Natural Wonders
Geraldton is a great spot to base yourself before exploring other destinations on our beautiful Coral Coast. What makes Geraldton so unique though is the natural wonders in close proximity such as the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, Hutt Lagoon, Coalseam Conservation Park and Leaning Tree.
Houtman Abrolhos Islands
122 islands make up the pristine Houtman Abrolhos Islands. An archipelago with crystal blue waters and an abundance of sea life make a visit to the Islands a must for all visitors! Located approximately 60km off the Geraldton coast, the Islands comprise three major groups, the Wallabi, Easter and Pelsaert groups stretching from north to south across 100 kilometres of ocean.
Known for the tragic Batavia Story, the Islands are also popular for cray fishing, pearls and the bird and marine life. The Islands and their surrounding reef communities are a meeting place for tropical and temperate sea life, forming one of the State’s unique marine areas.
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Pink Lake
Known for being all shades of pink and purple, the Pink Lake is a short drive from Geraldton and certainly won’t disappoint in terms of views. The Pink Lake is also known as Hutt Lagoon and gains its unique colouring from carotenoid-producing algae, which is a source of B-carotene, a food-colouring agent and source of vitamin A.
The Pink Lake is constantly changing in vibrancy depending on the time of day, month and cloud coverage – so every time you see it, it will be slightly different! It’s best to visit the Pink Lake in the morning or at sunset.
This is definitely a must-see when you are in the Midwest.
Interesting fact: Hutt Lagoon was the backdrop for Lancome’s Life is Beautiful campaign and Myer’s Jennifer Hawkins Summer collection.
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Wildflowers
There are more than 12,000 species of wildflowers in Western Australia and Mullewa is home to one of the largest varieties! The wildflower season kicks off between July to October, and the sooner you get out to see them the better because they don’t last long.
There are a number of places you can see wildflowers in and around Geraldton including Chapman River Regional Park, Mills Point Lookout, Mullewa and Coalseam Conservation Park.
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Ellendale Pool
This scenic waterhole is located 45km south east of Geraldton in Greenough. Surrounded by giant gum trees and a rocky gorge, Ellendale Pool is a beautiful spot to enjoy a picnic or camping trip. Interpretive signs are around the area and celebrate the importance the pool has played in Aboriginal and European history. Public facilities and barbeques are available – so pack the snags and enjoy a great time out amongst nature!
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Leaning Tree
Buffeted by strong southerly winds, the leaning trees of Greenough (Eucalyptus Camaldulensis or Red River gum) have become a popular icon for in the region! The River Gum is found throughout southern Australia growing along watercourses and on flood plains. It is only on the windswept Greenough Flats that the tree develops its distinctive leaning shape and you’ll often see people getting photos of them due to their uniqueness.
You can view and photograph the unusually structured trees from the Brand Highway on the Greenough Flats. A purpose built parking area located 21km south of Geraldton is provided for the travellers to take photographs.
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Stargazing + Astrotourism
Stargazing in Western Australia is a world-class experience and the Midwest is home to some of the darkest night skies in the world.
In particular, Mullewa lends itself as one of the top places to escape the city lights and experience night skies full of stars.
If you’re visiting Mullewa and looking for an amazing spot to check out some spectacular stargazing, be sure to go to Perkins Well #2. Here you'll find a great place to gaze at the beautiful night sky. You're welcome to bring telescopes and binoculars too.
If you're an astrophotographer you can't miss a visit to Monsignor Hawes Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church! It's an amazing location and perfect to take images of the night sky over this beautiful building.
In some brightly lit cities, it's impossible to see one star. In a world that's getting brighter and brighter with artificial light pollution, Western Australia's communities are aiming to keep their night sky as dark as possible so that you can always visit to enjoy the wonder and beauty of the brilliant Milky Way stars.
Tip: When you head out to do some stargazing, remember to turn out all your lights. Artificial light destroys your ability to see the stars! The darker the night sky, the more stars you’ll be able to see.
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