While the small WA coastal town of Lancelin is a famous destination for lovers of high-octane watersports, there’s also plenty here to excite those seeking a more genteel visit … stunning scenery, excellent fishing, and wonderful wildflowers for starters.
Located about 130 kilometres north of Perth just off the Indian Ocean Drive, the fishing town has a permanent population of around 700 which nearly quadruples in peak periods.
That means there are a good range of services with several good caravan parks in the town itself, and many more in the wider Shire of Gingin area. The rest area at the Moore River Bridge Rest Area, a little over 30 minutes south of Lancelin, allows 14-hour free camping.
The magnificent Lancelin coastline. PIC: Tourism WA / kymillman.com
Attractions include the incredible wildflowers in spring, the pristine beaches, the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, and – to the east – there are massive white sand dunes towering high above.
Adventure seekers can try their hand at sand boarding down the slopes, but most grey nomads might prefer to simply sit on top of one of the dunes and enjoy the panoramic views over the town, the bay, and out to sea.
Giant sand dunes near Lancelin. PIC: Tourism WA
Located just off the coast is Edwards Island which does not allow visitors, and Lancelin Island which does, and which is home to a wide variety of seabirds, the Lancelin Island skink, and sometimes to visiting sea lions.
This island can be visited by boat, and a walkway allows explorers to stroll along and see the wildlife. Now, for the more adrenaline-pumping adventurous aspect to this incredible spot. Lancelin has been building up quite a reputation among kitesurfers and windsurfers, and surfers also love it … with Back Beach a favourite spot.
And then there’s the snorkelling and scuba diving.
There is a string of 14 shipwrecks along the coast between Lancelin and Yanchep for experienced divers to look at. These include the Vergulde Draeck or Gilt Dragon, which sank in 1656 after running into rocks close to shore.
Most grey nomads will be happy to hear though they don’t have to get wet to enjoy the ‘water sports’ here. The fishing is great off the jetty and off the beach, with whiting, tailor and samson key targets.
Lancelin’s location – and beauty – make it a perfect place for grey nomads to stop over on their way south to Perth and beyond, or north to the Pinnacles and up into the Pilbara and the Kimberley.
Very few regret doing so.
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