With wildflowers in bloom and warmer temperatures taking hold, Western Australia is the place to be this spring. Moreover, Perth is within driving distance of several stunning beaches and towns. This makes it the perfect time for little weekend excursions. On that note, just 2.5 hours from Perth, a coastal fishing town boasts crystal-clear waters, white beaches, and fresh crayfish. Try Cervantes for a short outing in spring.
Things to do in Cervantes
Named after an American whaling ship wrecked near its shores in 1844, Cervantes was founded in 1968 to support local crayfish businesses and workers. Many still come to sample the area’s fresh seafood.
However, first-time visitors should definitely drop by the Pinnacles Desert (about 17 km from town). You can enter Nambung National Park via the Pinnacles Desert entrance to view these limestone structures created by natural erosion. Set aside two hours and $15 per car to drive around.
Nearby, the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre connects you to the Turquoise Coast and Nambung National Park, offering glimpses into the desert’s secrets. Cleverly designed with materials reminiscent of the Pinnacles, it also has engraved Nyoongar words provided by the Yued people, speaking of their deep connection to this land.
Since you’re already in the Nambung National Park area, consider checking out Kangaroo Point for fishing. Another attraction you should not miss is Hangover Beach. Although popular among swimmers when it’s warmer, fishing and boating here have their own charm. The Nambung Park also sees beautiful wildflowers in spring, so be sure to spend a bit of time exploring them too!
Then, of course, you must visit Lake Thetis, about 1.7 km from Cervantes. This saline lake is surrounded by living marine stromatolites that look like rocky lumps. About 3,370 years old, these stromatolites resemble some of the Earth’s earliest lifeforms. Lake Thetis is one of the few places in the world where these are found, making the stroll over the boardwalk especially memorable.
For food, try the Lobster Shack, crowned WA’s Best Lobster Restaurant for 2026. They offer a variety of seafood. At the Shack, you can book tours that take you into the water to see sea lions, catch lobsters, and more! Your trip to Cervantes would be incomplete without a visit here.
The Cervantes Art Trail will take you around town looking for 23 artworks (beware, some are on private property). As it is an ongoing project by local artists, you might also spot scattered installations while driving or walking around. Later, make your way to Aragon Street Foreshore to laze at the beach, or grab a coffee and snack at the tiny cafe. Head south to finish your day at Thirsty Point, watching the Cervantes Islands amongst kite-surfers and wind-surfers.
Getting there
Cervantes is about 200 km from Perth, accessible by car or bus. If you’re taking your car, first drive to West Perth. Then, take the Mitchell Freeway and State Route 2 to join Wanneroo Road and State Route 60. Continue for 153 km till you reach Cervantes Road. It should take about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Buses to Cervantes leave from Joondalup Station. Take the Geraldton Bus, which stops twice before reaching the town in 2 hours and 55 minutes. Whether you’re driving or taking public transport, the ride offers sweeping views of the Indian Ocean.
For more information on public transport, check out TransWA.
