Yanchep National Park
The Basics
It's possible to take in the highlights of Yanchep National Park on a day trip from Perth. Most tours include a visit to one of the park’s stunning natural caves, the most famous of which are the Cabaret Cave and the Crystal Cave, named for its majestic stalactites and stalagmites. Additional attractions include the Wangi Mia Meeting Place, where visitors can learn about and experience the park’s Aboriginal heritage; the wetland areas around Loch McNess, Yonderup Lake, and Wilgarup Lake; and the 9-hole bush golf course.
Many day tours combine a visit to Yanchep with nearby natural wonders, such as the Lancelin Sand Dunes (a popular spot for sandboarding) and Scarborough Beach, or the Nambung National Park, home to the Pinnacles.
Things to Know Before You Go
There is a fee (per vehicle) to enter the park.
Dining options in the park include the Yanchep Inn, the Chocolate Drop Tearooms, and a variety of picnic areas.
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and plenty of water.
The boardwalk and many of the park’s walking trails are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Yanchep National Park is located in Western Australia, about 30 miles (50 kilometers) north of Perth or an around 45-minute drive. There is no public transport to Yanchep, so it’s best to join a guided tour unless you have your own vehicle.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
It’s possible to visit Yanchep National Park year-round, but the most beautiful time is spring (September–November) when the weather is ideal for bushwalking and the trails are lined with colorful wildflowers. For hiking and wildlife watching, the best times are in the early morning and late afternoon, when the animals are most active.
The Wildlife of Yanchep National Park
Yanchep National is also renowned for its wildlife, and there are more than 28 miles (45 kilometers) of bushwalking trails to explore. The highlight is the 787-foot-long (240 meter) koala boardwalk, where the park’s sizable population of koalas can be spotted in their natural habitat. Western grey kangaroos are another common sighting, and there are ample bird-watching possibilities, including pelicans, kingfishers, honeyeaters, parrots, and endangered Carnaby’s cockatoos.
- Wanneroo Botanic Gardens
- Hillarys Boat Harbour
- Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA)
- Trigg Beach
- Scarborough Beach
- Caversham Wildlife Park
- Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery
- City Beach
- Scitech
- Northbridge
- Nostalgia Box
- Perth Cultural Centre
- Western Australian Museum – Perth
- Art Gallery of Western Australia
- Kings Park & Botanic Garden