REST AND RECREATION GERALDTON

Overlooking the stunning Batavia Coast Marina the Western Australian Museum - Geraldton tells the story of the Mid West region and the incredible maritime history of the Dutch shipwrecks that landed on this part of the treacherous Western Australian coast. Discover the stories of murder and mutiny at the Abrolhos Islands from the wreck of the Batavia in 1629 and see first-hand the portico retrieved from the shipwreck - a living relic of the precious cargo the Batavia was carrying. The stories of the shipwrecked vessels, the Zuytorp (1712) and the Zeewijk (1727) are told in the Shipwreck Gallery with displays of recovered treasures such as coins, ceramics and cannons. Learn about the lives of the local indigenous Yamaji people and the influence of European settlement, or discover the region's native flora and fauna, including the abundant wildflowers of the Mid West.

Spalding Park is a picturesque 500 acre reserve located on the Chapman River near Geraldton. For the avid golfer there is an 18 hole golf course with a 72 par. Alternatively the keen athlete can enjoy a game of tennis, play a game of football or take a run on the immaculately kept playing fields. Catering for the whole family, the superb children's adventure playground will keep the children entertained for hours. Bring along a picnic or make use of the excellent barbecue facilities. The coastal town of Geraldton offers many sightseeing opportunities. Whether you prefer water sports, exploring historical sites, learning about the marine life along the Coral Coast or seeing it in person, Geraldton has plenty to do. Spalding Park is located in Geraldton, four hours drive north of Perth.

The red and white candy stripes of Point Moore Lighthouse are a spectacular sight that stands out proudly amidst the Geraldton landscape. Standing 34 metres high it was the first all steel tower built on the mainland of Australia, back in 1878. With its bold colours, the lighthouse has become an icon of the port town of Geraldton. The lighthouse is not open to the public; however you can walk around the bottom of the lighthouse and read the interpretive plaque which provides some interesting facts about the lighthouse and its history. Situated at Point Moore, five minutes from Geraldton's town centre, the views of the ocean from the lighthouse are stunning. Walk along the point and take advantage of a great photo opportunity. Geraldton is a five hour drive north of Perth.

On a global windsurfing stage, Geraldton is rated among the best for its idyllic and uncrowded conditions - what's more it's also home to top class surf spots. Grab your board and set sail for the thrill of a lifetime at one of the many spots along this pristine slice of Western Australia. For windsurfers the best conditions are between November and April when gale force winds challenge the most experienced wave sailors and nurture the novices. The strongest breezes happen in mid summer and are ideal for high-speed slalom racing. Point Moore and St Georges Beach are the best known windsurfing locations. Beginners head here in the late morning while high winds in the afternoon attract the regulars. Surfers won't leave Geraldton disappointed. The shore break at Back Beach is well known for its consistent swell. Other popular spots for surfing include Coronation, Medallia, Pages, Point Moore, Separation Point, Sunset and St Georges beaches. For more information about wind and wave conditions contact the Geraldton Visitor Centre. Geraldton is a five hour drive or one hour flight from Perth.

Located 32 kilometres north of Geraldton along the North West Coastal Highway, Coronation Beach is a favourite spot for windsurfing and surfing. Coronation Beach is renowned as one of the finest windsurfing locations in the world and hosts many windsurfing competitions, attracting many international visitors each year. The beach offers barbecue and toilet facilities and also camping at a fee.

Scenic drives through fields of spring time wildflowers and picturesque farmland makes Chapman Valley a popular destination for self drive adventure. Located north east of Geraldton, Chapman Valley is a prime spot for wildflower fans, with bright pink, blue and white everlastings colouring the landscape during the season. The area between Nanson and Yuna is where you'll find some of the best wildflower shows. The scenic flat-topped Moresby Ranges dominate the landscape south west of Chapman Valley, where you'll also find a number of station grazing properties. The area is rich in farming history - look out for colonial buildings like the two stone churches in Nanson. Stop in and visit the Chapman Valley Historical Museum (open Wednesdays 9am to 1pm and Sundays 1pm to 4pm), or pack a picnic and simply enjoy the wide open spaces. You can drive to the Chapman Valley area in about five hours from Perth or start your exploration within 15 minutes from Geraldton.

