Pinnacles, Koalas & Sandboarding Tour Day Trip from Perth

Planning a day trip from Perth that hits all the high notes of Western Australia’s natural beauty and quirky attractions? This Pinnacles, Koalas & Sandboarding Tour is a well-rounded adventure designed for those eager to see wildlife, explore unique landscapes, and enjoy some good old-fashioned fun in the sand. With a solid average rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on nearly 300 reviews, it’s clear this tour appeals to many travelers—though it’s not without its considerations.

We love the way this tour combines wildlife encounters at Caversham Wildlife Park, with the mystical allure of the Pinnacles Desert, and the adrenaline rush of sandboarding on the big dunes of Lancelin. The inclusion of a lobster processing plant tour and a lunch of fresh fish and chips adds local flavor and culinary delight. On the flip side, the long travel times and packed schedule might feel a bit hurried for some. Still, for those craving an authentic taste of Western Australia’s diverse scenery and animals, this tour offers genuine value and fun.

This experience is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road, love wildlife, and want to see a broader slice of WA without renting a car. It’s less ideal for pregnant women, those with back issues, or infants, due to the off-road 4WD segments and physical activities like sandboarding. If you’re after an engaging, informative, and adventure-filled day, this trip is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Wildlife & Nature: Hand-feed kangaroos and visit koalas, wombats, and various Australian animals.
• Unique Landscapes: Walk through the eerie Pinnacles Desert and enjoy stunning views of giant sand dunes.
• Adventure & Fun: Experience off-roading in a 4WD and downhill sandboarding—an exhilarating activity for all ages.
• Local Flavor: Enjoy a fish and chips lunch with fresh seafood and learn about lobster processing.
• Expert Guides: Many reviews praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.
• Value & Comfort: A full day packed with activities at a reasonable price, with comfortable transportation and reliable pickups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering WA’s Wildlife at Caversham Wildlife Park

The day kicks off with a pick-up from Perth hotels, whisking you north to the Swan Valley’s Caversham Wildlife Park. Here, we found that the highlight was the chance to touch and feed kangaroos and get close to koalas, wombats, and other native animals. Several reviews mention how friendly and knowledgeable the guides are, making the experience both fun and educational.

One traveler from the UK said, “Loved feeding the kangaroos at Caversham and the lunch was amazing,” highlighting how the wildlife interaction is a real treat. The park is a well-maintained spot where you can see over 200 species of animals, making it a worthwhile stop for animal lovers. It’s a short but sweet visit—enough to enjoy the animals without feeling rushed, though some reviews suggest that more time here would be appreciated.

From Swan Valley to Cervantes: Lobster and Lunch

After the wildlife park, the tour takes you along quiet back roads to the fishing town of Cervantes, famous for its rock lobster. Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at a lobster processing plant. This visit offers insight into a vital local industry, but some travelers note it’s not the most exciting stop unless you’re particularly interested in seafood.

Next, you’ll enjoy a traditional fish and chips lunch—a delicious highlight for many. The seafood is described as very fresh, and the meal provides a nice break before heading into the desert. One reviewer called the lunch “prompt with a good selection of drinks,” emphasizing that it’s a satisfying meal amidst a busy day.

Walking Among the Pinnacles

Perhaps the most iconic part of the tour is the Pinnacles Desert, a landscape defined by thousands of limestone formations that resemble giant, eerie sculptures. The walk is short and easy, but the views are startling and unique—great for photography and simply marveling at nature’s oddities. Many reviews describe this section as “stunningly beautiful,” with some saying it’s a landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

The guide will explain the geological significance of these formations, adding depth to your visit. We found that the timing and weather greatly influence the experience; a clear day reveals the Pinnacles’ surreal shapes against the blue sky.

Off-Roading & Sandboarding at Lancelin

Next comes the off-road adventure over Western Australia’s largest white sand dunes. You’ll hop into a custom-built 4WD vehicle for some exhilarating drives up and down the dunes. Many reviewers mention the adrenaline rush of downhill sandboarding, a highlight that truly gets your heart pounding.

Adrian, one of the tour guides, received praise for his “amazing” instructions and helpful attitude. Sandboarding, in particular, is described as “loads of fun,” whether for beginners or seasoned thrill-seekers. Keep in mind that the adventure is always in a 4WD vehicle, and delays can happen due to the soft sand; travelers have noted that the timing can be tight, but the fun outweighs the minor hiccups.

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The Journey Back to Perth

After a full day of activities, you’ll cruise back down the Indian Ocean Drive, watching the sunset if the timing allows. The trip wraps up with drop-off at your Perth hotel, usually around evening. The long drive is part of the experience, offering time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

Some reviews mention the long travel times—up to three hours each way—but many do not see it as a downside, thanks to the comfort of the coach and the engaging commentary from guides.

Price and Overall Value

This tour offers a good balance of activities for the price—many travelers say it’s “worth the money” considering the variety of experiences packed into one day. The inclusion of wildlife encounters, a seafood lunch, and the dunes makes it feel like a comprehensive introduction to WA’s highlights, especially for visitors short on time.

While some might find the lobster tour less exciting, the overall itinerary is diverse enough to satisfy most interests. The guides’ friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness elevate the experience, as reflected in numerous glowing reviews.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for active travelers, wildlife lovers, and anyone wanting a full day of sightseeing and adventure. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of travel and want to get a broad taste of Western Australia’s landscapes and animals. It’s less suited for pregnant women, people with back problems, or very young infants, due to the off-road parts and physical activities.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, fun-packed day trip from Perth that combines wildlife, geology, and adventure, this tour delivers in spades. The expert guides, stunning scenery, and variety of activities make it a strong choice for travelers eager to make the most of their time in WA.

It’s especially well-suited for those who value authentic wildlife experiences, scenic landscapes, and a bit of adrenaline with their sightseeing. The food and local industry insights add a tasty, authentic touch, making it more than just a sightseeing bus ride.

While it’s a long day, the mix of activities keeps the experience engaging from start to finish. For anyone wanting a comprehensive, interactive, and memorable taste of Western Australia’s best, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from selected Perth CBD hotels, including Northbridge and Scarborough. Make sure to check your options when booking.

How long is the total trip?
The tour lasts approximately 11.5 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening. Expect some travel time between stops.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, a camera, and some cash for extras or souvenirs. Weather can vary, so dress appropriately.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for older children, but not recommended for infants or pregnant women due to off-road and physical activities.

What activities are included?
Feeding kangaroos, visiting koalas and wombats, touring a lobster processing plant, walking through the Pinnacles, off-roading, and sandboarding.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

What is the lunch like?
You’ll enjoy a fish and chips meal, served fresh and generous, often praised as an excellent part of the day.

How intense is the sandboarding?
It’s downhill and fun for all skill levels—many say it’s a “loads of fun,” and it’s a highlight for adrenaline lovers.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Many reviews commend guides for their enthusiasm, storytelling, and local insights, making the trip both entertaining and educational.

Is this tour good value for money?
Most travelers agree it offers great value, considering the number of attractions and experiences packed into a single day.

This tour from Perth really delivers a snapshot of Western Australia’s wild landscapes and unique wildlife. It’s a day full of smiles, surprises, and memorable moments—perfect for those who want to see the state’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby