Western Australia’s 4WD tracks hide some of the most breathtaking coastal gems you’ll ever discover. Forget those crowded tourist beaches – the real magic happens when your tires hit the sand on these hidden routes.
Western Australia’s sprawling coastline stretches over 12,000 kilometers, offering adventurous drivers access to pristine beaches that remain virtually untouched by mass tourism. From the massive dunes of Lancelin to the remote splendor of Steep Point, these destinations reward those willing to venture off the beaten path.
What makes these 4WD beach tracks particularly special is the perfect blend of driving challenge and natural beauty. While some routes are suitable for beginners, others demand advanced skills and proper vehicle preparation. Above all, these locations deliver the ultimate reward – having a stunning beach sometimes entirely to yourself.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer coastal expedition in 2025, this guide highlights 15 must-drive 4WD beach tracks that showcase Western Australia’s incredible diversity. Pack your recovery gear, deflate those tires, and prepare to discover coastal paradise spots that most tourists will never see.
Lancelin Sand Dunes and Back Beach
Image Source: 4 Wheeling in Western Australia
Just north of Perth lies one of Western Australia’s most exhilarating 4WD destinations. The Lancelin Sand Dunes offer a pristine playground of shifting white sand that challenges drivers and delivers unforgettable experiences for adventure seekers.
Lancelin Sand Dunes location
Situated approximately 127km north of Perth, Lancelin Sand Dunes are easily accessible via the Mitchell Freeway North and Indian Ocean Drive. The massive dune system spans roughly 220 hectares, creating Western Australia’s largest sand dunes stretching over 2km in length. Access is via Beacon Road, with a dedicated entry point leading to both 2WD parking areas and 4WD accessible sections of the dunes.
Lancelin Sand Dunes track difficulty
Lancelin’s track is moderately difficult, suitable for all 4WD skill levels. Dune conditions shift rapidly, sometimes changing in just two weeks. Lower tire pressure to 13-20 PSI for sand driving. Beware of steep drop offs on razorback dune. Walk them first if you’re unfamiliar.
Best time to visit Lancelin Sand Dunes
Early mornings offer the most favorable conditions for exploring Lancelin Sand Dunes. The wind typically intensifies by afternoon, making sandboarding more challenging. Spring and autumn provide milder temperatures, though the dunes remain accessible year round. Photographers should consider sunrise for calm sand and pastel skies, or sunset for dramatic lighting effects.
Activities at Lancelin Sand Dunes
The dunes offer numerous recreational opportunities:
- Sandboarding: Rent boards in town or at the dunes for approximately AUD 7.64/hour. Both sitting and standing boards are available.
- 4WD exploration: Test your off road skills across the vast dune system.
- Photography: The stark white dunes against blue skies create stunning photo opportunities.
- Quad biking/buggy tours: Guided tours are available for those seeking additional thrills.
Access to the dunes is free, and visitors can enjoy the area between 7am and sunset throughout the year.
Sandy Cape Recreation Park
Image Source: Turquoise Coast
Situated approximately 10 kilometers north of Jurien Bay, Sandy Cape Recreation Park features unspoiled white sand beaches within a protected bay setting. This area is particularly popular among four wheel drive enthusiasts pursuing coastal recreational activities.
Sandy Cape location
Sandy Cape Recreation Park sits approximately 230 kilometers north of Perth along the Indian Ocean Drive. Access is via a well signposted road that includes 5 kilometers of sealed road followed by 2 kilometers of compacted limestone gravel. While the main campground is accessible by 2WD vehicles, the true adventures begin where the 4WD tracks branch out. For those wanting to explore further, the turnoff is easily spotted from Indian Ocean Drive with clear signage directing visitors to an information board detailing the nature reserve and marine park.
Sandy Cape track difficulty
Sandy Cape offers 4WD tracks ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, including gravel surfaces, limestone steps, sand dunes, and coastal beach segments. For optimal vehicle performance, it is recommended to maintain tire pressures between 16-20 PSI on gravel and rocky terrain, reducing to 12-13 PSI when traversing soft sand. The tracks primarily follow the coastline; traveling with the ocean beside you indicates a southward direction, while having the ocean on the passenger side signals northbound travel. Routes north of the campground are generally more suitable for novice drivers.
