Two hundred kilometres north of Karratha, Port Hedland is famous for its massive resource industry, long trains, big ships and salt piles.
But it’s just as rich in Indigenous culture, pioneering history and wildlife. It’s also a great spot for fishing and crabbing, whale watching and turtle nesting.
Drive to Port Hedland
Port Hedland is the gateway and central hub connecting the Pilbara and the Kimberley. When travelling by road from the south, Port Hedland can be reached via the Great Northern Highway (inland road) or the North West Coastal Highway (via the coast). The roads differ in distance and the number of stops and attractions along the way, and both offer a fantastic road trip opportunity. To the north, Broome is 611 kilometres away via the Great Northern Highway. Pardoo and Sandfire Roadhouses, located north of Port Hedland on the Great Northern Highway are a welcome stopping point on the drive between Port Hedland and Broome.
Fly to Port Hedland
Qantas and Virgin Australia operate daily direct flights from Perth to Port Hedland.
Port of Port Hedland
Port Hedland has its roots in shipping and mining, and with a lot of action taking place right in the centre of town, visitors have the unique opportunity to witness the operations of the world's biggest mining company, and to get up close to the big ships of the world's largest export tonnage port.
Port Hedland Visitor Centre
Located in the West End precinct in Port Hedland, this is your first stop when you reach the town. Staffed by long-term locals whose combined knowledge of the town and surrounding areas is worth its weight in iron ore, the visitor centre is also the departure point for a range of tours.
5 things to do in Port Hedland
Planning your trip? Find out 5 things to do in Port Hedland to get you started!
Things to see & do
Culture, Heritage and Industry
Follow the award-winning Cultural and Heritage Trail and explore Port Hedland’s Indigenous and European history. Get some fascinating insights at the Dalgety House Museum.
Coastal and Nature Activities in Port Hedland
Catch the views from Koombana Lookout. Explore the tidal creeks at Pretty Pool and Six Mile Creek. Being based on the coast means the town is fortunate to be home to native flora and fauna, such as the green birdflower (crotalaria cunninghamii) and flatback turtles. Wander along Cooke Point and catch the 'Staircase to the Moon' between May and October. And if you visit during the winter months, you can enjoy the seasonal display of wildflowers.
Watch - Things to do in Port Hedland
Tours in and around Port Hedland
Tours to Port Hedland
What's on in Port Hedland
Heading North from Port Hedland
Plan your Warlu Way Road Trip
Warlu Way - Travel Safe Pilbara
Plan your Pilbara road trip along the Warlu Way with the Warlu Way App! The app includes offline maps, digital guides and stop points with audio and text information, and along the route you'll find interpretive signage.