For a moving tribute to the sailors who lost their lives on HMAS Sydney II during World War II visit the HMAS Sydney II Memorial in Geraldton. With the long awaited discovery of the HMAS Sydney II on the sea bed off the coast of Shark Bay, a visit to the memorial is even more poignant. You can learn more about this important chapter in Australia's history at the Wall of Remembrance which bears the names of the 645 men who lost their lives. The centre-piece is a dome on seven pillars representing the seven states and territories of Australia. The dome is made up of silver gulls that form a canopy. Fittingly, a bronze figure of a woman waiting for the return of her loved-one, stands at the memorial. The memorial precinct is located at Mount Scott in Geraldton. The Geraldton Volunteer Tour Guides run a tour of the memorial daily at 10:30am, donations welcome. To obtain a copy of the Attractions of Geraldton or the latest Visitor Guide, please drop into the Geraldton Visitor Centre. Geraldton is a five hour drive or one hour flight north of Perth.

With tales of murderous mutiny, the Batavia Shipwreck off the coast of Geraldton is one of Western Australia's best known historic dive sites. The ship lies in four to six metres of clear Indian Ocean making it an excellent dive spot for people of all diving abilities. You will see the outline of the hull which is still fully equipped with cannons and anchors in a stark reminder of the gruesome tale which has now become part of Australian maritime folklore. A dive tour to the site tells the fascinating history of this Dutch ship which was wrecked on Morning Reef in the Abrolhos Islands in 1629. Dozens drowned while the survivors including 125 men, women and children were then murdered by a mutinous merchant. Dive and charter tours can be arranged from Perth to the Abrolhos Islands, flights can be arranged from the Geraldton Visitor Centre for fly over, half or full day flights.

The Geraldton Regional Art Gallery is the single largest dedicated art gallery in the Mid-West region and is one of only three 'A' class venues in regional Western Australia. As such it employs professionally trained staff and provides the highest standard of environmental control and security. To be accessible to all members of the community the gallery provides wheelchair access toilet and a lift. The Gallery aims to meet the artistic and cultural needs of residents from Geraldton, Greenough and Mid-West, as well as visitors from Australia and overseas. Annually the Gallery hosts some 25 international and national art exhibitions on rotation through its four gallery spaces. The Gallery also conducts education and outreach programmes, runs workshops and provides community services across the city and region.

St Francis Xavier Cathedral is a spectacular church in the centre of Geraldton that you will find as magnificent on the inside as it looks from the outside. Designed by the Monsignor John Hawes, it took 22 years to build. Take a guided tour to share in the fascinating history of the cathedral and appreciate the intricate details of the cathedral's architecture. Available on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10am, a minimal fee is charged for the tour. Whilst in the area, the charismatic town of Geraldton lends itself to a host of attractions and activities. Visit the HMAS Sydney II memorial which is dedicated to all the sailors who lost their lives when the ship sunk off the coast of Western Australia. Wander around the largest regional museum in the state, The Western Australian Museum, to learn about the history and heritage of the area. Sail around the spectacular archipelago of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands making sure you stop to snorkel on the reefs. Situated a four and a half hour drive north of Perth, St Francis Xavier Cathedral and Geraldton's other attractions will not disappoint.

The Cathedral of Holy Cross in Geraldton is renowned for having one of the largest areas of stained glass windows in Australia. Thanks to the elevated lot it stands on, the Anglican cathedral is an impressive sight from the road. Stroll around the grounds to examine the magnificent works of art on the windows. View the inside of the church and collect a pamphlet about its history and significance to the Anglican Diocese of North West Australia. The 1960s cathedral is known as the "Coventry of Australia" due to its unusual design and resemblance to Coventry Cathedral in England. Visit other magnificent churches in Geraldton including the well known Francis Xavier Cathedral. Continue up Cathedral Avenue to see The Hermitage, a charming 1800s house designed by the prominent architect and priest Monsignor John Hawes. The coastal town of Geraldton is an aquatic playground with countless attractions. Forming the gateway to the Abrohlos Islands, take the opportunity to snorkel amongst the vast array of marine life or join a fishing expedition. Geraldton is a four hour drive north of Perth.

Spectacular panoramic views of the picturesque coastal town of Geraldton can be seen from Separation Point Lookout. Watch windsurfers gliding the idyllic waters with the greatest of ease and boats heading out to the Abrolhos Islands. Surfers may also like to take advantage of the popular surf break at Separation Point. Alternatively, stroll along the beach or extend your walk to the iconic red and white candy stripes of Point Moore Lighthouse. Whilst not open to the public, you can enjoy the excellent views over Geraldton and the bay and discover the history of the 1878 lighthouse. Geraldton is a four hour drive north of Perth. If time permits, neighbouring Greenough is recognised as the best preserved nineteenth century town in Australia and well worth a visit.

