Cervantes is a beautiful coastal town on Western Australia’s Coral Coast and is all about the sea. While this small town is famous for its Western Rock Lobsters, it’s also the entrance to some of the region’s most amazing natural wonders. One of the top experiences for visitors is the Lobster Shack Pinnacles tours, a culinary and scenic adventure. Close to Nambung National Park and the Pinnacles Desert, a visit to Cervantes means you get to enjoy not only seafood but also landscapes of history and beauty.
The Lobster Shack: From Ocean to Plate
The Lobster Shack is more than a restaurant. It’s a journey into the heart of Western Australia’s lobster industry. When you arrive, you’ll see the fishing boats coming in from the sea with Western Rock Lobsters. As part of the tour, you’ll go behind the scenes of the lobster processing factory. Here, you’ll see the whole process from the moment the lobsters are caught to when they’re exported around the world. Learning about the sustainable fishing practices of the region adds an educational element to the experience so the lobsters are protected for the future and the marine ecosystem.
After this Pinnacles tour enjoy a delicious meal at the Lobster Shack’s beachside restaurant where the menu features the freshest catch of the day. You can have your lobster grilled or steamed with chips and salad or try other seafood options like prawns, calamari and mussels. If you don’t eat seafood the restaurant caters for all tastes.
Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park
One of the best things about Cervantes is its proximity to Nambung National Park and the Pinnacles Desert. This is a must see for anyone who loves natural wonders. The Pinnacles Desert has thousands of limestone pillars rising out of the desert floor. These limestone formations are ancient, millions of years old and were formed from the remains of sea shells in an ancient landscape that was once underwater. Some pillars are as tall as 3.5 metres and are amazing to see.
The Pinnacles Desert is an experience like no other. You can walk or drive through the ancient limestone formations with marked trails to guide you through the desert. The landscape changes throughout the day as the light shifts and at sunset it’s especially magical as the golden light creates contrasts between the sky, sand and stone making it a favourite for photographers and nature lovers.
If you’re interested in the geology of the area the visitor centre at Nambung National Park has information on the formation of the limestone formations and the natural history of the region. It’s a great place to start your visit before you head out to see the thousands of limestone pillars.
More Natural Wonders: Lake Thetis and Stromatolites
While the Lobster Shack and Pinnacles Desert are the big ticket items, the Cervantes region has more to offer if you’re willing to venture out. Just a short drive from town is Lake Thetis, home to some of the oldest living things on the planet: the Lake Thetis Stromatolites. These living fossils, created by cyanobacteria, are like the ones that existed on Earth billions of years ago. A journey through time for any natural history buff.
Walking around Lake Thetis, you can see the stromatolites and enjoy the tranquillity of the lake itself. The lake has a walking trail around it with great views and informative signs about the stromatolites and their place in Earth’s history.
Yanchep Lavender Farm and Yanchep National Park
If you’re heading south from Cervantes, another great stop is Yanchep National Park and the lovely Yanchep Lavender Farm. The lavender fields are a visual feast, and you can also try lavender ice cream and tea. Yanchep National Park has lots of natural beauty and outdoor activities, including walking trails, limestone caves and wildlife spotting.
Do It All: A Coral Coast Road Trip
Cervantes and Nambung National Park is the perfect starting point for your Coral Coast Highway road trip which takes in many of the natural wonders of the Turquoise Coast. From Rottnest Island to Kings Park in Perth the drive has many opportunities to see natural landscapes and ancient geological formations.
Many tour operators offer hotel transfers from Perth, so you can take a day trip or overnight stay in Cervantes and the Pinnacles Desert. But if you’re driving the Coral Coast Highway, it is a journey of dramatic coastlines, quaint towns, and beautiful beaches. You can even extend your trip to Swan Valley, which is famous for its vineyards and scenery.
To really get the outback experience stay overnight in one of the coastal towns and unwind after a day of sightseeing and try more of the local food. Seafood, nature or history – the Coral Coast has it all.
FAQ
When should I visit the Lobster Shack and the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park?
September to April is the best time to visit. Sunrise or sunset is the best time to visit the Pinnacles Desert for photography and to avoid the crowds. Mid-afternoon is the best time to eat at the Lobster Shack so you can enjoy your seafood while taking in the views.
Do I need to be fit to walk the Pinnacles Desert?
No, the Pinnacles Desert is suitable for most people with a moderate level of fitness. The walking trails are easy to follow, and you can also drive through the limestone formations if you prefer. But if you plan to visit Lake Thetis or the trails at Yanchep National Park, you’ll need to do more walking.
Can I visit the Lobster Shack and Yanchep National Park in one day?
Yes, you can, especially if you have a car. Start at Yanchep Lavender Farm, visit Yanchep National Park, and then head north to Cervantes for lunch at the Lobster Shack. Make sure you have enough time to visit the Pinnacles Desert in the afternoon or at sunset.
Are there vegetarian or non-seafood options at the Lobster Shack?
Yes, the Lobster Shack has non-seafood options for visitors who don’t eat seafood. Salads, chips and other non-seafood snacks are available to cater for different dietary needs.
Can I combine the Lobster Shack tour with Rottnest Island or Kings Park?
Yes, you can plan a multi day trip that includes Cervantes, Rottnest Island and Kings Park. They are all within driving distance and perfect for those who want to experience the best of Western Australia’s natural and cultural attractions.