Things to do in Carnarvon may not be obvious at first glance, as it’s not typically a highlight on Western Australia’s tourist trail. Situated squarely on the long drive from Perth to Broome, it’s a town many travellers zip through on their way north or stop at simply because, well, options are limited.
But here’s the thing – even a spot that’s not going to be the most mind-blowing stop on your big road trip can offer up a few gems if you’re willing to explore a bit. Carnarvon is practical as a pit stop, but it’s also got lots of fun things to do that can make your stopover interesting.
So, if you find yourself in Carnarvon, take a moment to stretch your legs and explore a bit. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Carnarvon to make your stop surprisingly worthwhile.
1. Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum
The Space and Technology Museum is an unexpectedly cool spot to check out. In fact, I wanted to go so badly that, we re-visited Carnarvon on our way back down to Perth from Exmouth just to pay it a visit.
This museum is a quirky reminder of when this little town played a big role in global space missions. Packed with artefacts from the space race era, including an actual satellite dish used to communicate with the Apollo missions, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into history that feels almost out of place in such a remote setting.
And no, don’t worry – the museum isn’t just for space buffs. In fact, I’d say it is one of the best things to do in Carnarvon with kids, because it has an entire room of interactive games and technology experiments you can get involved in, making it seriously interactive.
Make sure to experience the rocket launch simulation – it’s one of the top activities at the museum and a whole lot of fun!
2. Check out the Cape Cuvier Coast
For a breath of fresh air and some stunning coastal scenery, make your way to Cape Cuvier. About an hour’s drive north from the town centre, this spot offers dramatic cliff views that drop off sharply into the Indian Ocean.
Sure, it’s a bit of a trek from town, but totally worth it for the photo ops alone. The contrast of the red cliffs against the bold blue of the ocean is mesmerising. It’s also a great spot for whale watching during migration season. Just be mindful of the unguarded cliffs and strong winds – safety first here!
3. Walk Along Carnarvon Fascine
Carnarvon Fascine is a peaceful walkway along Carnarvon’s waterfront, and it’s absolutely perfect for stretching your legs after a long day of driving. This paved path winds along the water’s edge, offering lovely views and a gentle breeze from the Gascoyne River. It’s also lined with benches, in case you fancy just sitting still and relaxing for a while.
If you’re up for a bit more activity, the path is also popular for morning jogs and bike rides.
The Fascine lights up in the evening, making for a pleasant nighttime wander. Sometimes the simple pleasures are what travel is all about!
4. Gwoonwardu Mia, Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage and Cultural Centre
Stopping by Gwoonwardu Mia will really turn your stop in town into something memorable. This cool little cultural centre is a must-visit in Carnarvon, where you can dive right into the local Aboriginal culture without feeling like you’re in a classroom.
The permanent exhibitions focus on the five Aboriginal language groups of the Gascoyne Region, and you’ll get to take in all this information by listening to stories, checking out artefacts (like a replica of a 32,000-year-old shell necklace!), and even getting lost in the sky dome experience that shows how Aboriginal people were the region’s first astronomers.
It’s a place that really makes you feel connected to the land and its ancestors, and you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for Carnarvon and its people.
5. Follow the Gascoyne Food Trail
You may not have known this, but Carnarvon is actually a fresh produce hotspot. Here’s what I mean: I bet you didn’t know that Carnarvon was the first place in Australia to grow bananas!
Dubbed “The Fruit Loop,” the Gascoyne Food Trail is a scenic drive that winds along the North and South River Roads, offering a lush view of the working plantations. This drive is the perfect chance to taste the region, right from the roadside stalls brimming with homemade preserves, dried fruits, and even ice cream made from the freshest seasonal fruits and veggies. Yum!
6. Quobba Blow Holes
Located just about an hour’s drive north of Carnarvon, there’s something you absolutely can’t miss: the Quobba Blow Holes! They’re one of those natural phenomena that you really have to see to believe. When the sea hits just right, water rockets through chambers within the cliffs, launching it sky-high in powerful jets of water. It’s so exhilarating to watch, and it never gets old!
After the Blow Holes, you may as well carry on further north to Cape Cuvier. Then, further north, the next stop north is Coral Bay, where you can snorkel right off the beach and hang out with whale sharks. From there, just another couple of hours back on the road and you’re already in Exmouth!
7. Explore Kennedy Range National Park
There’s something about Kennedy Range National Park that feels otherworldly. Maybe it’s the vast, silent gorges that change colour with the shifting sun, or the rugged peaks that look like something out of a Martian landscape.
One of my favourite spots in the park is Honeycomb Gorge. Walking through it feels a bit like exploring a giant natural maze, and you’ll want to bring your camera for this; every corner turns up something photo-worthy!
Just remember, the park is pretty remote and rugged, so come prepared. Wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and don’t forget your hat and sunscreen. It’s all worth it, though. Being out there, with all that space and silence, it’s the kind of place that makes you appreciate the wild beauty of Western Australia.
8. Take a Dip at Rocky Pool
A short drive from the dry landscapes of Carnarvon, you’ll find Rocky Pool, an oasis that seems to defy the dry, red and dusty surroundings. That’s what makes it one of the best places to visit in Carnarvon! Visiting this spot felt like discovering a secret – tucked away among ghost gums, this tranquil pool just beckons you to take a refreshing dip under the clear blue sky.
It’s perfect for a lazy day – floating in the water, exploring for fossils, or just enjoying a picnic by the water’s edge. That’s what makes this one of the best things to do in Carnarvon with kids! The drive there is a mini-adventure itself, dotted with wildlife sightings from bouncing kangaroos to emus, adding to the feel that this place is just a bit magical.
The Best Carnarvon Activities for Stopovers
There you have it – a handful of the best things to do in Carnarvon that prove this town is more than just a pit stop on your Western Australia road trip. There are heaps of campsites available in town, so it’s the ideal place to park up for a night or two, stretch your legs, and see some cool things.
If you only have time to check out one of these Carnarvon places to visit, I’d have to recommend the Space and Technology Museum. It, admittedly, doesn’t have a patch on the space museum in Washington D.C., but it’s still a very solid effort, is totally fascinating, and has some seriously impressive artefacts on display.
Enjoy Carnarvon!
