11) Port Hedland, Australia

Cape Keraudren Nature Reserve

Cape Keraudren Nature Reserve is situated on a picturesque beach with pristine white sands that stretch as far as the eye can see. The clear blue water is a spectacular welcome to the start of the famous Eighty Mile Beach. This well travelled stretch of beach is well placed on the tourist trail between Port Hedland and Broome.

Take one of several walk trails through the nature reserve to see a diversity of native flora and fauna that has made its home along this pristine coastline. Relax on the beach while the children collect shells as souvenirs to take home.

There is easy access for beach fishing, and even a few mud crabs around to tempt your taste buds. Camp overnight and catch the magnificent sunset over the ocean. Gaze at hundreds of stars lighting up the night sky in this secluded location.

With so much on offer in the reserve, allow at least one full day to explore the remote surroundings. Cape Keraudren Nature Reserve is a one and a half hour drive northeast of Port Hedland.

Dalgety House Museum

Dalgety House Museum provides an opportunity to gain an insight into the impact white settlement had on the Kariyarra Aboriginal people of the Pilbara. Explore the extensive collection of artefacts, photographs and documentation presented in the enlightening displays throughout the house. Listen to recordings of personal memoirs and view the informative and thought provoking audio visual displays.

Allow time to examine the architecture of this turn of the century house, both inside and out. The dwelling was initially built for employees of long standing international company Dalgety and Co. The English merchants set up a post in the town of Port Hedland in 1903 and Dalgety House remained the manager's residence until 1974.

Dalgety House Museum is located in the town centre of Port Hedland. The port town offers an array of attractions for visitors including historical buildings, a heritage trail and several museums. Port Hedland is a two hour flight from Perth. 

Don Rhodes Mining Museum

See the fully restored locomotives from the BHP Iron Ore railway at the Don Rhodes Mining Museum in Port Hedland. Be in awe of the ingenuity of the road, rail and transport technology which facilitated the significant industrial growth in the East Pilbara during the last century.

The Don Rhodes Mining and Transport Museum is an open air museum which pays tribute to the pastoral, railway, manganese and iron ore industries. Examine the historically significant displays as you read informative signs providing in depth information about the uses and development of the items on display.

Sit and rest on the provided seating under shade to reflect on the giant machines that opened up the Pilbara. Pack a picnic or make use of the barbeque facilities provided.

Port Hedland is a two or three day drive north of Perth, and is a popular stop off on the way to Broome. 

Tidal Flats

Be amazed by the huge tides of the North West. The resulting Tidal Flats left at Port Hedland as the tide goes out make a truly spectacular vista. Don't forget your camera to photograph these unique patterns etched into the sand.

The tides, which move quickly from half a metre to eight meters, create great fishing spots in the massive waterholes left behind. Tide times can be obtained from the Port Hedland Visitor Centre.

Take some time to wander along the beach at low tide and collect a few beautiful shell souvenirs. Collectors will be impressed with the diversity and abundance of shells.

If you are in Port Hedland between May and October, be sure to check out the stunning 'Staircase to the Moon' phenomenon during the full moon dates. As the moonlight reflects off the tidal flats on the rising moon, the resulting light show is a fine example of some of nature's best artwork.

Port Hedland is a well serviced regional town situated on the far north coast between Perth and Broome. It is well serviced by flights from Perth, or is a 20 hour drive.