Best time to visit Sandy Cape
The optimal visiting period falls between September and April, although May through August remains viable provided there’s no rainfall. Summer offers perfect temperatures (28-31 degrees on average) for water activities, despite occasional strong winds. Spring and autumn provide milder conditions with less wind, making these seasons ideal for most visitors. Winter days, while cooler (19-21 degrees on average), can still offer great views and the bonus of campfires during clear weather.
Activities at Sandy Cape
This recreation park boasts numerous activities for adventure seekers:
- Water sports: The protected bay creates ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and stand up paddleboarding
- Sandboarding: The towering dunes surrounding the beach are perfect for sandboarding enthusiasts, with boards available to rent from caretakers for AUD 30.58
- 4WD exploration: Numerous tracks provide opportunities to discover secluded beaches and stunning coastal vistas
- Fishing: The shoreline offers good catches including tailor, herring, bream, and mulloway
- Wildlife viewing: Being situated within the Jurien Bay Marine Park, visitors can glimpse rare marine wildlife
Additionally, camping options include 112 numbered sites in the main campground, with fees of AUD 30.58 per night for two adults and two children, plus AUD 4.59 for each additional adult.
Yeagarup Dunes and Beach
Image Source: Trails WA
Among Western Australia’s most striking 4WD destinations, the massive Yeagarup Dunes form the largest inland mobile dune system in the Southern Hemisphere, continuously reshaping as they steadily advance through ancient forests.
Yeagarup Dunes location
Situated 330km south of Perth within D’Entrecasteaux National Park, Yeagarup Dunes are accessible via Ritter Road off Vasse Highway. The well maintained gravel road leads to Lake Yeagarup, where the adventure begins. This impressive dune system covers approximately 30 square kilometers and is moving inland at a rate of 4 meters annually, gradually enveloping the surrounding Karri forest. The nearest fuel stops are Pemberton (24km away) and Northcliffe (35km away).
Yeagarup Dunes track difficulty
The track poses tough challenges, even for seasoned 4WD drivers. Tire pressures often need to be reduced to 10–16 PSI—sometimes as low as 12 PSI—for steep sections. Two major climbs include a 40 metre dune at the start and a 300 metre ascent on the return from the beach. Sand conditions vary with wind and traffic, affecting difficulty. The route from the registration station to Yeagarup Beach is about 8km and usually takes 40 minutes.
Best time to visit Yeagarup Dunes
September through April represents the optimal period for visiting Yeagarup, with spring and summer offering the most favorable conditions. Autumn brings salmon fishing opportunities, while winter visitors should monitor weather forecasts as rain can significantly impact track conditions. Early morning drives are preferable when the sand is cooler and more compacted.
Activities at Yeagarup Dunes
The area offers diverse recreation options:
- 4WD exploration of the marked dune tracks and beach access
- Fishing along Yeagarup Beach with salmon runs in April
- Beach walks and beachcombing with opportunities to spot kangaroos drinking from freshwater puddles
- Photography of the stunning landscape where massive dunes meet forest and ocean
- Camping at Leaning Marri Campground, which features toilets and picnic tables
Recovery equipment is essential as the soft sand presents genuine bogging risks for unprepared vehicles.
Tim’s Thicket
Image Source: en.wikipedia.org
For beach lovers seeking adventures closer to Perth, Tim’s Thicket offers a less crowded 4WD experience with pristine beaches and challenging dune trails that test driving skills while rewarding explorers with secluded coastal views.
Tim’s Thicket location
Tim’s Thicket sits approximately 80km south of Perth, near the coastal town of Mandurah. Access comes via Tim’s Thicket Road, which branches off Old Coast Road about 20km south of Mandurah. The final stretch transitions from sealed road to compacted limestone, eventually leading to a dedicated parking area. From there, 4WD tracks extend to the beach and surrounding dune system. Unlike more remote destinations, Tim’s Thicket benefits from proximity to amenities, with Mandurah offering full services including fuel, supplies, and emergency assistance.
