Escape to the coastal metropolis of Geraldton
Western Australia is home to many exquisite places, one of which is Geraldton. It's just over 400 kilometres away from Perth, making it an ideal destination after a leisurely drive up the coast or a flight from further afield.
The coastal city is embraced by beautiful beaches, rolling hills and tranquil rivers, with a Mediterranean climate enhancing the area's natural beauty. This means mild winters and summers that are cooled by the regular seabreeze, giving visitors the chance to enjoy good weather all year round. The city also has reputation as a world leader in rock lobster fishery and is known to put on fantastic water sports events each year, including kitesurfing, fishing, diving and windsurfing.
If you're planning a holiday to Geraldton this year, whether on your own, with a loved one or alongside the whole family, here's a list of things to do in this stunning city.
Western Australian Museum - Geraldton
The Western Australian Museum - Geraldton overlooks the Indian Ocean and celebrates all things Mid West. The heritage of Western Australia's seas, land and people are all drawn upon here. Your holiday group can partake in a guided tour through the museum, learning more about the four early shipwrecks in the Mid Western region - the Batavia, Gilt Dragon, Zeewijk and Zuytdorp. You can also expand your knowledge on European exploration and settlement, and how this has developed the region's fishing, mining, science and agriculture industries.
The museum is open seven days a week and has permanent and semi-permanent displays to enjoy.
Greenough Wildlife and Bird Park
Located just 20 kilometres south of Geraldtown, Greenough Wildlife and Bird Park is a privately owned park that has been operating for 30 years, rescuing and rehabilitating animals. Some cuddly creatures stay for long periods of time, while others come and go once they've been rehabilitated.
Bring the little ones along for the chance to get up close and personal with dingoes, kangaroos, snakes and more. There are on-site barbecue facilities where you can cook up a feast and throw down a rug for a picnic in the park's beautiful surroundings.
"Western Australia is home to many exquisite places, one of which is Geraldton. It's just over 400 kilometres away from Perth, making it an ideal destination after a leisurely drive up the coast or a flight from further afield."
Geraldton Greenough Farmers' Market
The Geraldton Greenough Farmers' Market kicks off at Maitland Park Geraldtown every Saturday at 8:00 a.m., running until midday. The community-driven project provides community members with fresh local produce in a thriving environment.
While fresh fruit and vegetables are high on the agenda, so too are products such as cheese, olive oil, wine, honey, meat and fish. You can also enjoy freshly baked goods and plenty of treats you can eat while you peruse the stalls.
Beaches
For a fun, free and family-friendly Geraldton activity, you can't go past a day on the sand and in the water. Try Back Beach if you're interested in surfing, bodyboarding or kiteboarding, or hit Champion Beach for a classic Aussie experience with white sand and still waters. Take the kids along to Drummond Cove, where there are playgrounds and barbecue facilities for the whole family to enjoy.
Where to stay
Geraldton has plenty of holiday accommodation on offer, including Mantra Geraldton. Stay in a one, two, or three bedroom apartment, or treat yourself to a superior harbour or city view two bedroom option.
Located on Champion Bay's Batavia Coast Marina, the apartments boast express checkout, room service and leisure facilities such as a relaxing spa and heated pool, barbecue area and close vicinity to the beach.