From the city of Perth, you can embark on a spectacular journey to see the universe. Travel to the Pinnacles Desert on one of the most thrilling stargazing tours in Perth.

The Pinnacles Desert, located in Nambung National Park, is named for the thousands of towering limestone pillars that jut out of the sand. This isolated region is free of light pollution and perfect for seeing the stars.

On your stargazing excursion, you can also experience sandboarding, discover indigenous wildlife, and dine at an Australian tavern.

Here's all you need to know about stargazing tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Perth.

What are the best stargazing tours in Perth?

The best tours for stargazing in Perth are located in the Pinnacles Desert, two hours outside of the city. Along the way to seeing the spectacular night sky, you can opt to include an exciting itinerary, from sandboarding to a picnic dinner in the desert.

Stargazing tour with sandboarding

On the journey from Perth to the Pinnacles Desert, you can stop at Lancelin. Here, you can walk along the beach and go sandboarding down the white dunes, which are the largest in Western Australia.

Head to Nilgen Lookout for views of wildflowers and the Indian Ocean. Further along, the Turquoise Coast, stop by Hangover Bay to enjoy a guided walk that reveals how Aboriginal people used indigenous plants for food and medicine.

Arrive at Pinnacles Desert just in time to watch the sun go down with a glass of wine and a barbecue.

With no lights, turn your eyes to the sky and see the countless stars that emerge. You can use astronomy binoculars and a telescope to see the stars close up, including the moon and the rings of Saturn.

You can even attach your smartphone to the telescope to take photos of the incredible sights.

Small group stargazing tour

If you’d like a more personal experience, you can opt to join a small group stargazing tour in Perth.

On this tour, you will have the opportunity to stop at the Yanchep National Park, a reserve filled with Australian wildlife, including the nation’s iconic kangaroos and koalas.

Along the way, you can also stop at Lancelin sand dunes, Nilgen Lookout and Hangover Bay. At the beach, keep your eyes peeled for sights of bottlenose dolphins and sea lions.

At Pinnacles Desert, enjoy a picnic dinner with a glass of wine as the sun sets. When the stars come out, view them through a telescope while listening to traditional stories and gaining an understanding of Aboriginal Dreamtime.

Stargazing tour with tavern dinner

On an alternative stargazing tour in Perth that includes a tavern dinner, you can first stop at Yanchep National Park for an opportunity to see some wildlife.

You will then head to the small fishing town of Cervantes which is considered the gateway to Nambung National Park. Here, you can stop at a traditional Western Australian tavern. Savor a taste of not just the food, but the way of life in an “Aussie pub.”

Full from a delicious dinner, journey to the Pinnacles Desert for a night of stargazing. From the observation deck, gain an expansive view of the numerous stars and constellations.

Return to Perth before midnight having experienced a fulfilling excursion into Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.

How much do stargazing tours in Perth cost?

A stargazing tour in Perth that includes sandboarding can start at approximately US$120 per person. This includes transportation and entry fees into the national parks.

A small group stargazing tour can also start at approximately US$120 per person for a maximum group of 15.

A stargazing tour that includes dinner can start at approximately US$130 per person. This includes the cost of food, transport, and entry tickets.

What is included?

All stargazing tours in Perth will include transportation to and from the relevant destinations. Some may also include pickup and drop-off options at your hotel or a preferred pickup point.

A guide will accompany you throughout your tour and will be able to provide insightful information about the various attractions while ensuring your journey runs smoothly.

Most stargazing tours include the entry fees to the national parks you will visit, including Nambung National Park where the Pinnacles Desert is located.

Also included in many stargazing tours are dinner and food options, whether it’s dining at a tavern, a barbecue or a picnic in the desert. Some also include a glass of wine that is locally produced.

Most stargazing tours are equipped with telescopes and binoculars that you will be able to use in order to get a closer view of the sprawling universe.

Where does it start?

Stargazing tours in Perth typically start at a predetermined meeting point in the city. Alternatively, depending on your tour option, you can choose to be picked up and dropped off at another point.

Some tours offer pickup and drop-off options at hotels as well for ease of travel.

How long does it last?

A stargazing tour in Perth can last approximately 8 to 9 hours long. The total travel time is around 4 hours to reach the Pinnacles Desert and return to the city. You may return to Perth just before midnight.

Most tours leave in the afternoon between 12 PM and 3 PM. You’ll make the most of this journey with stops at some of the best attractions along the Turquoise Coast before an evening of stargazing.

When is the best time for a stargazing tour in Perth?

The best time for a stargazing tour in Perth is, of course, the nighttime! However, in order to arrive in Pinnacles Desert for the evening sunset and stargazing, you’ll have to make the journey during the day, starting in the afternoon.

This gives you the opportunity to visit other attractions along the way.

Is it safe?

Stargazing tours are safe, but can involve a high level of activity that include visits to other attractions. It’s recommended that attendees have a moderately good level of physical fitness in order to participate.

These tours are not recommended for people with heart problems or serious medical conditions. Some stargazing tours are also not wheelchair accessible.

Children are allowed to join stargazing tours, but must be accompanied by an adult. Check with your relevant tour if there are age restrictions.

What happens in case of bad weather?

In the case of bad weather, some tours may be shortened in duration. Good stargazing cannot always be guaranteed, but you will still be able to enjoy the beauty of the desert. Timings may also change depending on the season.

Travel tips

Wear comfortable shoes and pack a bottle of water, as you will be doing a lot of walking at the various viewpoints and national parks.
Bring along a good camera to capture the incredible sunset, stars and views along the way. Bring your smartphone to attach to a telescope and take images.
Temperatures can drop in the evening, so be sure to pack a jacket and some extra layers of clothing in case.
Eat lunch before your tour, as it’s typically not included.

Stargazing Tours in Perth