While the South West chills and Perth pulls on its jumpers, another kind of winter escape is calling; one filled with blue skies, balmy afternoons, and golden coastlines. Head north this season and you’ll swap cold mornings for barefoot beach walks, snorkelling adventures, and sundowners overlooking sparkling seas.
From sun-drenched towns to island-hopping adventures, these warm-weather getaways will have you chasing the sun and forgetting all about the winter blues.
Broome
For barefoot luxury and balmy nights.
Broome is the obvious choice — and for good reason. In winter, it’s a sun-soaked paradise with cloudless skies and 30-degree days. Cable Beach delivers its iconic sunsets night after night, while days are best spent lazing by the pool or taking a pearl farm tour with Willie Creek Pearls.
Don’t miss a camel ride at sunset, cocktails at Cable Beach House (formerly Zanders), or an outdoor movie at Sun Pictures. Accommodation runs from the luxurious Cable Beach Club to boutique stays and eco resorts — all designed to make you forget winter exists.
Coral Bay
For reef adventures and barefoot bliss.
If you want to spend your winter days in the water, Coral Bay is calling. Right off the beach lies the UNESCO-listed Ningaloo Reef, home to vibrant corals, sea turtles, and tropical fish.
Snorkel straight from shore, take a glass-bottom boat tour, or join a whale shark swim (season runs from March to August). Evenings are all about relaxed beach town vibes — think seafood dinners and barefoot strolls under starry skies.
Exmouth
For epic snorkelling and adventure.
Exmouth delivers big adventure with its blend of reef and range. Base yourself in town or go luxe at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef (think safari tents in the dunes), then spend your days exploring the stunning Cape Range National Park.
Turquoise Bay is one of WA’s best beaches — perfect for drift snorkelling — while boat tours offer the chance to spot humpback whales or swim with whale sharks. The best part? It’s gloriously warm at this time of year.
Kalbarri
For coastal hikes and dramatic views.
A more accessible sunshine escape, Kalbarri shines in winter with mild, dry weather perfect for hiking and exploring. Kalbarri National Park is a must, home to the famous Skywalk and dramatic red gorges.
Along the coast, explore wind-sculpted formations like Nature’s Window and Island Rock. The wildflowers begin to bloom in late winter, adding bursts of colour to the already vivid landscapes. Stay in town for easy access to cafes, beaches, and the national park.
Geraldton & The Abrolhos Islands
For island-hopping and seafood feasts
A few hours’ drive from Perth, Geraldton offers a taste of WA’s Coral Coast with less travel time. Winter here means blue skies and sunshine, making it ideal for exploring beaches, windsurfing, or hopping aboard a boat tour to the Abrolhos Islands.The islands are a paradise of turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and fascinating history. Back on the mainland, enjoy Geraldton’s rising food scene — Skeetas and The Jaffle Shack are local favourites — and take in the coastal views from HMAS Sydney II Memorial.
