Things to do
Geraldton is rapidly becoming one of Western Australia’s preferred holiday destinations. The following list outlines some of the most popular things to do and see whilst in Geraldton.
HMAS Sydney memorial – Located on Mt Scott, this memorial remembers Australia’s biggest naval tragedy and the 645 men that went down with the HMAS Sydney in 1941 (shortly after leaving Geraldton). The wreck of the ship after decades of searching was finally found in March of 2008 off the coast of Shark Bay. The memorial on Mt Scott includes a metallic dome roof made from 645 seagulls representing those that were lost in the tragedy.
Geraldton Museum – A newly formed exhibition of the HMAS Sydney can be seen daily at the Geraldton Museum along with a range of other interesting galleries.
Wind and kite surfing – Regarded as one of the best wind and kite surfing locations in the world, Geraldton's beaches attract visitors from around the world. Conditions are best during the summer months of November through March.
Day trips to the Abrolhos Islands – The Houtman Abrolhos are a group of more than 100 islands approximately 60 km west of Geraldton. They provide a great environment for local sea bird watching and reef diving. Tours leave Geraldton to visit the Abrolhos Islands most days.
Diving – With plenty of diving adventures to be experienced one of the most popular locations would have to be the Batavia shipwreck near the Abrolhos Islands. This historic site is also the location setting for the upcoming motion picture Batavia's Temper Blood Fury starring Vinnie Jones and Andie McDowell.
Geraldton Regional Art Gallery – The Art Gallery is open daily and has a great rotating exhibit of work from artists found locally, nationally and internationally.
Chapman Valley Wineries – Located in the picturesque Chapman Valley approximately 30 km's north east Geraldton you will find four wineries.
Sea Lions – Geraldton harbour is a favourite spot for sea lions. You can see them relaxing on the rocks at the entrance to the harbour.
Wildflowers Season – For those who have never seen the Geraldton wildflowers it’s an experience not to be missed. Between July and October, the countryside bursts into life with a rainbow of colours that span as far as the eye can see.
Lobster Factory – During the lobster season, the factory at Fisherman’s Wharf run tours to illustrate the process involved in fishing lobster and shipping them out to market. The lobster factory is the largest in Western Australia.
Geraldton Boat Hire – Hire and sales of boats are available all across the Geraldton area.
Golf –Two great golf courses are within close proximity for a relaxing day on the course.
Quad Biking – Tours are available for those adventure seekers looking for an action packed outing.
Geraldton Aquarena Aquatic Centre – Features include a heated and unheated pool, inside and out with safe options for children, a 47 metre slide, hydrotherapy pool, sauna and spa.
St Francis Xavier Cathedral – The Cathedral was designed by a Parish Priest turned Architect, Monsignor John Hawes who during the time designed many churches in the area.
Point Moore Lighthouse – The lighthouse at Point Moore stands at 34m and was built in 1878. The lighthouse can be seen almost 30 km out to sea.
Snorkeling – Some of the most beautiful coral can be found across the West Coast with picturesque snorkeling spots located nearby the Abrolhos Islands.