Last Updated on 21 July 2024 by Ariana Svenson
Here we give you a wrap up of the best things to do in Jurien Bay. This is definitely a place to try your first skydive or swim with sea lions. It also makes a great base to visit the Pinnacles in Nambung National Park or see the wildflowers of Lesueur National Park. Jurien Bay in winter also makes a wonderful get away from Perth – even if you can’t swim at the beach.
Jurien Bay is the beginning of the Coral Coast Region of Western Australia. As the name suggests, is about beautiful beaches, turquoise waters and the incredible marine life that lives in this region. Learn all about the beautiful coastal town of Jurien Bay with our detailed information, updated after our last visit.
If you drive directly from Perth to Jurien Bay it is 219 km which should take you around 2.5 hours meaning that it can be combined with a visit to the Pinnacles and Lancelin Sand Dunes for a long day trip from Perth. However, we think it is a weekend getaway from Perth or a destination in your own right. Of course, it’s also a great place to stretch the legs if you are on a longer trip north towards Exmouth or even Broome. We covered it in The Ultimate Perth to Kalbarri Road Trip Itinerary.
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Who are the Traditional Owners of Jurien Bay
It is important for us to recognize the traditional owners of Jurien Bay. The Yued people were the first peoples to inhabit the Yued region, which includes Jurien Bay. The Yued region also includes the towns of Leeman, Cervantes, Two Rocks, and more. Within the region there are a number of historical sites that are important to the Yued people. This includes stone artifacts found in caves around Jurien Bay. Also, the area between Green Head and Jurien Bay is home to the largest number of midden deposits in Southwest Australia.
What is the History of Jurien Bay?
We can trace back that Jurien Bay was known to the European settlers as early as the 17th century. However, it was two french explorers that were the first to actually map out the bay in 1803.
Officially, Jurien Bay was settled in the 1850’s. Fishing was a major industry and the Jurien Bay Jetty was constructed. Now days, there are many Jurien Bay activities and it has become somewhat of a holiday destination.
Best Time to Visit Jurien Bay
As Jurien Bay attractions are primarily of the ocean type – so the best weather in Jurien Bay is during the warmer months. Though, I have to say it can get pretty hot and busy in the heat of summer (think December through January and February. In that way the shoulder months of October – November and March – May are the “best time to visit Jurien Bay” in my opinion. Not only is the weather (and water) decently warm, the wind isn’t as strong. And, as long as you avoid long weekends and Easter, the town shouldn’t be too packed.
We loved our mid-winter weekend getaway from Perth. The winter temperatures in Jurien around 20 degrees Celsius meaning it is quite pleasant ,as long as it is not raining. It was too cold for the water activities though. During late winter and early spring the many species of wildflowers bloom in the nearby Lesueur National Park. In our opinion, they are real highlights of things to do in Jurien Bay.
The Jurien Bay Marine Park
The Jurien Bay Marine Park includes the waters between Wedge Island and Green Head and extends about 10km off shore, protecting typical marine habitats of the Central West Coast of Western Australia.
The Parks’ waters support a diverse array of plans and animals. Offshore there is an extensive reef system that runs parallel to the shore. Extensive seagrass meadows cover much of the park and are vital nursery habitats for juvenile rock lobsters and other marine animals.
A chain of approximately 40 island nature reserves lie off the Turquoise coast between Lancelin and Dongara;
These islands were originally coastal sand dune deposits that hardened to form an extensive limestone ridge. Rising sea levels during the last 6500 years drowned much of this ridge line, leaving behind a series of island. Wind and wave action continue to erode them into the unique shapes we see today.
They are important breeding grounds for the Australian sea lion and for sea birds.
The Australian Sea lion only live along the Western Australian and South Australian coastal and are one of the rarest sea lion species in the world. You can see the sea lions on the island in the Marine Park, relaxing and basking in the sun after several days at sea searching for food.
The islands within the park are an important breeding ground for over 700 sea lions – approximately 150 pups are born every 18 months.
Why Visit Jurien Bay?
A beautiful sleepy fishing village on a gorgeous coast, just two hours north of Perth… when people ask me “Why should I visit Jurien Bay?” I respond quite simply – why wouldn’t you? It’s an easy drive with some great stops along the way (who could say No to lunch at the Lobster shack? Not me!!!). Whatever the weather in Jurien Bay, there is something to do! Obviously summer is the time to hit the snorkel trail or laze on the beach, but the Jurien Bay Wildflowers are spectacular making a winter getaway also very worthwhile. Our last visit to Jurien was in the heart of winter (August to be exact) and we had an absolute ball… a bit of vigorous ocean wind, fresh air and small town hospitality and we felt completely re-invigorated after our weekend getaway.