Tim’s Thicket track difficulty
Tim’s Thicket tracks range from moderate to challenging, mainly featuring soft sand and steep dunes. Newcomers should set tire pressure to 15-18 PSI for traction. The main beach access is toughest, with steep descents and narrow passages at high tide. Northern routes are easier; southern ones require advanced skill. Always carry recovery gear, as vehicles often get stuck in soft sections.
Best time to visit Tim’s Thicket
Morning visits prove most effective, ideally at low tide when beach driving conditions improve substantially. Summer weekdays offer relative solitude, whereas weekends see increased traffic from Perth day trippers. Spring months (September-November) deliver moderate temperatures and fewer visitors, creating ideal exploration conditions. Winter brings rougher seas but spectacular storm watching opportunities, assuming track conditions remain passable.
Activities at Tim’s Thicket
The area supports diverse recreational pursuits:
- Beach fishing with consistent catches of whiting, herring and tailor
- Swimming in protected coves with generally calmer conditions than surrounding beaches
- Sandboarding on smaller dunes suitable for beginners
- Wildlife observation including dolphins frequently spotted offshore
- Photography opportunities with striking coastal panoramas
Moreover, overnight camping is not permitted, making Tim’s Thicket primarily a day trip destination for 4WD enthusiasts.
Preston Beach
Image Source: Shire of Waroona
Nestled between the Indian Ocean and Yalgorup National Park, Preston Beach offers 4WD enthusiasts one of Western Australia’s most accessible beach driving experiences with endless stretches of pristine shoreline.
Preston Beach location
Preston Beach is situated 124 kilometers south of Perth, making it just over an hour’s drive from the capital. The small coastal settlement sits approximately 45 minutes south of bustling Mandurah, accessible via Kwinana Freeway which eventually joins Forrest Highway. After reaching the intersection with Old Coast Road, a right turn takes visitors along Preston Beach Road for the final stretch. This charming destination is uniquely positioned between three natural boundaries: the Indian Ocean, Lake Preston, and the ecologically significant Yalgorup National Park.
Preston Beach track difficulty
The track at Preston Beach is classified as easy to moderate, with sand driving requiring adjustment of tire pressure. Drivers are advised to deflate tires to suitable pressure levels to improve traction on soft sand. The beach permits 4WD access in both directions, north toward Tim’s Thicket and White Hills, or south toward Myalup, Binningup, and Buffalo Road. Visitors should be aware that the beach can have soft conditions at times, and monitoring the tides is important due to rapid changes in water level.
Best time to visit Preston Beach
Optimal visiting times include early mornings for fishing and sunrise swims. The beach experiences significant visitor numbers during summer, with the area reportedly “smashed” by tourists during peak periods. For those seeking quieter experiences, weekdays outside school holidays offer more solitude. In 2025 specifically, school holidays will run from April 12-27, which may impact visitor numbers.
Activities at Preston Beach
This coastal haven offers numerous recreational opportunities:
- Fishing: Preston Beach is famous for its excellent fishing spots, historically hosting major fishing carnivals, with sunset and sunrise being prime times for catching herring and whiting
- 4WD exploration: As one of the few Western Australian beaches permitting vehicle access directly on the sand, the beach creates perfect conditions for extended coastal drives
- Swimming: The calm waters are particularly suitable for young children
- Wildlife observation: The Yalgorup National Park and surrounding lakes attract diverse native animals and birdlife
- Golf: The town features a challenging nine hole golf course adjacent to Yalgorup National Park
In addition to these activities, visitors can enjoy bushwalking on several trails including the Heathlands Walk Trail.
Wilbinga
Image Source: Localista Blogs Site
Between Two Rocks and Guilderton, lies Wilbinga, a popular 4WD destination that represents the only legally accessible beach track in this area north of Perth. Since Yanchep and Two Rocks beaches became off limits due to council regulations and housing developments, Wilbinga has become an essential playground for Perth’s off road enthusiasts.
Wilbinga location
Situated approximately 70km north of Perth along Wanneroo Road, Wilbinga offers a perfect day trip escape for city dwellers. The entrance to this off road paradise can be found opposite Military Road, halfway between Guilderton and Two Rocks. Alternatively, access is possible from behind the Wilbinga Grove rest area off Wanneroo Road. This conservation park falls within the Shire of Gingin, creating a buffer zone between metropolitan areas and more remote northern beaches.
