Port Hedland, WA
Port Hedland, a large coastal town, is located approximately 1,660 kilometres from Perth (approximately a 2 hour flight). Port Hedland is renowned for its Indigenous culture and history, long trains, big ships, salt piles and red dust. Often referred to as ‘The Friendliest town in the Pilbara’, the local people make Port Hedland what it is today.
Port Hedland has lovely warm weather. Located right on the coast, Port Hedland is a great spot for fishing, whale watching, crabbing and watching turtles nesting.
Port Hedland’s Indigenous and early European history is rich and interesting. The town boasts a Western Australian Tourism Award winning Cultural and Heritage Trail that clearly maps out the early times of European settlement, encompassing Indigenous and European interaction during that time.
The Visitor Centre runs Iron Ore Tours (Monday to Friday), and Town Tours (Monday, Wednesday & Friday). A notice board at the Visitor’s Centre tells you when ships are due in to port, and they can be viewed from the end of the main street. There is also information about train movements, and Redbank Bridge is an ideal spot to watch the machinery’s incredible horsepower. You can climb the observation tower at the Visitor Centre (conditions apply) and get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding area.
Discover Port Hedland’s rich and interesting history on the Cultural and Heritage Trail, visit Dalgety House Museum, head to the Shipping Observation lookout, visit the Royal Flying Doctor Base. See the Pioneer and Pearling cemetery or catch the breathtaking views from Koombana Lookout. Head off and explore the tidal creeks at Pretty Pool and Six Mile Creek or enjoy the seasonal display of wildflowers.
A range of accommodation exists in Port Hedland, including backpackers, caravan parks, budget and more luxurious accommodation. There are many ways to indulge your tastebuds, from pub meals, pizza and bistro meals to fine dining restaurants.
Nearest Airport: Port Hedland International Airport
Where to stay?
Experiences
- Farm/Station
Popular Activities
- Beach
- Fishing
About Port Hedland
- Locality: Urban locality
- Port Hedland Postcode: 6721
- State: Western Australia
- Region: Exmouth & the Coral Coast
- Latitude: -20.31423
- Longitude: 118.57795
- Elevation: 8m
- Population: 4180
- Median Income: $85904
- Area (Sq/km): 67.372
- Timezone: Australia/Perth
Accommodation In Port Hedland
Discover some of the accommodation in and around Port Hedland