Why visit Wave Rock?

It may be a less gigantic rock formation than Uluru / Ayers Rock, but Western Australia has its own famous stone structure that’s definitely worthwhile. Reaching up to an impressive 15 meters high and stretching over 110 meters long, Wave Rock is estimated to have formed 2,7 billion years ago. Over this time, the rock formation has been rounded by water erosion and weathering. As the water runs down the rock, it has undercut the base and created a rounded overhang. Besides its fascinating shape, rainfall over the winter months also causes minerals to dissolve, which gives the rock its iconic and beautiful ochre, red and grey-striped colours.

A small entrance fee of $12 per vehicle is expected to be paid at the parking area and can be paid in cash, with Visa or Mastercard. However, if you are camping at the Wave Rock Caravan Park, you will receive a free pass.

Other fascinating rock formations nearby

Walking distance from Wave Rock, you will find the lesser-known rock formation called Hippo’s Yawn. As its name indicates, the rock resembles an enormous yawning hippo. The Hippo’s Yawn Loop walk is about 1.7 km from the eastside of Wave Rock and takes you to the captivating rock and back. From Hippo’s Yawn, you can also cross the road to Lake Magic and follow the 3.6 km long boardwalk across this Salt Lake. Lastly, a 15-minute drive from Wave Rock you will find Mulka’s Cave, a cave with an interesting aboriginal history.

How to get to Wave Rock

Wave Rock is just a short 3 km drive from Hyden, a Wheatbelt town in the centre of South West WA. The rock is therefore located on one of the most direct routes between Perth and Esperance. Breaking up the total distance of a 7,5-hour drive of just over 700 km, Wave Rock lies nearly halfway: 335 km from Perth and 370 km from Esperance.

Best time to visit Wave Rock

The most picturesque time of year to visit Wave Rock or any place in South West WA is in the midst of the wildflower season: Spring. Don’t worry if you can’t visit during this time of year, Wave Rock is worth visiting year-round! The cooler winter months make for fewer flies, which some can find more pleasant, whereas the warmer summer months definitely bring more sunshine and heat, so make sure to stay hydrated.

How to get your perfect surfing Wave Rock Instagram picture

Make sure to go on a weekday, as weekends are generally much busier with tours and travelling families whereas weekdays are usually a bit more peaceful. That said, it’s also worth checking whether you’re not going amidst any school holiday. In any case, to avoid the crowds and have the best shot at admiring the rock formation for yourself, we advise going either early morning or late afternoon. PLUS, natural light is the best light, so catching this wave by sunrise or sunset will make your digital memories even more special!

Simply include Wave Rock to your bucket list with a tour!