Wilbinga track difficulty
The tracks at Wilbinga feature primarily soft sand with occasional limestone outcrops. For optimal traction, reducing tire pressure to 14-20 PSI is recommended. The area contains three major sand dune sections ranging from beginner friendly small dunes to extremely steep, challenging climbs. Caution is essential as sand conditions shift constantly from day to day and week to week. Since Alkimos closed to 4WD access, Wilbinga has experienced increased weekend traffic, making sand flags crucial for safety on blind corners. First time visitors should start with smaller dunes before attempting more technical challenges.
Best time to visit Wilbinga
Wilbinga is accessible throughout the year, with seasonal factors influencing visitor experience. During summer, staying near the coast can help mitigate inland heat, while early mornings generally present optimal driving conditions due to cooler, more compacted sand. Its proximity to Perth positions Wilbinga is a convenient destination for weekend excursions. However, those seeking a quieter environment may prefer midweek visits when beach areas are less crowded.
Activities at Wilbinga
This diverse coastal playground offers numerous recreational opportunities:
- Beach exploration: Walks along pristine beaches with abundant shell collecting opportunities
- Sand dune driving: Practice technical driving skills across three distinct dune areas
- Swimming and snorkeling: The coastline features several protected areas ideal for water activities
- Fishing: The beaches provide excellent fishing spots for various species
- Photography: Stunning coastal vistas and historic beach huts create perfect photo opportunities
Remember to bring recovery equipment (especially a shovel), plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. As there are no facilities for food, fuel or water, visitors must be completely self sufficient.
Wedge Island
Image Source: 4 Wheeling in Western Australia
Characterised by its unique settlement of beach shacks built from driftwood and corrugated iron, Wedge Island offers 4WD enthusiasts a quintessential coastal experience with its stunning turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches.
Wedge Island location
Wedge Island sits approximately 165-180km north of Perth, positioned between Lancelin and Cervantes along Western Australia’s coast. The area encompasses both the mainland settlement and a 400 meter-long wedge shaped island located just 200 meters offshore. Access has improved significantly with the development of a new bitumen road (Wedge Road) directly from Indian Ocean Drive. First established in 1937 by Mr. W.R. (Bob) Wedge, this coastal haven now serves as the gateway to Australia’s Coral Coast, which stretches along 1,100km of breathtaking coastline.
Wedge Island track difficulty
The beach tracks at Wedge offer varying levels of difficulty, with areas of soft sand that may require careful driving techniques. Reducing tire pressure to 10-15 PSI is generally necessary for effective navigation. North Wedge Beach can be accessed via the “Cut-in,” an entry point through the dunes, with the Beach Track extending from the bitumen terminus. Beach driving is advised for four wheel drive or all wheel drive vehicles. Visitors are advised to bring recovery equipment, such as an X-Jack, as assistance is not available within a 45 km range.
Best time to visit Wedge Island
Wedge Island remains perfect year round, except during rainy periods. For surfers, December through May offers optimal conditions, particularly with WSW swells between 2-3.5m and easterly winds. Timing visits with low tide are crucial when accessing via beach, as high tides can quickly rush in, stranding vehicles.
Activities at Wedge Island
The area boasts diverse recreational opportunities:
- 4WD exploration along beach tracks and surrounding dune systems
- Surfing on consistent wave sets perfect for various skill levels
- Fishing along the extensive shoreline
- Swimming in crystal clear turquoise waters
- Sandboarding on the impressive dunes
Additionally, Wedge offers excellent snorkeling spots and stunning photography opportunities of both natural landscapes and the eclectic shack community.
Belvidere Beach
Image Source: Harvey Region
Tucked away on the Leschenault Peninsula, Belvidere Beach offers 4WD enthusiasts a secluded coastal retreat that remains remarkably uncrowded even during peak seasons. This hidden gem provides a perfect escape for those seeking solitude along Western Australia’s southern coastline.
