Guide to The Pinnacles of Nambung National Park
Why do people go to The Pinnacles of Nambung National Park?
Set against the golden sands of Western Australia’s Coral Coast, the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park is one of the country’s most surreal natural landscapes. Thousands of limestone spires rise from the desert floor, creating a jagged, otherworldly terrain that changes dramatically with the light.
Travellers visit the Pinnacles WA for its photogenic scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and easy accessibility from Perth. Many make the journey to capture iconic images, especially at dawn or dusk, when the pillars cast long shadows across the sand. Others come to walk among the formations, spot wildlife like emus or galahs, or visit the on-site Discovery Centre for insight into the area's geology and ecology.
Whether you’re on a day trip from Perth to Pinnacles or adding it to a longer campervan road trip, it’s a must-see for fans of landscapes, geology, and unique Western Australia natural wonders.
How long should I spend at The Pinnacles of Nambung National Park?
You can tailor your visit based on time and interest. A 1–2 hour stop allows for a drive along the 4 km Pinnacles Desert loop, a short walk among the formations, and a quick visit to the Discovery Centre. This suits travellers making a short detour or passing through.
For a more in-depth experience, 3–4 hours is ideal. This gives time to walk either the Desert View Trail or Emu Walk (both around 1.5–2 km), enjoy a picnic, take photos, and explore nearby attractions like Lake Thetis or Hangover Bay.
If you’re planning to catch the sunset or try your hand at Pinnacles sunset photography, a full day is best. Some visitors also combine a morning visit with stops in Cervantes, Lancelin Sand Dunes, or nearby coastal walks.
Are the Pinnacles Desert worth visiting?
Yes – the Pinnacles Desert is one of the most distinctive natural environments in Australia. The sheer scale and formation of the limestone spires give the area an unrepeatable feel, and no two visits look the same. It’s also a relatively easy place to explore, with minimal walking required to access stunning views.
Its proximity to Perth (around two hours) makes it a manageable day trip, but it’s also rewarding for those exploring the Coral Coast on a longer journey. Add in the potential for wildlife sightings, stargazing, and vivid colour shifts at sunrise and sunset, and it’s clear why it’s one of Western Australia's most photographed landscapes.
How to get to The Pinnacles of Nambung National Park
The Pinnacles are located around 200 km north of Perth, within Nambung National Park. The easiest route is via Indian Ocean Drive, a sealed highway that hugs the coast and offers scenic ocean views along the way.
Once inside, follow signs to the Discovery Centre or drive the Pinnacles Desert loop, which offers parking bays and photo stops along the route.
Best time to visit The Pinnacles of Nambung National Park
The most comfortable time of year to visit is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). These seasons offer clear skies and moderate temperatures, ideal for walking and photography. Spring also brings native wildflowers across the park, adding vibrant colour to the desert landscape.
Summer (December to February) is hot and dry, with temperatures often above 35°C. If visiting during this time, aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat. Winter (June to August) is cooler and quieter, with daytime highs between 18 and 21°C, though occasional rain may affect visibility.
The best time of day is either early morning or sunset, when lighting is soft and shadows enhance the texture of the landscape. Pinnacles sunset photography is particularly popular – and often followed by excellent stargazing, as the area has minimal light pollution.
Weather at The Pinnacles of Nambung National Park
The Pinnacles region has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild, wetter winters.
Always bring sun protection and water, especially if walking during warmer months. A light jacket may be needed for evenings, even in summer.
Best place to park your campervan at The Pinnacles of Nambung National Park
The Pinnacles Desert Drive is a 4 km one-way route that includes dedicated campervan parking bays at several points. These allow you to pull over safely, take photos, and walk short trails into the formations.
Alternatively, you can park at the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre, which has a large flat lot suitable for campervans. This area is the best option if you’re planning a longer stay or want to visit the interpretive exhibits.
There are no services for overnight camping inside the park, so plan to stay in Cervantes or nearby areas if you need powered sites or facilities.
Road trips that pass through