Flat Rocks is a renowned first class surfing beach just south of Geraldton. Surfers will enjoy the consistently perfect surf conditions. For those who prefer to watch from the shore, the soft pristine beach offers the perfect vantage point. Check out the Surfing WA website for dates for State Round events which include Geraldton. Also held at Flat Rocks in September is the Annual Sunshine Surf Masters. Confident swimmers will also enjoy the challenging conditions and children will enjoy running away from the smaller waves as they break onto the beach. Fishing enthusiasts will be delighted by the excellent fishing opportunities from the beach. Stay for the magnificent Western Australian sunset behind the ocean's horizon. Flat Rocks is a 15 minute drive south of the Geraldton town centre and a five hour drive north west of Perth. Geraldton is a charming beachside town, offering an array of spectacular beaches and water activities to entertain all who visit.

Wandering the streets of Geraldton it will be hard to miss the aesthetically pleasing grand building that is known as the Bill Sewell Complex. A visit to the Geraldton Visitor Centre within the building will provide you with an interesting history of this magnificent historic building. Originally the site of a convict depot and later the Victoria District Hospital, the building played a significant role in the state's heritage. Saunter around the building to examine the intricate architecture and visualise life for the convicts and residents of Geraldton of the late 1800s. Follow the heritage trail around the buildings and grounds to learn more of the history of the building. Geraldton is a charming beachside city located a short four hour drive north of Perth.

Pages Beach is a beautiful sheltered beach suitable for children of all ages and just a short walk to Geraldton's town centre. Bask in the glorious West Australian sun and enjoy a refreshing dip in the calm ocean. Children will enjoy playing in the shaded playground and afterwards perhaps settle down under the trees for a picnic or barbecue lunch. If the wind is strong enough Pages Beach can be a good spot for windsurfing. Alternatively, stroll along the beach or extend your walk to check out the iconic red and white candy stripes of Point Moore Lighthouse. Whilst not open to the public, you can take advantage of the excellent views over Geraldton and the bay and learn about the history of the 1878 lighthouse. Geraldton is a four hour drive north of Perth. If time permits, neighbouring Greenough is recognised as the best preserved nineteenth century town in Australia and well worth a visit.

Tarcoola Beach is a picturesque beach in Geraldton that offers safe swimming for the whole family. Spend the day at the beach swimming in the calm turquoise water and relaxing on the soft white sandy beach. Children will enjoy building sandcastles on the shore. Stroll along the beach collecting shells and other fossils washed up on the sand. For the more energetic, continue the half hour walk into the town centre along the coastline, watching the skilful windsurfers tackling the famous Geraldton wind and darting across the water. Relax on the grassed area across the road from the beach to admire the stunning view of the ocean while enjoying a picnic lunch. Stay until the end of the day and marvel at the spectacular sunset across the horizon. Tarcoola Beach is a southern coastal suburb of Geraldton which is a five hour drive north of Perth. The charming town of Geraldton is an aquatic playground offering an array of first class beaches and a variety of water activities to compliment its location.

Sunset Beach is one of the most popular Geraldton beaches for windsurfing and kite surfing. Hire your equipment in town, and whilst you are there you can arrange to take a lesson with a former National Champion before taking on the waves and famous Geraldton wind on your own. While the wave conditions make this beach more suitable for the experienced rider, spectators can relax on the soft white sandy beach and admire the skill of the windsurfers out on the water. A profusion of colour from the sails skimming across the water will fill the ocean most days. Experienced surfers will also enjoy the challenging ride on the waves off the coast. Geraldton offers several other beaches suitable for the less experienced surfer. Enjoy a 30 minute walk along the beach back to the town centre to explore many other attractions on offer in this charming coastal town. Sunset Beach is in the northern suburbs of Geraldton which is a five hour drive north of Perth.

The Hermitage is a charming historical building in Geraldton that was one of many designed by prominent architect and priest Monsignor John Hawes. This building held special significance to Monsignor Hawes as it was designed as his retirement house. Whilst the house is currently not open to the public, the building itself is extremely photogenic from the outside. Collect a map of the Monsignor Hawes Heritage Trail from the Geraldton Visitors Centre and discover several fascinating historic buildings including the magnificent St Francis Xavier Cathedral, Nazareth House and the Cemetery Chapel of The Holy Spirit. Whilst on foot explore the charming town of Geraldton and conclude your walking tour with a refreshing dip in the Indian Ocean. Stay in Geraldton for a couple of days and take advantage of the coastal town's close proximity to the well preserved historical town of Greenough. Then hit the ocean and explore the spectacular archipelago of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands where snorkelling and fishing are highly recommended. Geraldton is situated just four hours drive north of Perth.

