The Thirsty Point Trail runs between Thirsty Point and Hansen Lookout and offers mostly coastal and ocean views. The trail is 1.88 kilometres each way, with informative signs along the route. It is considered easy and is pet-friendly. There are access points at both ends and in the middle. Wildflowers can be seen along the trail between August and October. To plan your walk, you can choose an access point at either end or in the middle.
Coastal Trails and Water Activities
Thirsty Point is a popular spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing, and offers a lookout over the Cervantes Islands. By contrast, the Aragon Street Foreshore is Cervantes’ main beach and is a good place to stop. Together, they offer two distinct coastal experiences: water sports and island views at Thirsty Point, and a beach break at the Foreshore.
Cervantes’ coast has white beaches, islands and reefs where you can swim, snorkel, dive, go boating and fish. The options range from activities in the water to boating and fishing. Which ones you prioritise depends on how you want to spend your time on the coast.
Lake Thetis and the Pinnacles
Lake Thetis, a saline coastal lake on the outskirts of town, is nearby. It is one of only a few places in the world with living marine stromatolites. The microorganisms that form these stromatolites resemble the earliest life forms on Earth. An easy, 1.5-kilometre loop trail goes around the lake. As trail conditions can change, check them before your visit.
Also nearby, the 4.5-kilometre Pinnacles Desert Lookout and Drive takes you through limestone formations. The two natural attractions offer different highlights: Lake Thetis is known for its saline waters and living stromatolites, while the Pinnacles drive showcases limestone formations.
Culture and Local Cuisine
The Cervantes Art Trail is an ongoing project by the Cervantes Cultural Committee. It aims to highlight interesting features around Cervantes as you walk, cycle or drive. The project therefore invites you to explore the area in several ways, not just on foot.
You can also add a culinary highlight to your plans: in Cervantes, you can try fresh local crayfish.
Getting There and Finding Your Way
Cervantes is accessible by car or bus. The Scenic Indian Ocean Drive leads to town from Perth’s northern suburbs, and day tours also depart regularly from Perth. If you’re planning a day tour, check departures for your travel date. This lets you consider both travelling by your own transport and joining an organised day tour.
You can drive to the Thirsty Point Trail from Cervantes. The Pinnacles Visitor Centre is at 14–16 Cadiz Street, inside the Cervantes Post Office.
Discover more destinations: Glen Forrest, Frankland River, Pickering Brook, Donnybrook, Herron, Manjimup, Hillarys, Clackline
Return to the main travel overview: Western Australia.
