Western Australia · Attraction
The Pinnacles Desert
Ancient limestone pillars, vast desert
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Rising from a stark yellow sandplain within Nambung National Park, the Pinnacles are thousands of jagged limestone columns formed over millennia from marine sediments. Some reach up to four metres high, creating an otherworldly landscape that draws visitors from across Australia and the world. A 4.5-kilometre loop drive and a 1.6-kilometre walking trail let you explore the field at your own pace.
The Pinnacles were shaped over tens of thousands of years as wind stripped away the surrounding sand and rain dissolved the softer limestone, leaving the harder calcified columns standing. Dawn and dusk bathe the pillars in warm gold tones, making them a favourite subject for photographers.
The park entry fee covers access to the drive circuit, the walking trail, and the nearby Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre. No booking is required for self-drive visits, though tour coaches from Perth operate daily if you prefer a guided experience.
Wildflowers carpet the surrounding scrubland between August and October, adding vivid colour to an already dramatic setting. The park also connects to Hangover Bay and Lake Thetis, making it easy to combine several attractions in a single day trip.
Scenic views
Lookouts near The Pinnacles Desert.
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