So Perth Day Trips

Yanchep Day Trip Guide: Discover Caves And Koalas

From oceanside adventure to national park glamping, here’s your guide to a day trip in Yanchep.

The City of Wanneroo is packed with so many fabulous things to see and do, from sandy beaches and scenic bushland to magnificent national parks. Whether you’re into hiking, exploring nature, or relaxing by the sea, Wanneroo has you covered. And when it comes to food, there are plenty of places to choose from with everything from local favourites to global flavours. 

Here’s our guide to a day trip in Yanchep:

Yanchep Day Trip Itinerary

From the beach to the bush, this day trip itinerary is all about exploring Yanchep and enjoying everything the national park has to offer. 

8:30 am: Coffee and breakfast at Yanchep Lagoon’s Orion Café

 Yanchep Lagoon
Credit: Yanchep Lagoon

Hit the road and make your way to Orion Café for coffee and breakfast overlooking the glorious Yanchep Lagoon. This newly renovated coastal gem is the perfect place to fuel up for a day of exploration. Grab a cake or muffin on the go, or sit and indulge in something a little more substantial.

9:30 am: Yanchep National Park

Yanchep Visitor Centre
Credit: Visitor Centre

Drive into Yanchep National Park and head towards the Visitor Centre to check out what’s on. If a cave tour is your thing, make sure you book in advance so you don’t miss out.

You can choose to pay the park entry fee or buy a Local Annual Pass to visit the park year-round. To save time at the entry gate, you can also buy it online. 

10:00 am: Visit the koalas

Koala Boardwalk
Credit: Koala Boardwalk

Start your day at Yanchep National Park with a visit to the Koala Boardwalk. The walkway offers an excellent vantage point to spot koalas lounging in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for the iconic Australian marsupials as they’re often spotted napping or munching on eucalyptus leaves. Be sure to stop and read the informative plaques along the way, and don’t forget to take a snap or two.

11:00 am: Digital Play Trail

Digital Play Trail
Credit: Digital Play Trail

Download the Play Trails app — an interactive experience that combines technology with outdoor exploration. Using a smartphone or tablet, you’ll follow a series of clues and challenges that lead you along a short one kilometre scavenger-style trail through the park. All the while, you’ll learn about the park’s wildlife and history in a fun and engaging way.

12:00 pm: Cave Tour

Crystal Cave
Credit: Crystal Cave

Next, head to Crystal Cave for a tour with a knowledgeable guide who will share facts about the caves’ geology and history. This spectacular limestone cave is renowned for its stunning crystal formations and unique underground environment. The tour takes you through intricate passageways adorned with sparkling stalactites and stalagmites. 

1:30 pm: Lunch at Yanchep Inn

Yanchep Inn
Credit: Yanchep Inn

After exploring the caves, settle in for lunch at the historic Yanchep Inn. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty or a light snack, the inn’s cosy atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it the ultimate spot to recharge and soak up the park’s lush landscape. 

2:30 pm: Treetops Adventure

Treetops Adventure
Credit: Treetops Adventure

For an exhilarating way to experience the park from above, embark on a Treetops Adventure. The high ropes course will see you navigate through a series of challenging obstacles and zip lines suspended among the treetops. It’s sure to get the adrenaline pumping while you revel in the spectacular aerial views of the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Just make sure to pre-book your spot so you don’t miss out!

Or Aboriginal Cultural Experience

Aboriginal Cultural Experience
Credit: Aboriginal Cultural Experience

If dangling from the treetops isn’t your thing, why not book yourself onto the enlightening Aboriginal Cultural Experience at Wangi Mia (near the koalas). The experience is an enriching dive into the rich traditions and heritage of the local Noongar people. You’ll hear fascinating stories, learn about bush tucker, and gain insight into how the land has shaped their culture.

4:00 pm: Afternoon treat at Chocolate Drops

Chocolate Drops
Credit: Chocolate Drops

Wrap up your Yanchep day trip with a sweet treat from Chocolate Drops. This delightful tearoom and shop offers a range of sweet treats, including specialty chocolates and ice creams. 

5:30 pm: Dinner at The Amberton

The Amberton
Credit: The Amberton

It’s time for dinner so head slightly south to The Amberton or The Ambie as it’s fondly known. From prawn linguine to steak sandwiches, the restaurant offers a range of delicious dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Alternatively, if you’re partial to fresh seafood, visit Oceans 27 or The Beach House for a delicious smorgasbord of woodfired sharing plates.

8:00 pm: Drinks at The Marina Mindarie 

The Marina Mindarie
Credit: The Marina Mindarie

After dinner, make your way to The Marina Mindarie for a drink or two. It’s a great place to unwind with a range of bars and lounges to enjoy a cocktail or vino, while overlooking the Mediterranean-style marina.

Make it an overnighter

The Marina Mindarie
Credit: The Marina Mindarie

If you don’t want the day trip to end, enjoy a restful night in one of the modern and stylish suites at The Marina Mindarie. Or, if your idea of a night away is about being closer to nature, then book a glamping experience in Yanchep National Park with Wilderstay Glamping. The experience fuses luxury and nature, perfect for those seeking adventure without skimping on comfort. You’ll wake to the sounds of native wildlife and kangaroos in search of their morning feed. With your very own bell tent, luxury bedding, and bohemian décor, what more could you want? 

This article was created in partnership with City of Wanneroo.
Featured image credit: City of Wanneroo
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