Kalbarri, with its dramatic coastal cliffs and expansive national parks, is transformed each year by an explosion of color during its wildflower season. From July to October, the region becomes a haven for nature lovers as more than 800 species of wildflowers bloom, many of which are unique to Western Australia. The vibrant hues and variety of plants make this an unforgettable experience for both seasoned botanists and casual visitors. Here’s your guide to what you can expect to see and when to visit Kalbarri to witness its spectacular wildflower displays.
The Best Time to Visit for Wildflowers
Kalbarri’s wildflower season typically begins in July and runs through October, with the peak occurring in late August and September. During this time, the national park and surrounding areas are covered in blankets of colorful wildflowers, creating a striking contrast against the rugged outback landscape.
The exact timing of the wildflower bloom can vary depending on the rainfall, but the season generally starts in the northern areas of the park and gradually spreads southward as the warmer weather moves in. For the most vibrant displays, plan your visit in August or September when the wildflowers are at their peak.
What we love: The diverse range of wildflowers that bloom throughout the season, offering something new to discover with each visit.
Good to know: Visiting in late August or September will give you the best chance to see the largest variety of wildflowers in full bloom.
Image © Greg Snell
Top Wildflowers to Spot in Kalbarri
Kalbarri’s wildflower season offers an extraordinary variety of species, many of which are endemic to the region. Here are some of the standout flowers you can expect to see:
1. Everlastings: Fields of Color
The most iconic wildflowers in Kalbarri are the everlastings, which create carpets of pink, white, and yellow across the landscape. These delicate daisy-like flowers are particularly abundant in the open plains of Kalbarri National Park, making for breathtaking views as far as the eye can see. The everlastings are often one of the first flowers to bloom, typically from July to September.
What we love: The stunning fields of everlastings that create a sea of color, perfect for photography and nature walks.
Good to know: Everlastings are often found in large groups, creating beautiful carpets of blooms in the open areas of the park.
Location: Kalbarri National Park, WA 6536
2. Kalbarri Spider Flower: Unique and Vibrant
One of Kalbarri’s most distinctive wildflowers is the Kalbarri spider flower, a vibrant red and yellow flower with long, spidery petals that make it stand out from the surrounding flora. This striking plant is endemic to the region and blooms from August to October, adding a splash of color to the rocky outcrops and bushland.
What we love: The unique shape and vibrant colors of the Kalbarri spider flower make it a standout species during the wildflower season.
Good to know: Keep an eye out for the spider flower along the walking trails and rocky areas of the park.
Location: Kalbarri National Park, WA 6536
3. Murchison Rose: A Desert Beauty
The Murchison rose is a hardy desert shrub that produces delicate pink or mauve flowers, typically blooming from August to September. Found in the drier regions of Kalbarri, the Murchison rose is a testament to the resilience of wildflowers in the harsh Australian outback. Its soft, pastel-colored blooms contrast beautifully with the rugged, red terrain of the region.
What we love: The soft, delicate flowers of the Murchison rose add a subtle beauty to the wildflower displays in Kalbarri.
Good to know: The Murchison rose thrives in the drier, sandy soils, making it common in the more arid parts of the park.
Location: Kalbarri National Park and surrounding areas, WA 6536
4. Wreath Flower: A Rare and Beautiful Find
The wreath flower is one of the rarest and most sought-after wildflowers in Kalbarri. This unusual plant forms circular wreath-like rings of pink, white, and green flowers that grow flat on the ground. The wreath flower typically blooms from August to October and is most commonly found in sandy, disturbed soils, often along roadsides or tracks.
What we love: The unique shape and pattern of the wreath flower make it a prized sight for wildflower enthusiasts.
Good to know: The wreath flower can be elusive, so keep an eye out for it along dirt tracks and less-traveled areas of the park.
Location: Roadside verges and disturbed soils in Kalbarri, WA 6536
Image © Tourism Western Australia
5. Flannel Flower: Soft and Delicate
The flannel flower is a soft, white flower with a woolly texture that gives it a unique, almost velvety appearance. These flowers bloom from July to September and can be found in open woodlands and along walking trails throughout Kalbarri. Their delicate, star-shaped blooms add a gentle touch to the more rugged wildflower displays.
What we love: The soft, tactile texture of the flannel flower, which adds a whimsical charm to the wildflower season.
Good to know: Flannel flowers thrive in well-drained, sandy soils and are often found along trails or in open, sunny areas.
Location: Kalbarri National Park, WA 6536
6. Banksias and Grevilleas: Native Shrubs in Bloom
Kalbarri is also home to various species of banksias and grevilleas, which add splashes of red, orange, and yellow to the landscape. These native shrubs produce large, nectar-filled flowers that attract a wide range of birds and insects, making them a vital part of the region’s ecosystem. Banksias and grevilleas typically bloom from August to October, offering vibrant colors against the backdrop of Kalbarri’s bushland.
What we love: The striking colors and large flower heads of banksias and grevilleas, which are not only beautiful but also attract local wildlife.
Good to know: Banksias and grevilleas are common along the walking trails, so bring your camera and binoculars to capture both the flowers and the birds they attract.
Location: Kalbarri National Park and surrounding bushland, WA 6536
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Where to See Wildflowers in Kalbarri
Kalbarri National Park is one of the best places to experience the wildflower season in all its glory. The park’s diverse range of landscapes, from coastal cliffs to inland plains, provides a perfect habitat for a wide variety of wildflower species. Here are some of the best spots to see wildflowers:
1. Nature’s Window and The Loop
This popular area of Kalbarri National Park is not only famous for its stunning views but also for its impressive wildflower displays. The walking trails around Nature’s Window and The Loop are lined with colorful blooms, making it an ideal spot for both hiking and wildflower photography.
2. Z Bend Lookout
The trail leading to Z Bend lookout is another excellent location for wildflower spotting. As you make your way through the bushland, you’ll see a variety of everlastings, banksias, and other wildflower species, all framed by the stunning views of the Murchison River Gorge.
3. Coastal Cliffs
Kalbarri’s coastal cliffs, including areas around Red Bluff, Natural Bridge, and Island Rock, are also home to a range of wildflowers, particularly in the sandy soils and rocky outcrops. The cliffs offer the added bonus of breathtaking ocean views, making them a perfect spot for a scenic wildflower walk.
Final Thoughts
Kalbarri’s wildflower season is a magical time to visit, as the region bursts into color with a stunning array of native blooms. Whether you’re hiking through Kalbarri National Park, driving along the coastal cliffs, or simply wandering through town, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of Western Australia’s wildflower displays. To get the most out of your visit, plan your trip between August and September when the flowers are at their peak and be prepared to explore the many walking trails and scenic lookouts that make Kalbarri a wildflower paradise.