Best Things To Do In Geraldton, Australia

1. Visit the Abrolhos Islands

The Abrolhos Islands were discovered in 1619. They are a chain of more than 100 islands and lie approximately 60 kilometres (37.2 mi) west of Geraldton. More than 10,000 years ago, they were part of the mainland. The islands are home to abundant flora and fauna, and especially to a great variety of sea bird life.

Nowadays, the island is inhabited mostly by lobster fishermen and their families. Although there are tours to these island from Geraldton, visitors are not allowed to spend the night on any of the islands. Some say that The Abrolhos were the first white settlement in Australia. This first settlement included two forts that can still be partly seen on the island.

Abrolhos Islands

Website: Abrolhos Islands

2. Go for walks in the Chapman Valley

Chapman Valley is an agricultural region known for its beautiful landscapes. Take in stunning views of rolling green hills, rivers and pristine coastlines. Chapman Valley is only a short drive from Geraldton and a great place to escape the city. It used to be mined for lead and copper for almost 100 years.

There is plenty to see and do here. Explore the historic architecture in the towns of Nanson and Navawa or watch the wildlife and take great pictures. More than 200 bird species have been sighted in the Chapman Valley. There are also many types of wildflowers, especially from August to October. The Chapman Valley Heritage Trail is a 100-kilometre (62.1 mi) drive from Geraldton through the valley. The combination of great scenery and fascinating historical sites make the drive an unforgettable experience.

Chapman Valley

Website: Chapman Valley

3. Visit the Point Moore Lighthouse

Point Moore Lighthouse was built in 1878 and is one of the area’s most photogenic landmarks. The lighthouse is located at the westernmost point of the city and is 34 metres (21 ft) tall and surrounded by pristine beaches.

The lighthouse can be seen from 26 kilometres (16.1 mi) away out in the sea — Geraldton used to be a port and the lighthouse served the ships coming to Geraldton. Although it is unfortunately not possible to enter the lighthouse, it is still worth a visit because of its picturesque location and surroundings. With its red and white candy stripes, the lighthouse has become an icon of Geraldton. Interpretive plaques at the lighthouse provide interesting facts about the lighthouse and its history.

Point Moore Lighthouse

Website: Point Moore Lighthouse

4. Get immersed in history and culture at the Western Australian Museum

The Western Australian Museum is one of the state’s best museums. It is located at the Batavia Coast Marina and displays the area’s natural, indigenous and cultural history. In the shipwreck gallery you can find out more about the tragic story of the Batavia, while 3D videos reveal the sunken wrecks of other ships.

In the main exhibition hall, you will find a 75 metre (246 ft) wall showing the flow of local rivers. The north side of the wall documents the area’s flora and fauna. You can also find a replica of a Bristol Tourer, flown by Australia’s first commercial airline. The temporary exhibition gallery is used for travelling exhibits and is changed regularly. In the book shop, you can find a big amount of books covering maritime, indigenous and Midwest local history. In the Marra Gallery, you can purchase indigenous art.

Western Australian Museum

Website: Western Australian Museum

5. Take a break at Coronation Beach

Geraldton is close to many beaches, with Coronation Beach being one of the favorites. It is a great spot for windsurfing and surfing. It is known for being one of the best windsurfing locations in the world, and the beach attracts many international visitors, especially because of the windsurfing competitions that are being held here regularly.

You can also find barbecue facilities and camp sites on the beach.

Coronation beach

Website: Coronation beach

6. Visit the architectural masterpiece of Geraldton: St. Francis Xavier Cathedral

Geraldton is home to a few religious buildings designed by the famous Western Australian architect Monsignor John Hawes. The most impressive of these buildings is St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. The work on the cathedral began in 1916 and the first part was opened in 1921. The project was put on hold for a while until it was finally completed and opened in 1938.

The cathedral mixes several artistic styles. The twin towers resemble those on the Californian Mission Church at Santa Barbara, while the central dome is similar to Brunelleschi’s cupola in Florence, and the doorway shows signs from the French Renaissance. The cathedral is a truly unique and original piece of architecture, and its interior might even be more fascinating than the exterior. It is widely known for being the most unusual cathedral in Australia, and is the architect’s masterpiece.

St Francis Xavier Cathedral

Website: St Francis Xavier Cathedral

Geraldton: a small town with many attractions and sights

Although Geraldton is a rather small town, you won’t get bored and you can easily spend a few days here. If you are a nature and wildlife lover, then the Chapman Valley is the place for you to go. There are many hiking and walking routes here, and you will come close with Australian wildlife, and especially birds.

Also, the beaches are beautiful, and the Abrolhos Islands are home to rich flora and fauna. Visitors interested in culture and history will be amazed by the beautiful cathedral that is located in the town, and by the Western Australian Museum that displays information about the indigenous and cultural history of the region. Geraldton attracts many visitors yearly and has something to offer for every age group, budget and taste.