Published on Tuesday, 19 April 2022 at 2:00:00 PM
• Self-drive itinerary for a family (two adults and two children)
• Spanning four days
Consistent sunshine and a huge range of things to do, including the comprehensive School Holiday Program from the City of Greater Geraldton makes Geraldton the most fun hassle free holiday you and the family can enjoy.
Take time to delve into the vibrant art and culture scene whilst also enjoying the best of beachside living. Enjoy the Geraldton Foreshore then venture offshore to the spectacular Houtman Abrolhos Islands, meet some of the furry locals at the Greenough Wildlife Park and peruse the boutique stores in the CBD.
With an abundance of unique cafes and restaurants you won't go hungry or have to search too far for a barista crafted coffee.
Day One
Welcome to Geraldton! The morning starts in the Geraldton CBD where there are breakfast and coffee spots galore. Treat the family to some tasty jaffles and hot drinks at the Jaffle Shack while overlooking the ocean.
The popular Youth Precinct is close by and is an epic playground for youngsters to enjoy basketball, interactive games, obstacles, swings and more! Follow this with a splash at the Waterpark or hire a jet ski with Ultimate Watersports and make your way out to Seal Rock to see the sea lions lazing about. If you would like a less high octane option for seeing the sea lions simply amble along the Esplanade and view these loveable mammals through the free-to-use binoculars.
For lunch - there is a variety of cafes along the Geraldton Foreshore such as Kai Lani Cafe, Beached Barrel, Two Foreshore, Sail Inn and Wondabake!
Next stop is the Museum of Geraldton, which houses all of the region’s history. This interactive space is sure to enchant all ages as well as impart information about the Batavia shipwreck, HMAS Sydney II, local flora and fauna plus the region’s Southern Yamatji peoples.
For a delicious dinner, head to RT Café and Restaurant and sample native Australian cuisine with a modern twist for a real taste of the Midwest.
Day Two
Today explore the incredible Houtman Abrolhos Islands. You can travel to the 122-island group by boat or plane – both options will get the family there quickly and comfortably.
If you travel by plane – you will embark on a scenic flight over Geraldton and the three main island groups the Pelsaert, Easter and Wallabi. Your pilot will also point out pearl farms, brightly coloured fishing camps, marine life including sharks, manta rays, dolphins and whales, Wiebbe Hayes Fort as well as infamous shipwrecks – the Zeewijk in 1727 and Batavia in 1629. Shortly after, your pilot will descend and allow you a few hours at East Wallabi to snorkel, swim and explore. The charter company will provide you with yummy food and refreshments.
If you travel by boat – enjoy an 80-minute boat trip straight to Pelsaert Island. Make sure you keep an eye out for marine life on the journey! Once you arrive, jump in for a swim, snorkel amongst incredible coral or SUP board the clear waters. The family will also be treated to meals and refreshments throughout the day, before heading back to Geraldton at sunset.
It’s been a big day, so enjoy a relaxing serve of fresh fish and chips with the locals at Barnacles on Fishermen’s Wharf.
Day Three
Start the morning bright and early at Dome Café and then learn to catch crayfish like a pro with a Crayfish Pot Pull Tour. You can be as involved as you want or if you would like to sit back and watch the professionals do it - you can. During the tour you will learn about the crustaceans as well as tips and techniques for catching them yourself. At the tour’s conclusion, you will be able to take home half the catch for cooking!
After a morning on the ocean, make your way to Greenough Wildlife and Bird Park to learn about local mammals! There are all sorts of iconic Australian animals including kangaroos, dingos, crocodiles, emus as well as reptiles, horses, camels, cows and more. Greenough Wildlife and Bird Park also have an animal encounter/cuddle area that the kids (and folks) are sure to love.
Finish your afternoon exploring all of the street art and range of boutique shops in the CBD. For a truly unique souvenir or gift that is guaranteed to impress check out the locally grown black Abrolhos pearls and handcrafted jewellery at Latitude Gallery.
As the sun dips marking the end of your penultimate day take your freshly caught crayfish to the Geraldton Foreshore for a sunset cook-up on any of the free-to-use barbecues!
Day Four
Grab breakfast at AJ’s Beach Café at Beresford Foreshore. This area has been newly transformed and has quickly become a favourite destination for locals and visitors. The café overlooks the ocean and is just steps away from a shipwreck-inspired playground. Stroll along the promenade and be on the lookout for Geraldton’s resident ospreys who also enjoy getting their breakfast along the Beresford Foreshore.
Make your way to the Pump and Jump Track in Spalding. The kids can ride their bikes or scooters over small, medium and large jumps and burn off some energy in the great outdoors. There is a miniature railway is just a few metres away or for those who prefer a walk the scenic Chapman River Trail is also fun to explore especially during wildflower season!
Head back into town to grab a bite to eat at the Geraldton Aquarena Café before having a leisurely swim. There are multiple swimming pools as well as a huge slide and volleyball nets. The kids are sure to have a fun time splashing about here.
If you feel like a more sedate adventure, head to the Critter Trail on Chapman! When the youngsters find all the letters concealed in the artwork along Chapman Road and unjumble the mystery word they can receive a special prize at Geraldton Regional Art Gallery. For older children there is a number of informational heritage walk trails nearby providing a glimpse into Geraldton’s fascinating past and another chance to stretch your legs together as a family.
To celebrate your last evening on your family holiday, head to Skeetas Restaurant for dinner. It has one of the best views and overlooks the boats in the Geraldton Marina. The menu features locally caught seafood that the adults will love as well as something for the kids.
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