Running 124km along a ridge between the lighthouses at Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, the Cape to Cape Track is one of Western Australia’s most beautiful hikes.
You can tackle the track in several ways, ranging from a rustic tent-and-backpack self-guided experience to a luxurious, fully-guided walk with Walk Into Luxury. Most tours run through spring and autumn; the milder temperatures and clear weather make it the perfect time to be out on track.
Are you thinking about heading out separate of a tour? Here’s everything you need to know for your five-day adventure.
Day 1
Cape Naturaliste to Injidup (24km)
The historic Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is the starting point of the Cape to Cape Track, where panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and Geographe Bay coastline abound. A good portion of this section of the track is paved, so people of all abilities can enjoy meandering through nature. You’ll come to Sugarloaf Rock, one of the South West’s most iconic granite rock structures, just over three kilometres into the walk. Get a few snaps before pushing on towards Injidup, where you can reward your efforts with a refreshing dip in the famous Indijup Natural Spa.
Stay:
Smith’s Beach Resort
Opposite the rolling waves of the Smith’s Beach break, Smith’s Beach Resort is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day on the track. The modern houses, villas, and apartments have plenty of space for all your belongings, and some even have ocean views.
Seashells Yallingup
Adjacent to the heritage Caves Hotel – just 500m from the Cape to Cape Track and Yallingup Beach – are the one and two-bedroom apartments of Seashells Yallingup. They’re fully self-contained and look out over lush gardens.
Mount Duckworth Campsite
North of Yallingup Beach, this basic bush camp has toilets and a rainwater tank to refill your water bottles.
Day 2
Injidup to Gracetown (23km)
Follow the ridge south from Injidup, weaving your way through limestone and granite outcrops before reaching the golden stretch of Moses Rock beach. Watch surfers conquering the reef break and explore the tidal pools on shore before setting out for Wilyabrup Beach. There, marvel at the famed limestone sea cliffs and the thundering surf at Gallows and Guillotine just a bit further up the beach. End the day on the calm bay of Gracetown, wiggling your toes in the sand and enjoying a paddle in the shallows.
Stay:
Gracetown Caravan Park
Camping at the Gracetown Caravan Park starts at $15 per person per night. For a little more comfort, opt to stay in one of the park’s cabins or self-contained chalets. Conveniently, the park offers complimentary pickup and drop-off for all Cape to Cape hikers.
Day 3
Gracetown to Redgate (29km)
Climb your way through undulating dunes and follow along winding creek lines on the longest section of the track. Starting in Gracetown, you’ll dip into the bays of Gnoocardup, Kilcarnup, and Horseshoe Bay, stopping at a hidden waterfall along the way. Call into the tiny surfing town of Prevelly, then continue your walk along the limestone ridge and through to the shores of Redgate Beach.
Stay:
Margaret’s Beach Resort
Just below the Cape to Cape track in Gnarabup, Margaret’s Beach Resort’s four-star self-contained apartments are a comfortable stay after a long day of walking. Ease those aching muscles with a dip in the swimming pool and good sauna sesh.
Margaret’s Forest
A little closer to town is Margaret’s Forest. These self-contained apartments are the perfect combination of secluded and convenient at the intersection of town and the surrounding forest.
Day 4
Redgate Beach to Hamelin Bay (28km)
Easily one of the most picturesque sections of the Cape to Cape, the 28km from Redgate Beach to Hamelin Bay is a fitting penultimate day on the track.
Head out along the coastal cliffs near Bob’s Hollow, pausing for a water break with the jaw-dropping vistas from Conto’s car park as your backdrop. Trade the sea views for tree views as you head towards the magical Boranup Forest, walking beneath the shade of the canopies for a few kilometres before, once again, returning to the coastal heath. Finish the day with seven kilometres of sand walking through to Hamelin Bay. If you’re lucky, the resident stingray population will be in, cruising the shallows for their next feed.
Stay:
Hamelin Bay Holiday Park
Find a campsite under the shade of the peppermint trees at Hamelin Bay Holiday Park and set up for what is to be your final night on the track. Unpowered sites start from $26 per night (for two people), and cabins from $90 per night.
Day 5
Hamelin Bay to Cape Leeuwin (23km)
The last leg of the track takes you through granite headlands and beach sand to the southernmost point of the cape. It’s a bit wild, and it’s definitely rugged; you might even see a whale or two passing by. Once you’ve walked through Cosy Corner and the shape of the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse appears in the distance, it’s time to celebrate – that’s 123km of one of Australia’s greatest walks, done and dusted!
Stay:
Flinders Bay Caravan Park
Kick your hiking boots off and unwind overnight at Flinders Bay Caravan Park. The beachfront campsites and cabins are quiet, secluded, and the perfect place to recuperate after a long week on the trail.
