WA Travel FAQ
Honest answers to the questions every visitor to Western Australia asks.
Common Questions
There is no single answer. WA is enormous and the best time depends on where you are going. The south (Perth, Margaret River, Albany) is best from October to May. The north (Broome, Kimberley) is best during the dry season from May to October. Ningaloo for whale sharks is March to July. In general, spring (Sep-Nov) and autumn (Mar-May) are pleasant almost everywhere.
In Perth, the train and bus network is decent enough for the inner suburbs. But for Margaret River, Broome, Ningaloo, Albany and the Kimberley, a car is essential. Many highlights are in national parks and remote areas with no public transport. A campervan is ideal for longer trips.
Generally yes, but be aware of the hazards: always swim between the flags at patrolled beaches; check for marine stingers in northern WA; saltwater crocodiles inhabit rivers, estuaries and some beaches north of Broome. Take local advice seriously; shark awareness is sensible at all WA beaches, though attacks are rare.
Yes. The whale shark season at Ningaloo runs from mid-March to late July. Book a tour with a licensed operator from Exmouth or Coral Bay. Tours sell out months in advance for April and May. A spotter plane finds the sharks; swimmers enter the water in small groups of 10. The encounter is unforgettable.
Broome is approximately 2,240km from Perth by road. A drive of 24-28 hours without stops. Almost everyone flies (2.5 hours). If you want to drive, the route takes 3-5 days, passing through Geraldton, Carnarvon, Exmouth and Port Hedland.
Australian dollars (AUD). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in towns. EFTPOS is universal. In very remote areas (outback stations), cash is useful but most places now have card facilities. ATMs are in all towns; some outback roadhouses have EFTPOS only.
Yes. Strongly recommended. WA is remote, medical evacuation from the outback is extremely expensive, and outdoor activities carry real risks. Ensure your policy covers adventure activities if you plan to surf, dive, or do 4WD touring.
The most rewarding Kimberley experiences are accessible by road. The Gibb River Road requires a 4WD and careful planning. Many visitors fly into Broome and hire a vehicle there. Small-group 4WD tours are excellent and take the logistics off your hands. For the most remote areas, small aircraft charter or helicopter is the only option.