There are various activities suitable for families at Francois Peron National Park.
Francois Peron National Park in Shark Bay offers stunning white sands, clear blue waters, and beautiful red cliffs. Visitors can enjoy various activities, such as kayaking and snorkelling, making it a great opportunity to disconnect from technology and appreciate nature.
Getting there
Francois Peron National Park is 820km north of Perth and accessible by car, bus, or flight into the Shark Bay (Monkey Mia) airport.
A four-wheel drive vehicle is required to travel north of the Peron Heritage Precinct to access most of the park. Drivers should be cautious of soft sands, follow road signs, and consider deflating their tyres before proceeding further into the park, with the option to refill them on the way out.
Visitors can still enjoy exploring the historic Peron Heritage Precinct at the park without a 4WD vehicle. Additionally, guided tours are available for those interested. Here are seven family-friendly activities to consider for your next trip to the park.
Take a guided tour
A guided tour of Francois Peron National Park allows those without a 4WD vehicle to explore the area and learn about its history and wildlife.
A tour guide will take you and your family on a day-long trip through various scenic spots on the peninsula. You can observe endangered species, experience the natural landscape, and go snorkelling in Bottle Bay's clear waters. Guided 4WD park tours are available for booking at the Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery Centre.
Discover the Peron Heritage Precinct
Exploring the Peron Heritage Precinct is a way to learn more about the park's cultural and natural aspects.
The site, once a working pastoral station in the early 20th century, features an old shearing shed and stockyards for visitors to explore. Information about the history of the local Aboriginal people and endangered wildlife species in the area is provided in the visitor display.
Visitors can explore the Homestead on a self-guided tour, relaxing in the artesian hot tub and enjoying a barbecue lunch on the lawn.
Skipjack Point
From the observation areas above, visitors at Skipjack Point can observe various marine life, such as dolphins, turtles, manta rays, sharks, birds, and dugongs.
Fishing is a popular activity at the beach
Shark Bay is known for its excellent fishing locations, including Francois Peron National Park. Accessible only by 4WD vehicle, it is a great option for those seeking a tranquil beach experience away from crowds.
The top beach fishing spots in the park include Big Lagoon, Bottle Bay, Gregories, South Gregories, and Herald Bright. Common catches in these areas are bream, whiting, and flathead, except in the sanctuary zone in the northern part of Big Lagoon, where fishing is prohibited.
If you want to expand your trip to the Pinnacles Desert, join the Pinnacles Tour. Parents will be able to enjoy an evening of wine and a tasty supper, and your children can watch the stars through a telescope. Emotions guaranteed.
Impressions: Canoeing and kayaking
Shark Bay offers stunning views from both the shore and water level. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding during winter when winds are calmer.
Visitors looking for outdoor activities can visit Little Lagoon or Big Lagoon for a scenic experience, but checking the tides and wind forecast beforehand is recommended.
Snorkelling
Snorkel off the coast of Francois Peron National Park to explore colourful corals and tropical fish in the clear and shallow waters of Bottle Bay, Little Lagoon, and Gregories.
Bushwalking
Francois Peron National Park is known for its rare animal species and is ideal for bushwalking. Visitors can spot unique reptiles such as the thorny devil and woma python, endangered bird species like the western grasswren, and a variety of wildflowers and other flora along the sandy trails. It is recommended to bring enough water and sun protection, particularly during the summer.
Information to consider before your departure
Before heading to the park, ensure that you are properly prepared by bringing necessary supplies such as water, a first aid kit, fuel, sun protection, and food, as they are unavailable in the park. Also, be aware of and follow all safety precautions.
- It is recommended to wear reef shoes and shuffle your feet when walking into shallow water to avoid coming into contact with stingrays and stonefish.
- Campfires are not allowed in the park. Visitors can use gas appliances or the free gas barbecues provided for cooking.
- When driving a 4WD vehicle into the park, having the appropriate permit, sufficient fuel, a shovel, and at least one spare tyre is important.