Belvidere Beach location
Situated approximately 2 hours south of Perth and 20km north of Bunbury, Belvidere Beach lies within the Leschenault Peninsula Conservation Park. Access requires traveling down Forrest Highway and turning right onto Buffalo Road. The main approach features paved roads for most of the journey, followed by a gravel section as you near the destination. The final stretch to the beach is strictly 4WD only, with limited parking available. Alternatively, visitors can also access the area via the Leschenault Estuary side, where the campground nestles among tuart forest.
Belvidere Beach track difficulty
The track presents moderate challenges with its primarily gravel composition. From Buffalo Road, the initial route remains paved until a right turn off for Buffalo Beach, nevertheless, continuing straight leads to Belvidere Beach via several kilometers of unpaved terrain. The final approach becomes increasingly challenging, suitable exclusively for 4WD vehicles. For those with standard 2WD vehicles, cautious travel is possible to a certain point, after which walking becomes necessary. Comparatively, the nearby Buffalo Beach offers easier access with paved roads throughout and better facilities.
Best time to visit Belvidere Beach
Belvidere Beach remains accessible year round, making it a versatile destination regardless of season. Meanwhile, visitors should consider bringing mosquito repellent, as it’s described as “a must” when exploring the peninsula. The beach’s year round appeal stems from its consistent conditions and relatively stable access routes compared to more seasonally affected beaches elsewhere in Western Australia.
Activities at Belvidere Beach
This coastal sanctuary offers numerous recreational opportunities:
- Fishing: The beach provides excellent fishing in the Indian Ocean, with size and bag limits applicable as per Fisheries regulations
- Beach driving: 4WD enthusiasts can travel along the coastline, connecting to Buffalo Beach, then onto Binningup Beach and potentially to Myalup and Preston Beach during low tides
- Swimming: The clear waters make for refreshing ocean swims
- Walking/cycling: A 9km one way path connects Belvidere to The Cut, winding through tuart and peppermint woodland with panoramic estuary views
- Wildlife observation: The area offers diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, with species recorded within a 5km radius available through the Atlas of Living Australia
Accordingly, Belvidere Beach remains among the quieter 4WD destinations in the region. Visitors frequently report having the entire beach to themselves.
Calcup Hill
Image Source: AllTrails
Calcup Hill stands as one of Australia’s most formidable 4WD challenges, boasting an 800-meter long sand dune that has claimed numerous vehicles with its deceptively difficult ascent and soft, shifting sands.
Calcup Hill location
Positioned 24km from Pemberton and 330km south of Perth, Calcup Hill sits within D’Entrecasteaux National Park. The hill serves as an alternative entry point to Yeagarup Dunes at the end of Ritter Road. For those completing the entire circuit, Northcliffe lies about 20km from the end of the track. The journey begins from Yeagarup Dunes, with the closest fuel available at either Pemberton or Northcliffe.
Calcup Hill track difficulty
Calcup Hill presents extreme difficulty with its three stage climb starting right from the beach. First thing to remember, tire pressures must be drastically reduced—10-15 PSI is standard, yet many vehicles require even lower (6-8 PSI) to successfully summit the dune. The hill features two main climbing sections after the beach entry: the first spans approximately 250 meters, followed by a brief plateau before tackling the even more challenging 300 meter second section. Essentially, this dune demands perfect throttle control, appropriate gear selection, and considerable momentum to prevent being forced to restart from the very bottom.
Best time to visit Calcup Hill
February through April offers ideal conditions with perfect weather and minimal gale force winds. The dune becomes considerably more difficult after busy holiday periods when the sand gets heavily churned.
Activities at Calcup Hill
Beyond the primary challenge of conquering the dune itself, visitors can enjoy:
- Spectacular coastal views from the summit
- Beach driving along Warren Beach
- Self-sufficient camping at designated spots near Calcup Hill
- Photography opportunities of vehicles attempting the legendary climb
Ultimately, this track should feature on any serious 4WD enthusiast’s bucket list, provided they come properly equipped with recovery gear and an air compressor.
Lucky Bay, Kalbarri
Image Source: Western Australia
Often confused with its namesake in Esperance, the lesser known Lucky Bay near Kalbarri offers 4WD enthusiasts a genuine of -grid beach experience where coastal camping meets challenging dune systems. All accessible exclusively by four wheel drive.
