The Pinnacles Desert Nambung NP
Thousands of ancient limestone pillars rise from golden sands, creating an otherworldly landscape in Nambung National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
The Pinnacles Desert Nambung NP
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Thousands of ancient limestone pillars rise from golden sands, creating an otherworldly landscape in Nambung National Park.
"There’s simply nothing like it that is as otherworldly and beautiful and easy to get to."
🌅 Golden Hour is Key
For the best photos and atmosphere, aim for sunrise or sunset. The light is incredible!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It gets very hot out there! Stay hydrated, especially if you plan to walk the trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Pinnacles Desert
Thousands of ancient limestone pillars rise from golden sands, creating an otherworldly landscape.
Loop Drive Trail
Within Nambung National Park
A scenic drive or walk through the heart of the desert, offering close-up views of the unique formations.
Sunset and Sunrise Views
Witness the desert transform as the sun casts long shadows and paints the sky with vibrant colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Golden Hour Glow
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Golden Hour is Key
For the best photos and atmosphere, aim for sunrise or sunset. The light is incredible!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It gets very hot out there! Stay hydrated, especially if you plan to walk the trails.
🚗 Check 4WD Access
Some reviews mention the loop road requiring 4WD due to potholes. Check ahead!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sandy, uneven terrain.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Golden Hour is Key
For the best photos and atmosphere, aim for sunrise or sunset. The light is incredible!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It gets very hot out there! Stay hydrated, especially if you plan to walk the trails.
🚗 Check 4WD Access
Some reviews mention the loop road requiring 4WD due to potholes. Check ahead!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sandy, uneven terrain.
🐍 Watch for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for kangaroos, emus, and even snakes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about The Pinnacles Desert, calling it an otherworldly and bucket-list worthy destination. The unique limestone pillars set against the golden sands create a stunning panorama, especially during sunrise and sunset. While some recent road conditions have caused access issues for non-4WD vehicles, the overall experience is highly recommended for its unique beauty and easy accessibility.
"Such a cool place to visit! We came here just a few hours before the sunset and the views were so spectacular to observe. Road paths were clear and easy to follow within the Desert so that was great."
Dylan
"This place is amazing! Well worth the two hour drive north of Perth. We were there middle of the day and the lighting isn't as good then as in the golden hours around sunrise and sunset. But I still just stood at the entrance and went, WOW!"
Noel Munford
"Bathed in the late afternoon sun, the jagged stalagmites of various sizes emerge from the expanse of golden sand, creating a stunning panorama. An approximately five-kilometer loop through the sand plain provides easy access by a 4WD to these natural wonders. There are ample parking spaces in the desert to stop and have a close look at the limestone pillars. Visitors without a 4WD are advised to park their cars at the parking lot and discover the desert by foot, as the tracks in some places are uneven and bumpy."
Mahbubul Ameen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park is about a 2-hour drive north of Perth, making it a popular day trip destination. +1
Yes, you can drive through the desert on a loop road. However, some recent reviews indicate that the road may require 4WD due to its condition, so it's best to check with park authorities before your visit.
Many tour operators offer day trips from Perth to The Pinnacles, which can be a convenient option if you don't want to drive yourself.
Nearby attractions include the Lancelin Sand Dunes for quad biking and the Lobster Shack in Cervantes for seafood. +1
Yes, there are ample parking spaces within the desert area for visitors to stop and explore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Nambung National Park, which includes access to The Pinnacles. Fees can typically be paid at the park entrance or online.
The Pinnacles Desert is generally accessible during daylight hours. The Visitors Centre has specific opening times.
No, camping is not permitted within Nambung National Park at The Pinnacles. Visitors are advised against staying overnight in their vehicles.
Yes, restrooms are available at the Visitors Centre.
Absolutely! There are walking trails that allow you to get up close to the limestone pillars.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, creating long shadows and vibrant colors.
The loop drive has numerous pullout points, and the walking trails offer various angles to capture the unique landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the desert. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks. It's essential to check the specific regulations for Nambung National Park before flying.
Maintain a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter, such as kangaroos or emus, and avoid disturbing them.
🎫 🌿 Nature & Wildlife
You might spot kangaroos, emus, possums, skinks, and various bird species.
Western Rattlesnakes inhabit the park, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and watch your step.
The limestone pillars are formed from solidified shells, created thousands of years ago when the area was covered by water.
There is very little to no shade in the desert, so sun protection is crucial.
No, visitors are warned not to climb on the pinnacles as they are fragile and can break or fall.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Pinnacles Desert
Many visitors recommend exploring beyond the immediate viewing areas to discover grander formations. The walking trails are well-marked, but it's easy to lose your bearings in the vastness, so keeping the road in sight is a good strategy.
Best Times for Photography and Experience
While midday visits offer a starker, high-contrast view, they can also be intensely hot with less forgiving light.
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