Highlights
- Most Western Point of mainland Australia
- Thunderbay blowholes
- 200 metre high Zuytdorp Cliffs
The landscape at Steep Point is in stark contrast with the red sand dune landscapes found on the neighbouring Peron Peninsula. Here limestone dominates, forming impressive 200 metre high cliffs or sweeping white sand dunes and secluded beaches. Rainfall is very low and the dry and windswept coast looks barren and foreboding but, somewhat surprisingly, harbours amazing plant and animal life. This is not to mention the prolific marine life of the adjacent seas which are a major drawcard for fishers and divers.
The greater area surrounding Steep Point, here referred to as Edel Land, has been purchased by the state government for conservation purposes and will soon become a national park. The proposed park will protect the spectacular coastline including the Zuytdorp Cliffs, False Entrance and Crayfish Bay.
In 1697, the Dutch seafarer Willem de Vlamingh named the most westerly point of the Australian mainland "Steyle Hock", or Steep Point in English, when he anchored off the limestone cliffs near the southern tip of Dirk Hartog Island. Today, Steep Point is a popular 'get away from it all' destination, particularly for fishers chasing some of the best shore-based game fishing in Australia.
Zuytdorp Cliffs
The Zuytdorp Cliffs are some of Australia's least known yet most spectacular cliffs, forming an almost unbroken arc between Steep Point and the township of Kalbarri, a distance of some 200 kilometres. The cliffs, rising ominously out of the Indian Ocean to heights of up to 200 metres, were named after the Dutch ship, the Zuytdorp, wrecked against the base of the cliffs in 1712.
It is a powerful experience standing atop of these cliffs with the surf pounding hundreds of metres below you. From Steep Point you can easily visit the cliffs by 4WD along the most westerly edge of Edel Land. You can drive for more than 20 kilometres along the edge of these cliffs, watching for whales or just admiring the sweeping views.
Shelter Bay / South Passage
In stark contrast to the dramatic cliff-lined western side of Edel Land, the leeward side features crescent shaped beaches and harbours protected camping spots. Shelter Bay, a few kilometres inside the passage from Steep Point is probably the most popular location. Access to the water is one of the main attractions here and boats can be launched directly from the beach providing access to South Passage for fishing and diving.
The winter months from May to October are the most popular months as the lighter winds and calmer conditions are more amenable to camping and boating. Unfortunately, due to the area's popularity during these months it can be difficult to get a camping spot so book your permit early.
False Entrance
A number of bays, including False Entrance, provide the only break in the seemingly endless cliffs between Kalbarri and Steep Point.
False Entrance was appropriately named because early mariners mistakenly thought it was the entrance to Shark Bay between Dirk Hartog Island and Steep Point.
Again the feature of this site is the fishing and coastal scenery. Anglers fish from the exposed point for mackerel and other pelagic species, in much the same way as at Steep Point. The very jagged limestone here makes it harder on the feet and the larger swell means fishing can be more difficult and dangerous. During summer in particular, anglers flock to this remote location.
Blowholes
Along the coastal cliffs erosion holes in the limestone come to life when the swell starts to run. 'Blowholes', as they are commonly known, are formed by years of pounding surf, which has eroded its way up through the cliffs to the surface. When large waves hit the coast the water surges up through these holes and is forced out, sometimes with enormous power, to form a plume of seawater and mist that can be tens of metres high.
You can visit the blowholes at several locations in Shark Bay including False Entrance, and north of Thunder Bay on Edel Land and north of Surf Point on Dirk Hartog Island.
Directions & Access
Access is via high clearance four wheel drive vehicles ONLY and national park permits apply. Take all the necessary safety equipment and please ensure you follow the regulations on your permit. You do need your own pressure pump as there is not one available in the park. There is also nowhere to purchase supplies so please remember to bring enough, fuel, food and water for the duration of your stay.
Edel Land Map & Information Leaflet
Guided tours - Four Wheel drive tours are available BOOK HERE
By sea - boat tours are available BOOK HERE
By air - scenic flights are available BOOK HERE
Camping
Shelter Bay - Beautiful beach camping with views of Dirk Hartog Island. Very popular from April to October when the weather is calmer.
Steep Point - The most westerly point of Australia, making this camping spot popular year round, also a very popular fishing spot.
False Entrance - Popular with the nearby blowholes, this camp site attracts people year round to fish, camp and enjoy the open stretch of white sandy beach.
Booking for campsites must be made online at https://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/park-stay
Tamala
Tamala Station is located in the southern part of Edel Land/Steep Point - camping is closed to the public.
Image credits: Toursim Western Australia, Will Wardle Photography, Intrepid Drone Photography, Nick Thake Photography, Elise Hassey Photography, Australias Coral Coast