Free Things to do in Jurien Bay
As many of the main attractions in Jurien Bay are focused on the Marine Park, and fishing, swimming and snorkeling, there are lots of free things to do in Jurien Bay.
Visit the Turquoise Coast Visitor Centre
In this day and age, we all turn to the internet as the font of all wisdom, when in fact nothing beats talking to a local. We thought that the staff at the Turquoise Coast Visitor Centre were great and gave out lots of maps and useful tips. Our only issue was that they weren’t open on a Saturday afternoon when we arrived in Jurien.
Experience the Jurien Bay Wildflowers
If you want to visit Jurien Bay in winter, then plan your visit around wildflower season. You can learn heaps more by checking out our comprehensive post Best wildflowers in Western Australia.
From August onwards, there should be flowers blooming along the roadsides most of the way from Perth to Jurien. Once in Jurien Bay, make sure you make a side visit out to Lesueur National Park.
It is 27 km from Jurien, some of which is gravel. However, once you turn onto Cockleshell Gully road, and enter the park it is then sealed. The one-way 18.5km loop Bitumen Scenic Drive is a great. This is a great way for people of all ages and fitness to experience the majesty of the Kwongan – from the comfort of their own car.
There are pullover bays where you can stop to take photos – and great signs explaining what you are looking at.
Should you want to get out and do very easy walk then stop at Drummonds which is roughly half way around the loop. The 400 metre return Botanical Path is easy for all ages and leads from the Drummond carpark to the Iain Wilson Lookout. Interesting signs along the way explain the biology and traditional uses of some of the 900 plant species in the park, meaning this is a great place to orient yourself to the wildflowers of Jurien Bay.
Enjoy the Jurien Bay Jetty
There are two jetties in Jurien Bay – the old one half way up the beach (which makes a great spot for photos) and the new one, which gracefully turns out into the ocean. I have no idea why this jetty is curved – but it is very unique!
The entire jetty area is a great place to spend a day with the family. For example, there are BBQ facilities and picnic tables and portable toilets. There is a coffee van if you get there early in the morning and need a pick-me-up!
Jurien Bay Playground
One of the reasons you will be able to stay all day is the truly impressive nautical themed playground on the foreshore near the Jetty. Simply – wow! Very well designed, this is a huge playground with lots of marine bits and pieces, tree stumps and boats. Now really popular playground additions (in lots of places) are pieces of old tires attached by a chain to use for digging and pouring.
For older kids, next door is a youth precinct and skate park. So, the older ones can do their thing while the younger ones run themselves ragged on the great playground!
Fishing in Jurien Bay
Whether you’re a beginner fisher or a seasoned angler, Jurien Bay offers a range of fishing opportunities to suit everyone’s preferences. While the Jurien Bay jetty may not be the only fishing spot, it serves as an excellent starting point for those looking to cast their lines. Joining the other fishermen on the jetty can be a great way to learn from experienced locals who are often happy to share their tips and tricks. Rumor has it that catching Mulloway, Snapper, and Samson Fish from the jetty is quite common.
For a different fishing experience, head over to the Jurien Bay harbour, where you can try your luck at catching Flathead, Trevally, Herring, and other species. This spot offers a different atmosphere and potential catches compared to the jetty. Exploring the waters of Jurien Bay can be an exciting and rewarding activity for fishing enthusiasts.
However, fishing in Jurien Bay doesn’t stop at the jetty and harbour. The ocean itself is teeming with a diverse range of fish species waiting to be caught. From dhufish and pink snapper to Spanish mackerel, dolphin fish, and yellowfin tuna, the waters surrounding Jurien Bay provide ample opportunities for a thrilling fishing experience. If you prefer the convenience of a boat, you’ll be pleased to know that Jurien Bay has convenient launching ramps at the harbour marina, making boat fishing a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
Fishing & Rock Lobster tours in Jurien Bay
If you’re looking for a unique adventure, consider joining Jurien Bay Oceanic Experience’s rock lobster tour. This exciting trip allows passengers to try their hand at catching up to eight lobsters while learning from an expert skipper. To top it off, the skipper will even share valuable tips on how to best cook these delicious crustaceans. For those who want to spend more time on the water, local fisherman Pete from Oceanic offers a full-day expedition catering to all skill levels, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a memorable fishing experience.