The Geraldton Port, located in the heart of the city of Geraldton, is one of the few ports where you are able to get a close look at all of the bustling activities that take place. The Geraldton Port is one of Australia's busiest regional ports and second largest for grain export. You will be able to see a variety of different size carriers arriving and departing daily. The port handles exports including iron ore, grain, fuel, metals, mineral sands, talc, garnet and fertilisers. Access into the shipping area is prohibited however you can view the port from Connell Road (Fisherman's Wharf) to the south or from the boat ramp / car park at the end of Francis Street to the north. Dates for cruise ship arrivals are available from the Geraldton Visitor Centre.

Discover the history of Geraldton's former gaol and whilst there check out the diverse range of local arts and crafts at the Old Geraldton Gaol Craft Centre. Take a guided tour of the buildings, discovering the prominent role the gaol played in the state's history. Originally a hiring depot for convicts and gaol, the building was constructed in 1858 and was in operation until the late 1980s. At the completion of your tour spend some time perusing the eclectic arts and crafts available for sale from many of the talented locals. The Old Gaol Craft Centre forms part of the Bill Sewell Complex, a magnificent group of buildings, one of which operated as the Victoria District Hospital for many years. To organise a tour of the Old Geraldton Gaol Craft Centre you will need to call the Geraldton Visitors Centre which is also located within the Bill Sewell Complex. Geraldton is a charming beachside town just a four hour drive north of Perth.

We go through the basics on land in a lot of detail followed by the safety briefing. There is the option to experience Flyboarding first with our Virtual Reality headset or you can dive right in and just go for it. We then get you fitted up and head for the water. By now you will already know what to expect as we head out, and after just a few minutes in the water it will be time to fly.... if you are on the Advanced flyer, you will get to try out a lot of extra manoeuvres and the ability to control the fly board by this point will start to feel more natural.

We have a large range of tubes to choose from. We have 2 x 3 person style tubes, a pizza, and can tow up to 4 single tubes at once! Let the games begin. This is one ride that sparks the most competitive of rivalries between friends!

Join this popular Abrolhos tour, starting with a breath taking scenic flight from Geraldton terminal. Fly over unique fishing settlements and three island groups, before landing at East Wallabi. Then, take a guided tour to the beautiful Turtle Bay. From there you will see spectacular coral reef while snorkeling through the clear blue water. You can also embark on a nature trail. Morning tea will be served during your 4 hour tour.

Departing Geraldton we overfly the city and then track north coastal to Port Gregory. Then onwards to the Pink Lake where you will enjoy the beautiful views as we conduct orbits of the Lake providing you with photo opportunities from above. We continue north along the cliff lined coast to the picturesque town of Kalbarri before returning direct to Geraldton. Duration of tour is 1.75 hours and departure time is flexible.

Departing Geraldton we fly over the city and head north to the stunning Pink Lake You will enjoy the spectacular view as you hear the pilot’s commentary and learn how the lake gets its vivid colour. The aircraft then leaves the mainland and tracks west to the famous Abrolhos Islands. These are located 55 km off the Geraldton coast, there are 122 islands in all. Unique fishing villages can be seen along with the Batavia shipwreck site and the fort that was built during the mutiny. We then track direct back to Geraldton with a flight time of approximately 2 hours.

This full day air and land tour of the Abrolhos Islands departs from Geraldton Airport at 9am daily and returns by 3.15pm. You will have the opportunity to go snorkeling over the stunning coral in Turtle Bay, take a guided nature walk around the Island, which includes bird watching and wallabi spotting and enjoy magnificent aerial views from your fixed-wing aircraft.

This scenic flight departs from Geraldton Airport daily at a time of your choosing and runs for one and a half hours. The beautiful aerial scenic flight includes overflying the fascinating islands in the Pelsaert Group, the Easter Group and the Wallabi Group.

Our Jet Skis are highly maintained and we provide you with all the latest safety equipment you need to ensure your time on the water is awesome. The Kawasaki STX 15F is a highly reactive PWC with superb handling in all conditions with max speeds of 110km/h. At Ultimate Watersports we provide only the best gear for our customers. The 15 minute session is enough to get a good feel for the water and the ski itself. Or go for an hour and really test it out! If you are a first timer and simply want to cross this off the bucket list, don't worry. We also provide you with a brief training and will supervise you to make sure you have the best experience possible.