Lucky Bay location
Positioned approximately 533km from Perth, Lucky Bay sits between Port Gregory and Kalbarri along Western Australia’s stunning coral coast. Visitors can locate the entrance roughly 10km north of Port Gregory, following tracks until reaching the distinctive Lucky Bay shacks. For those traveling from Kalbarri town, the campground lies about 30 minutes south. This beachfront destination creates a perfect steppingstone for exploring the broader region, with Kalbarri National Park’s dramatic landscapes just 40km to the north.
Lucky Bay track difficulty
The track presents moderate challenges with predominantly soft, shifting sand that demands careful preparation. Tire pressures must be reduced to at least 15-20 PSI, though conditions often necessitate even lower pressures. Visitors must carry portable air compressors as no inflation services exist nearby. The dunes can become flooded during winter, requiring depth assessment before crossing. First time visitors should note the 40km/h speed limit on main access roads and 10km/h within camping areas. Forthwith, all vehicles traversing the dune systems should display sand flags for safety.
Best time to visit Lucky Bay
Any season besides winter proves ideal for visiting, with mid summer particularly appealing despite the heat. Certainly, winter brings occasional flooding in dune sections, potentially limiting access. Anglers often target winter months for optimal fishing conditions, whereas swimmers and beach enthusiasts typically favor September through April.
Activities at Lucky Bay
This nature based camping area supports numerous recreational pursuits:
- Beach activities: Swimming in protected waters, long walks along pristine shorelines, and surfing smaller waves
- Fishing: Shoreline fishing with catches requiring proper disposal (sealed in bags for refuse bins or disposed of at sea)
- 4WD exploration: Extensive beach and dune driving extending over 40km from the entrance
- Camping: Unpowered sites suitable for tents and camper trailers at AUD 22.93 per vehicle per night
Basic facilities include bush toilets, industrial bins, and a chemical toilet dump point. Undeniably, visitors must bring adequate water supplies as no potable water exists onsite.
Steep Point
Image Source: track trailer
Standing at mainland Australia’s westernmost point, Steep Point offers intrepid 4WD enthusiasts a remote coastal adventure where rugged cliffs meet the Indian Ocean’s powerful waves. First named “Steyle Hock” by Dutch seafarer Willem de Vlamingh in 1697, this destination now forms part of many adventurers’ pilgrimage to visit all extreme cardinal points of the Australian mainland.
Steep Point location
Situated within the newly established Edel Land National Park, Steep Point lies approximately 185km from Northwest Coastal Highway. The journey includes 140km of unsealed road, culminating in a challenging 30km single lane soft track winding through sand dunes. Many travelers access the area from Denham, with the drive taking approximately three to four hours. Alternatively, boaters can reach Shelter Bay from Denham via South Passage, a distance of about 50km.
Steep Point track difficulty
The track is challenging, requiring high clearance 4WDs, the last stretch has soft sand, so lower your tire pressure to 20 PSI or less. The final 30km is a narrow, corrugated path winding through dunes. At Tin Hill, the steepest dune, follow the “Keep Right” sign to descend in, and take the easier bypass route when leaving.
Best time to visit Steep Point
April through October offers optimal visiting conditions, coinciding with lighter winds and calmer seas. These months provide more comfortable temperatures for exploring this remote region where summer brings intensely hot, dry, and windy conditions.
Activities at Steep Point
This remote paradise offers numerous recreational opportunities:
- Fishing: Renowned for exceptional land based game fishing, mackerel, trevally, and even sailfish are caught from the cliffs
- Coastal exploration: The four-wheel drive track between Steep Point and Thunder Bay follows the spectacular Zuytdorp Cliffs, rising 170-200 meters above sea level
- Camping: Sites available at Shelter Bay (offering idyllic beach camping), The Oven, and Faultline (popular with serious anglers)
- Wildlife viewing: Opportunities to spot humpback whales playing in the bay
- Photography: Capture dramatic landscapes where cliffs meet ocean and visit the impressive blowholes
Hence, entry fees apply—AUD 19.88 for standard entry or AUD 10.70 for seniors—with all campsites requiring advance online booking.
