Overlooking a stunning stretch of coastline and armed with a rich history, this lively port city serves up ample rewards for visitors.
Geraldton is 420km north of Perth (4hr 30min drive) in the Coral Coast WA region.
For its delightful seaside location, warm ambience, sunny disposition, and wide assortment of visitor attractions and activities.
Geraldton beaches
The city explodes with glittering coastline that’s suited to a raft of activity. Here are some highlights:
In addition, roughly 30km north of Geraldton, Coronation Beach is regarded as one of the world’s premier windsurfing spots.
HMAS Sydney II Memorial
Dedicated to the loss of HMAS Sydney II, Australia's greatest naval tragedy, the eye-catching monument provides a thorough insight into a captivating yet heartbreaking chapter of the nation’s past. A must-see attraction.
Museum of Geraldton
This modern museum retraces local history in outstanding fashion. The shipwrecks gallery is among the highlights, and the area’s Indigenous culture is explored in fascinating detail. Touring exhibitions add more value to a visit.
Geraldton Foreshore
This is the go-to spot for families. The precinct contains a water park and playground, both with free entry, and from here there’s easy access to cafés.
At the foreshore’s southern end is The Esplanade, home to a 360-degree viewing platform as well as walkways and BBQ areas.
Beresford Foreshore
Another crowd puller, this modern foreshore is superb for all ages with plenty of grassed areas for picnics in addition to a pirate-themed playground. Don’t miss the acclaimed sphere-shaped Horizon artwork, which ‘turns the world upside down’.
Point Moore Lighthouse
With its distinctive red and white candy-like stripes, the 34m-high landmark easily catches the eye. Interpretive signage at the site reveals various interesting facts about the lighthouse, which is directly across the road from a wonderful expanse of coastline.
Chapman River Regional Park
Just north of the CBD – and neighbouring BIG4 Geraldton – this picturesque park features a looping mountain bike trail in addition to a popular walking-running track. A huge assortment of native flora and animal and bird species are found within these boundaries, too.
Alternatively, there’s a bike and scooter-friendly pump and jump track at nearby Spalding Park.
St Francis Xavier Cathedral
Both inside and out, this is a stunning structure. And clearly that was the intention – it took more than 20 years to complete the build. Regular guided tours for a modest fee represent excellent value and showcase the cathedral’s many intricate features.
Geraldton art galleries
The city allows ample opportunity to embrace culture. Here are a few highlights:
Mills Point Lookout
Soak up stunning vistas that encompass Geraldton and the Chapman Valley. This is a prime spot to view WA’s wondrous wildflowers in season (reliably late July-early October).
Distance: 15km northeast of Geraldton.
Greenough
The village features dozens of restored heritage buildings that provide immediate visual charm. A scenic riverside walking trail and Greenough Wildlife Park are among leading attractions. And don’t miss the iconic wind-battered ‘leaning trees’, just north of town.
Distance: 20km south of Geraldton.
Hutt Lagoon
Also known as Pink Lake, this captivating creation is worth the drive to witness its bold and ever-changing colours. An aerial flyover departing Geraldton is the ultimate way to marvel at the lagoon’s mystique and there are on-site buggy tours, too.
Distance: 100km north of Geraldton.
Coalseam Conservation Park
While worth exploring at any time thanks to its rugged landscape, this park is best known for its annual display of wildflowers that carpet the ground with colour in season.
Distance: 100km southeast of Geraldton.
Dotted 60km offshore from Geraldton are the magnificent Houtman Abrolhos Islands. The archipelago of 122 islands is a diving, bird-watching, and photography hotspot, accessible via boat or plane.
Searching for somewhere to stay in Geraldton? We have you covered…
BIG4 Geraldton Sunset Beach
Park type: Classic.
With its relaxed beachfront location, this pretty park provides the perfect setting for a Geraldton getaway. Accommodation options included various chalets – including a pet-friendly option – as well as motel units and ensuite and powered sites.
A swimming pool, jumping pillow, and a lounge with a pool table are among the leisure-style facilities and are joined by two indoor camp kitchens and various BBQ areas. And the dedicated sunset deck is a popular feature.
Enjoy a great Geraldton getaway. Start by clicking or tapping the graphic below.