We go through the basics on land in a lot of detail followed by the safety briefing. There is the option to experience the Jetpack first with our Virtual Reality headset or you can dive right in and just go for it. We then get you fitted up and head for the water. By now you will already know what to expect as we head out, and after just a few minutes in the water it will be time to fly.... if you are on the Advanced flyer, you will get to try out a lot of extra manoeuvres and the ability to control the jet pack by this point will start to feel more natural.

This scenic flight is 70-minutes in duration, meaning you are able to choose a time that is suitable for you. You will need to check in to the Geraldton Air Charter office 30-minutes prior to your flight time to meet your pilot and complete your briefing.

This picturesque flight departs on demand, flying over the remote  Abrolhos Islands. The islands are located 55km off the coast of Geraldton,  there are 122 islands in all and span 100 km of ocean. We fly over unique fishing villages, ship wreck sites, pearl farms and abundant sea life. On board commentary during your 90 minute flight includes fascinating history and information about how the islands are used today, there is an abundance for you to see and learn.

Experience our deluxe tour! Departs Geraldton  and in six and a half hours we cram in the best of the Midwest!  We track north, direct for the Murchison River joining the Z bend gorges, and the Kalbarri town site. We then fly along the spectacular coastal cliffs to the famous Pink Lake where you take in the beautiful colours as we orbit overhead. We then leave the mainland and head to the Abrolhos Islands overflying the Batavia shipwreck site before landing at East Wallabi Island.Here you can spend time swimming, snorkeling or going for a nature walk.

This tour combines the two most popular sites in our region!

Departing Geraldton,  we overfly the city and then track north coastal to Port Gregory. From there travel the short distance to the Pink Lake where you will enjoy the beautiful views, as the pilot conducts orbits of the lake.

We then leave the mainland and track west to the famous Abrolhos Islands. The full day experience allows time at East Wallabi for morning tea, beach walks, snorkeling, and optional BYO or catered lunch. You can decide whether you want to relax in the sun or go on a guided nature trail.

Explore the beautiful Champion bay, lighthouse and reefs by jet ski and snorkel. Your tour departing from Geraldton Town Beach is led by seasoned dive guides and includes use of full face Hyperion snorkeling masks and fins to give you the best experience. This jet ski and snorkeling excursion lasts approximately 3 hours including a safety briefing and operates in a small-group of no more than 7 guests.

We have a large range of boards to choose from. The wakeboard come in several styles and sizes to suit each rider individually. The kneeboard, the wakesurfer, or the skis as a double or single setup are all great quality gear. For those that want a challenge, try the wake foiler!

Join this popular Abrolhos tour, starting with a breath taking scenic flight from Geraldton terminal. Fly over unique fishing settlements and three island groups, before landing at East Wallabi. Then, take a guided tour to the beautiful Turtle Bay. From there you will see spectacular coral reef while snorkeling through the clear blue water. You can also embark on a nature trail. Morning tea will be served during your 6 hour tour.

This tour departs on demand, and you will need to allow  two and a half hours.

You will fly over the remote Abrolhos Islands located 55kms off the coast of Geraldton, plus you will  land on East Wallabi and enjoy the view from the jetty and morning or afternoon tea.

The detailed on board commentary will allow you to hear fascinating history and how the islands are used today.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Kayaking or the Hobie Eclipse is easy to learn and rewarding once you get the hang of it. Easily traverse large distances. Explore the full area of the Geraldton Foreshore from Town Beach. Find the colourful Coral patches among seal rocks and see the Sea lions! Lessons are included and you don't have to stick to your first choice. Change up the gear as much as you like! One price to get you access to 3 different products. We supervise at all times to make sure you are safe and can get back in ok.

Scenic aerial flight over the three groups of the Abrolhos Islands, landing at East Wallabi Island. You have a choice of a guided nature walk or snorkeling at Turtle Bay. Morning or afternoon tea and snorkeling gear is provided. However, we do recommend you to bring your own masks and snorkels as we don't make sure ours will fit everyone's face.

Your fixed-wing scenic flight takes you over Kalbarri, Pink Lake and the Abrolhos Islands, landing at East Wallabi. Enjoy a walk to the beach where morning tea is provided, snorkel over Turtle Bay and participate in a guided nature walk. Lunch is provided.

Begin a special day with a special someone on board, flying over the Abrolhos Islands before landing at East Wallabi Island. Walk down to Turtle Bay, enjoy morning tea, snorkelling on beautiful coral, a special private lunch, and a guided nature walk. To note: Private air tour is subject to availability.