Lancelin: Find hotels for the coast and dunes

Lancelin combines a reef-protected bay with large sand dunes just behind the beaches. For travellers considering a hotel stay on the coast, the town offers a range of activities: water sports in the bay, sandboarding on the dunes and motorised adventures in the off-road area. Nature conservation and cultural history are also worth considering as you decide which aspects of the destination suit your travel plans.

Water sports in Lancelin Bay

Reef-protected Lancelin Bay offers good conditions for surfing, snorkelling and diving. Check local sea conditions before taking part in these activities. Surfing and kitesurfing schools in Lancelin teach people of all ages and skill levels. There are also surf schools at Lancelin’s Back Beach for those who want to learn to surf; check whether the schools are available before your trip.

Surfboards and kiteboards are available to rent in Lancelin for experienced sportspeople who do not need instruction. As rental options may change, check availability in advance. Fourteen shipwrecks off the coast of Lancelin form a dive route for experienced scuba divers. Check conditions and access locally. Dolphins forage in the bay’s shallow waters on most days.

Sand dunes and off-road activities

Large sand dunes lie just behind Lancelin’s beaches. Sandboarding is possible there, and boards can be rented in town; check rental options before your trip. The Lancelin Off Road Vehicle Area can be used by two-, three- or four-wheeled motorcycles, beach buggies and four-wheel-drive vehicles. ATV or UTV quad tours explore Lancelin’s extensive off-road area and last 90 minutes. If you are interested in a tour, check its availability before your trip.

Islands, nature and cultural history

The Turquoise Coast nature reserves form a chain of around 40 islands, islets and rocks in the area around Lancelin, between Lancelin and Dongara. They stretch from Lancelin Island and Edwards Island to the Beagle Islands group. The island chain forms a distinct natural area alongside Lancelin’s beach and water-sports offerings. Check access and visitor restrictions before planning a visit.

Lancelin Island is an important breeding island for seabirds, including Roseate Terns and Crested Terns; it is also a southern breeding site for the Common Noddy. Shallow water separates the island from the town. The sand dunes also have special cultural and historical significance: they are considered exceptional by the Shire of Gingin and the State of Western Australia. The Lancelin Ocean Classic began in 1986 as a 25-kilometre race from Ledge Point to Lancelin.

Getting there from Perth

You can reach Lancelin from Perth via Indian Ocean Drive in about 1.5 hours. Actual driving time varies depending on traffic and conditions.

Discover more destinations: Wandering, Bow Bridge, Stirling City, Mount Barker, Nannup, Cannington, Forrestfield, Herron.

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