In Jurien Bay, fishing is more than just a hobby – it’s an activity that brings people together and allows them to connect with nature. Whether you choose to fish from the jetty, explore the harbour, or venture out into the open ocean, Jurien Bay promises a wide range of fishing opportunities that will leave you with unforgettable memories. So grab your fishing gear and get ready to cast your line in the abundant waters of Jurien Bay.
Ride the Turquoise Coast Bike Trail
The 14 kilometre Turquoise Way Trail stretches from Jurien Bay Harbour, just north of the main township to the Hill River in the south.
It is fully bitumen sealed, making for good easy riding, with regular pull over bays, and has markers so you can keep track of how far you’ve come.
Snorkel the Snorkel Trail
The Jurien Bay Snorkel trail is a great way to experience the underwater wonders of Jurien Bay and interpretive plinths on the seafloor help you to explore the old jetty pylons and the artificial reef constructed with concrete reef balls. There are 79 in total – and you can see one on the shore if you are interested!
The trail starts and finishes at the old jetty and it is a 120 meter circuit that varies from 2.5 m to 6 meters in depth. The artificial reef around the jetty at Jurien Bay mimics the natural reefs in the park that are home to a great diversity of marine life.
The diversity in the Jurien Bay Marine Park is largely attributed to the Leeuwin current. It is a warm water current that flows down from the tropical areas bringing a large number of tropical species with it. These species colonize the limestone reefs and seagrass beds around Jurien Bay. This creates an extraordinary combination of southern temperate species and tropical northern species living in the same area.
Tips for Snorkeling Safely
- Stay close to shore and snorkel within your experience and ability.
- Always swim with a buddy, and stay close together.
- Be careful in your use of your gear, and check it before you enter the water.
Be aware of your surroundings and the weather conditions. - Consider wearing a wetsuit as cold water temperatures can quickly sap body strength. Checkout our suggestions for kids wetsuits and thermal rashies if you are swimming with kids.
Sea Spray Art by Kiera
In the process of moving when we visited, we really want to visit the Sea Art Gallery which gets some pretty rave reviews. Because of the way the art is created you can see the gallery in light and darkness, revealing different aspects of the art.
The gallery opens after sunset to highlight the mesmerizing photo-luminescent properties of the display. The friendly artist shows you around and when the lights go off, the paintings come alive in beautiful glow! Entry to the gallery is free, but donations are appreciated.
More Things to do in Jurien Bay
Visit the Sea Lions of Jurien Bay
Jurien Bay Marine Park is a fantastic place to get up close and personal to Sea Lions. Sea Lion tours Jurien Bay and swimming with Sea Lions Jurien Bay are two popular tour activities. Most Sea Lion tours Jurien Bay are offered year round, weather depending. What a great activity for the entire family!
There are two great companies you can use to visit the Jurien Bay Sea Lions.
Day Trip to Boullanger Island
Located just 1 km offshore, Boullanger Island is a snorkeling paradise. The western side of the island is a sea grass meadow which is a great place for families with kids to do some snorkeling.
Be sure to check in at the Turquoise Coast Vistor Centre for more information about how to access the island and to inquire if any restrictions are in place for visiting.
Jurien Bay Skydive
Skydiving Jurien Bay is an extremely popular activity in Western Australia. Jurien Bay makes a particularly great place to go skydiving in the winter. During the winter months, there is often no wind combined with cooler air temperatures that make parachutes fly nicely. In the summer, Jurien Bay often encounters a strong sea breeze. During the summer months sky dives are scheduled as early as possible so as to complete the jumps before the winds kick up.
If you are keen to check out skydiving in Jurien Bay, check out Sky Dive Jurien Bay.
Visit Some Vintage Motorbikes
Visit collector, Ian Boyds home, turned gallery for his collection of vintage motorbikes. Once a builder and lobster fisherman, Ian wanted to find some way to occupy his time in his retirement years. This is where his passion for vintage motorbikes grew.
For enthusiasts who know they bikes, Ian has a stunning collection of Vincent Motorbikes that includes one of every model with the exception of the elusive White Shadow. Only 15 White Shadows were ever made. However, don’t despair, because he does have 2 Black Shadows. Only 78 Black Shadows were ever made and these are worshipped by motorbike enthusiasts.
If you fancy a visit call Ian directly at 0407 993 347. Entry fee is $10 AUD.
