NATIONAL PARKS

The Pilbara region has a wealth of natural beauty.

Karijini National Park, to the east of Port Hedland, has incredible natural gorges, waterfalls and pools. It is perfect for hiking and walking.

To the south of Port Hedland is the Millstream Chichester National Park, which features the arid  Chichester Ranges to the North and the subtropical Millstream to the south. The park has the Fortescue River flowing through creating freshwater pools that are perfect for swimming.

Further east is Karlamilyi National Park, Western Australia’s largest national park at over 1.2 million hectares. While the area is rugged and remote, there are areas of stunning scenic beauty including ancient gorges, rock holes and water pools. This trip is a must for photographers.

NATURE RESERVES

North of Port Hedland are the Cape Keraudren and Eighty Mile Beach nature reserves.

Both areas have long, white, sandy beaches where you can fish, hunt for shells, and enjoy incredible sunsets. The Shire of East Pilbara maintains campsites with basic toilets for visitors at Cape Keraudren. At Eighty Mile Beach there is a fully equipped caravan park.

GUIDED TOURS

Port Hedland Local History and Town Tour

This fascinating 45 minute bus tour, led by a noted local historian, takes in the town’s history, from indigenous history to explorers to early settlers, right up to the present day.

BHP Billiton Iron Ore Tour

This tour of BHP’s Nelson Point facility will leave you breathless at the sheer size of this operation. Learn about all the different parts that go into making up this massive industry.

More information about these tours can be found at www.visitporthedland.com.

STAIRCASE TO THE MOON

The Staircase to the Moon is a breathtaking natural phenomenon caused when the rising moon reflects off the sandbanks at low tide.

You can find approximated dates and times for the phenomenon in the local telephone book. They are also displayed monthly at the Port Hedland Visitors Centre. One of the best vantage points to the see the Staircase is next to the Cooke Point Caravan Park in Port Hedland where a viewing deck has been set up.

WILDLIFE

The Pilbara is home to many thousands of different species of wildlife. Off the coast you can see whales, dolphins, sharks and an abundance of other marine life.

During summer, Port Hedland’s beaches are home to flatback sea turtles during their nesting and hatching season. Guided tours through the nesting areas are available. Details from Care for Hedland.

Port Hedland’s birdlife is extensive. Seabirds, birds of prey and Australian native bush birds abound providing exciting opportunities for bird watchers and photographers.

FANCY A SWIM?

Travel a few minutes east from Port Hedland and you’ll find a true local treasure, Pretty Pool. If you’re looking to beat the heat, Pretty Pool offers a safe and relaxing place for a dip. There is a beautiful picnic area nearby with toilets and and BBQ facilities.