Pilbara - Travel Feature

The Pilbara region, in the North West of Australia encompasses both a tropical coastline that stretches from Port Hedland to Onslow and the magnificent inland ranges called the Hamersley where deep gorges and spectacular cliffs abound. The rich Pilbara colours of fiery red, gold and the most brilliant blue sky is a photographer's delight. After rain the country turns green resulting in a spectacular show of wildflowers and a rapid increase in wildlife.

The region's major township is Port Hedland, a town almost exclusively devoted to BHP's Iron Ore and mineral facilities. Visitors to Port Hedland usually spend some time touring or watching these massive operations. Port Hedland Harbour is always a hive of activity as huge vessels enter, turn, berth, load and restock millions of tons of ore daily.

202km west of Port Hedland along the major bitumen highway lies the historic township of Roebourne and the entrance to a small peninsula to the north through Wickham, Cossack and Point Samson. This tranquil seaside town is a popular beach retreat. Secluded beaches, coves and inlets are perfect for fishing and camping such as Honeymoon Cove and Cleaverville Beach.

Approximately 30km west of Roebourne is Karratha, a major shopping and service centre. 20km north of Karratha on the vast waterways of the Dampier Archipelago lies the township of Dampier. The 42 islands of the Archipelago feature historical shipwrecks, pristine white sandy beaches, aboriginal rock engravings and some of the best fishing in the world. The township takes its name from English Buccaneer William Dampier who visited the area back in 1688. Game fishing in the region is extremely popular with the annual Game Fishing Classic held in early August each year. Both Australian and World records have been set in these productive waterways.

To the interior of the Pilbara region lies some of the country's oldest gorges and ranges. Now protected by National Parks you can drive, camp, walk and explore the Millstream-Chichester and the Karijini National Parks in the impressive Hamersley Ranges. You will need to obtain camping or day visit passes to the National Parks.

To help you explore this region, ExplorOz has a dedicated Trek Note Section for the Pilbara, including Treks for the Rudall River, Karijini National Park, West Hamersley Ranges and Woongarra Pool, and more.

We also stock a range of products in the Online Shop that will help you get the most out of your travels in this region:

Maps, Mapbooks & Atlases

Guidebooks, DVD's and Packs

Fishing