Cape Leveque
Image Source: Camper Trailer Australia
At the northern tip of Western Australia’s Dampier Peninsula, Cape Leveque stands out as a rare 4WD destination where striking red cliffs meet pristine white beaches and turquoise waters, creating one of Australia’s most spectacular coastal landscapes.
Cape Leveque location
Cape Leveque is located approximately 208 kilometers north of Broome, positioned at the northernmost part of the Dampier Peninsula. Access to the cape is via Cape Leveque Road, with a turnoff situated about 20 kilometers from Broome on Broome Road. The entire 205-kilometer length of Cape Leveque Road has been sealed, making access more straightforward for visitors. The last 7 kilometers leading to the cape lookout are accessible only by 4WD vehicles through sandy terrain. For individuals without appropriate vehicles, scenic flight tours and 4WD day tours are available regularly from Broome.
Cape Leveque track difficulty
While the main Cape Leveque Road is now sealed, high clearance 4WD vehicles remain essential for accessing many locations along the route. The sealed road features numerous sharp bends and steep sections that demand cautious driving. For this reason, travelers should be vigilant for roaming cattle, donkeys, and wildlife including wallabies and dingoes. The final stretch to the cape itself presents the greatest challenge with sandy tracks requiring reduced tire pressures. Indeed, all travel is only permitted on designated roads, as free camping is prohibited throughout the peninsula.
Best time to visit Cape Leveque
The optimal period for exploring Cape Leveque falls during the Dry Season between May and October. Conversely, the Wet Season (November-April) often brings road closures due to weather conditions, making travel difficult or impossible. Prior to any journey, visitors should check current road conditions with the Broome Visitor Center. July through October offers an additional reward, the opportunity to witness humpback whales during their annual migration.
Activities at Cape Leveque
This remote paradise offers diverse recreational opportunities for adventurous travelers.
Cape Leveque boasts excellent swimming, fishing, and snorkeling in crystal clear waters. Between July and October, whale watching becomes a popular activity as humpbacks migrate through offshore waters. For cultural enthusiasts, Aboriginal bushtucker tours, tag a long tours, and mud crabbing expeditions provide authentic insights into traditional ways of life. The best way to appreciate the area is through bush tucker tours with Aboriginal guides who teach traditional skills like spear making for fishing. For those seeking aquatic adventures, charter boats offer half and full day fishing experiences and scenic tours to Sunday Island.
Warroora Station
Image Source: warroora.com
Halfway between Carnarvon and Exmouth lies Warroora Station, a family run cattle property offering breathtaking 4WD coastal experiences along 50 kilometers of pristine coastline fringed by the World Heritage Ningaloo Reef.
Warroora Station location
Situated approximately 220 kilometers north of Carnarvon or just 20 kilometers south of Coral Bay, Warroora Station creates a perfect base for exploring Western Australia’s spectacular Coral Coast. The station features two main entry points from Minilya Exmouth Road, with the northern entrance typically in better condition and preferred by visitors heading to the popular 14 Mile Beach camp. From the turnoff, a 23 kilometer unsealed road leads to the homestead. This access road, as a rule, becomes increasingly corrugated and features sections of soft sand requiring careful navigation.
Warroora Station track difficulty
Access to coastal areas demands high clearance 4WD vehicles with low range gears. The main track presents moderate challenges with rocky sections, corrugation, and sandy patches that necessitate reduced tire pressures. For optimal traction, drivers should deflate tires to around 16-20 PSI. The final stretches to beach camps often include steep sandy inclines where even lower pressures might be required. First time visitors should note there are no facilities to reinflate tires upon exit, therefore bringing a portable compressor is essential.
Best time to visit Warroora Station
March through October represents the ideal visiting period, with April and May typically experiencing less wind. Between May and August, visitors encounter the most pleasant conditions overall. In contrast, September can bring strong winds, subsequently affecting camping comfort. Considering tidal patterns proves valuable for activities like snorkeling, which offers better clarity during low tide.
Activities at Warroora Station
This coastal paradise boasts diverse recreational opportunities:
- Fishing from shore with species including spangler emperor, coral trout, and Spanish mackerel
- Snorkeling at Stevens, Sandy Point, and Pelican Point with reef access just 2km offshore at 14 Mile
- Surfing at three significant breaks including Stevens (beach accessible) plus Lagoon and Sandy Point (boat access)
- Wildlife viewing opportunities including humpback whales (June-October), manta rays, dolphins, and turtles
Campfire enthusiasts can enjoy portable self-containing firepits, with camp hosts often having spares available.
