Walking Among Stone Sentinels: A Day at the Pinnacles and the Art of Sandboarding
A sunlit day of limestone spires, sand dunes and a private sandboarding lesson just north of Perth
The land holds its breath at first light. You pull out of Perth before dawn, the city thinning into scrub and flat, wide sky, then the Atlantic edge of Western Australia rising as a distant, silver ribbon. An experienced driver—part guide, part storyteller—navigates the quiet highway north and, within two hours, the landscape changes: low dunes, wind-creased saltbush and then a skeletal forest of limestone spires punctuating the sand like a lost city.
Trail Wisdom
Time your visit for golden hour
Plan to arrive at the Pinnacles at sunrise or late afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures.
Bring at least 2 liters of water
Daytime desert conditions are dry and hot; hydrate before you start and carry extra water for the sandboarding session.
Wear closed-toe shoes for sandboarding
Sand gets hot and abrasive—sturdy shoes protect your feet during climbs and rides.
Respect boardwalks and signage
Stay on established paths to protect fragile flora and the integrity of the limestone structures.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lake Thetis thrombolites—living microbial structures a short drive from the Pinnacles
- •Cervantes Lobster Shack—fresh local lobster and seafood right on the coast
Wildlife
Emus, Kangaroos
Conservation Note
Nambung National Park is managed to protect fragile desert and coastal ecosystems—stay on paths, don’t remove rocks, and pack out all waste.
The Pinnacles are formed from Tamala limestone made from ancient seashells; the area is within the traditional country of Nyoongar people.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower displays, Mild temperatures, Photography
Challenges: More visitors, Variable afternoon showers
Spring (Sep–Nov) brings wildflower carpets and pleasant weather, making it the most photogenic time to visit the Pinnacles.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Clear skies, Off-peak crowds on weekdays
Challenges: High heat, Strong sun and UV, Hot sand
Summer is hot and sun-intensive; early starts are essential and heat management is the priority.
fall
Best for: Mild weather, Quieter trails, Comfortable sand conditions
Challenges: Unpredictable winds, Shortening days
Autumn offers steady temperatures and fewer crowds—ideal for combining the Pinnacles with sandboarding.
winter
Best for: Cooler walking conditions, Clear crisp light, Off-season calm
Challenges: Chilly mornings, Potential wind, Colder water if stopping at the coast
Winter is cool and clear, making it comfortable for walking and long exposures in photography, though mornings can be brisk.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Wide-brim hat and UV sunscreenEssential
The exposed landscape offers little shade, so sun protection is critical.
2–3L hydration system or water bottlesEssential
Keep hydrated for the full day in dry, sunny conditions.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Protects feet on hot sand and during dune climbs for sandboarding.
Camera with wide-angle lens and polarizer
A wide lens captures the scale of the Pinnacles and a polarizer reduces glare for clearer skies.
Common Questions
How long is the drive from Perth to the Pinnacles?
The Pinnacles are about 200–220 km north of Perth—roughly a 2–2.5 hour drive depending on traffic and stops; the tour includes transport so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Is sandboarding included and is it suitable for beginners?
Yes—sandboarding is included and guided; most beginners pick up the basics quickly, and the instructors coach technique and safety.
Are there entry fees for Nambung National Park?
Yes, park vehicle entry fees are administered by Parks and Wildlife Service WA and may apply; check current rates online—private tours often handle these logistics for you.
Is the Pinnacles walk accessible for children and older adults?
The boardwalks around the main Pinnacles area make much of the site accessible for a wide range of ages, though sandy patches and dune climbs for sandboarding require more mobility.
What should I wear for the day?
Wear sun-protective clothing, closed-toe shoes suitable for sand, sunglasses, and layer for temperature changes—mornings and evenings can be cool.
What is the cancellation policy?
This specific tour offers free cancellation and instant confirmation; review the booking terms on the product page for any time-based cutoff details.
What to Pack
Sunhat (sun protection), 2–3L water (hydration for the full day), Closed-toe shoes (protect feet on hot sand), Lightweight layers (mornings and evenings can be cool)
Did You Know
The Pinnacles are made of Tamala limestone formed from compressed seashells and sand during the Pleistocene—these formations are tens of thousands of years old.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a private tour to avoid rental logistics; Arrive at dawn or late afternoon for best light; Check Parks and Wildlife Service WA for current park fees; Bring small cash/card for food in Cervantes.
Local Flavor
After the day’s exploring, head to Cervantes for fresh seafood at the Lobster Shack or a relaxed beer at a local pub—Cervantes is a compact fishing community, and its seafood highlights the coastal character of the region.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport / trailhead: Perth Airport (PER) to Pinnacles ~200–220 km; Driving distance from Perth: approx. 2–2.5 hours; Cell service expectations: patchy in the park, good in Cervantes; Permits or passes required: Nambung NP vehicle entry fee may apply—confirm with Parks and Wildlife Service WA; Tour notes: private tour, instant confirmation, free cancellation.
Sustainability Note
Nambung National Park protects fragile dune and limestone ecosystems—stay on designated paths, don’t remove shells or rock, and pack out all litter to preserve the site for future visitors.