Explore Sandy Cape
Once a secret place known to locals, Sandy Cape has grown in popularity. It has become one of the best things to do in Jurien Bay. This idyllic location is great for photography and taking in the breathe-taking scenery. This white sand beach area offers a great place to swim, snorkel, fish, or sand board.
Sandy Cape is located 10km north of Jurien Bay down a 7km unsealed road.
North Head World War 2 Radar Installation
If you are keen to do a 4WD outing, then follow the tracks from the Sandy Cape Information Bay to find the ruins of a WW 2 radar installation. It consists of two well preserved shelters and other foundations. Please treat these facilities with respect as they are of important military heritage.
Green Head
Green Head is located 20 minutes outside of Jurien Bay. It forms the northern boundary of the Jurien Bay Marine Park. One of the best ways to explore Green Head, and one of the top Jurien Bay attractions, is the Three Bays Walkway.
At 2.5km from end to end, the walkway starts at Green head, meanders to Hunters Bay, then Dynamite Bay, and onto Anchorage Bay. While along the walk make sure to keep on the look for Western Australian wildflowers, eagles, osprey, and sea lions, whales and dolphins in the bay. Also make sure you keep an eye out for the ancient middens between Dynamite Bay and Anchorage Bay.
At Dynamite Bay there are facilities including toilets and BBQ areas.
Dog Friendly Jurien Bay
Jurien Bay and Cervantes both have off-leash areas for dogs on beaches at the southern and northern ends of town. However, dogs have to be on a leash in the main town centre. In Jurien Bay the off-leash areas start to the south of Shingle Avenue and to the north of the Boat Harbour Groyne. In Cervantes, the off leash areas are north of the jetty from the end of Catalonia Street and also the south of the end of Barcelona Street.
Sandy Cape Recreational Park allows dogs but they must be on a leash at all times within the park.
Pet Friendly Accommodation Jurien Bay
We were delighted to find a gorgeous dog friendly accommodation Jurien Bay during our last winter getaway to this cute little town on Airbnb. With a big backyard and flexible arrangements it was the perfect place for us and our dog.
Other places with pet friendly accommodation Jurien Bay:
Jurien Bay Tourist Park
Situated in the heart of Jurien Bay right across the street from the beach. They allow dogs in the camping section but excludes chalets and peak periods.
Check on Booking.com for more information
Check on Expedia.com for more information
Check on Agoda.com for more information
The Professionals Jurien Bay
The Professionals Jurien Bay is a real estate agency manages a number of homes that allow dogs including the Chateau, Sandcastle, The Shack, and Frangipani Cottage.
Pet Friendly Accommodation Cervantes
RAC Cervantes Holiday Park
This caravan park allows dogs for campers but not in the accommodation.
Check on Booking.com for more information for RAC Cervantes Holiday Park
Check on Expedia.com for more information for RAC Cervantes Holiday Park
Check on Agoda.com for more information for RAC Cervantes Holiday Park
The Pinnacles Visitor Centre
Give this friendly visitor centre a call 9652 7700. They have a number of dog friendly properties on the books.
Visiting the National Parks and The Pinnacles with a Dog
If you wish to visit the Pinnacles with a dog, there is a department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions depot in the light industrial area in Cervantes (Bradley Loop) which has self service kennels. You should bring your own padlock, water and food for your pet. Pets can be left in the kennel area during 8am – 4pm weekdays. More information from DBCA Jurien Bay office 08 9688 6000.
Places Around Jurien Bay to Visit
You need a National Parks pass to visit Jurien Bay! The combined parks passes make much better value for money, considering that you are going to visit more than a couple parks on your way. If you are a local like we are, an annual National Parks Pass is a truly brilliant investment. I find it encourages us to go places. If you are a visitor to Western Australia (lucky you) then I would highly recommend buying a Holiday Park Pass. You can read more information about the Holiday Park Pass here.
WA Holiday Park Pass
Unlimited entry to all parks for up to 4 (four) weeks.5 Day Holiday Park Pass
Unlimited entry to all parks for up to 5 (five) days.2 Week Holiday Park pass
Unlimited entry to all parks for up to 2 (two) weeks.
The Pinnacles in Nambung National Park
The Pinnacles is located in Nambung National Park and is one of the most visually interesting places to visit in all of Western Australia. This interesting place gets it name from the thousands rugged column-shaped formations. These formations range anywhere from 1 to 3.5 meters in height.