Francois Peron National Park
Image Source: Explore Parks WA
Where fiery red earth meets crystal turquoise waters, Francois Peron National Park delivers one of Western Australia’s most dramatic coastal 4WD experiences within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.
Francois Peron location
Situated 800 km north of Perth, Francois Peron National Park spans 52,000 hectares of arid shrublands and rolling sandplains. The park lies within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area, forming part of the Peron Peninsula. Access begins via Monkey Mia Road about 4km east of Denham. Coupled with its natural beauty, the park sits not far from Steep Point, mainland Australia’s westernmost extremity. The Peron Heritage Precinct is accessible by 2WD vehicles, yet to fully explore the park’s wonders, visitors must continue beyond this point on 4WD only tracks.
Francois Peron track difficulty
Beyond the Peron Heritage Precinct, high clearance 4WD vehicles become mandatory for exploration. In fact, the tracks consist primarily of single lane soft sand that requires reducing tire pressure to 16-20 PSI at the dedicated tire inflation station. Presently, the roads are considered relatively easy by 4WD standards, yet proper preparation remains essential. Several sections traverse large birridas (gypsum claypans) that become particularly boggy when wet. Equally important, the tracks are unsuitable for caravans or large boat trailers.
Best time to visit Francois Peron
April through October provides optimal visiting conditions. Within this period, July stands as the coldest month with temperatures averaging 20-25°C during daylight hours, to be precise, while February ranks as the warmest at 30-35°C. Visitors should remain mindful that tropical cyclones occasionally occur between November and April, making these months less ideal for exploration.
Activities at Francois Peron
The park offers diverse recreational opportunities:
- Swimming, snorkeling, fishing and canoeing in crystal clear waters
- Cape Peron—the park’s northernmost tip offering spectacular coastal views
- Wanamalu Trail—a 1.5km walk between Cape Peron and Skipjack Point
- Wildlife viewing from Skipjack Point lookout, where lucky visitors might spot dolphins, dugongs, turtles, manta rays and sharks
- Soaking in the hot artesian waters of the historic Peron Homestead’s “hot tub”
Overnight camping is available at several beachside locations including Bottle Bay, Gregories, South Gregories, Herald Bight and Big Lagoon for AUD 11 per adult per night.
Conclusion
Western Australia truly stands as a 4WD enthusiast’s paradise, offering breathtaking coastal experiences that range from easily accessible dunes near Perth to remote wilderness areas at the far reaches of the mainland. Each of the 15 tracks highlighted reveals its own unique character, from the towering white dunes of Lancelin to the fiery red cliffs meeting turquoise waters at Cape Leveque.
These destinations reward adventurous travelers with pristine beaches, challenging driving experiences, and natural beauty that remains hidden from mass tourism. Preparation remains essential for anyone planning to tackle these tracks. Appropriate tire pressure adjustment, recovery equipment, sufficient supplies, and tide awareness can make the difference between an unforgettable adventure and a potentially dangerous situation.
Most compelling evidence of Western Australia’s 4WD appeal comes from the sheer diversity of experiences available. Families seeking relatively gentle beach drives might choose Tim’s Thicket or Preston Beach, while experienced off-roaders can test their skills against legendary challenges like Calcup Hill or Steep Point.
Weather conditions significantly impact track difficulty throughout the year. Therefore, researching the best visiting times for your chosen destinations should become a priority when planning your 2025 coastal expedition. April through October generally provides optimal conditions for most locations, though specific regions have their own ideal windows.
Beach fishing, swimming in crystal clear waters, wildlife observation, and spectacular photography opportunities await at virtually every destination mentioned. Also many locations offer unique cultural experiences or historical significance that adds depth to your adventure.
The ultimate beauty of Western Australia’s 4WD beach tracks lies in their ability to transport you away from everyday life into pristine coastal environments where your only companions might be dolphins playing offshore or kangaroos visiting the beach at dawn. These hidden gems remain yours to discover in 2025.