Pros & cons
PROS
- Iconic left-hand reef break for experienced surfers
- Great vantage point for sunsets and watching the lineup
- Pink-hued sand adds a unique look to the shoreline
CONS
- Powerful waves and shallow reef make it unsuitable for beginners
- No guaranteed on-site facilities—plan ahead
Overview
Jakes Point is Kalbarri’s surf spectacle—a designated National Surfing Reserve with a famed left-hand reef break rolling beneath rugged coastal cliffs. Even if you’re not paddling out, this is a scenic, low-key stop with pink-hued sand underfoot and big-sky sunsets that light up the coast. There’s no entry fee and it’s open all hours, so it’s easy to swing by when the conditions or colors look right.
What You’ll See
- Surf action: confident locals and traveling chargers threading fast lefts over a shallow reef.
- Coastal drama: long views from the path and lookouts above the break.
- Nature notes: pink sand tinted by natural garnet crystals; rock pools teeming with small crabs at low tide; occasional bottlenose dolphins cruising past.
Geology in Plain Sight
Those red-and-white cliffs are the Tumblagooda Sandstone—ancient river and tidal-flat deposits that preserve remarkable trace fossils. It’s a protected landscape: admire, photograph, don’t collect.
Surf & Safety
This is a powerful, shallow reef break with sharp rock—experienced surfers only. If you’re learning, head to nearby Jakes Bay instead. Strong currents and tricky entries/exits mean most visitors are happiest watching from shore.
Practicalities
Parking sits close to the action, but it can feel limited at busy times. Treat this as a no-facilities stop: bring water, sun protection, and anything you’ll want for an unhurried look. A coffee cart appears on some mornings, but it’s occasional rather than guaranteed.
Best Time to Visit
Sunset is the show for color and photography. For surf, winter often brings better swells; mid-tide can be a touch more forgiving, but entries remain hazardous. Midday can get a little busier; most people spend up to 45 minutes here. Check local park and emergency alerts before you go, especially after storms or high winds.
Where it is
-27.7355, 114.1490Tips for Jakes Point
- 01If you’re not experienced on shallow reef, watch from shore or surf Jakes Bay instead.
- 02Bring water and sun protection—there are no guaranteed facilities here.
- 03Aim for sunset for the most dramatic light and colors.
- 04Winter swells are more reliable; always check conditions and local alerts.
- 05Use marked bays and be patient—parking can be limited at busy times.
Amenities
Near Jakes Point
All places →All trails →
0.3 mi awayWittecarra Creek LookoutQuiet coastal cliff stop where creek meets the Indian OceanPullout · Parking
0.5 mi awayRed Bluff BeachRed cliffs, soft sand, and seasonal whale watching from shoreParking · Scenic Viewpoint
1 mi awayRed Bluff LookoutShort walk to red sea cliffs and frequent whales at sunsetParking · Scenic Viewpoint
1 mi awayRed Bluff Lookout WalkPaved stroll to 100 m cliffs and wide-open Indian Ocean viewsEasy · 0.7 mi · 45 min
1 mi awayRed Bluff to Beach TrailShort, steep link from red cliffs to beach with sweeping ocean viewsModerate · 0.9 mi · 30 min
1 mi awayPederick LookoutClifftop views over Red Bluff with a short sealed pathParking · Scenic Viewpoint
1.4 mi awayMushroom Rock - Rainbow Valley TrailShort coastal loop through striped sandstone, fossils, and surf.Moderate · 1.9 mi · 1.5 hr
2.1 mi awayPot Alley Beach TrailSteep steps to a secluded cove framed by roaring coastal gorgesEasy · 0.3 mi · 30 min
