Is Exmouth worth the drive?

Yes, the Ningaloo Reef is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Australia.

Can I fly from Waroona?

No, you must travel to Perth to catch a flight to Exmouth.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 13 hours of driving time.

A 4WD is recommended for accessing some beaches in Cape Range National Park.

What is the best time to visit?

The months between April and October offer the best weather.

Waroona

Exmouth

Flight Driving

Waroona to Exmouth

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Waroona to Exmouth covers approximately 1,150 kilometers. You can drive north via the North West Coastal Highway, which is a popular route for those visiting the Ningaloo Reef. Alternatively, fly from Perth Airport to Learmonth Airport, located just outside Exmouth. Exmouth is the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Marine Park. The drive offers spectacular coastal scenery and access to unique national parks.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,150 km, straight-line air distance 950 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Perth is the fastest method, taking only 2 hours of air time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective option for travelers with their own vehicle.

Compare Waroona to Exmouth Routes

	Flight Direct from Perth	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours	13 hours
Avg Price	$300 - $600	$300 - $450 in fuel
Operator	Qantas	N/A
Route	Perth Airport (PER) to Learmonth Airport (LEA).	Kwinana Freeway to North West Coastal Highway via Carnarvon.
Tip	Book early, as flights to Exmouth are popular with tourists during the whale shark season.	Consider an overnight stop in Carnarvon to break up the long drive.

Travel Tips

Booking
Book tours and accommodation well in advance, especially during the peak season.
Sun Safety
The sun is intense; use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
Fuel
Fill up in Carnarvon before heading to Exmouth to avoid higher prices.
Road Conditions
Check for road closures, especially during the summer cyclone season.
Water
Carry plenty of drinking water when exploring the national park.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be alert for kangaroos and emus on the road, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Fatigue
Take regular breaks to stay alert on the long, straight highway.
Marine Safety
Always swim between the flags and follow local advice on currents.
Emergency Kit
Keep a first aid kit and extra water in your vehicle.