour to Shark Bay is highly recommended before you reach Carnarvon, some 900 km north of Perth. Beyond Carnarvon, the route continues north past spectacular Coral Bay before another detour to Exmouth, Ningaloo Reef, and Cape Range National Park. For many, this area is the highlight of this particular road trip and is well worth the extra time and distance.
The route then turns east and follows Highway 1 to Port Hedland. It continues north-easterly, passing by the immense Eighty Mile Beach before finally arriving in Broome. Even if you’ve avoided all the detours, you will have driven over 2,350 km. It’s a drive that will take you 25 hours or more to complete.
If you’ve incorporated the detours to Kalbarri, Shark Bay, and Exmouth, you will have clocked up a further 500 km, giving you a total distance traveled of over 2,850 km. Regardless of how many detours you’ve taken, it will have been quite a journey, and Broome is the perfect place to unwind.
The Pinnacles in Nambung National Park are a remarkable natural attraction. Thousands of limestone formations emerge from the desert sands, creating a unique and surreal landscape. You can explore the area on foot or by driving along various designated routes throughout the park. The Pinnacles offer an extraordinary and unforgettable experience, showcasing the beauty and wonder of nature.
Jurien Bay is a charming coastal destination offering various activities and attractions. With its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Jurien Bay is an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying various water sports. The bay is also known for its abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Beyond the beach, you can explore the nearby national parks, go hiking or biking along scenic trails, or relax and soak in the laid-back coastal atmosphere.
Geraldton is a vibrant coastal city with stunning beaches and clear waters. There are plenty of opportunities for swimming and surfing along the pristine coastline. The city also boasts a rich maritime history, which can be explored at the Western Australian Museum.
Geraldton is also home to several art galleries and a vibrant cafe and restaurant scene. Should you have the budget, Geraldton serves as a gateway to the stunning Abrolhos Islands, a group of pristine islands that lie 60 km offshore. The islands are known for their diverse marine life and snorkeling.
Kalbarri and Kalbarri National Park are enticing destinations for visitors. The town of Kalbarri is picturesque and known for its stunning cliffs, beautiful beaches, and vibrant wildflowers during spring. The town offers a relaxed atmosphere and a range of water activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming.
Kalbarri National Park, located to the east, is a nature lover’s paradise. It features magnificent gorges, dramatic rock formations, and scenic river trails. You can hike through the park’s rugged landscapes, witness the impressive sights of the Murchison River Gorge, or enjoy panoramic views from the park’s many lookout points. The park also offers opportunities for bird watching, wildlife spotting, and exploring the region’s unique flora and fauna.
Shark Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its natural wonders and unique marine life. The bay is home to the world-famous Monkey Mia, where visitors can witness wild dolphins coming close to shore. The pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters provides opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and diving to discover the vibrant coral reefs and surrounding marine life. Shark Bay’s remarkable landscapes also include vast seagrass meadows, ancient stromatolites and stunning coastal cliffs.
On the beautiful Coral Coast, Carnarvon boasts stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. The town is known for its fresh produce, particularly tropical fruits, which can be enjoyed at local markets and eateries. The fascinating Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum is also a popular attraction. The nearby Carnarvon Blowholes provide a natural spectacle as seawater rushes through narrow openings in the rocks, creating impressive spouts of water.
Spectacular Coral Bay is renowned for its pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters, a paradise for water enthusiasts. Snorkeling and diving opportunities abound, allowing you to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, including colorful tropical fish and majestic manta rays. The calm and shallow waters near the shore also make it an ideal spot for swimming. You can also get out on the water with fishing charters or scenic boat tours that showcase the amazing coastline.
Known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Exmouth provides an ideal setting for swimming, snorkeling, and diving adventures. The nearby Ningaloo Reef, a World Heritage-listed site, offers an opportunity to explore an incredible underwater ecosystem filled with colorful coral gardens and diverse marine life, including turtles and whale sharks. There are also fishing charters, scenic coastal walks, and beautiful sandy beaches. Exmouth also serves as a gateway to Cape Range National Park, where huge gorges, rugged landscapes, and abundant wildlife can be seen.
Eighty Mile Beach is a coastal stretch known for its natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. It spans approximately 80 miles and has a long, picturesque coastline perfect for strolls, beachcombing, and birdwatching. The beach is renowned for its significant birdlife, including migratory shorebirds that visit the area during certain seasons. The beach’s expansive shoreline also provides opportunities for fishing and exploring tidal pools.
The Hybrid Route combines elements from the Coastal and Inland Route, providing the most comprehensive and diverse route of all. It initially follows the Coastal Route along the Indian Ocean Drive, passing by countless attractions such as the Pinnacles, Jurien Bay, Geraldton, Kalbarri, Shark Bay, and Coral Bay. Once you’ve taken in Exmouth and Ningaloo Reef in the far northwest of Australia, you’ll deviate from the Coastal Route.
The route diverges near the small town of Nanutarra, where you exit Highway 1 and join State Route 136. This road forms a loop around the northern section of Karijini National Park before connecting with State Route 95. After experiencing the breathtaking Karijini National Park, you travel southward to Newman before turning back north on State Route 138. Along this road, you’ll encounter the awe-inspiring Marble Bar rock formation before rejoining National Highway 1 east of Port Hedland. From there, you can continue your journey, passing Eighty Mile Beach until you reach the final destination of Broome. The total distance of this route is slightly over 2700 km, and if you incorporate the additional detours, it extends to over 3,200 km.
The best things to see on the Hybrid Route match those listed in the Coastal and Inland routes (see above). Highlights include the natural phenomenon of the Pinnacles, spectacular Shark Bay, Exmouth, and the nearby Ningaloo Reef. As you turn inland, Karijini National Park and Marble Bar are must-see destinations.
The best time to take a road trip between Perth and Broome is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to October. This period offers more comfortable temperatures and much lower chances of rainfall, making it ideal conditions for outdoor activities and road-tripping. The winter months of May to September are particularly popular due to milder temperatures and clear skies. While it might not be beach weather at the start of your trip near Perth, it gets progressively hotter as you progress further north.
You also avoid summer crowds by undertaking this road trip during the dry season and over the winter months. You’ll find the roads and major sights along the way considerably quieter and with a better range of accommodation available.
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