Welcome to the Wild North West
Perched at the tip of Western Australia’s North West Cape, Exmouth is where rugged red ranges meet impossibly turquoise Ningaloo waters. Remote by nature and shaped by decades of fishing heritage, it’s a place that’s beautiful, wild and welcoming all at once.
It’s also the home of Exmouth wild-caught prawns, the quiet jewel of Australian seafood. Getting here for the inaugural Exmouth Wild Prawn Festival in April 2026 will take planning, but the reward is worth it. A landscape that feels untouched. A community closely tied to the sea. And a festival that celebrates the best of both with an authentically Exmouth flavour and fresh wild-caught prawns in abundance.
FLYING TO EXMOUTH FROM PERTH
Flying is the fastest way to reach Exmouth from Perth. Qantas runs daily direct flights from Perth to Learmonth Airport, taking around two hours. It’s an easy 25-30 minute drive into town from there, with shuttle services and private transfers available. You can also arrange car hire at the airport, although it’s better to book ahead during the April school holidays.
Flying in from Further Away?
If you’re coming from outside of WA, you’ll need to change flights in Perth to reach Exmouth. Check the Qantas website for the latest flight schedule and pricing.
Driving to Exmouth
The Classic West Aussie Road Trip
Driving from Perth to Exmouth is one of Western Australia’s quintessential road trips. It takes around 13 hours via well-maintained highways, with long stretches of open road framed by outback plains, rugged ranges and glimpses of the coast as you approach the North West Cape. The coast is the most popular way to make the drive:
You can extend the trip by heading inland via Mount Magnet and up through Newman and Karijini National Park before turning back towards the coast.
Both routes offer a chance to stop in small towns and soak in Western Australia’s wild and beautiful landscapes.
Need a Rental Car?
Car hire in Exmouth is limited during April. If you’re flying, it’s worth booking a rental well in advance. Hiring a car in Perth should be easier if you’re up for the road trip of a lifetime.
Image credits: Tourism WA
Tips for Travelling to the Exmouth Wild Prawn Festival
- Weather: While Perth begins to cool in April, Exmouth stays warm and sunny. Daytime temperatures often sit above 30°C with cooler nights, so pack light clothing, plenty of sunscreen, and an extra layer.
- School holidays: April is one of the busiest periods. Flights, accommodation and tours (including whale shark swims) can book out. Plan early to secure your spot.
- Distances: Perth to Exmouth is roughly 1,250 km by road. Breaking up the drive is safer and more enjoyable. Check the route to make sure you’re not accidentally heading for 4WD-only roads.
- Fuel: Plan your fuel stops ahead of time or consider carrying extra if you have room. Roadhouses can be spaced far apart, particularly between Carnarvon and Exmouth.
