Green Head, WA
TRAVELLERS OFTEN MISS this small, seaside town, hidden between Jurien Bay and Port Denison. Which is a shame, because Green Head offers pristine beaches, great fishing spots and amazing marine wildlife encounters – here visitors can go snorkelling with Australian sea lions.
Off the coast is Fisherman’s Island, one of the WA’s main breeding colonies for sea lions. The 2.5-hour drive from Perth to Green Head is worth it just to go on the half-day charter and spend a couple of hours playing underwater games with these inquisitive creatures.
Activities
Swimming with sea lions: Charters take visitors to the waters around Fisherman’s Island between September and May. You can hire snorkelling gear and wetsuits, or bring your own. Bookings are essential. See sealioncharters.biz.
Fishing: Beach fishing and swimming are best at sheltered and secluded Dynamite Bay and South Bay. You can also try your luck at catching a meal at several offshore islands and reefs.
Wildflowers: Nearby Alexander Morrison and Lesueur national parks are famous for their native wildflowers. Late July to late October is the best time to see them in bloom.
Kayaking/Snorkelling: Dynamite Bay, sheltered from strong winds by low lying cliffs, has still turquoise waters that are perfect for a swim, snorkel or paddle.
The essentials
Location: 252km north of Perth along the Indian Ocean Drive.
Accommodation: Green Head has one caravan park, several holiday homes and B&Bs.
Food/drink: The town has cafes for coffees and snacks, a service station that sells food, but no major shopping centres.
Points of interest: The nearby Stockyard Gully Caves were used to shelter animals when the old stock route between Perth and Geraldton
More info: www.coorow.wa.gov.au,
Green Head