The 4km unsealed Pinnacles Loop offers you the chance to drive or walk and explore these stunning natural formations. Should you choose to walk the entire loop, it takes about an hour. There is also pullouts along the way for a shorter circuit. And, the lookout is wheelchair friendly and offers a great view out over the landscape.
Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre
If you are visiting the Pinnacle Desert we suggest making a stop at the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Center as you enter the park. Learn about the Pinnacles and other features of the desert. This is a great place to stop, especially if it is raining, as there is so much to see and learn inside.
The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Also note, there is an entry fee of $15 per vehicle to enter the Pinnacles. That is unless you have the National Parks Pass as mentioned above.
We listed the Pinnacles and Nambung National Par in our Best Places to Visit in Western Australia – A Bucket List.
The Lobster Shack in Cervantes for Lunch
If you want to indulge in some fresh Western Australian Rock Lobsters make sure you stop into the Lobster Shack in Cervantes. Literally this is as fresh as they come as they are caught in the ocean and processed from the dock out back. There is indoor and outdoor seating with views out over the ocean. They have plenty of beer and wine on tap, a great children’s menu, and burgers for those non-seafood lovers.
They are only open from 11am to 3pm, 7 days a week so make sure to plan your trip accordingly.
Lobster Shack Factory Tours
While you are there make sure to inquire about the Lobster Shack factory tours. Get an interesting first-hand look into the live lobster processing plant at the Lobster Shack. The tour gives you an insight into one of Western Australia’s biggest export industries. Learn how the lobster comes from the ocean, to the processing plant, and out to exporters world-wide.
Price for tours is $15 for adults and $7.50 for kids.
Play at the Cervantes Playground – Catalonia Park
If you kiddos didn’t get their fix on the small Lobster Shack playground, head 200 meters down the road to the Cervantes Playground and Catalonia Park. This small park has a nice covered playground and access to the beach.
Lake Thetis Thrombolites
The Lake Thethis Thrombolites on Western Australia’s Coral Coast are one Jurien Bay attraction not to be missed. It is one of only five sites in Western Australia were the thrombolites exist.
What is a thrombolite you ask? Thrombolites are formed as layers of sediment are trapped and build up on top of each other. Thrombolites need light to form so are only seen in shallow areas where the light can pass through the water. Lake Thetis thrombolites are believed to be over 3,000 years old and are very closely related stromatolites (the oldest living fossil in the world). The best place to view the thrombolites is on the south western edge of the lake.
Stockyard Gully Caves
These limestone formation caves lead you to an underground river system. While they are interesting to view, enter at your own risk. Please take the time to read the sign at the entrance to the caves for more information on the dangers.
It is worth knowing that a 4wd vehicle is needed to access the caves car-park. Should you be keen on exploring Stockyard Gully Caves the easiest way to access them is from the south. Take Coorow-Green Head Road in the south and turn onto Cockleshell Gully Road.
Jurien Bay in Winter
These are some of the things we did on our last Jurien Bay winter getaway.
- Long walks on the beach with the wind in our hair.
- Walked the Thetis Lake Loop Trail to view the thrombolites.
- Checked out the Pinnacles Discovery Centre when it was raining.
- Enjoyed lunch at the Lobster Shack as mentioned above.
- Viewed the magnificent Western Australian wildflowers blooming all around Jurien Bay in the winter and surrounding areas.
Jurien Bay from Perth
Just how far is Jurien Bay from Perth? Well, a drive from Perth to Jurien Bay would take you about 217 kilometres and more than a two-hour drive. While it’s possible to do this in one direct road trip fairly efficiently, there are so many amazing attractions scattered along the Indian Ocean Drive! We strongly recommend dropping into one of the visitors centres along the way to get the very detailed tourism brochures!
If you happen to be visiting Perth and need some recommendations, you are in luck. Check out our entire section on Perth.
Perth to Jurien Bay Lancelin Attractions
There are a few beach communities worth stopping at on a Perth to Jurien Bay road trip. These communities include Seabird and Ledge Point as you make your way up to Lancelin. Surrounded by natural wonders, this beach village offers diverse adventure activities like sandboarding, kayaking, and kitesurfing. Explore our guide on things to do in Lancelin for more details.
The Verdict – Best things to do in Jurien Bay
Located a short drive from Perth Jurien Bay Western Australia is really a fabulous destination for adventure lovers, and those who like to get out and explore. If you’re looking for Jurien Bay activities, we are sure you will have found something really good on this list!
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